How to Split a Toaster: A Divorce Podcast About Saving Your Relationships

How to Split a Toaster: A Divorce Podcast About Saving Your Relationships

Seth Nelson is a Tampa based family lawyer known for devising creative solutions to difficult problems. In How to Split a Toaster, Nelson and co-host Pete Wright take on the challenge of divorce with a central objective — saving your most important relationships with your family, your former spouse, and yourself.

  1. Preparing for Mediation • Your Divorce Case

    22 HR AGO

    Preparing for Mediation • Your Divorce Case

    Preparing for Mediation: What You Need to Know In this episode of How to Split a Toaster, Seth Nelson and Pete Wright dive into the importance of preparation when it comes to mediation. As part of the season-long series "Your Divorce Case," Seth and Pete aim to equip listeners with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the mediation process effectively. Next week, they'll be joined by mediator Tami Sbar to discuss the mediation process in depth. Seth and Pete emphasize the significance of setting realistic expectations for clients and the crucial role of emotional readiness in the mediation process. They discuss the confidential nature of mediation and how it differs from a trial setting. The hosts also highlight the importance of having a solid parenting plan and a clear understanding of financial matters before entering mediation. Questions we answer in this episode: What is mediation, and how does it fit into the court process?How can you prepare emotionally and mentally for mediation?What should you bring to mediation, and what can you expect during the process?Key Takeaways: Preparation is key to a successful mediation. Draft a parenting plan and gather financial documents beforehand.Mediation is confidential, allowing parties to speak freely and explore options without fear of repercussions in court.Compromising beyond your comfort level may be necessary, but it's often better than the alternative of going to court.Plus, we tackle another listener question! In "Fed Up with Frivolous Motions," a listener asks how to deal with a spouse who refuses to mediate and constantly files frivolous motions. Seth suggests requesting a scheduling order from the judge to set deadlines and keep the case moving forward. This episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice for anyone preparing for mediation in their divorce case. By listening, you'll gain a better understanding of what to expect, how to prepare, and how to approach the process with the right mindset. Tune in to ensure you're well-equipped for your upcoming mediation session! Links & Notes Schedule a consult with SethGot a question you want to ask on the show? Click here! (00:00) - Welcome to How to Split a Toaster (00:26) - Preparing for Mediation (01:14) - Setting Realistic Mediation Expectations (05:28) - Parenting Plan Mediation (09:13) - Getting Emotionally Ready (10:23) - Your Day to Talk Freely (14:12) - Goals (16:28) - What Causes Mediation to Fail (18:25) - Long Days (21:08) - Buyer’s Remorse (25:08) - Last Notes (26:28) - Listener Question (30:02) - Wrap Up

    32 min
  2. The Final Piece: Understanding Everything Else in the PEACE Process • Your Divorce Case

    7 JAN

    The Final Piece: Understanding Everything Else in the PEACE Process • Your Divorce Case

    The Final E: Understanding Everything Else in Your Divorce Family law attorney Seth Nelson and co-host Pete Wright wrap up their journey through the PEACE Process, focusing on that last E – the often-overlooked but crucial "Everything Else" component. In this episode, they break down the practical aspects of divorce proceedings that can make or break your case. Seth and Pete dive deep into the importance of process management in divorce cases, from document preparation to courtroom proceedings. They explore how setting clear goals at the start can help navigate the emotional complexity of divorce while staying focused on what matters most. The conversation covers everything from working with paralegals as accountability partners to understanding the role of private investigators in gathering evidence, and the critical aspects of attorney fees and retainers. Questions we answer in this episode: How do I manage the overwhelming amount of documentation needed for my divorce?What should I expect regarding timeline and costs for my divorce proceedings?How do attorney retainers work and what are my financial obligations?Key Takeaways: Start with your end goals and work backward to create an effective strategyMake time for your case and utilize support staff as accountability partnersUnderstand the true timeline of divorce proceedings - even "simple" cases typically take 3-18 monthsThis episode provides invaluable insights into the practical aspects of divorce proceedings that often catch people off guard. Seth and Pete's straightforward discussion about process management, documentation requirements, and financial considerations offers listeners a comprehensive roadmap for navigating their divorce journey more effectively. Links & Notes Schedule a consult with SethGot a question you want to ask on the show? Click here! (00:00) - Welcome to How to Split a Toaster (00:34) - Everything Else (01:30) - Attorney’s Fees and the Process (02:26) - Starting at the End (06:13) - Reactive (07:25) - Foreign Place (09:59) - Working Backward (12:21) - Make the Time (14:54) - Working with a Paralegal (16:27) - Understanding the Next Step (18:19) - Trial Prep (20:39) - The Theme of Your Story (23:08) - Hiring PIs (25:07) - Client Gathering Info (28:37) - Walking Through It (33:39) - Attorney’s Fees (39:50) - Tax Implications (40:21) - Wrap Up

    43 min
  3. Co-Parenting During the Holidays • Rebroadcast

    31/12/2024

    Co-Parenting During the Holidays • Rebroadcast

    ‘Tis the Season... for Co-Parenting Conflict! No parent wants to deal with emergency motion handling orders or duty judges on the holidays, but it happens. Stress can be high and the holidays – any holiday – can become a ripe place to pick a fight. So how do you avoid conflict to make the holidays still a special time for the kids? The key is to do everything you can to avoid problems. Often, that means getting your ego out of the way so that you and your ex can make it about the kids. Avoid exchanges on travel days. Try to not split actual holidays, but if you have to, think about the activities of the day and plan accordingly. (In other words, if you’re splitting Christmas, do it in the afternoon so they can enjoy Christmas morning.) And do what you can to avoid escalation – perhaps you need to stay away from the eggnog until after you’ve dropped the kids off. What about gifts? The kids were used to getting gifts from both parents. You don’t have to stop co-gifting just because you’re divorced. It may be what your child needs to feel safe around the holiday.  Seth and Pete offer lots of great advice. Tune in, and have yourself a happy and safe holiday season. Links & Notes Schedule a consult with SethGot a question you want to ask on the show? Click here! (00:00) - Welcome to How to Split a Toaster (02:34) - Co-Parenting During the Holidays (02:51) - Holiday Emergencies (04:44) - Don't Exchange on Travel Days (08:19) - Splitting Holidays (10:45) - Points of Escalation (12:39) - Gifts (16:01) - Other Holidays (22:41) - Avoid Conflict for the Kids (24:06) - Lower Expectations (24:34) - Enjoy the Holidays Stay safe and sober this holiday season with Soberlink. Co-parenting can be challenging, especially when alcohol abuse is a concern. Give yourself and your family the gift of peace of mind during the holidays by using Soberlink's remote alcohol monitoring system. Improve trust, accountability, and communication in your co-parenting arrangement. Visit their site today to learn more and get $50 off. Happy Holidays from Soberlink!

    28 min
  4. Splitting the Holidays • Rebroadcast

    24/12/2024

    Splitting the Holidays • Rebroadcast

    Welcome to Winter! It's that time of year we love to hunker down and reflect, taking just a few weeks to recharge and prepare for the burst of new life in the spring. We have a few episodes from the archives to share with you over these cozy weeks. First up, what was originally an episode about splitting the summer holidays comes today, just in time for winter's chill! Winter, that time we celebrate the most cherished of all divorce traditions, that special time when you sit down and ask: how do you split the holidays? Let’s get this out of the way early: if you have kids involved, splitting holidays is not easy. We’re not just talking about the winter holidays, mind you. What about winter break... New Year's Eve, New Year's Day, Valentine's Day, birthdays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, spring break, President's Day, three-day weekends, teacher planning days, Jewish Holidays, Non-Hallmark holidays, and believe it or not, the list goes on from there! Luckily, after you wrap your head around the sheer number of days to calculate, you can rest easy in the comfort of the one person in your corner who can help you with all that holiday math: your lawyer. That’s right, your lawyer has likely been through this many, many times and has seen every possible permutation of the holiday split and with a little patience, can get you scheduling like a pro. (00:00) - Welcome to How to Split a Toaster (02:55) - Splitting Holidays (26:32) - Definition of the Week – Deposition (28:32) - Working With Your Lawyer When It Comes to Holidays (35:32) - Wrapping Up Stay safe and sober this holiday season with Soberlink. Co-parenting can be challenging, especially when alcohol abuse is a concern. Give yourself and your family the gift of peace of mind during the holidays by using Soberlink's remote alcohol monitoring system. Improve trust, accountability, and communication in your co-parenting arrangement. Visit their site today to learn more and get $50 off. Happy Holidays from Soberlink!

    37 min
  5. Following the Money Trail: Forensic Accounting in Divorce with Kristin DiMeo • Your Divorce Case

    17/12/2024

    Following the Money Trail: Forensic Accounting in Divorce with Kristin DiMeo • Your Divorce Case

    Uncovering Hidden Assets in Divorce with Forensic Accountant Kristin DiMeo In this installment of our "Your Divorce Case" series, Seth and Pete welcome Kristin DiMeo, a forensic accountant and expert witness who has seen Seth in action representing clients in mediations and trials. The conversation focuses on Kristin's role in the divorce process, looking backwards at a couple's finances to uncover and analyze assets that may be hidden or overlooked. As a CPA, Kristin compiles and examines past financial records to help answer key questions about a divorcing couple's money matters. Beyond digging into the details, she also assists clients and attorneys in settlement discussions and preparing exhibits for court. Seth and Pete dig into what someone should expect when working with a forensic accountant like Kristin and how she approaches complex issues like business valuations. Questions we answer in this episode: What does a forensic accountant do in divorce cases?How does a forensic accountant work with divorcing individuals and attorneys?What are the different approaches to valuing a business in a divorce?Key Takeaways: Forensic accounting is about uncovering financial details, not always catching deceptionDivorcing individuals can help the process by gathering as many financial documents as possibleBusiness valuations in divorce consider assets, income, the market and non-marital factorsFor anyone facing a divorce who is unsure about the complete financial picture, this episode is a must-listen. Seth, Pete and Kristin break down the crucial role a forensic accountant can play in ensuring all assets are accounted for and valued properly to enable fair settlement discussions. Tune in for an inside look at the financial side of untangling a marriage. Links & Notes Schedule a consult with SethGot a question you want to ask on the show? Click here! (00:00) - Welcome to How to Split a Toaster (02:01) - Meet Kristin DiMeo (03:00) - The Forensic Accountant’s Role (05:38) - Creating Transparency (10:49) - One or Both Parties (11:30) - Setting Up Your Expectations (15:44) - Discovery Methods (18:41) - Business Valuations (20:52) - Asset Approach (25:50) - Common Complications (29:02) - Alimony and Child Support (31:35) - Trial (35:29) - Live Questions (42:38) - Wrap Up Stay safe and sober this holiday season with Soberlink. Co-parenting can be challenging, especially when alcohol abuse is a concern. Give yourself and your family the gift of peace of mind during the holidays by using Soberlink's remote alcohol monitoring system. Improve trust, accountability, and communication in your co-parenting arrangement. Visit their site today to learn more and get $50 off. Happy Holidays from Soberlink!

    44 min
  6. Cracking the Child Support Code: Understanding the Formula and Factors • Your Divorce Case

    10/12/2024

    Cracking the Child Support Code: Understanding the Formula and Factors • Your Divorce Case

    Navigating the Complex World of Child Support In this episode of How to Split a Toaster, Seth and Pete dive deep into the often murky waters of child support, the C in the PEACE Process. With precise rules, high stakes, and emotions running even higher, understanding child support is crucial for anyone going through a divorce. Unraveling the Intricacies of Child SupportIn this installment of our season-long look called Your Divorce Case, Seth and Pete break down the complexities of child support, explaining that it has little to do with actual child expenses. Instead, the state uses a mathematical formula based on the combined net income of both parents to determine the amount of support needed. They discuss how factors such as the number of children, parenting time, and additional expenses like health insurance premiums and uncovered medical costs impact the calculation. Questions we answer in this episode:• How is child support calculated?• What factors influence child support payments?• Can the court deviate from the child support guidelines? Key Takeaways:• Child support is based on a formula, not actual child expenses.• The percentage of financial responsibility for each parent is crucial.• Regular recurring income, such as bonuses and vested stock options, counts towards child support calculations. Seth and Pete's in-depth analysis of child support provides valuable insights for anyone navigating the complexities of divorce. By understanding the nuances of the guidelines, parents can better prepare for the financial aspects of co-parenting and ensure the well-being of their children post-divorce. Links & Notes Free Child Support Calculations on Family Law SoftwareSchedule a consult with SethGot a question you want to ask on the show? Click here! (00:00) - Welcome to How to Split a Toaster (02:00) - The PEACE Process: Child Support (04:34) - Not Just About Child Expenses (07:19) - Who Pays Whom? (13:19) - No Reason to Fight (13:47) - Deviating from Guidelines (15:50) - Kids from Multiple Marriages (19:02) - Finding the Net Income (27:19) - Changes in Circumstance (30:21) - Enforcement (32:07) - Bankruptcy (32:50) - Can’t Waive the Right (33:48) - Modification (35:09) - How Does the Court Know? (37:33) - Extracurriculars (38:50) - Remarriages (42:34) - Almost Wrap Up (43:18) - Alimony (44:09) - Real Wrap Up Stay safe and sober this holiday season with Soberlink. Co-parenting can be challenging, especially when alcohol abuse is a concern. Give yourself and your family the gift of peace of mind during the holidays by using Soberlink's remote alcohol monitoring system. Improve trust, accountability, and communication in your co-parenting arrangement. Visit their site today to learn more and get $50 off. Happy Holidays from Soberlink!

    46 min
  7. Need vs Ability: Understanding Alimony • Your Divorce Case

    03/12/2024

    Need vs Ability: Understanding Alimony • Your Divorce Case

    Show Me The Money: Understanding Modern Alimony In this episode of How to Split a Toaster, divorce attorney Seth Nelson and Pete Wright dive into the complex world of alimony. As part of their comprehensive P.E.A.C.E. Process mini-series, they break down what alimony really means today, who might be eligible, and how courts determine payments. Over the course of the episode, Seth and Pete demystify how alimony actually works. They explore everything from basic calculations to lifestyle considerations, debunk common misconceptions about savings components, and explain why "need and ability to pay" matters more than simple income differences. The discussion covers various types of alimony payments, from short-term support during transitions to longer-term arrangements, and explains how courts look at the whole financial picture. Questions we answer in this episode:• How do courts calculate alimony payments?• What expenses can be included in alimony calculations?• Can I modify my alimony after divorce? Key Takeaways:• Alimony is based on need and ability to pay, not just income differences• Don't forget to factor in new expenses like health insurance and HOA dues• Consider lump sum payments to avoid ongoing financial entanglement Plus, we tackle several listener questions! From high-income scenarios to job loss situations, Seth explains how courts handle various real-world alimony challenges and what rights both parties have when circumstances change. Whether you're facing divorce or just want to understand how modern alimony works, this episode provides essential insights into one of divorce's most misunderstood aspects. Seth and Pete's practical approach makes complex financial concepts accessible while offering strategies to protect yourself financially during and after divorce. Links & Notes Schedule a consult with SethGot a question you want to ask on the show? Click here! (00:00) - Welcome to How to Split a Toaster (02:00) - PEACE: Alimony (03:54) - Quiz Time (07:32) - Starting Point (09:11) - Understanding Where the Money’s Going (13:21) - Forensic Accounting (14:23) - Unanticipated Income (17:29) - Ability to Pay (20:48) - Changes in Alimony (23:00) - Ways to Save in Fees (29:46) - Listener Questions (35:02) - Wrap Up Stay safe and sober this holiday season with Soberlink. Co-parenting can be challenging, especially when alcohol abuse is a concern. Give yourself and your family the gift of peace of mind during the holidays by using Soberlink's remote alcohol monitoring system. Improve trust, accountability, and communication in your co-parenting arrangement. Visit their site today to learn more and get $50 off. Happy Holidays from Soberlink!

    37 min
  8. Beyond 50/50: Understanding Equitable Distribution • Your Divorce Case

    26/11/2024

    Beyond 50/50: Understanding Equitable Distribution • Your Divorce Case

    Splitting Assets in Divorce: More Than Just Breaking a Toaster in Half In this episode of How to Split a Toaster, divorce attorney Seth Nelson and Pete Wright tackle the thorny issue of dividing assets in divorce. As part of their P.E.A.C.E. Process mini-series, Seth and Pete break down what "equitable distribution" really means - and why it's about way more than just splitting everything 50/50. Seth and Pete walk through the four key steps of dividing assets: Identification (what stuff do we actually have?), Classification (whose stuff is it really?), Valuation (what's it worth?), and Distribution (who gets what?). They cover everything from basic bank accounts to complex business valuations, and even dive into some surprising assets you might not think about - like vacation days and airline miles. Along the way, they share real-world examples that show why "fair" in divorce court might not match your definition of fairness. Questions we answer in this episode:• How do you figure out what's "yours," "mine," and "ours" in a divorce?• What happens when one person tries to hide assets?• Can my ex get half my frequent flyer miles? Key Takeaways:• Just because something's in your name doesn't mean it's all yours• Personal goodwill (like your winning personality) isn't a marital asset• Sometimes arguing for "fairness" means you've already lost Plus, we tackle another listener question! A California resident asks about inherited money that got mixed into shared accounts and home purchases during marriage. Seth explains why following the money matters and how different states handle these situations differently (spoiler alert: location matters!). Whether you're facing divorce or just curious about how courts slice and dice assets, this episode breaks down complex legal concepts into bite-sized pieces. Seth and Pete take a practical approach to help make this topic both digestible and surprisingly engaging. Links & Notes Schedule a consult with SethGot a question you want to ask on the show? Click here! (00:00) - Welcome to How to Split a Toaster (00:27) - PEACE: Equitable Distribution (01:10) - Equitable, Not Equal (01:38) - Identification (03:55) - Classification (09:35) - Both Marital and Non-Marital (11:30) - Filing Date (12:23) - Proof (13:32) - Rings (14:42) - Valuation (19:34) - Valuing a Business (24:40) - Distribution (26:55) - Not Equitable (28:21) - Hiding Assets (31:52) - Prenups (34:40) - Lots of Nuance (35:26) - Listener Question (41:16) - Wrap Up

    43 min

About

Seth Nelson is a Tampa based family lawyer known for devising creative solutions to difficult problems. In How to Split a Toaster, Nelson and co-host Pete Wright take on the challenge of divorce with a central objective — saving your most important relationships with your family, your former spouse, and yourself.

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