Episodios

  • Gray Divorce: Safeguarding, retirement, business and legacy – with Kara Chrobak, Esq

    Gray Divorce: Safeguarding, retirement, business and legacy – with Kara Chrobak, Esq
    Jul 9 2025
    In this eye-opening episode of We Chat Divorce, we welcome Kara Chrobak, a Colorado-based family law attorney who brings deep insight into high-net-worth divorce, complex asset division, and marital agreements. Kara recently launched her own practice—Bespoke Law LLC—after over 15 years in big law. What we talk about with Kara: Why mediation sometimes feels more like pressure than resolution—and how to shift that narrative How to approach settlement with a risk tolerance lens rather than fear Why documentation and financial clarity are non-negotiable before negotiating The nuances of gray divorce, including retirement planning, lifetime maintenance, and emotional shifts When and how to consider a postnuptial agreement—and the legal pitfalls to avoid The critical importance of aligned communication between attorneys and financial professionals How MDS clients enter legal conversations more prepared and empowered Kara also shares her thoughtful, compassionate approach to working with clients and why education is the antidote to anxiety in divorce. Whether you're divorcing at 35 or 65, this conversation offers clarity, wisdom, and real-world advice from professionals who believe in empowering you with knowledge. Connect with Kara Chrobak, Esq., Founder, Bespoke Law LLC, Colorado bespokelawllc.com Next Steps: Take the Free Divorce Financial Assessment Share this episode with someone navigating a high-net-worth or gray divorce Follow us for more empowering conversations Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    41 m
  • Divorce Explored: What to Know About Lump Sum Alimony Buyouts

    Divorce Explored: What to Know About Lump Sum Alimony Buyouts
    Jul 2 2025
    Should you take the lump sum or stick with monthly support payments? In this episode, Catherine and Karen unpack one of the most misunderstood yet consequential decisions in divorce: alimony buyouts. Together, they demystify how these lump sum payments are calculated, who truly benefits, and what hidden pitfalls can jeopardize your financial future. From passive income projections to payout timing and mortgage qualification hurdles—this deep dive explores the real-world scenarios and tough questions you must ask before signing your agreement. Lump Sum Alimony: Pros & cons for both payer and recipient Tax implications & investment risks Liquidity vs. long-term cash flow Calculating present value & discount rates Passive income assumptions—and why timing matters What if the payer can’t pay all at once? Tranches, step-down payments, and protective clauses Impact on mortgage eligibility The role of life insurance and estate protection Why enforceability & agreement language matter The crucial importance of stress-testing financial plans Listener Challenge: Are you considering a lump sum offer? Screenshot this episode and send it to a friend or family member who might be weighing the same decision. Share the clarity. 📲 Follow us for more financial clarity in divorce. New episodes drop weekly. #WeChatDivorce #DivorcePlanning #AlimonyBuyouts #DivorceStrategy #FinancialClarity #DivorceExplored Key Topics Covered: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    27 m
  • Burning money questions, why investing in financial clarity beats guesswork in divorce.

    Burning money questions, why investing in financial clarity beats guesswork in divorce.
    Jun 25 2025
    Welcome to another behind-the-scenes episode of Divorce Explored, your unfiltered look at what really happens inside My Divorce Solution. In this episode, Catherine and Karen tackle the five most common — and misunderstood — money questions they hear from individuals considering or starting the divorce process. If you’ve ever wondered: "Can you just take a quick look at our agreement?" "Doesn’t my attorney already do this?" "Will I still need a forensic accountant?" "Isn’t our estate simple?" "Will my attorney work with you?" ...this episode is for you. Our co-founders explain why financial clarity isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. Learn how lack of preparation leads to costly mistakes and emotional overwhelm, and why a proactive, data-driven approach saves you thousands while empowering you to make confident legal and financial decisions. "The Quick Look Myth": What sounds fair on paper rarely accounts for taxes, long-term consequences, or unforeseen life events. Legal ≠ Financial: Attorneys are not financial analysts. Without financial clarity, you’re navigating blind. Forensics Isn’t Always the Fix: Most clients don’t need one — they just need to be prepared. Simplicity Is Deceptive: Even “simple” cases often hide six-figure surprises. Collaboration with Attorneys: MDS works with — not against — your legal team, setting the foundation for informed negotiation. The Divorce Financial Portrait™: Your personalized roadmap to financial clarity during divorce. Begin your Free Assessment,Take the first step toward financial empowerment. If this episode opened your eyes or gave you clarity, do us (and future listeners) a favor — leave a quick rating or review. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a weekly dose of divorce empowerment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    24 m
  • Peace Over Power Struggles – Co-Parenting Through Chaos

    Peace Over Power Struggles – Co-Parenting Through Chaos
    Jun 18 2025
    In this empowering and heartfelt episode, Catherine and Karen sit down with Dr. Tara Egan, founder of Egan Counseling & Consulting, to discuss the emotional and practical realities of co-parenting through divorce—especially in high-conflict situations. With over two decades of experience and her own personal journey through divorce, Dr. Egan shares real-world strategies that prioritize peace, protect children, and reduce costly legal and emotional power struggles. Key Takeaways: Parent Coordination: Dr. Egan explains how a Parent Coordinator acts as a neutral party helping parents follow custody agreements and make day-to-day decisions without returning to court—saving time, money, and stress. Nesting Isn’t Forever: Nesting (kids stay in the home while parents rotate in/out) can be helpful short-term but rarely works long-term. Stability comes from clear routines and emotionally safe environments—not physical space alone. Kids Need One Healthy Parent: Divorce doesn’t "mess up" kids—how parents behave before, during, and after does. Kids thrive with at least one emotionally healthy parent showing up with consistency and compassion. Responding to Financial Blame: When children repeat financial accusations (“Mom took all the money”), avoid defensive responses. Instead, calmly reassure them with facts, warmth, and emotional safety. Set the Tone in Co-Parenting Conversations: Stay out of judgment. Acknowledge that families change and model positive, future-focused communication, even when your co-parent does not. Don’t Expect Your Ex to Suddenly Be Different: Your ex won’t magically become a more emotionally responsive or financially generous person post-divorce. Accepting that helps reduce your stress and disappointment. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Tara Egan's Website: www.egancounseling.com TikTok: @taraegan – Bite-sized advice for navigating co-parenting and high-conflict divorce. Subscribe to We Chat Divorce and explore more insights on financial clarity, parenting support, and emotional empowerment at mydivorcesolution.com/podcast. Listen Now: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    42 m
  • Let Them: Emotional Freedom Meets Financial Clarity in Divorce

    Let Them: Emotional Freedom Meets Financial Clarity in Divorce
    Jun 11 2025
    In this empowering episode of We Chat Divorce, Catherine Shanahan and Karen Chellew unpack the viral “Let Them” theory popularized by Mel Robbins—and apply it to the high-stress, emotionally charged context of divorce. While “letting them” can sound passive, Catherine and Karen reveal how it’s actually a strategy grounded in smart decision-making and emotional control. Learn how to let go of reactionary behaviors, protect your finances, and focus on what truly matters for your future. Why reacting to your ex’s antics may cost you—emotionally and financially How “Let Them” becomes powerful when paired with financial clarity When to act, when to document, and when to simply pause Tools to track spending, identify emergencies, and stay grounded Why documentation is your best protection—not retaliation How the MDS Financial Portrait™ empowers you to respond with confidence Pause before reacting—use the “24-hour panic rule” Let your ex propose, spend, and posture—while you document Track joint spending, freeze credit lines if needed, and know your cash flow Use what you learn in the process to strengthen your negotiation power Don’t agree to anything—mediation or otherwise—without financial clarity Are you struggling to “let them”? Do you need support in creating financial guardrails during divorce? Leave a comment or question, and we’ll respond in a future episode. Email us wechat@ck11.net What You'll Learn:Practical Tips:Join the Conversation: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    16 m
  • Crypto in the Closet: Exposing Hidden Bitcoin in Divorce

    Crypto in the Closet: Exposing Hidden Bitcoin in Divorce
    Jun 4 2025
    In this insightful episode of We Chat Divorce, we sit down with New York matrimonial law expert Jacqueline Newman to uncover the real story behind cryptocurrency in divorce. From the early days of “Bitcoin parties” to high-stakes cases involving millions in crypto, Jacqueline shares her experience dealing with digital assets during complex marital dissolutions. Whether you're navigating a high-asset divorce or simply concerned your spouse might be hiding crypto, this episode breaks down what you need to know—and what your attorney should be asking for. What You’ll Learn: How digital assets like Bitcoin impact divorce settlements Why cryptocurrency still feels “mysterious” and how to demystify it Common mistakes when dealing with crypto during financial discovery When to consider dividing assets “in kind” instead of assigning a value The real cost of hiring forensic experts to uncover hidden crypto Tips to protect yourself from financial blind spots during divorce Key Takeaways from Jacqueline: Always trace the source: “Every crypto purchase comes from somewhere—start with the bank statements.” Consider dividing in-kind: This strategy helps both parties share in the gains (or losses) of volatile assets. Don’t fear the unknown: Crypto is just another asset—fear fades with financial literacy and the right support. Top 3 Documents to Request if You Suspect Hidden Crypto: Complete bank and brokerage account statements Sworn statements of net worth or financial affidavits All crypto wallet addresses and digital exchange records Learn more about Jacqueline’s work at: BerkBot.com https://nycdivorcelawyer.com/ Learn more at mydivorcesolution.com Subscribe to WeChat Divorce on your favorite podcast platform. Have questions or topic ideas? Email us at wechat@ck11.net Navigating crypto, complex assets, or financial uncertainty in your divorce? Start with the MDS Financial Portrait™ – your personalized financial plan for divorce clarity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    35 m
  • Cool Heads, Smart Wallets, Emotional Mastery & Divorce Finance

    Cool Heads, Smart Wallets, Emotional Mastery & Divorce Finance
    May 28 2025
    In this powerful episode, Jenny Stevens joins Karen and Catherine to explore how to manage emotions and make smart financial decisions during one of life’s most difficult transitions—divorce. Jenny shares her personal journey from being a breadwinner navigating her own divorce, single parenting, cancer diagnosis, and career change, to becoming a coach who helps others turn life’s adversities into transformation. “You don’t need to overhaul your life. You just need to tweak the behaviors and habits that no longer serve you.” – Jenny Stevens Jenny Stevens jennystevenscoach.com IG: www.instagram.com/jennystevens_coach/ FB: www.facebook.com/jennystevenscoach Email: Jenny@jennystevenscoach.com Take the Free MDS Financial Assessment: mydivorcesolution.com Join the Conversation: Comment on this episode’s post with 3–5 empowering thoughts you’re choosing to focus on during your divorce journey. Let’s create a mindset shift—together. Submit your questions for future episodes at: wechat@ck11.net Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more real conversations that make divorce less overwhelming and more empowering. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    35 m
  • Cut the Burn Rate: 16 Questions to Ask Before You Hire Your Attorney

    Cut the Burn Rate: 16 Questions to Ask Before You Hire Your Attorney
    May 21 2025
    If you’ve ever stared at a four-figure legal invoice and thought, “Where did my money go?” — this episode is for you. In this episode, Catherine and Karen break down the true cost of divorce and share how to spot red flags, avoid wasteful spending, and build a lean, efficient legal team. You'll hear about real-life examples of inflated invoices, underused experts, and clients who got burned by not knowing what they signed up for. From understanding the scope of your attorney's work to catching block billing and knowing when to pause and prepare, this episode arms you with the tools to keep your legal bills from taking over your financial future. Why some clients burn through retainers before any progress is made What “block billing” is — and why it’s a red flag How to leverage paralegals and avoid being billed at attorney rates The difference between full-service, collaborative, and limited-scope attorneys When and if to hire a forensic accountant, CPA, or mortgage expert The power of getting financially prepared before hiring anyone What is your overall philosophy or style when handling divorce cases? How do you typically structure your team and delegate tasks? What are your hourly rates — and do they vary by who is doing the work? Are flat-fee options available for specific services? What is the retainer for my case and how is it applied? Is the retainer a minimum fee or refundable? Will I receive monthly billing statements? How do you track and report time for tasks performed? Will I be billed for internal meetings or staff conferences? Can I request a cap on monthly fees or be notified when nearing budget limits? How do you determine if a paralegal or associate should handle a task? How do you document prep work, and can I review those notes? Will I be billed for re-reviewing documents that have already been reviewed? Are billing errors ever adjusted if I notice discrepancies? How do you define the scope of work when hiring outside experts (like forensics)? How can I best work with you to keep my costs down? Batch your communications to avoid small, costly emails Ask for work product if you’re billed for extensive review or prep Consider limited-scope representation for specific legal tasks Use financial professionals to prepare documents instead of high-priced attorneys Pause your case if needed — getting financially organized may save thousands "Every email you batch, every paralegal you leverage, and every line item you question is real money staying in your pocket — not evaporating into the billable hour." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    24 m