The Aftermath: The Epidemic of Divorce, Custody and Healing

Mick Smith and Kindra Riber
The Aftermath: The Epidemic of Divorce, Custody and Healing

Welcome to the safe space of The Aftermath, a podcast that will educate and inspire you. Divorce, family trauma, custody battles, parental alienation and everything that is wrong with families today are the hard topics Dr. G. Mick Smith and Kindra Riber will talk about. Both hosts have been subjected to the harsh reality of broken families and the trauma custody battles elicit. Their stories of losing their children are different yet the same. Smith and Riber are advocates for healing the family unit. Their stories are raw, yet the lessons learned are real. The epidemic of broken and fractured families is a reality in today's culture. The statistics of divorce are climbing and the pain of child custody issues is palpable. Smith and Riber are advocates for the healing of people suffering from a bad divorce or difficult custody battle. They are the experts who will be your guides to healing. G. Mick Smith is the author of the book, Burning America, which illustrates the confusion, terror, and judicial missteps of a terrifying custody battle. His book is winning accolades for its raw commentary on the injustice of family law and the sheer fear parents face. Kindra Riber is a legislative advocate fighting for the rights of victims of parental alienation. Parental alienation is the systematic brainwashing of children caught in a custody battle. The court system does not provide the support or knowledge to adjudicate fairly. Both hosts bring their stories, their knowledge, and lessons learned to start the healing process of those going through a painful divorce, custody fights and extreme trauma that stems from a bad relationship. Know that you are not alone. Know that there is help. Know that there is a community of people just like you who can guide you through this complex process. Kindra Riber and Mick Smith bring to you legal experts, mental health professionals, and poignant stories of those warriors fighting a fight that sometimes feels all too lonely. We are better together. We will heal in the aftermath. Welcome to The Aftermath.

  1. Professor Ben Hine - Part 3  - Extended Family Support, Legal System and The Future of Parental Alienation

    13 MAY

    Professor Ben Hine - Part 3 - Extended Family Support, Legal System and The Future of Parental Alienation

    In this podcast episode, we delve into the second half of the book "Parental Alienation: A Contemporary Guide for Parents, Practitioners, and Policymakers." We explore common mistakes made by parents during divorce that exacerbate parental alienation. The discussion highlights how societal norms and expectations influence these behaviors, often unintentionally leading to harmful outcomes. One of the key points emphasized is the need to challenge stereotypes and re-evaluate the rules of engagement surrounding separation and divorce. While some behaviors may seem harmless or natural in the midst of emotional turmoil, they can contribute to a pattern of alienation over time. We also take a deep dive into how the legal system plays into the fact that it can make alienation cases worse. The episode also explores the role of extended family members in mitigating parental alienation. While it's natural for family members to support their own, the discussion highlights the need to prioritize the child's best interests above personal biases. Through empathy, understanding, and a focus on the child's needs, family members can play a crucial role in supporting healthy parent-child relationships amid divorce and separation. Overall, this episode offers valuable insights into recognizing, addressing, and preventing parental alienation, promoting healthier outcomes for families navigating divorce and separation. Professor Ben Hine https://www.uwl.ac.uk/research/research-impact/family-breakdown Parental Alienation: A Contemporary Guide for Parents, Practitioners, and Policymakers

    56 min
  2. From Law Enforcement to Family Court: A Journey of Resilience and Advocacy with Tom Flynn

    6 APR

    From Law Enforcement to Family Court: A Journey of Resilience and Advocacy with Tom Flynn

    Tom, a law enforcement officer for 27 years, shares his harrowing journey through a brutal divorce filled with false accusations of domestic violence. He unveils a shocking statistic: nearly 1 in 3 law enforcement officers facing divorce encounter such accusations, highlighting the depth of manipulation during family disputes. His narrative delves into the hidden vulnerabilities within law enforcement, revealing the adverse impact of domestic violence allegations on officers' careers and finances. Tom reflects on his transition from enforcer to falsely accused, shedding light on the immediate repercussions officers face in such situations. Amidst discussions about shared parenting arrangements and the importance of presumption of shared custody, Tom's resilience shines through. He recounts his personal struggles navigating the legal system, from unjust restraining orders to enduring incarceration, all while suspended without pay. Tom's turning point comes with his involvement in Fathers and Children's Equality (F.A.C.E.), a nonprofit supporting parents through custody battles. His journey from victim to instructor within the organization demonstrates the transformative power of turning adversity into advocacy. Through Tom's story, listeners gain insights into the complexities of family court, the importance of support networks, and the necessity of advocating for reform within the legal system. His journey serves as a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges, inspiring them to find strength in solidarity and to transform their suffering into meaningful action. Hosts, Mick Smith and Kindra Riber, want to make sure you are not alone during divorce, parental alienation, and custody battles. They bring real people and real stories to you so you can be equipped to heal yourself, your children and recover from the aftermath of family trauma and drama. If you find yourself entangled in a high-conflict divorce or experiencing the heart-wrenching alienation from your children, we encourage you to share your story with us. Reach out to us at theaftermathhealing@gmail.com and let your voice be heard. This has been a Mediacasters Production.

    1h 4m
  3. Be Your Own Lawyer During Your Custody Case with Leslie Alexi

    10 MAR

    Be Your Own Lawyer During Your Custody Case with Leslie Alexi

    In this episode of the podcast, we delve into the complex world of family law with Leslie Alexi, a seasoned family law attorney. With over 250 family law trials under her belt, Leslie has extensive experience in navigating the intricacies of post-dissolution custody battles and parental alienation cases. Leslie sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals in family court, where exorbitant attorney fees often lead many to represent themselves, known as going pro se. She emphasizes how legal battles can extend throughout a child's upbringing, draining financial resources and leaving parents financially vulnerable. Moreover, Leslie discusses the prevalence of parental alienation and its prolonged impact on families. She highlights the court's role in exacerbating conflicts through emergency motions and ex parte orders, often depriving individuals of due process. With a mission to empower individuals navigating the legal system, Leslie has developed a comprehensive program aimed at providing foundational legal knowledge. Accessible through platforms like YouTube and Spotify, her program aims to equip individuals with the tools needed to represent themselves effectively. To find out more about Leslie and her services, visit https://familylawprose.com/ Hosts, Mick Smith and Kindra Riber, want to make sure you are not alone during divorce, parental alienation, and custody battles. They bring real people and real stories to you so you can be equipped to heal yourself, your children and recover from the aftermath of family trauma and drama. If you find yourself entangled in a high-conflict divorce or experiencing the heart-wrenching alienation from your children, we encourage you to share your story with us. Reach out to us at theaftermathhealing@gmail.com and let your voice be heard. This has been a Mediacasters Production.

    17 min
  4. It's Not About Us: Co-Parenting with Darlene Taylor

    15 FEB

    It's Not About Us: Co-Parenting with Darlene Taylor

    In this insightful podcast, Darlene Taylor shares her journey of co-parenting and the lessons she learned along the way, which she also discusses in her book titled "It's Not About Us: A Co-Parenting Survival Guide to Taking the High Road."  Darlene emphasizes that successful co-parenting requires a shift in perspective, where decisions are no longer about the individual but about what's best for the children. She highlights the importance of communication, trust, and collaboration between co-parents, even in the face of past hurt and grief from divorce. She stresses the significance of giving oneself time and space to heal before embarking on the journey of co-parenting. Darlene acknowledges that co-parenting challenges, such as communication breakdowns and navigating conflicting emotions, are common but can be overcome with patience and resilience. Throughout the podcast, Darlene provides practical advice on handling various aspects of co-parenting, including making decisions together, maintaining positivity, setting boundaries on negative talk about the ex-partner in front of children, and prioritizing the well-being of the children above all else. She encourages co-parents to lead by example, take the high road, and approach co-parenting with humility and grace. Darlene also touches on the role of friends and family in providing support during the co-parenting journey and the importance of setting a positive example for children. Overall, Darlene's insights offer valuable guidance for co-parents navigating the complexities of raising children in separate households and emphasize the importance of prioritizing the children's needs and fostering a cooperative co-parenting relationship. Divorce is hard. And the aftermath of healing is a space of strength. Hosts, Mick Smith and Kindra Riber, want to make sure you are not alone during divorce, parental alienation, and custody battles. They bring real people and real stories to you so you can be equipped to heal yourself, your children and recover from the aftermath of family trauma and drama. If you find yourself entangled in a high-conflict divorce or experiencing the heart-wrenching alienation from your children, we encourage you to share your story with us. Reach out to us at theaftermathhealing@gmail.com and let your voice be heard. This has been a Mediacasters Production.

    53 min
  5. 5 Factor Model on Parent Alienation with Child Psychiatrist, Bill Bernet

    3 FEB

    5 Factor Model on Parent Alienation with Child Psychiatrist, Bill Bernet

    Dr. Bill Burnett and the five-factor model of parental alienation. Dr. Bill Burnett, a seasoned child psychiatrist, shares his extensive experience in dealing with parental alienation, a phenomenon where a child rejects one parent without valid reasons. The five-factor model, comprising contact resistance, previous positive relationship, absence of abuse or neglect, alienating behaviors by the favored parent, and lack of psychopathology in the child, serves as a diagnostic tool for identifying parental alienation. In an engaging conversation, Dr. Burnett discusses the 17 primary alienation strategies and emphasizes the importance of recognizing true cases versus false allegations. Acknowledging that parental alienation is a complex issue, Dr. Burnett highlights the need for thorough evaluation, considering all factors simultaneously. As we navigate through the discussion, we gain valuable insights into the strategies employed by alienating parents, such as bad-mouthing, interference with parenting time, and portraying the other parent as dangerous. Dr. Burnett underlines the significance of distinguishing between normal behaviors in divorce situations and the pervasive, intense patterns indicative of parental alienation. Join us in "The Aftermath," where we peel back the layers of divorce, custody battles, and family trauma, sharing inspiring stories, expert insights, and actionable tips. If you find yourself entangled in a high-conflict divorce or experiencing the heart-wrenching alienation from your children, we encourage you to share your story with us. Reach out to us at theaftermathhealing@gmail.com and let your voice be heard. This has been a Mediacasters Production.

    26 min
  6. Gaslighting and Emotional Abuse of Children with Professor Ben Hine

    21 JAN

    Gaslighting and Emotional Abuse of Children with Professor Ben Hine

    In this insightful podcast with Professor Ben Hine, an expert in parental alienation and affected personally by parental alienation, shares his personal and professional journey that led to specialization in this challenging field. The discussion covers severe cases initiated by false abuse allegations, leading to legal actions and prolonged child separation, influencing a negative narrative about the alienated parent. Legal implications of using physical discipline are explored, emphasizing the potential chain of events in court. The podcast delves into various theories behind parental alienation and their prevalence. It addresses the impact on children, advocating against blaming them, and discusses strategies for approaching reunification. Extreme cases involving gaslighting are examined, questioning their classification as psychological abuse. Lasting impacts on children and how parental alienation affects targeted parents emotionally, financially, professionally, and in relationships with extended family and new partners are also explored. Connect with Ben https://drbenhine.co.uk/about/ LinkedIn Parental Alienation - A Guide for Parents, Professionals and Policymakers Divorce is hard. And the aftermath of healing is a space of strength. Hosts, Mick Smith and Kindra Riber, want to make sure you are not alone during divorce, parental alienation, and custody battles. They bring real people and real stories to you so you can be equipped to heal yourself, your children and recover from the aftermath of family trauma and drama. If you find yourself entangled in a high-conflict divorce or experiencing the heart-wrenching alienation from your children, we encourage you to share your story with us. Reach out to us at theaftermathhealing@gmail.com and let your voice be heard. This has been a Mediacasters Production.

    39 min
  7. False Allegations of Abuse and Parental Alienation: Navigating the Complexities of Family Dynamics with Professor Ben Hine

    13 JAN

    False Allegations of Abuse and Parental Alienation: Navigating the Complexities of Family Dynamics with Professor Ben Hine

    Professor Ben Hine, an expert in parental alienation and affected personally by parental alienation, shares his personal and professional journey that led to specialization in this challenging field. The discussion covers severe cases initiated by false abuse allegations, leading to legal actions and prolonged child separation, influencing a negative narrative about the alienated parent. Legal implications of using physical discipline are explored, emphasizing the potential chain of events in court. The podcast delves into various theories behind parental alienation and their prevalence. It addresses the impact on children, advocating against blaming them, and discusses strategies for approaching reunification. Extreme cases involving gaslighting are examined, questioning their classification as psychological abuse. Lasting impacts on children and how parental alienation affects targeted parents emotionally, financially, professionally, and in relationships with extended family and new partners are also explored. Connect with Ben https://drbenhine.co.uk/about/ LinkedIn Parental Alienation - A Guide for Parents, Professionals and Policymakers Divorce is hard. And the aftermath of healing is a space of strength. Hosts, Mick Smith and Kindra Riber, want to make sure you are not alone during divorce, parental alienation, and custody battles. They bring real people and real stories to you so you can be equipped to heal yourself, your children and recover from the aftermath of family trauma and drama. If you find yourself entangled in a high-conflict divorce or experiencing the heart-wrenching alienation from your children, we encourage you to share your story with us. Reach out to us at theaftermathhealing@gmail.com and let your voice be heard. This has been a Mediacasters Production.

    50 min

About

Welcome to the safe space of The Aftermath, a podcast that will educate and inspire you. Divorce, family trauma, custody battles, parental alienation and everything that is wrong with families today are the hard topics Dr. G. Mick Smith and Kindra Riber will talk about. Both hosts have been subjected to the harsh reality of broken families and the trauma custody battles elicit. Their stories of losing their children are different yet the same. Smith and Riber are advocates for healing the family unit. Their stories are raw, yet the lessons learned are real. The epidemic of broken and fractured families is a reality in today's culture. The statistics of divorce are climbing and the pain of child custody issues is palpable. Smith and Riber are advocates for the healing of people suffering from a bad divorce or difficult custody battle. They are the experts who will be your guides to healing. G. Mick Smith is the author of the book, Burning America, which illustrates the confusion, terror, and judicial missteps of a terrifying custody battle. His book is winning accolades for its raw commentary on the injustice of family law and the sheer fear parents face. Kindra Riber is a legislative advocate fighting for the rights of victims of parental alienation. Parental alienation is the systematic brainwashing of children caught in a custody battle. The court system does not provide the support or knowledge to adjudicate fairly. Both hosts bring their stories, their knowledge, and lessons learned to start the healing process of those going through a painful divorce, custody fights and extreme trauma that stems from a bad relationship. Know that you are not alone. Know that there is help. Know that there is a community of people just like you who can guide you through this complex process. Kindra Riber and Mick Smith bring to you legal experts, mental health professionals, and poignant stories of those warriors fighting a fight that sometimes feels all too lonely. We are better together. We will heal in the aftermath. Welcome to The Aftermath.

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