Navigating life after divorce isn’t easy, especially when you become a grandmother for the first time. In this episode, I opened up about the unexpected blend of joy and quiet grief—letting go of old family traditions, sharing holidays, and embracing new roles. I talked about how self-care helps you show up for your grandchildren and how connection can be found in simple shared moments. Legacy is built on love and presence, not just memories from the past. If you’re moving through divorce and rebuilding your family traditions, remember: you’re not alone, and the new year holds space for hope and belonging.

Navigating the holidays after divorce, especially later in life, can feel overwhelming. In this session, I shared that it’s okay to let go of old traditions and embrace new, simpler ones that truly bring comfort. Whether it’s creating experiences with loved ones or finding meaningful ways to connect—even volunteering or joining support groups—there is no right way to celebrate. The quiet moments, the changes, and even the grief, are part of healing. Remember, peace and rest are enough this season, and joy will return, even if quietly. This holiday can be different—and that’s perfectly okay.

In this episode, Shari opens up about the powerful journey of reclaiming your space, reinventing your daily routines, and rediscovering your confidence in social settings — all after the age of 50. Whether you’re navigating an empty marital home, setting up a fresh space that reflects who you are now, learning the art of finding gratitude in your day-to-day, or figuring out how to make new connections, you’ll find encouragement and practical tips here. Join Shari as she shares heartfelt advice and personal stories to remind you: starting over after 50 isn’t the end, it’s the exciting start of your most authentic chapter yet.

Today, we’re diving into a topic that hits close to home for many – what really happens when divorced parents come together to celebrate their child’s wedding. Shari is joined by Sarah Burton, also known as the "wedding whisperer" and owner of Simply Love Studio.

Together, they unpack the emotional highs and lows that can unfold when divorced parents and extended families are asked to share space on one of life’s biggest days. From heartwarming moments of unity and support to awkward standoffs, tears, and power plays, Shari and Sarah share real-life stories and expert advice on how to navigate these complex dynamics gracefully. You'll also hear practical tips on setting boundaries, managing expectations, and ensuring the spotlight shines where it belongs—on the happy couple.

Whether you’re a parent, stepparent, or part of a blended family, this episode will help you show up as your best self for those milestone occasions and turn what could be a breeding ground for conflict into a beautiful demonstration of love and maturity. So if you have a family wedding on the horizon—or just want to reflect on healthier ways to move forward—this conversation is for you.

Debra Clem, counselor, speaker, and writer, discusses the vital topic of forgiveness after divorce. Debra shares her personal journey through profound losses and a long-term marriage ending, illustrating the critical role forgiveness plays in personal healing. She emphasizes that forgiving an ex-spouse — or anyone who has caused harm — is not about excusing their actions, but about liberating oneself from the weight of resentment. Through heartfelt anecdotes, Debra uncovers how carrying unforgiveness can affect not only the individual but also their loved ones, and explains why it often requires both time and spiritual guidance to truly move forward.

The conversation explores practical steps for reaching forgiveness, including prayer, support from trusted individuals, and honest self-reflection. Debra also touches on the complexities of repeated hurts and the necessity of setting boundaries when harmful behaviors persist. She and Shari address the misconception that forgiveness means staying in a damaging relationship, clarifying that it is possible — and sometimes necessary — to forgive and still walk away. Finally, Debra offers insights into re-entering the dating world later in life and stresses the importance of healing before forming new relationships.

Today we’re diving into a question that’s deeply personal—and often fraught with confusion and emotion—for many people of faith: What does the Bible actually say about divorce?

To help us unpack this sensitive topic with wisdom, compassion, and clarity, I’m joined by author, speaker, and Christian teacher Connie Prater. Together, we’ll explore not only the scriptural foundations around divorce, but also address the guilt, shame, and questions many face when religion and real-life experience collide. Whether you’re struggling with religious guilt, questioning your place in your faith community, or just searching for peace after your marriage ends, this episode promises insight, encouragement, and a reminder that there’s always hope—and grace—ahead.

In today’s episode, host Shari sits down with John Pearson—a man of faith, mentor, and the creator of the "Spirit, the Scribe, the Journal" book series and YouTube channel. John opens up about his unexpected experience with divorce later in life, navigating emotional upheaval, faith-based struggles, and the journey toward healing and self-discovery.

Together, they dive into the unique challenges men face in the aftermath of divorce, exploring everything from grief and guilt to rebuilding identity and finding peace. John shares wisdom from his personal transformation, the power of intentional prayer, and practical advice for men who feel lost after a marriage ends. If you’ve ever wondered what divorce feels like for men over 50, or how faith and growth intertwine in the healing process, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Shari welcomes photographer Ashley Lowe to discuss the powerful, healing role of photography after a major life transition like divorce. Ashley shares how portrait sessions can help women, especially those over 40 and 50, reclaim their confidence and sense of identity following the end of a long-term marriage. She explains that for many women, professional photos are something they haven’t experienced for decades—usually not since high school or their wedding—and that the process of preparing for and participating in a session is transformative. With the support of a wardrobe stylist and professional hair and makeup, clients find themselves seen, valued, and able to express who they are becoming, rather than who they were.

Ashley also opens up about her own post-divorce experience, describing how booking a photography session helped her reframe negative beliefs and rediscover her self-worth. The conversation highlights the importance of being visible and authentic, both personally and professionally, whether it’s for business headshots, dating profiles, or simply restoring family photos that reflect a new phase of life. Shari and Ashley underscore that empowerment sessions—like boudoir photography—play an important part in helping women feel confident and sexy again, regardless of age or body type. To top it off, Ashley shares how her studio provides a supportive, welcoming environment and how listeners can connect with her for a chance to win a complimentary photo shoot tailored to their own journey of self-renewal.

Connect with Ashley Lowe Ready for your own empowerment session or updated headshot? Check out Ashley’s work at hrtofgoldphoto.com or text/call 859-667-8104 with your questions.