Divorce Dialogues

Katherine Miller

Divorce Dialogues brings experts together to talk about what works (and what doesn't) to reach a better life on the other side of divorce.

  1. Coercion and Power Imbalances in High-Conflict Divorce - with Lyerly Spongberg

    JAN 29

    Coercion and Power Imbalances in High-Conflict Divorce - with Lyerly Spongberg

    "Always try to keep children in the center and out of the middle of whatever that is." - Lyerly Spongberg" - Lyerly Spongberg Lyerly Spongberg is a dedicated divorce coach whose personal journey through a high-conflict divorce as a single mother deeply informs her professional practice. She views high-conflict divorce as a deeply human experience that affects every aspect of life, from identity and emotional well-being to finances and children. Drawing from her own experiences, Spongberg describes the process as overwhelming, akin to being blindfolded and thrown into a washing machine, emphasizing the need for comprehensive preparation and support during this full-body, full-life transition. By utilizing her expertise as a DCA certified ADR divorce coach and co-parenting specialist, she helps clients navigate these complexities, reduce conflict, and make decisions aligned with their values and future aspirations, with a particular focus on minimizing power imbalances and prioritizing children's well-being. Key Takeaways ->Divorce is described as overwhelming and depressing, impacting every aspect of life. ->Emotional challenges during divorce include identity crisis, chaos, and grounding oneself. ->Patterns in high-conflict divorces involve power imbalances, coercion, and emotional manipulation. ->Co-parenting after divorce requires prioritizing children's well-being and considering their emotional needs. ->Parallel parenting minimizes conflict exposure for children by reducing interaction between parents. ->Coercive control in divorce affects autonomy, financial control, and emotional abuse. ->Divorce coaches offer support, guidance, and help individuals make clear decisions during the challenging Connect with Lyerly Spongberg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyerly-spongberg-2968483/ https://stepupwithlyerly.com/ Connect with Katherine Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/ https://miller-law.com/

    33 min
  2. Asset Division: Community Property vs. Equitable Distribution - with Diana Romanov

    JAN 22

    Asset Division: Community Property vs. Equitable Distribution - with Diana Romanov

    "For men it's important to feel appreciated, and for women, it is very important to be in charge." - Diana Romanov Diana Romanov, an experienced family law attorney, draws deeply from her own profound personal journey with divorce to guide her clients with empathy and insight. Having navigated a challenging separation while balancing life as an immigrant in the U.S. and studying for the bar exam, she understands the emotional and logistical complexities that can accompany marital dissolution. Romanov's unique perspective emphasizes the importance of building a supportive team that includes therapists to address the emotional aspects of divorce, complementing practical legal advice with compassionate support. Her approach, which advocates for mediation and acknowledges the differing asset division laws in various states, equips her clients to achieve a balanced and informed resolution to their divorce proceedings. Key Takeaways ->Personal experience with divorce influences Diana Romanov's counseling approach for clients. ->Emotional support is crucial in divorce, balancing empathy, compassion, and practical legal guidance. ->Diana Romanov emphasizes the benefits of mediation in divorce cases for cost-effectiveness and emotional sustainability. ->Differences between community property states like California and equitable distribution states like New York impact asset division in divorce. ->Understanding the source of assets in divorce is important, as seen through Diana Romanov's analogy of an apple tree. Connect with Diana Romanov: https://www.linkedin.com/in/romanovska/ https://www.romanovlaw.com/ Connect with Katherine Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/ https://miller-law.com/

    27 min
  3. Mental Health Impact in Family Law Cases - with Dr. Lama Bazzi

    JAN 15

    Mental Health Impact in Family Law Cases - with Dr. Lama Bazzi

    "Nobody can help me, that is the time that actually can be helped. You just have to seek it out and trust the process." - Dr. Lama Bazzi Dr. Lama Bazzi, a board-certified psychiatrist based in New York City, is renowned for her expertise in addressing the mental health challenges associated with divorce. She emphasizes the profound impact that major life transitions, such as divorce, can have on an individual's mental well-being, particularly highlighting the complexities of redefining oneself post-separation. Dr. Bazzi advocates for allowing space for grief as a critical step in the healing process, encouraging individuals to focus on self-discovery and resilience. Her holistic approach incorporates techniques like progressive muscle relaxation and breathing exercises, supporting both mental and physical well-being as individuals navigate the emotional journey of divorce, especially when children are involved. Key Takeaways ->Allowing space for grief is crucial for healing during a divorce ->Understanding the grieving process and gaining resilience are key in navigating divorce complexities ->Recognizing the challenges of redefining one's identity post-divorce, especially when children are involved ->Seeking treatment can provide coping tools to improve outcomes in various aspects of life during divorce ->The importance of mental health considerations, treatment, and impact on children's well-being in family law cases Connect with Lama Bazzi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lama-bazzi-ab429b10/ https://drbazzipsychiatry.com/ Connect with Katherine Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/ https://miller-law.com/

    31 min
  4. Fostering Stability: Empowering Families Through Divorce Challenges - with Vivian Meraki

    JAN 8

    Fostering Stability: Empowering Families Through Divorce Challenges - with Vivian Meraki

    "I saw the shift and when I saw the shift, I felt like this is something that is clearly working for our family and it's something that I really have a desire to help other families with, that we can." - Vivian Meraki Vivian Meraki, a renowned parenting expert with over two decades of experience, offers a transformative perspective on the challenges of parenting through divorce. Inspired by her own experiences, she addresses the high anxiety children often face during this transition, emphasizing the importance of fostering emotional safety and connection. Through her work as a somatic coach, Vivian developed practical tools, such as a 10-minute "heart to heart" connection ritual, to strengthen parent-child relationships and enhance emotional resilience. Her approach, detailed in her best-selling book "Parenting Through Divorce," reframes divorce as a change in alignment rather than a failure, advocating for practices that reduce suffering and foster stability, ultimately empowering families to navigate this difficult time with dignity and understanding. Key Takeaways -Empowering families during difficult times like divorce is crucial for bringing stability to children's lives -Creating a strong connection ritual like 'heart to heart' can help parents stay present and connected with their children -Refocusing divorce as a change in alignment rather than a failure can empower families to navigate challenges with dignity -Emotional safety and communication are key in helping children cope with stress during divorce -Trusting a child's body cues and teaching them to listen to their instincts fosters emotional resilience and self-trust -The 'heart to heart' connection ritual involves setting aside distractions to engage with each child and build a stronger foundation for the future Connect with Vivian Meraki: https://instagram.com/vivianmeraki https://linkedin.com/in/vivianmeraki Connect with Katherine Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/ https://miller-law.com/

    27 min
  5. Communication Management: Essential Strategies for Emotional Grounding - with Melinda Gould

    JAN 1

    Communication Management: Essential Strategies for Emotional Grounding - with Melinda Gould

    "People think they know what they want, but how would you know if you've never gone through it before?" - Melinda Gould Melinda Gould is a distinguished divorce guide and strategic support partner known for her unique approach to helping clients navigate the complexities of divorce with clarity and steadiness. Drawing from her own challenging divorce experience, Melinda sees her role as vital in addressing the practical, emotional, and logistical aspects of divorce, offering comprehensive support that includes financial organization, communication management, and emotional grounding. Unlike therapists, attorneys, or coaches, she focuses on strategic and logistical elements, helping clients make decisions aligned with their personal values and children's needs while providing steady emotional support. Melinda believes her approach enables clients to emerge from divorce stronger, clearer, and more centered, ready to embrace the next chapter of their lives with confidence and support. Key Takeaways ->Support during divorce often includes help with managing practical tasks, organizing financial documents, navigating communication, and addressing emotional needs. ->This type of support typically focuses on strategic, logistical, and communication considerations, while also acknowledging the emotional impact of the process. ->Community-based resources, such as online support networks, can provide valuable tools, guidance, and connection for individuals going through divorce. ->Emotional triggers around money during divorce are common and often tied to feelings of security, identity, and power. ->Trusting one’s intuition during divorce can help individuals prioritize their needs and make informed, grounded decisions. ->Steady, practical guidance can provide clarity and reassurance, helping individuals navigate the complexities of divorce with greater confidence. Connect with Melinda B. Gould: https://melindabgould.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-b-gould-580875/ Connect with Katherine Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/ https://miller-law.com/

    30 min
  6. Transparency and Communication: Financial Tips During a Divorce - with Sam Kingston

    12/18/2025

    Transparency and Communication: Financial Tips During a Divorce - with Sam Kingston

    "I think that this period can be one where folks can make mistakes and really leaning on a team of professionals that can help them through the period is of utmost importance." - Sam Kingston Sam Kingston, a seasoned finance professional, brings over two decades of expertise in financial analysis and portfolio management to the intricate field of financial planning for divorce. With a unique background that spans global firms and family businesses, as well as personal experience being raised by a single mother, Sam is keenly aware of both the emotional and financial challenges inherent in asset separation. He advocates for a comprehensive and empathetic approach, emphasizing the need for a team of professionals—including divorce attorneys, financial advisors, and tax experts—to support individuals through this life transition. By focusing on careful financial planning and open communication, Sam aims to help individuals navigate the complexities of family businesses and shared investments, ensuring fair outcomes and long-term financial stability. Key Takeaways -Establishing a separate financial footprint, creating a new budget, and understanding liabilities and assets are crucial during divorce. -Revising estate plans post-divorce is essential to safeguard assets and achieve financial goals. -Budgeting post-divorce helps in understanding spending habits and making thoughtful financial decisions. -Transparency and setting boundaries in financial matters are vital to ensure a fair divorce outcome. -Being patient, seeking advice from advisors, and making thoughtful decisions during the divorce process can lead to a more favorable financial outcome. Connect with Sam Kingston: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-kingston-006a26/ https://www.edwardjones.com/us-en/financial-advisor/sam-kingston?msockid=03955cb2509a6eaa2ef34a2e51ab6f8a Connect with Katherine Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/ https://miller-law.com/

    24 min
  7. The D Word: Navigating Divorce with Self-Trust - with Kate Anthony

    12/11/2025

    The D Word: Navigating Divorce with Self-Trust - with Kate Anthony

    "When you are grounded in your own emotions, you don't have to be governed by them. That doesn't mean that it's not emotional. It means that you're at choice." - Kate Anthony Kate Anthony is a dedicated specialist focused on guiding women through the intricate process of divorce decision-making. Renowned for her empowering approach, she emphasizes the necessity of prioritizing children's well-being in such situations, urging parents to put aside personal desires and conflicts for the sake of their offspring. Through her comprehensive online programs, Anthony assists women in reconnecting with their personal values and needs, fostering self-discovery and reinvention post-divorce. Her book, "The D Word," co-authored with Katherine Miller, further explores these themes, advocating for emotional processing before tackling legal issues and challenging the notion that divorce is inherently detrimental to children when approached with their best interests at heart. Key Takeaways ->Addressing internal conflict and questioning surrounding divorce empowers women to trust their instincts and prioritize well-being. ->Processing emotions before making legal and financial decisions in divorce minimizes their impact and leads to better outcomes. ->Prioritizing children's well-being during divorce prevents using them as weapons in conflicts between parents. ->Assessing personal happiness, future goals, and children's well-being is crucial in decision-making in divorce. ->Creating safe environments for children to regulate their nervous systems positively impacts their well-being and development. ->Having at least one safe parent and home environment is crucial for children to understand safety and toxicity. Connect with Kate Anthony: https://kateanthony.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/divorcesurvivalguide/ Connect with Katherine Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kemiller1/ https://miller-law.com/

    32 min
4.5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Divorce Dialogues brings experts together to talk about what works (and what doesn't) to reach a better life on the other side of divorce.