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The weight of an unspoken "I'm sorry" can anchor someone in pain long after a marriage ends. This powerful episode explores why apologies matter so deeply in divorce, and more importantly, how to move forward when they never arrive.

Divorce isn't just legal paperwork—it's an emotional rupture filled with pain and broken trust. An apology validates that pain, creating transformative moments where years of resentment can soften in an instant. When one person offers even partial acknowledgment, the atmosphere shifts; shoulders relax, breathing deepens, and suddenly impossible issues become negotiable. But what happens when that apology never comes?

Many clients believe they can't heal until their ex admits wrongdoing, effectively tying their recovery to something outside their control. This mindset becomes a prison of anger and resentment. Drawing from John and Julie Gottman's groundbreaking research on relationship repair, we share practical strategies for finding closure without external validation: self-validation exercises, perspective reframing, symbolic rituals, and focusing on future goals rather than past wounds. We explore how unacknowledged emotional needs often sabotage negotiations, causing clients to dig in on assets or schedules when what they're really seeking is recognition of their pain.

The journey toward healing without apology requires understanding that lack of apology often reflects the other person's limitations, not your worth. With guided self-discovery, you can separate emotional closure from practical outcomes, allowing you to negotiate effectively and, most importantly, free yourself from carrying resentment that only weighs you down. Listen now to discover how to carry your own key to healing rather than waiting at a door that may never open.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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When alcohol concerns collide with custody arrangements, families need more than good intentions—they need accountability. Laura Crossett joins the Divorce Coaches Academy podcast to reveal how Soberlink's remote alcohol monitoring system transforms high-conflict co-parenting situations into manageable, child-centered arrangements.

Laura brings rare insight as both a recovery professional and former monitored client herself. "I saw firsthand the drastic improvement in my family relationships," she shares, explaining how objective test data eliminated the need for accusations or defensiveness. Her 18-year recovery journey and decade of experience with Soberlink technology offer authentic perspective on rebuilding trust between separated parents.

The conversation explores how Soberlink works—a portable breathalyzer with built-in identity verification through digital photography, providing court-admissible, tamper-proof results in real time. What makes this technology particularly valuable is its ability to shift the dialogue away from addiction labels toward practical child safety. Rather than demanding lifelong sobriety, the system simply asks: "Can you commit to being alcohol-free during your parenting time?" This approach reduces stigma while keeping focus where it belongs—on children's wellbeing.

Perhaps most powerfully, Soberlink creates pathways for children to maintain relationships with both parents when drinking concerns might otherwise limit contact. For concerned parents, it offers freedom from hypervigilance and constant worry. "You can actually do something fun for yourself instead of worry," Laura notes, highlighting how the technology allows both parents to be more present and emotionally available.

Recognizing financial accessibility matters, Laura details the Family Assistance Program and new device rental options that make monitoring more affordable across different income levels. For divorce coaches, family law attorneys and parents navigating this challenging territory, Soberlink represents more than technology—it's a neutral third party that verifies compliance, eliminates accusations, and helps families move forward with confidence.

Are you a DCA certified divorce coach? Ask us about the Soberlink-DCA Affiliate program

Visit the Soberlink website: www.soberlink.com/divorce/family-law

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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Divorce coaching isn't just for one type of professional anymore. What began as a niche service has evolved into a versatile skill set embraced by lawyers, mediators, paralegals, therapists, financial professionals, mortgage lenders, realtors and entrepreneurs—each using these powerful tools in unique ways.

For attorneys, divorce coach certification addresses a critical gap in legal education. While law school prepares them for legal analysis and courtroom advocacy, it rarely teaches the soft skills needed to manage highly emotional clients making life-altering decisions. Certified divorce coach training provides structured frameworks for helping clients regulate emotions, clarify values, and make informed choices. Lawyers who complete our program consistently report more productive client meetings, less time spent on emotional management, and greater professional satisfaction. As one family law attorney with decades of experience told us, "This is the best continuing education I've ever taken."

Mediators find that coaching skills dramatically improve client preparation and engagement. The ability to help clients articulate needs, understand interests (rather than positions), and develop realistic expectations transforms mediation outcomes. Meanwhile, paralegals and other legal support professionals discover new career opportunities, with some boutique firms now creating dedicated in-house divorce coach positions—a trend that benefits both clients and legal teams by reducing stress and improving service delivery.

Beyond the legal field, our certification attracts therapists seeking to expand their practice, financial professionals wanting to better understand the emotional components of financial decisions during divorce, and entrepreneurs building innovative support services. What unites this diverse community is a commitment to transforming how people experience divorce—reducing unnecessary conflict, preserving co-parenting relationships, and empowering clients to make thoughtful decisions during a challenging life transition.

Whether you're looking to enhance your existing professional skills or create an entirely new career path, DCA's revolutionary divorce coach certification offers a structured methodology grounded in alternative dispute resolution principles. Our approach teaches that while conflict in divorce is inevitable, combat is optional. Ready to be part of this professional revolution? Our next certification cohorts begin in October, and we'd love to welcome you to this growing community of practice-changing professionals.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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Feeling unheard or misunderstood by their divorce professionals can add another layer of stress to an already challenging process for our clients. What happens when their attorney seems dismissive or their forensic accountant isn't addressing their concerns? More importantly, how can you help your client effectively advocate for themselves without damaging these critical professional relationships?

This episode tackles one of the most persistent challenges we see clients face: conflict with the very professionals they've hired to support them. Tracy and Debra explore this delicate territory with practical wisdom, offering a framework for both divorce coaches and their clients to navigate these situations effectively. Rather than simply validating frustrations, we examine how to transform these moments into opportunities for developing lifelong conflict resolution skills.

At the heart of our approach is the understanding that most professional conflicts stem from misalignments in communication styles, expectations, or priorities—not sabotage. We break down specific techniques like creating "conflict prep sheets," practicing non-violent communication, and managing emotional reactivity when power dynamics feel intimidating. These tools help clients move from feeling victimized to becoming empowered advocates for their needs.

The skills developed through addressing these professional relationship challenges extend far beyond divorce. When clients learn to assert themselves effectively with their attorney or accountant, that newfound confidence transfers to negotiations, co-parenting, workplace interactions, and countless other relationships. As we often say, communication is both the source of conflict and its solution—making these skills among the most valuable tools we can provide our clients.

Whether you're a divorce coach looking to better support clients through professional relationship challenges or someone navigating your own divorce journey, this episode offers actionable strategies for turning conflict into opportunity. Ready to transform how you approach difficult conversations? Listen now and discover why we consider ourselves "conflict junkies" who believe in the life-changing potential of mastering these essential skills.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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Navigating the stormy waters of divorce conflict requires more than good intentions—it demands specific skills, awareness, and strategies. Tracy and Debra tackle this crucial topic that affects every divorcing couple at some point, revealing the true costs that extend far beyond legal fees.

When people enter conflict during divorce, their nervous systems shift into survival mode. In this dysregulated state, rational decision-making becomes nearly impossible. As we explain, "When emotion is high, intelligence is low"—a reality demonstrated perfectly by Will Smith's Oscar slap and its decade-long consequences. This reactivity creates a cascade of costs: financial (skyrocketing legal bills over sometimes minor issues), emotional (prolonged psychological distress), relational (damaged co-parenting dynamics), and generational (children who absorb and internalize conflict patterns). Most painfully, high-conflict divorces can stretch for years, preventing everyone from moving forward.

Properly trained divorce coaches occupy a unique position to break this cycle. Unlike attorneys or therapists, we help clients develop self-awareness about their conflict styles, recognize triggers, and build practical communication skills like BIFF responses (Brief, Informative, Friendly, Firm). The exciting reality is that it only takes one person changing the way they engage in conflict to transform the entire dynamic. Through techniques like conflict mapping, coaches help clients shift from feeling victimized to recognizing their agency and options. For co-parents especially, these skills prove invaluable as they navigate relationships that continue long after legal proceedings conclude.

Ready to deepen your conflict resolution skills? Join our six-week deep dive into the RESOLVE framework starting September 15th. Whether you're a DCA certified coach looking to expand your expertise or a coach certified elsewhere seeking foundational conflict training, we have options for you. Contact us at dca@divorcecoachesacademy.com to learn how you can help your clients move from reactivity to intentional response.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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Ready for some straight talk about building a divorce coaching practice? Forget the overnight success stories you've seen on social media. The path to a thriving practice follows a predictable pattern that requires patience, consistency, and strategic action.

Tracy and Debra break down the four distinct phases every successful divorce coach navigates. The Foundation Phase (months 1-3) is all about behind-the-scenes work – establishing your niche, setting up systems, and creating your brand. Though clients aren't flooding in yet, this groundwork is essential. Next comes the Visibility Phase (months 3-9), where you're networking, creating content, and often feeling like you're "shouting into the void." This is where many coaches get discouraged, but perseverance during this period builds the trust and recognition that eventually leads to clients.

The Growth Phase (months 9-18) brings your first consistent clients and referrals but also requires you to think like a CEO. Systems need refinement, continuing education becomes crucial, and mentorship can accelerate your progress. Finally, the Scaling Phase (18+ months) is when things "really start to click" – your practice becomes sustainable, and you can explore group programs or digital offerings without burning out.

What makes this journey manageable? Community support, realistic expectations, and celebrating small wins along the way. Whether you're just starting out or somewhere along this path, remember that building a profitable practice is absolutely possible – just not overnight. What small step can you take today toward building your sustainable divorce coaching business?

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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"Nesting" sounds like the perfect solution when parents divorce – children stay in the comfort of their family home while mom and dad are the ones who rotate in and out. But what happens when one parent returns to find empty refrigerators, piles of dirty laundry, and dust bunnies the size of a softball? Tracy and Debra discuss both the promises and the pitfalls of this increasingly popular custody option.

We unpack the logistics of maintaining multiple households, the financial strain this arrangement can create, and the exceptional level of communication required between separating spouses. From locked bedroom doors in shared apartments to negotiations about who buys the groceries, the seemingly small details often become major sticking points that can derail even the most well-intentioned nesting plans.

While nesting can provide children with stability during the turbulence of divorce, it requires parents to honestly assess whether their co-parenting relationship can handle this unique arrangement. We share real client experiences, practical coaching strategies for evaluating if nesting aligns with your values, and crucial questions to consider before agreeing to this setup. For those willing to create clear agreements and boundaries, nesting might offer a compassionate transition period – but it's rarely a permanent solution.

Whether you're contemplating this arrangement for your family or supporting clients through divorce as a coach, this discussion provides realistic guidance on when nesting works, when it doesn't, and how to set clear expectations from the beginning. If you've had experience with nesting arrangements, we'd love to hear about it – connect with us through social media or at divorcecoachesacademy.com to share your insights.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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Compassion fatigue silently affects countless divorce coaches—many don't even realize they're experiencing it until they're deep in burnout territory. Tracy and Debra tackle this critical topic by explaining how the very empathy that makes coaches effective can become their downfall without proper boundaries.

The conversation dives into what compassion fatigue actually looks like in real coaching scenarios—that emotional exhaustion when you can't stop thinking about a client's problems, the way you might feel angry on behalf of a client, or how certain sessions leave you completely drained. These aren't just normal professional challenges; they're warning signs that your professional container needs reinforcement.

What makes this episode particularly valuable is the practical framework Tracy and Debra provide for maintaining a sustainable coaching practice. They introduce the concept of the "professional container"—both external (how you structure your practice) and internal (how you manage your mindset and emotional responses). This container isn't about distancing yourself from clients' pain but rather creating boundaries that allow you to provide consistent, clear-headed support without absorbing their trauma.

The most powerful insight comes when they assert: "Empathy without containment becomes contagion." This perspective shift alone could transform how coaches approach their work. Rather than seeing boundaries as limitations on caring, Tracy and Debra reframe them as the essential infrastructure that makes deep, sustainable compassion possible.

Whether you're new to divorce coaching or a seasoned professional who's feeling the weight of client struggles, this episode offers concrete strategies to strengthen your practice—from establishing rituals of release between sessions to engaging in regular peer support and continuing education. These aren't just self-care luxuries; they're professional necessities for anyone committed to this emotionally demanding field.

Curious about strengthening your professional container? Visit divorcecoachesacademy.com to explore our training programs, case consultation groups, and professional development opportunities designed specifically for divorce coaches who want to bring their best selves to this important work.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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The search for emotional justice can become an invisible prison for those navigating divorce. While completely understandable, this pursuit often keeps people tethered to pain long after legal proceedings conclude.

Debra and Tracy dive deep into why clients become fixated on making their ex-partners acknowledge wrongdoing, apologize sincerely, or face consequences. They explore the neurological reality behind this pattern—how the brain remains in a heightened state of stress, treating emotional injury as an ongoing threat that must be resolved. This explains why many divorced individuals spend months or even years mentally rehearsing arguments or crafting the perfect message that might finally make their ex understand.

The cost of this fixation is staggering. Beyond precious time wasted, children absorb the tension and learn unhealthy conflict resolution skills. Financial decisions suffer, careers stall, and social relationships deteriorate as friends grow weary of repetitive grievances. Most critically, this pursuit hands continued power to the very person who caused harm, creating a form of voluntary emotional imprisonment.

Through case studies and practical examples, the hosts share powerful coaching strategies to help clients reclaim their agency. These include redirecting energy toward future possibilities, conducting "energy audits" to reveal how much mental bandwidth is being wasted, separating practical accountability measures from emotional justice outcomes, and developing internal validation skills. They explain why completion ceremonies, justice letters, and redefining "winning" can be transformative.

Moving beyond the need for emotional justice doesn't mean pretending the hurt didn't happen. Rather, it means choosing freedom over vindication and self-determination over dependency. As Tracy and Debra powerfully articulate, the most profound justice often comes not from making an ex-partner acknowledge wrongdoing, but from creating a life so vibrant and fulfilling that their opinion no longer matters—showing your children what a true comeback looks like.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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Cracking the code on client acquisition is perhaps the most common challenge facing divorce coaches at every stage of their careers. In this candid, strategy-packed episode, Debra and Tracy tackle the question they hear most frequently: "How do I find clients?" Drawing from years of experience building successful practices and mentoring coaches, they reveal seven powerful, field-tested strategies that go far beyond superficial marketing tactics.

At the heart of their approach lies a fundamental truth—successful client acquisition in divorce coaching depends on authentic relationship-building rather than flashy marketing schemes. Tracy and Debra emphasize the importance of defining your ideal client avatar with precision, explaining that "specificity is your superpower" in connecting meaningfully with potential clients. They share that approximately 70-80% of successful coaches find clients through strategic referral partnerships with professionals ranging from attorneys and therapists to hairstylists and personal trainers—essentially anyone your ideal client might confide in during their divorce journey.

The conversation flows through practical digital marketing approaches (including website essentials and content creation), community involvement strategies, directory listings, testimonial gathering, and follow-up systems. Throughout, Debra and Tracy punctuate their advice with real-world examples from their own experiences and those of coaches in their community. Their guidance is refreshingly honest, acknowledging that building a coaching practice takes patience and persistence, especially in a field where clients need to trust you with such vulnerable aspects of their lives.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow an established practice, this episode provides a roadmap for connecting with the clients who need your services most. Join the Divorce Coaches Academy community for ongoing support, case consultation, and practice-building guidance from coaches who've successfully navigated the path you're on.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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What does it really mean to be "trauma-informed" as a divorce coach? Beyond the buzzword, there's a profound responsibility to understand how trauma impacts our clients without overstepping our professional boundaries.

Tracy and Debra dive deep into this increasingly popular term, clarifying that being trauma-informed isn't about taking one class or having experienced trauma yourself. Rather, it's developing a working knowledge of how trauma affects the brain, nervous system, and behavior—then intentionally creating safety in your coaching relationships.

For divorce coaches, this understanding is crucial because divorce itself can be traumatizing. When clients apologize for crying, speak rapidly and scattered, or seem emotionally detached, these are often trauma responses. The magic happens not by diving into past wounds (that's therapy's domain), but by offering a different experience: one where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to access their own wisdom.

The most powerful revelation? Properly trained divorce coaches are already practicing trauma-informed care through client autonomy, co-regulation, and appropriate boundaries. When a client has experienced controlling relationships, simply asking "What feels right for you?" helps rebuild agency. When someone is emotionally dysregulated, your calm presence can help settle their nervous system enough to think clearly.

Ready to strengthen your trauma-informed approach? Focus on continued learning about neuroscience, develop self-awareness around your triggers, participate in regular supervision, and remember that your presence—grounded in curiosity and compassion—is your most powerful tool. You don't need to be a trauma expert to create safety; you just need to honor your client's humanity and pace.

Curious how this applies to your coaching practice? Connect with us on social media or at divorcecoachesacademy.com. Want to deepen these skills? Join our affordable case consultation group that meets twice monthly. Your commitment to this approach isn't just professional excellence—it's transformative for clients navigating one of life's most challenging transitions.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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Endings matter as much as beginnings in coaching relationships. Yet how many of us have let client relationships simply fade away without proper closure? In this deeply personal conversation, Tracy and Debra explore how thoughtfully designed "exit sessions" can transform the conclusion of coaching relationships from awkward goodbyes into powerful graduations that honor client growth.

Tracy shares her proven "Five R's" framework—Reflection, Recognition, Resources, Road Ahead, and Relationship—which provides a structured approach to celebrating progress, acknowledging challenges overcome, and equipping clients for continued success. Through heartfelt examples, the hosts reveal why these sessions often trigger emotional responses from both clients and coaches alike. As Tracy explains, "I have absolutely gotten emotional during exit sessions... not because I'm sad it's ending, but because I am truly proud of what my client has accomplished."

Beyond the emotional benefits, the hosts discuss the practical advantages of offering exit sessions as complimentary services that demonstrate a commitment to client transformation rather than ongoing dependency. This approach reinforces the coaching philosophy of empowering clients to become their own best advocates while simultaneously creating powerful referral sources.

Whether you're a seasoned divorce coach or just beginning your practice, this episode offers actionable strategies for implementing meaningful closure in your client relationships. Start small with reflective questions or adopt the complete framework—either way, your clients will remember how you made them feel in that final conversation. Ready to transform your practice with intentional endings? Listen now and discover how to help your clients truly "graduate" from coaching with dignity, confidence, and the tools they need for their journey ahead.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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Facing divorce and wondering what happens to your home? The decision to keep or sell the marital residence could be the most significant financial choice you make during your divorce—and getting it wrong might haunt you for years.

Tami Wollensak, a divorce mortgage specialist with over 25 years of experience and certified divorce coach, pulls back the curtain on what really happens with mortgages during divorce. She reveals why so many people make catastrophic financial mistakes when it comes to the family home, often because they receive guidance from well-meaning professionals who lack specialized mortgage knowledge.

Throughout our conversation, Tami breaks down complex concepts into practical insights: the true definition of home equity, how support payments affect mortgage qualification, and why your current mortgage payment bears little resemblance to what you might pay after divorce. She shares her own post-divorce homeownership struggles and offers a refreshingly honest take on why renting might be the smarter option for many.

Most crucially, Tami explains the specific timing requirements for using support income to qualify for mortgages—information that even many attorneys don't understand. Did you know child support payments must be court-ordered, received consistently for six months, AND have at least 36 months remaining to count toward mortgage qualification? This single detail could make or break your ability to keep your home.

Whether you're a divorce professional helping clients navigate this terrain or someone personally facing these decisions, this episode provides the mortgage literacy needed to avoid costly mistakes. Discover why consulting a divorce mortgage specialist early in the process could be the difference between post-divorce financial stability and distress.

Ready to make informed decisions about your biggest asset? Tami is licensed in 32 states and has a team that can help with mortgage lending in all 50 states. She would be happy to chat.

You can find Tami:

Website: takeorleavethehouse.com

Instagram: tami_wollensak

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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Divorce isn't just about legal paperwork and court proceedings—it's a deeply human journey that transforms families forever. What's often missing from traditional divorce approaches is acknowledgment of the emotional landscape, communication challenges, and the complex human dynamics that determine whether a family heals or fractures during separation.

The "modern divorce ecosystem" is evolving rapidly as families seek alternatives to adversarial proceedings that often leave lasting damage. Today's divorcing couples want more than just legal settlements; they're looking for guidance on effective communication, co-parenting strategies, and paths toward emotional healing. This shift reflects broader societal changes and recognition that while conflict in divorce is inevitable, destructive conflict is optional.

Divorce coaches occupy a unique position in this evolving landscape. Unlike attorneys or therapists, coaches focus specifically on developing practical skills that help clients navigate both the emotional and logistical challenges of divorce. They serve as objective thinking partners who help clients manage overwhelming emotions, prepare for difficult conversations, and build the communication skills necessary for productive conflict resolution. These skills prove especially crucial for parents who must transform their relationship from intimate partners to effective co-parents—a transition that impacts not just minor children but adult children and extended family as well.

Professional collaboration represents another significant trend, with family law attorneys, mediators, and mental health professionals increasingly recognizing the value divorce coaches bring to the process. Some law firms now employ in-house coaches, while many professionals are adding coaching skills to their own toolkit, finding that this approach not only better serves clients but also reduces the burnout rates common in family law practice.

Ready to learn more about how divorce coaching can transform family transitions or enhance your professional practice? Our next certification programs begin July 6th for Australia/New Zealand and July 20th for the US. Connect with us at divorcecoachesacademy.com to join a growing movement that's changing how families experience divorce.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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What truly sets one divorce coach training program apart from others? If you're exploring divorce coaching as a new career or looking to expand your professional toolkit, this crucial question deserves a thoughtful answer. 

Divorce Coaches Academy stands out because our curriculum is built by active practitioners, not theorists. As working divorce coaches and mediators, we've designed training that directly reflects what actually works with real clients facing real challenges. We know what it's like to sit across from someone in crisis, to navigate high-conflict co-parenting situations, and to help clients overwhelmed by legal complexities—because we do it every day.

We've created a program that combines the best of both worlds: flexible self-paced learning with structured live discussions and unparalleled mentorship. Our nine-week professional mentorship program pairs students with successful, experienced divorce coaches who provide direct feedback, guidance, and confidence-building support. This supervised practice is what transforms theoretical knowledge into true professional competence.

Recognizing that divorce processes differ worldwide, we've developed customized regional training tracks for the US, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the Arabian Gulf, and soon France. Each track is adapted by local professionals who understand the specific legal frameworks and cultural contexts of their regions. Whether you're a family law attorney looking to transform your practice, a therapist expanding your services, or someone passionate about supporting families through transition, our training provides the foundation for meaningful, successful work. The community you'll join is equally valuable—dedicated professionals committed to raising standards in the field who continue to support each other long after certification.

Ready to learn more? Visit divorcecoachesacademy.com/divorcecoach or schedule a personal call with our program directors to discuss how DCA can support your professional journey.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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The irreplaceable human element of divorce coaching remains vital in an increasingly AI-driven world, with experienced coaches providing emotional intelligence and authentic connection that technology cannot replicate. We explore why artificial intelligence tools can supplement but never substitute the nuanced support, personalized guidance, and trauma-informed approaches that human coaches offer during life's most challenging transitions.

• AI tools can help with administrative tasks but cannot read subtle emotional cues or provide genuine human connection

• Experienced coaches draw from personal and professional knowledge to offer nuanced advice tailored to individual values and situations

• "Compassionate boundaries" balance validation with accountability when emotions cloud judgment

• Real-time adaptation allows coaches to pivot instantly when clients face unexpected developments

• Trauma-informed approaches help coaches recognize signs of abuse that AI might miss

• The coaching relationship itself models healthy communication and boundary-setting for future relationships

• Technology works best as a supplement rather than a replacement for human coaching

Join us on July 23rd when Anne Wintemute from AmieeSays will join us to explore AI-driven tools for those in unhealthy relationships.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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Divorce has a reputation for bringing out surprising behaviors in otherwise composed, reasonable people. Even the most patient parent might find themselves sending aggressive texts at 2 AM. The kindest spouse might suddenly become fixated on revenge. The most logical professional might make financially devastating decisions based purely on emotion.

Why does this happen? In this episode, we explore the psychological underpinnings of why good people often behave badly during divorce. We unpack the popular saying that "criminal courts see bad people on their best day, while divorce courts see good people on their worst day" - a profound truth that helps us understand the perfect storm of emotional, practical, and identity challenges divorce creates.

When someone faces the end of their marriage, they're not just untangling a relationship - they're grieving the life they expected to have. This grief, combined with practical pressures like custody arrangements and financial concerns, pushes many into survival mode. And when we're in survival mode, our capacity for rational thinking diminishes dramatically.

As divorce coaches, we've developed specific approaches for working with clients caught in reactive emotional states. We share practical techniques for creating judgment-free spaces where clients can explore what's really happening beneath their anger, fear, or revenge fantasies. Through powerful questions that invite self-awareness, we help clients align their behavior with their true values and long-term goals.

Whether you're a helping professional working with divorcing clients or someone navigating your own divorce journey, this conversation offers compassionate insights into the emotional complexity of ending a marriage. Remember, reacting emotionally doesn't make someone a bad person - it makes them human. With the right support, these challenging moments can become opportunities for profound growth and self-discovery.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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The power struggle of "who goes first" in divorce negotiations costs couples thousands in unnecessary legal fees and months of emotional turmoil. Tracy and Debra dive deep into why this hesitation happens and how divorce professionals can effectively guide clients past this common roadblock.

At the heart of settlement hesitation lies a fascinating cocktail of psychological factors. Many clients fear anchoring too low, worried that their first offer becomes the ceiling rather than the floor for negotiations. Others simply aren't emotionally ready to take steps that make their divorce feel more real and final. Information gaps create legitimate concerns about making uninformed decisions, while strategic positioning—the belief that making the first move reveals weakness—can transform negotiations into costly standoffs where the refusal to engage becomes more important than resolution itself.

What makes this episode particularly valuable is the practical framework Tracy and Debra provide for helping clients reframe their thinking. Rather than viewing the first offer as vulnerability, they demonstrate how it represents an opportunity to control the narrative and set the agenda. Through visualization exercises, core value identification, and distinguishing between sufficient versus perfect information, coaches can transform client paralysis into empowered decision-making.

Whether you're working with clients who fear appearing desperate, those waiting for external validation, or individuals paralyzed by potential regret, this episode offers tailored strategies to break the settlement standoff and move the divorce process forward.

What approaches have you found effective in helping clients overcome their hesitation to make settlement offers? Share your experiences with us!

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

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The divorce coaching industry harbors a dangerous trend that's causing unnecessary harm to families across the country. In this eye-opening episode, Debra and Tracy tackle the phenomenon of "high-conflict divorce coaching" – an approach that frames every challenging divorce as a battle requiring warfare tactics rather than resolution strategies.

We pull back the curtain on what legitimate professional divorce coaching actually is and contrast it with the predatory marketing of high-conflict approaches that capitalize on fear. These programs effectively encourage clients to spend more money on their divorce, complicate the process, extend timelines, and create lasting damage – all while promising to help them "win" against their ex.

Through real-life examples, we reveal the staggering financial and emotional costs of choosing the high-conflict route. One client spent $80,000 on legal fees and was two years into her divorce without even reaching a temporary agreement – not because of complex assets or genuine safety concerns, but because both parties had adopted a battle mindset. We discuss how this approach operates on flawed assumptions: that you can change your spouse's behavior, that every difficult divorce involves a personality-disordered individual, and that being in constant "defense mode" is necessary.

As an alternative, we outline what to look for in a divorce coach or training program: someone focused on resolution rather than winning, who emphasizes communication strategies, emotional regulation, and clear decision-making. The truth is that the outcomes are typically the same whether you take the high-conflict route or a more measured approach – the only difference is you haven't spent years in litigation or hundreds of thousands of dollars unnecessarily.

Whether you're navigating divorce yourself, supporting someone who is, or considering becoming a divorce coach, this conversation provides crucial guidance for making choices that truly serve your long-term goals and your well being.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

Send Us a Message (include your contact info if you'd like a reply)

Afraid you need to be a financial expert to help divorce clients navigate money concerns? Think again! Tracy and Debra dismantle this common fear among divorce coaches by showing how you can effectively support clients through financial challenges without overstepping your role.

Financial uncertainty triggers our most basic survival fears—that's why money is almost always at the center of divorce conflict. According to government research, men's household income falls about 23% after divorce, while women experience a staggering 41% drop. No wonder financial anxiety runs so high! When clients worry about their ability to pay bills or put food on the table, their capacity to make sound decisions, negotiate fairly, or co-parent effectively becomes severely compromised.

The podcast reveals how coaches can guide clients through creating monthly budgets—arguably the most powerful financial tool during divorce. This simple exercise answers the burning question: "Can I support myself?" Through relatable client stories like Martha (who discovered her post-divorce budget was actually half what she feared) and Mary (who reconsidered keeping the family home after seeing the long-term financial impact), Tracy and Debra demonstrate how helping clients gain financial clarity transforms fear into knowledge and powerlessness into control.

They explore practical approaches to addressing income concerns, understanding the marital estate, and preparing clients for productive attorney consultations. Most importantly, they emphasize that coaches don't need calculators or financial certifications to make a difference—they just need to ask the right questions, guide clients through basic exercises, and connect them with specialists when needed.

Ready to feel confident helping your divorce clients with financial foundations? Listen now to discover how you can support clients in making informed, intentional decisions that align with their values and set them up for post-divorce success.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

Send Us a Message (include your contact info if you'd like a reply)

When children become pawns in their parents' divorce battles, the emotional damage can last a lifetime. Triangulation—the process where children are drawn into parental conflict—affects over 80% of high-conflict divorces and significantly increases children's risk for anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties well into adulthood.

In this compelling deep dive, Debra and Tracy unpack the three distinct forms of triangulation that plague divorcing families. They explore how children become direct participants in conflict when used as messengers or interrogated about the other parent's home. They reveal the subtle yet equally harmful pattern where children feel caught in the middle even when parents believe they're shielding them from tension. And they examine the most damaging form—when parents deliberately draw children into coalitions against the other parent through criticism, loyalty tests, and false narratives.

What makes this conversation particularly valuable is the practical coaching framework offered for helping parents recognize and break these destructive patterns. Through awareness-building questions, perspective-shifting exercises, and concrete strategies—from establishing direct adult communication to creating emotional safety zones—listeners gain tools to guide families toward healthier dynamics. The powerful question at the heart of this work resonates throughout: "Do you want to give your children a child-centered divorce or a divorce-centered childhood?"

Whether you're a divorce professional working with high-conflict families or a parent navigating co-parenting challenges, this episode provides insight into transforming harmful patterns into opportunities for healing. Because when parents take accountability and keep children out of adult conflicts, they're not just breaking a cycle—they're building resilience that will serve their children for years to come.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

Send Us a Message (include your contact info if you'd like a reply)

Have you been pouring endless energy into social media with minimal return for your divorce coaching practice? It might be time to unlock the most powerful marketing tool you're probably neglecting—your email list.

Trust serves as the cornerstone of the coach-client relationship, particularly when guiding someone through the emotional complexities of divorce. While social platforms broadcast your message widely, they lack the intimacy and privacy that email marketing delivers directly to your ideal client's inbox. As we often remind our coaching community, "If social media is the cocktail party, email marketing is meeting up for coffee."

The statistics don't lie—email marketing consistently outperforms social media in conversion rates, especially for service-based businesses like divorce coaching. Why? Because your subscribers have already demonstrated interest by sharing their email address, creating a warm lead that's significantly more likely to become a paying client. Plus, you completely own this asset. No algorithm changes, no shadow bans, no disappearing followers—just a direct line to people who've expressed interest in your expertise.

We walk you through creating compelling lead magnets that address specific pain points for divorcing individuals—from co-parenting communication guides to money-saving divorce checklists. The real magic happens in what follows: a thoughtfully crafted nurture sequence that builds trust, demonstrates your expertise, and gently guides potential clients toward working with you. Most importantly, we share how to confidently extend invitations to your services without coming across as pushy or sales-focused.

Whether you're just starting your coaching practice or looking to grow your established business, this episode provides a clear roadmap for building an email strategy that converts interested prospects into paying clients. Take one action step this week—choose an email provider, brainstorm lead magnet ideas, or draft your first nurture sequence. Your future clients are waiting in your inbox!

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

Send Us a Message (include your contact info if you'd like a reply)

We're pleased to welcome back Anne-Marie Cade, our DCA Director of Learning and Development for Australia. And she's here with some very exciting news.

Anne-Marie along with fellow DCA certified divorce coaches Amy Voller, Tahli Fitzpatrick and Marg Doherty have launched the Divorce Coaches Institute Australia (DCIA).

Alongside their international colleagues, they identified a critical need to establish a secure and ethically driven service for Australians undergoing separation or divorce. 

Recognizing the absence of regulations in the coaching industry, they were increasingly concerned about the lack of ethical standards and professional oversight and the absence of support for clients in the event of an unsuccessful coaching relationship.

All coaches admitted to DCIA are vetted and have been certified through select reputable and approved international training providers. Their coaches adhere to professional standards and follow a code of ethics, which ensures the well-being of clients and maintains the integrity of our profession.

Listen in to learn how Anne-Marie and her colleagues are raising the bar on professional standards in Australia.

Learn more about DCIA and find a coach:

Divorce Coaches Institute Australia website

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

Send Us a Message (include your contact info if you'd like a reply)

In this episode, we're diving into a topic that shows up with almost every client at some point: that sticky, frustrating, and sometimes paralyzing feeling that this just isn’t fair.

Whether it’s the division of assets, custody arrangements, or just the emotional fallout, so many clients come into the process believing they’ve been wronged—and they often have been! But here's the challenge: when someone is stuck in a story of injustice, it can completely block their ability to make empowered decisions. And that’s where we come in.

Today, we're going to unpack where that feeling comes from, what it does to your client's mindset, and offer these six coaching strategies you can use to help them move from frozen to forward.

1. Normalize the feeling
2. Shift from fairness to empowerment
3. Reframe the narrative
4. Use future-focused visualization
5. Introduce functional fairness
6. Anchor in core values

Remember...You’re not just helping your clients “get through” this. You’re helping them build resilience, clarity, and agency in one of the hardest seasons of their lives.

And that’s powerful work.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com

Send Us a Message (include your contact info if you'd like a reply)

Joining us today is Anne Wintemute, CEO of Aimee Says, an AI driven platform that empowers survivors of relationship abuse to recognize, respond, and recover.

Anne is a dedicated and visionary leader, currently serving as the Co-Founder and CEO of Aimee Says. She is also the founder of A Garden Grows, a consultancy offering vital support services to women experiencing post-separation abuse. Anne is passionate about transforming the discourse around intimate partner violence and advocating for a narrative that holds perpetrators accountable.

Aimee Says is a free tool to help clients recognize coercive control and abuse, manage communication, strategize and achieve better outcomes for themselves and their children.

Listen in as Anne share all the ways Aimee can support both your coaching relationship and your client with confidential compassion and guidance. From identifying red flags to crafting responses to preparing for court, Aimee Says is the BFF survivors need to have in their back pocket. Aimee Says also encourages a collaborative team approach where clients can share their account with professionals who are supporting them.

And for those of you in our DCA Coach Community, Anne will be joining us for a free Lunch & Learn on 7/23 at 12pm ET. Please mark your calendar to join us so you can see a demo of Aimee Says and ask all your questions.

Learn more about DCA® or any of the classes or events mentioned in this episode at the links below:

Website: www.divorcecoachesacademy.com
Instagram: @divorcecoachesacademy
LinkedIn: divorce-coaches-academy
Email: DCA@divorcecoachesacademy.com