127. The C Word: Custody (The Unavoidable Part of Divorce)

In today’s episode, we’re tackling one of the toughest realities of divorce: custody. Custody arrangements can feel unnatural, overwhelming, and emotional. Deciding when and how much time you spend with your children after a divorce is never easy, but it’s an unavoidable part of the process. In this episode, we break down how to handle custody agreements, how to mentally prepare for time away from your kids, and what you need to know to navigate this difficult terrain.

We share personal insights and experiences, including the pain of feeling like you’re “having your cake and eating it too” and how to come to terms with these challenging decisions. Special guest Heather Quick, founder of the Florida Women’s Law Group, joins us to explain how custody laws have changed in Florida and what that means for parents.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why custody arrangements can feel so unnatural and how to start accepting this new reality.
• How the new Florida custody law that assumes 50/50 time-sharing affects parents.
• The importance of planning for holidays, summers, and unexpected changes in parenting plans.
• How to prioritize your children's needs while managing your own emotions and mental health.
• Why you need to think long-term when negotiating custody agreements.

We answer the questions:

• What do you do when you just can’t agree to 50/50 custody?
• How do you plan custody arrangements for holidays and summers?
• What are some real-life examples of custody agreements that work (and don’t work)?
• Is it really possible to modify a custody plan later?
• How do you start emotionally preparing for time away from your kids?

Whether you're in the middle of a custody battle, preparing for it, or just want more insight into how to handle this part of divorce, this episode will give you the perspective and tools you need to navigate this tough chapter with more clarity. You’ve got this, and we’ve got you!

Connect with Heather:

Website: https://www.floridawomenslawgroup.com/

Tune in to learn how you can handle these difficult decisions without losing your sanity (or your dignity).

Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course

Our Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck

Friends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.

Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorce

Follow Andrea: @theandrearappaport

Follow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago