Afleveringen
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What do you do after you sell the house in your divorce? Do you buy again? Rent? Invest in property somewhere totally new? In this practical and empowering episode of Divorce Happens, host Olivia Howell welcomes back Fresh Starts Expert Melissa Zimbelmanāveteran real estate broker and property managerāto unpack the real questions people ask when itās time to financially rebuild post-divorce.
Melissa shares her 20+ years of real estate insight to help newly divorced individuals (especially women) make smart, secure decisions with settlement money. From deciding whether to rent or buy, to understanding capital gains taxes, inheritance options, and why your CPA, trust attorney, and financial planner should be your new dream teamāthis episode is packed with must-know info.
Whether youāre thinking about buying an investment property out of state, setting up a rental unit in your backyard, or wondering if you should go in on a vacation home with friends (spoiler: think twice!), Melissa covers it all. She even breaks down how to hire a great property manager, how to avoid financial traps, and how to turn post-divorce real estate into a path toward long-term wealth and freedom.
Learn more about Melissa here: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/luxe-international-realty-property-management
š Check out Fresh Starts Registry:
The first & only divorce registry + support platform ā” https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/
š± Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/
š Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry
š Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartspodcasts
š¬ Newsletter: https://freshstartsregistry.substack.com/
Episode Transcript: Investing After Divorce with Melissa Zimbelman
Olivia Howell: Hello, hello! Welcome back to Divorce Happens, the podcast where we support you before, during, and after divorce with education, inspiration, and of course, a little bit of laughterābecause divorce happens, and then you start fresh. Weāre here again with one of our amazing Fresh Starts Experts, Melissa Zimbelman. I brought her back specifically because I get this question all the time during divorce consults: "What should I do with the money from selling the house?" So, Melissa, who are you, where are you, and what do you do?
Melissa Zimbelman: Hey! My name is Melissa Zimbelman. I live in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Iāve been in real estate and property management for over 23 years. We work with clients buying, selling, renting, and investing in propertiesāincluding internationally. My husband and I even own a home in Spain! So weāre seeing more people consider investing for their future outside the U.S. Thanks for having me back!
Olivia Howell: Of course. So here's the question: After selling the house in a divorce, what are the best options? Do you rent? Buy? Purchase and rent it out? Maybe even rent out a room in your home? What advice do you have for someoneāoften a womanāready to invest in herself or in real estate?
Melissa Zimbelman: Great question. First, get professional supportāa CPA, a trust attorney, and a financial planner. You need that ātriangle of supportā before making any decisions. One client might get $200K and should invest $30K into stocks or a money market for safety, while another might need to show a tax loss. Diversification is key, even if I love real estate.
Also, understand the tax implicationsācapital gains, estate planning, etc. Consult someone local to your state. Fresh Starts has amazing CDFA and tax professionals who can help.
Olivia Howell: Yes! Itās not just about the...
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If you've ever wondered what happens when divorce, pregnancy, and postpartum collideāthis episode is for you. In this eye-opening conversation on Divorce Happens, host Olivia Howell sits down with Jessica Hill, founder of The Parent Collective, to talk about the intersection of mental health, motherhood, and navigating major life transitions. From the isolation of the fourth trimester to the unexpected grief that can come with separating from a partner during pregnancy, this conversation is raw, real, and full of the kind of support so many people need but rarely find.
Jessica shares her powerful insights from years of supporting expectant and new parents through her nationally expanding platform, The Parent Collective. With classes designed to build community, offer practical education, and reduce overwhelm, her work is especially meaningful for single mothersāwhether by choice or circumstanceāwho are looking for connection and clarity during a transformative time.
Olivia and Jessica also dive deep into how our culture still stigmatizes divorce, especially when it happens during parenthood. They challenge the outdated narratives that expect women to āpower throughā alone and offer solutions for how to build your support system, ask for help, and intentionally create the village every parent deserves. Whether youāre newly pregnant and planning to parent solo, in the middle of a divorce, or navigating postpartum recovery without your partner, this episode offers validation, actionable support, and a reminder that you donāt have to do it all by yourself.
Perfect for anyone navigating divorce while pregnant or postpartum, considering single motherhood, or looking to build a strong foundation as a new parentāthis episode of Divorce Happens is filled with empathy, empowerment, and expert insight.
Learn more about Jessica Hill and The Parent Collective: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/the-parent-collective
š Check out Fresh Starts Registry:
The first & only divorce registry + support platform ā” https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/
š± Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/
š Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry
š Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/
š¬ Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/
Divorce Happens ā Mental Health, Motherhood, and Divorce: Building Your Village When Life Falls Apart with Jessica Hill of The Parent CollectiveOlivia Howell:
Hello, hello, and welcome back to Divorce Happens, the podcast where we support you before, during, and after divorce with education, inspiration, and a little bit of laughter. Because as we knowādivorce happensā¦ and then you start fresh.
Today, Iām joined by one of our amazing Fresh Starts Experts to talk about a really important topic: mental health during pregnancy, postpartum, and all the life transitions in between. Jessica, Iām so happy youāre here! Can you introduce yourself to our listeners?
Jessica Hill:
Hi everyone, and thank you so much for having me, Olivia. My name is Jessica Hill and Iām the founder of The Parent Collective. We offer prenatal education thatās designed to help expectant parents build community through learning.
We group our participants by neighborhood and due date, which helps them walk through the journey with people who are nearby and in the same stage. The goal is that people leave our classes with knowledge and a built-in support system.
Olivia:
Thatās such a brilliant model. I remember The Parent Collective from many years agoāyou were truly one of the pioneers in creating these kinds of...
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this inspiring episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell chats with Melissa Rogers, professional matchmaker, dating coach, and vibrant voice of post-divorce empowerment. Melissa shares her story of moving through divorce and stepping into a version of herself thatās wiser, freer, and more self-assured. Having lived all over the U.S. and now based in El Paso, Texas, Melissa brings insight not only from her personal experience but from helping others find love after loss.
Melissa unpacks the three powerful lessons she learned from her divorce: 1) thereās no award for staying miserable; 2) control what you can, release what you canātāespecially when co-parenting; and 3) divorce is not failure. With humor and grace, she explains how being complicit in her own sadness kept her stuckāand how reclaiming her agency changed everything. She reminds us that when we stop setting ourselves on fire to keep others warm, we finally start living.
If youāre navigating the pain of divorce, wondering what comes next, or feeling like a āfailure,ā Melissaās words will light you up with hope. This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to reclaim joy, autonomy, and possibility after the end of a marriage.
š Check out Fresh Starts Registry:
The first & only divorce registry + support platform ā” https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/
š± Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/
š Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry
š Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/
š¬ Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/
3 things I learned from my divorce with professional matchmaker Melissa RogersOlivia Howell:
Hello, hello! Welcome back to Divorce Happensāthe podcast where we support you before, during, and after divorce with education, inspiration, and a little bit of laughter. Because as you know, divorce happensā¦ and then you start fresh. I'm here today with our friend Melissa. Melissa, who are you, what do you do, where are you fromāall the things!
Melissa Rogers:
Hi! Iām Melissa Rogers. I currently live in El Paso, Texas, but Iāve lived all over the U.S.āthe Midwest, including Chicago, Minneapolis, and Wisconsin; New York City; Savannah, Georgia... Iāve truly been everywhere, which has been exciting! Iām a professional matchmaker and dating coach, which is a really fun jobāand honestly, Iām even better at it now that Iāve been divorced. Itās been a journey, and Iāve gained so much new knowledge thatās helped me support others.
Olivia Howell:
I love that so much. One of my favorite things about this podcast is talking to people who have been through the process of divorce and hearing what theyāve learned. So Melissa, what are three things that you learned from getting divorced?
Melissa Rogers:
Iāve thought a lot about thisāand the lessons are simple, but powerful. The first thing I learned is that I am not okay being complicit. In many marriages, the relationship ends long before the paperwork is filed. I see this with my clients, tooāsomeone will say theyāve been divorced for three years, but in reality, they emotionally checked out six years ago. I always remind people: thereās no award for being the most complicit, for staying in a marriage thatās making you sad, just because you āsigned upā for it. Once I realized that I have a choice in where my future is headed, everything changed. If your partner isnāt the person you want to call when something amazingāor awfulāhappens, thatās a sign. If it doesnāt set you on fire, you need to dream bigger.
Olivia Howell:
Yes! Thatās so important.
Melissa Rogers:
The second lesson was about control. A lot of successful women who listen to this podcast probably relateāwe're Type A, we...
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In this powerful episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell sits down with Cindy DiTiberioāwriter, ghostwriter, and author of the bestselling Substack The Mother Lodeāto unpack the raw truths and hard-won wisdom that come with divorce. Cindy shares the three biggest lessons she learned through her own divorce, and nothing is off the table: finances, post-nups, boundaries, and reclaiming your power.
Cindy opens up about the moment she realized just how capable she truly isāespecially in taking back control of her financial life after years of handing it over in her marriage. From doing her own taxes to uncovering the invisible labor of money management, she shares how divorce forced her to research, advocate, and rise. We also dig into why postnuptial agreements should be non-negotiable, and how they can radically change the power dynamics in a marriage.
Finally, Cindy shares the revolutionary impact of setting boundaries. Divorce, she says, taught her that she didnāt have to accept treatment that didnāt feel goodāand that realization transformed all of her relationships. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who's ever doubted their strength or felt stuck in outdated expectations.
š Check out Fresh Starts Registry:
The first & only divorce registry + support platform ā” https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/
š± Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/
š Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry
š Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/
š¬ Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/
Divorce Happens ā 3 things I learned from my divorce with writer Cindy DiTiberioOlivia Howell:
Hello, hello, and welcome back to Divorce Happensāthe podcast where we support you before, during, and after divorce with education, inspiration, and a little bit of laughter. Because as we know: divorce happens, and then you start fresh. Today, Iām joined by one of our friends here at Fresh StartsāCindy! Cindy, can you tell us who you are and what you do?
Cindy DiTiberio:
Hi! Iām Cindy DiTiberio. Iām a writer and the creator of the bestselling Substack newsletter The Mother Load, where I unpack motherhood, marriage, and divorce. Iām currently working on my own book, and I also collaborate with others as a ghostwriter to help them tell their stories. I love what Fresh Starts is doingāOlivia has been key in my own journey, and Iāve used the experts in the network. Iām just so grateful for all the support.
Olivia Howell:
Thank you! Weāre so happy to have you. One of my favorite segments on this show is talking to real peopleāreal humans whoāve gone through divorceāabout what theyāve learned. So, Cindy, what are three of the biggest lessons you learned from your divorce?
Cindy DiTiberio:
The first thing that came to mind is just how capable I am. As women, weāre often conditioned to give away our power, especially when it comes to money. During my marriage, I handed over all the financial responsibilities to my ex because he worked in financeāit just made sense at the time. But once we divorced, I was suddenly in charge of everything, and it was terrifying... but also incredibly empowering. I realized quickly: I can do this. Iām doing my own taxes, organizing my documents, thinking about deductions. Iām capable.
I think one of the biggest mistakes I made in my marriage was not being a collaborative partner in understanding our financial pictureāour taxes, mortgage, accounts. When I had to figure it all out myself, I discovered I was really good at research. I can find anything I need to know, and now Iāve taken that same energy into learning about my finances. We are
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Divorce comes with emotional weightābut also with a mountain of paperwork. In this episode of Divorce Happens, host Olivia Howell is joined by professional organizer Leslie Kilgour from Get It Straight to break down how you can stay sane and on top of your life during divorce by staying organized. From legal documents to shared passwords to medical receipts, Leslie shares practical tips for managing it all.
Whether you're splitting bills, co-parenting, or setting up new accounts, Leslie explains how to get a grip on the paperwork chaos. She offers a roadmap for managing one month at a time, using password keeper apps, and simplifying physical mail and digital storage. Her wisdom doesnāt just apply to divorceāitās useful in all major life transitions. Organization, Leslie says, isnāt about perfectionāitās about removing friction during an already stressful time.
Plus, Leslie reminds listeners of the importance of empathy. If itās safe and possible, remember that you once loved your partner. Communication and organization together can ease tension, save you thousands in legal fees, and create a path toward healing. If the paperwork is too much to tackle alone, hiring an organizerāeven virtuallyācan be a game changer.
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What if you could get divorced online, affordably, without unnecessary traumaāand move on with your life faster? In this eye-opening episode of Divorce Happens, host Olivia Howell sits down with Liz Pharo, CEO of Divorce.com, to talk about disrupting the traditional (and expensive) divorce system. Liz shares how Divorce.com is making divorce simpler, faster, and more empoweringāespecially for people who feel stuck financially or emotionally.
From breaking down the difference between kitchen table divorces, mediation, and litigation, to explaining how Divorce.com walks you through a custom questionnaire and files your paperwork for you, this episode is packed with real, accessible support. Olivia and Liz also dive into the emotional side of divorce, the impact on families, and how creating a smoother, less aggressive process actually leads to better co-parenting and post-divorce recovery.
If you're in the early stages of divorce and donāt know where to turnāor if you just want to avoid spending $20,000+ on legal feesāthis conversation will change how you see your options. Liz also shares wise words for anyone navigating the hard days: you will get through this. Tune in, take notes, and know you are not alone.
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In this heartfelt episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia sits down with Erin Snow, founder of Seacoast Listening Lounge and longtime advocate for women navigating divorce. Erin shares how her work as a legal professional in family law and her own personal divorce journey led her to create a safe, confidential, and judgment-free space for people who need to be truly heard. Her listening sessions are not therapyāthey're something just as vital: compassionate, intentional human connection.
Erin and Olivia dive into the emotional weight of not feeling heard during divorce, and how the ability to speak without fear or judgment can be transformational. Erin shares why active listening is a powerful tool in emotional recovery, why itās often missing in divorce conversations, and how listening with empathy can shift everything. From "verbal smash sessions" to quiet, meditative listening spaces, Erin explains how every conversation is shaped by the individualās needs in that moment.
If youāve ever felt alone, overwhelmed, or unsure who you can talk to during a life transition, this episode is a must-listen. Erin reminds us that healing starts when we feel safe enough to shareāand that we all deserve to feel supported, seen, and understood.
Learn more about Erin and Seacoast Listening Lounge: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/seacoast-listening-lounge
Transcription: Divorce Happens Podcast with Erin SnowOlivia Howell: Hello, hello, and welcome back to Divorce Happens, the podcast where we support you before, during, and after divorce with education, inspiration, and a little bit of laughter. Because, as we know, divorce happensāand then you start fresh. Today, we're here with one of our Fresh Starts experts, Erin Snow. Erin, can you tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do?
Erin Snow: Hi Olivia, thank you so much for having me! Iām really excited to be on the podcast. Iām Erin Snow, and I live in Seacoast, New Hampshire. I own Seacoast Listening Lounge, which is both an event space and a professional listening service for women who are looking to share their story in a safe and confidential space without judgment.
Olivia Howell: I love that! When Erin registered to be a Fresh Starts expert, we were like, "What is this? Weāve never heard of this before." Iām so excited to be showcasing you to the world because I love what you do. You have a long background in divorce advocacy and related areas. Letās talk about the importance of listening during a divorce. Because often, people going through a divorce feel like nobody's listening to them. Why is active listening so important during that time?
Erin Snow: I can speak to this on both a professional and personal level. I worked in family law for over 16 years with New Hampshire Legal Assistance, handling high-conflict divorce, parenting, and protective order cases for domestic violence, stalking, and sexual assault survivors. Then I went through my own divorce. One of the reasons I started Seacoast Listening Lounge was because I saw a real lack of space where people could be heardātruly listened toāwithout judgment.
People going through divorce are under emotional and financial stress. Youāre worrying about yourself, your kids, and how others will react. Having a space to just let it all out opens the valve. If we donāt create space to release that pressure, it builds up and becomes unmanageable. Empathetic listening doesnāt have to be hard, but it does require intention. Itās simply about letting someone know: āIām here for you, no matter what you want to...
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In this heartfelt and poetic episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell sits down with writer, professor, and single mom Kelly McMasters to explore the deep emotional work of divorceāand the self-discovery that follows. Kelly shares powerful quotes that helped anchor her through her own experience, including words from poets like Marie Howe and Joy Harjo. She explains how poetry offered moments of stillness, truth, and community when everything else felt uncertain.
Kelly opens up about the emotional weight of letting go of fantasies, expectations, and the version of love she once believed in. Together, she and Olivia reflect on how divorce often brings us back to childhood, revealing the roots of our beliefs about love, safety, and self-worth. Kelly also discusses her acclaimed book The Leaving Season, and how writing it helped her reclaim her storyānot just as a divorcĆ©e, but as a mother, artist, and woman rebuilding home from the ground up.
This episode is a celebration of growth, honesty, and the surprising beauty of starting over. If youāre navigating the messy middle of divorceāor simply seeking insight into how we piece ourselves back togetherāyouāll walk away from this conversation feeling seen, supported, and inspired.
Transcription:Olivia Howell: Hello, hello! Welcome back to Divorce Happens, the podcast where we support you before, during, and after divorceāwith education, inspiration, and of course, a little bit of laughter. Because divorce happens, and then you start fresh. Today, Iām here with our friend Kelly. Kelly, who are you? What do you do? Where are you from?
Kelly McMasters: Hi! Iām Kelly McMasters. I'm a mom, a writer, a professorāand Iām divorced.
Olivia: I love that. One of our favorite things to do on this podcast is talk to people whoāve gone through divorce about what theyāve learned. I truly believe divorce is one of the most intense learning environments weāll ever experience. So, Kelly, what were three things you learned from your divorce?
Kelly: I love that you used the word āenvironment,ā because divorce really does have these amorphous bordersāitās all-encompassing. One thing I learned is how important it is to find small anchors. For me, poetry was one of those anchors. I was at a reading recently and in walked this famous poetāwild hair and allāand I realized it was Marie Howe. Her poetry helped me get through my divorce. I even used one of her lines to open my book:
āYou think this happened only onceāand long ago?āThat line has so many meanings, but to me, it means that in the moment of deep grief, it feels like you are completely aloneāthat no one else could understand. But the truth is, you are not alone. Itās a reminder to reach out in those dark moments.
Another quote that helped me is from Willa Catherās The Professor's House:
āThe heart of another is a dark forest, always, no matter how close it has been to oneās own.āThat quote reminded me that I had to let go of the fantasy. Let go of what I thought was true. That was the hardest partāletting go of expectations, hopes, and dreams so I could live in the real world again. Once I did that, everything shifted.
Olivia: Can you read that first quote again?
Kelly: āYou think this happened only onceāand long ago?ā
Olivia: I love that so much. That resonates deeply with me. When you go through divorce, it often brings you back to who you were as a child. You start realizing that your definitions of love were formed way before your marriage. For me, it was even more of a personal rediscovery than motherhood. I had to uncover and heal the pieces of me...
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In this powerful episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell sits down with former divorce attorney and current mortgage expert Matthew DiBrino to unpack one of the most stressful parts of divorce: what to do about the house. With years of legal experience and now co-owner of High Quality Mortgage, Matthew brings a rare and compassionate dual perspective to navigating real estate during separation.
From understanding your mortgage options to knowing when and how to get pre-approved, Matthew offers actionable advice for anyone wondering what happens to their home during a divorce. He breaks down common scenarios like buyouts, refinancing, and why getting a mortgage pre-approval early in the process can save you time, money, and emotional stress.
Whether you're in the middle of a divorce or planning for a fresh start, this episode will help you feel more empowered and informed about one of the biggest assets involved in a separation. Plus, Matthew shares encouragement, real-life examples, and a refreshing approach to supporting clients as whole peopleānot just numbers on paper.
Learn more about Matthew DiBrino on his Fresh Starts profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/high-quality-mortgage-llc
Divorce Happens Podcast: Episode Transcript with Matthew DiBrinoOlivia Howell (Host): Hello, hello! Welcome back to Divorce Happens, the podcast where we support you before, during, and after divorce with education, inspiration, and a little bit of laughterābecause as we know, divorce happens, and then you start fresh. Today weāre here with one of our Fresh Starts experts, talking about a very important topic. Matthew, can you tell us who you are and what you do?
Matthew D. DiBrino: Sure! Hi, my name is Matthew DiBrino. I'm a former practicing divorce attorney. I began my legal journey in 1999, clerking for the Honorable Thomas F. Brogan in Passaic County, who was then in the Family Division. After that, I received incredible training from one of the best attorneys I know, Jose Bastyr in Paterson, New Jersey. I worked in divorce law for quite some time until about 10 years ago, when I left the practice and opened High Quality Mortgage. I havenāt practiced law in a decade, but I still work closely with divorce attorneys and their clients.
I also went through a divorce myself. And something to noteāone of my mentors was Joseph Noda, one of the founders of the collaborative divorce process. That approach really focuses on making the process less contentious and more amicable.
Olivia: Absolutely. Thereās really nobody better to talk to about this than you. When I went through my divorce, owning a home with my ex-husband brought up a lot of questions. The house is often the number one concern when people start considering separation. Letās talk about that. Whatās the first step if you have a mortgage and youāre starting the divorce process, but donāt know what youāre going to do with the home?
Matthew: Great question. The first thing you want to do is evaluate your options, which starts with getting a fair market appraisal of the home. Thatās going to give you clarity. From there, you typically have three options:
Sell the home and split the proceeds (though that can be adjusted depending on the divorce terms).One party buys out the otherās equity.Refinance to remove one party from the mortgage and deed.Letās say thereās $100,000 in equityā$400,000 home value, $300,000 mortgage. That means each party is entitled to...
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In this powerful episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia sits down with grief support specialist and founder of Grieve Leave, Rebecca Feinglos, to explore the layered emotions and life shifts that come with divorce. Together, they dive deep into the intersection of grief and relationship loss, revealing how losing a parent can shape how we loveāand leave. Rebecca shares her own story of heartbreak and healing, highlighting the pivotal moment she realized she didnāt have to normalize unhealthy behavior in her marriage.
Rebecca opens up about the three biggest lessons she learned through divorce: that you are never truly stuck, that self-discovery is a vital part of the healing process, and that itās okay to feel both grief and freedom at the same time. She emphasizes the importance of tuning into your gut, even when the world around you tells you to stay. Her insights remind listeners that grief doesnāt just follow deathāit can show up in endings of all kinds, and it deserves time, space, and care.
Rebecca Feinglos (pronounced fine-gloss) is a certified grief support specialist, startup founder, and former policy advisor who launched Grieve Leave in 2021 after experiencing profound personal loss, including the deaths of both parents and a difficult divorce. Grieve Leave has since grown into a global movement, reaching over 30,000 people and encouraging intentional time for grieving through community, resources, and humor. Based between North Carolina and Montreal, Rebecca is a nationally recognized voice in grief advocacy, featured in TIME, HuffPost, and ELLE, and she's on a mission to make the world more grief-informedāone honest conversation at a time.
Transcript ā Divorce Happens with Grieve Leave Founder Rebecca Feinglos
Olivia: Welcome back to Divorce Happens, the podcast where we support you before, during, and after divorce with education, inspiration, and a little bit of laughterābecause as we know, divorce happens, and then you start fresh. Today, I'm joined by someone very special, someone I first connected with years ago when we were both building our platforms. We share a love of grief work, Jewish family roots, and yesāeven puppets. Rebecca, I'm so glad you're here. Can you introduce yourself?
Rebecca Feinglos: Thanks, Olivia. I'm so excited to be here. I'm Rebecca Feinglos, the founder of Grieve Leave, an organization that focuses on grief, loss, and helping people navigate all types of griefānot just death. As someone who lost both of my parents before the age of 30 and then went through a divorce, I understand how grief can manifest in many forms. At Grieve Leave, we talk about grief that stems from life transitions like divorce, and we encourage people to take intentional time to process those experiences.
Olivia: I love that. Itās so important to normalize grief beyond death. As you know, Iām also happily divorced, but the grief still shows up sometimes. With that in mind, Iād love to knowāwhat are the three biggest things you learned from your divorce?
Rebecca: First, you are not stuck. I felt stuck for so long in a life I thought I wanted. I had invested years into the relationship and told myself I had to make it work because of that. But it took losing both of my parents to realize that I wasnāt stuckāthat I could make a different choice. And I did. I separated from my ex at 31 and havenāt looked back.
Olivia: Thatās powerful. Did your parents know him?
Rebecca: My mom died when I was very young, so she never met him. But my dad did. He started seeing through the cracks of our relationship before I fully admitted what was...
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Divorce is more than just a legal processāitās an emotional and energetic journey that can leave you feeling drained, disconnected, and weighed down by the past. In this episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell sits down with Candice Erickson-Perham, an energy healer and Fresh Starts Expert, to explore how Emotion Code and Body Code can help release the emotional baggage that divorce leaves behind. From identifying trapped emotions to clearing energetic cords between you and your ex, Candice explains how energy work provides real relief from stress, anxiety, and even physical pain during life transitions.
Olivia and Candice dive into the powerful connection between emotional and physical health, revealing how trapped emotions can manifest as headaches, tension, and even long-term stress-related illnesses. Candice explains how she works with clients to release stored traumaāwhether from the divorce itself or past experiences that are resurfacing. She also shares insights on how energy work can help children navigate the emotional impact of divorce, offering a holistic approach to healing for the entire family.
If you're struggling to move forward after divorce, feeling stuck in emotional pain, or curious about how energy healing can support your fresh start, this episode is for you. Candice shares practical tools, real-life client experiences, and information about her Heart Wall Release Package, designed specifically to help those recovering from heartbreak and major life changes. Tune in to discover how clearing emotional blockages can bring clarity, lightness, and a renewed sense of self after divorce.
Learn more about Candice on her Fresh Starts profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/indiglow-soul
Make sure to check out Fresh Starts Registry: the first and only divorce registry and resource platform, and the fastest growing network of divorce professionals: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry
Divorce Happens on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/
Divorce Guide Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/
Transcription:Introduction
Olivia Howell: Hello, hello! Welcome back to Divorce Happens, the podcast where we support you with education, information, and a little bit of laughterābecause as we know, divorce happens, and then you start fresh. Today, weāre here with one of our wonderful Fresh Starts experts, Candice. Candice, can you tell us about what you do?
Candice: Sure! First, thank you for having me on. Iām very excited to be here. I know that divorce happens, and part of what I do is energy healing. Through energy healing, we can help lessen the burden that divorce brings to individuals.
What is Emotion Code & Body Code?
Olivia: I love that! Iāve personally done a lot of work with you and attended many of your...
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Divorce is one of lifeās biggest transitions, filled with uncertainty, emotional upheaval, and endless questions about what comes next. In this episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia sits down with Julee Roth, a gifted psychic, medium, and aura reader, to discuss how working with a psychic during and after divorce can be a powerful tool for healing and clarity. They explore how intuitive guidance can help individuals uncover their deepest emotional blocks, release fears, and move forward with a sense of peace and purpose. Whether youāre feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply looking for direction, Julee shares how a psychic reading can offer immediate relief, alignment, and reassurance.
Julee explains that during a reading, she taps into a personās energy, aura, and past lives to help them understand their path of least resistanceāthe easiest and most fulfilling way forward. Unlike traditional therapy or coaching, a psychic reading provides instant insights into whatās truly holding someone back, whether itās unresolved emotions, limiting beliefs, or spiritual blocks. Olivia and Julee discuss how trusting intuitive guidance can be a game-changer during a life transition, offering comfort, validation, and a renewed sense of self. Plus, Julee shares real-life examples of how her work has helped people navigate divorce, love, relationships, and even messages from loved ones and pets!
If youāve ever wondered what a psychic reading can do for you, this episode is your invitation to explore the power of intuition and energy work. Julee breaks down common misconceptions, explains how readings work, and shares why everyoneāespecially those going through divorceācan benefit from a session. Tune in to hear how psychic guidance can provide the answers, reassurance, and direction youāve been searching for. Ready to step into clarity, alignment, and joy? Hit play and discover how trusting your energy can lead you to a brighter, more empowered future.
Learn more about Psychic Julee: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/psychicjulee
Make sure to check out Fresh Starts Registry: the first and only divorce registry and resource platform, and the fastest growing network of divorce professionals: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry
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Divorce Guide Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/
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Leaving a toxic relationship is never easy, but knowing where to start can be the hardest part. In this episode of Divorce Happens, host Olivia Howell sits down with clinical and forensic psychologist Dr. Victoria Latifses to discuss the emotional and logistical challenges of leaving an unhealthy or abusive relationship. Victoria, who has nearly 20 years of experience working with protective parents, survivors, and family court advocacy, breaks down what defines a toxic relationship, how to recognize red flags, and why emotional and financial abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse. With thousands of people turning to Fresh Starts for guidance on this topic, Olivia and Victoria tackle the most common questions: How do I leave? Am I in a toxic relationship? How do I heal?
Victoria shares six essential steps for safely leaving a toxic relationship, starting with building a support system, reaching out to trusted friends and family, and taking small steps toward independence. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing isolation as a key tactic of abuse and provides concrete advice on where to find help, including therapists, legal professionals, and crisis resources. Olivia reflects on her own experience with emotional abuse, sharing how crucial it was to have a roadmap and a community to lean on. They also discuss the importance of setting boundaries, acknowledging the fear that comes with leaving, and taking intentional steps toward self-healing.
This episode is packed with expert insights, validation, and encouragement for anyone questioning their relationship or struggling to break free. Victoria highlights the signs of covert abuseālike gaslighting, control, and manipulationāand reminds listeners that healing begins the moment they take action. If youāre navigating an abusive relationship or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers guidance, reassurance, and practical steps to move forward. Don't miss this empowering discussion, and be sure to check out Fresh Starts for expert resources, community support, and scripts to help you take that first step.
Learn more about Victoria Latifses on her Fresh Starts Profile: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/embodied-psychotherapy
Make sure to check out Fresh Starts Registry: the first and only divorce registry and resource platform, and the fastest growing network of divorce professionals: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry
Divorce Happens on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/
Divorce Guide Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/
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Divorce isnāt just a legal processāitās an emotional, mental, and logistical marathon that can leave you feeling completely drained. In this episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia sits down with therapist and coach Abbey Sangmeister (Googleās #1 Self-Care Coach!) to talk about how to prevent burnout while navigating divorce. Abbey shares her expert advice on setting boundaries, managing emotional overload, and creating small but impactful self-care rituals. She emphasizes that divorce often forces people to manage not only their own emotions but also those of their ex, children, lawyers, and even well-meaning friends and family. Through practical strategiesālike carving out sacred alone time, using decision-making models to say āno,ā and scheduling buffer time around legal meetingsāAbbey helps listeners regain control and prevent total exhaustion.
Abbey also dives into the power of reframing divorce as a transformational process, rather than one that depletes your soul. She shares actionable tips for busy parents and professionals, like using the car as a moment of peace, building a support system, and advocating for personal spaceāespecially when living with an ex. Olivia reflects on her own experience with legal overwhelm and how Abbeyās advice helped her manage the emotional weight of attorney calls. Whether youāre deep in the divorce process or supporting someone who is, this episode will help you protect your time, energy, and mental health while navigating one of lifeās biggest transitions.
Abbey Sangmeister is a therapist, coach, and burnout prevention expert who specializes in helping professionals and parents reclaim their energy and take control of their lives. With over 13 years of experience, she has worked nationally and internationally to guide clients through personal transformationsāhelping them move past their stuck points and design fulfilling, balanced lives. Abbeyās approach blends therapy, coaching, and practical interventions to help people avoid burnout while achieving their goals.
Learn more about Abbey Sangmeister and Evolving Whole: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/evolving-whole
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Debt and divorceātwo overwhelming topics that often go hand in hand. In this episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia sits down with Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA) and CPA, Janice Berner, to answer a crucial listener question: What do you do if youāre considering divorce but have significant debt? Janice breaks down the key steps, from understanding how debt is divided in divorce to why maintaining liquidity is essential. She also explains why paying off all debt before filing might not be the best move and shares smart financial strategies to set yourself up for stability before, during, and after divorce.
Janice also highlights the importance of running a credit report, monitoring joint accounts, and securing personal financial resources to avoid surprises down the road. Whether youāre navigating a divorce now or preparing for the future, her expert advice offers invaluable guidance on protecting yourself financially. Tune in for practical steps, essential insights, and a reminder that with the right planning, you can build a secure and hopeful financial future.
Learn more about Janice Berner, CDFA: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/janice-berner
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This episode of Divorce Happens is unlike any otherābecause today, weāre celebrating divorce with music! š¶ Thatās right, weāve teamed up with Suno Music to create a song, Divorce Happens (Aināt No Thing), a bluesy, upbeat anthem that reminds us that divorce is just another chapter in lifeās journey.
š„ What Youāll Hear in This Episode:
š¤ The debut of the song, "Divorce Happens (Aināt No Thing)" ā a fun, empowering tune that will have you dancing into your next chapter!
š” Why we created this song ā because divorce isnāt the end, itās a fresh start full of new possibilities.
š¶ The process of making a song with Suno Music ā how we turned the realities of divorce into an anthem of resilience.
š¬ A conversation about reframing divorce ā from heartbreak to empowerment, laughter, and liberation!
Whether youāre just starting your divorce journey or years into your fresh start, this episode is here to lift your spirits, make you smile, and remind you that youāre not alone.
š§ Tune in, turn it up, and letās celebrate the fresh start that comes after divorce!
š Want to hear the full song? Listen now!
š Share this episode with a friend who needs a reminder that life goes onāstronger and better than before!
š¢ Follow & Subscribe: Donāt miss out on more empowering stories, expert advice, and fresh start inspiration.
Make sure to check out Fresh Starts Registry: the first and only divorce registry and resource platform, and the fastest growing network of divorce professionals: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry
Divorce Happens on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/
Divorce Guide Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/
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Making a housing decision after divorce can feel overwhelming, but having the right real estate expert by your side makes all the difference. In this episode, Olivia Howell sits down with Fresh Starts Expert Melissa Zimbelman, a seasoned real estate broker and property manager, to talk about navigating housing transitions during and after divorce. Melissa shares expert insights on everything from downsizing and short-term rentals to the importance of finding a realtor who truly understands your unique situation. Whether you're thinking about selling your marital home, looking for a rental, or preparing for a fresh start, this conversation is full of practical advice to help you move forward with confidence.
Melissa also discusses why finding the right realtor mattersāespecially in a high-emotion situation like divorceāand how to prepare yourself financially for a home transition. She breaks down options for those who need temporary housing, strategies for managing real estate decisions with an ex-spouse, and how to ensure youāre making smart choices for your future. If youāre contemplating divorce or in the early stages, this episode is a must-listen for understanding your next steps when it comes to home, stability, and peace of mind.
Learn more about Melissa: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/luxe-international-realty-property-management
Make sure to check out Fresh Starts Registry: the first and only divorce registry and resource platform, and the fastest growing network of divorce professionals: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry
Divorce Happens on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/
Divorce Guide Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/
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Navigating homeownership during a divorce can feel overwhelming, but having the right expert in your corner makes all the difference. In this episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia sits down with mortgage expert Brian Green to break down the refinancing process for those looking to stay in their marital home. Brian shares his insights on what it means to refinance, the key steps to take early in the divorce process, and how to prepare financially to ensure you can afford to keep your home. With nearly a decade of experience and over 800 loans closed, Brian brings valuable knowledge to help divorcing homeowners move forward with confidence.
If you're going through a divorce and wondering what happens to your home, this episode is a must-listen. Brian explains why having a mortgage expert on your team is just as important as having a lawyer or divorce coach. He shares actionable steps like setting up a separate bank account for mortgage payments, gathering essential paperwork, and exploring loan options tailored to your unique situation. Whether you're in the early stages of divorce or ready to refinance, this conversation offers clarity and reassurance that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Learn more about Brian: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/xpert-home-lending
Make sure to check out Fresh Starts Registry: the first and only divorce registry and resource platform, and the fastest growing network of divorce professionals: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry
Divorce Happens on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/
Divorce Guide Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/
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In this episode of Divorce Happens, host Olivia Howell sits down with Fresh Starts Expert Whitney Cardosi, a health coach and cookbook author, to discuss how nutrition and simple meal strategies can support parents during divorce. Whitney shares her journey from corporate life to health coaching, emphasizing how food can be a grounding force during major life transitions. She provides practical tips for feeding your family when everything feels overwhelming, from stocking a well-prepared pantry to embracing quick and healthy meal solutions.
Whitney also dives into the emotional side of food, discussing how our childhood experiences shape our relationship with nutrition and how we can help our kids build healthy eating habits. Whether you're a newly single parent figuring out meal planning, a dad looking to bond with his kids in the kitchen, or just trying to get through the day without feeling drained, this conversation is packed with real-life strategies, encouragement, and a whole lot of grace. Plus, she shares insights from her cookbook, In the Kitchen: Healthy Meals Youāll Actually Enjoy, and why cooking together can be a meaningful way to rebuild connection with your children.
Learn more about Whitney: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/wellness-with-whit
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Navigating custody agreements during divorce can be overwhelming, but understanding the basics can make the process less daunting. In this episode of Divorce Happens, host Olivia Howell sits down with Jolee Vacchi, Esq., the founder of Foundations Family & Mediation Center, to break down the legal complexities of custody. Jolee explains the two major types of custodyālegal custody and physical custodyāand provides clear, actionable insights on decision-making authority, parenting schedules, and what to expect when navigating custody disputes. She also shares the importance of mediation in finding flexible, personalized solutions for families, rather than relying on rigid court-imposed standards.
Jolee also discusses how custody arrangements evolve over time, the significance of school districts in physical custody decisions, and why parents should remain open to changes as their children grow. Whether you're in the early stages of divorce or considering modifications to an existing custody arrangement, this episode is packed with expert guidance to help you make informed, confident decisions. Joleeās empowering message reminds listeners that they donāt have to have everything figured out at the start of the divorce processāthe path will unfold as they move forward.
š Learn more about Jolee Vacchi and her legal services: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/foundations-family-law-mediation-center
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