Strategic Divorce Planning for Better Outcomes

In this episode, host Mardi Winder welcomes Dr. Robin Buckley, Ph.D., an expert in clinical psychology with a specialty in cognitive behavioral methodology and executive coaching. Together, they explore the power of applying clear, practical strategies and goal-setting to both marriage and divorce. Dr. Robin shares insights from her years of experience, reflecting on the transition from traditional therapy, focused on intervention and healing from past wounds, to her current emphasis on proactive coaching that builds toward a meaningful and intentional future.

The discussion unpacks the differences between coaching and therapy, noting that coaching helps clients focus on what they can control in the present to create the future they want. Dr. Robin explains how our brains often become stuck in reactive patterns during the stress of divorce, making logical decision-making difficult. She suggests that by engaging the prefrontal cortex, people can step away from the "fight, flight, or freeze" response and approach divorce with clarity and strategic thinking.

A central theme of the conversation is the concept of a "mission statement for divorce." Dr. Robin helps clients articulate what they want life to look like after divorce, whether it involves successful co-parenting, remaining friends, or setting firm boundaries for a clean break. Rather than simply aiming to finalize the legal process, couples are encouraged to envision their goals for their lives beyond the separation. This mission statement serves as a guiding compass throughout the process, helping couples navigate conflict and remain focused on respectful outcomes even in tense moments.

The episode also touches on changing trends, with more people, especially in younger generations, seeking collaborative and multidisciplinary approaches to divorce. Dr. Robin shares her excitement about these supportive models, which often include financial advisors, therapists, and legal professionals working as a team. In closing, Dr. Robin introduces her new book, Marriage Incorporated, which brings strategic planning and business principles into the realm of relationships, offering readers practical tools to create stronger foundations and improve communication in both marriage and divorce.

About the Guest:

Dr. Robin Buckley holds a PhD in clinical psychology with specialized training in cognitive behavioral methodology and executive coaching. Through her data-driven, strategic coaching model, she helps individuals, couples, and organizations achieve personal and professional goals. Her expertise has been featured by Entrepreneur, Chief, Nike, and TED. Robin's coaching empowers clients to move beyond insight into actionable, lasting success.

To connect with Dr. Robin:

Website: https://drrobinbuckley.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drrobinbuckley/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-robin-buckley/

About the Host:

Mardi Winder is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4women

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