DON'T PICK THE SCAB PODCAST

David M. Webb
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Success, Divorce, and Reinvention—You’re Not Alone.   Divorce can shake even the most accomplished men to their core, no matter their age or status. The end of a marriage is often an emotionally and mentally taxing experience, especially for successful men who are accustomed to thriving in other areas of life. That’s why the "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" is here: a safe, open platform where successful men recovering from divorce can share their stories, find support, and gain practical tools for rebuilding.   Success doesn’t make divorce any easier. When you’re used to winning, starting over—emotionally, financially, and socially—can feel like uncharted territory. The challenges of re-establishing your identity and navigating new roles after a significant breakup are real, but you don’t have to face them alone.   Each episode dives into authentic conversations with men who have walked this path—from entrepreneurs and executives, to leaders in their fields. We explore the unique hurdles successful men encounter during divorce, from managing public perception and careers to processing the deeply personal emotions of grief, regret, anger, and hope. Alongside expert guests, we offer practical advice and proven strategies for healing and growth.   This podcast is about more than just surviving divorce—it’s about thriving in your next chapter. Through shared experiences and actionable insights, "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" aims to help you rediscover meaning, rebuild confidence, and create a life filled with new possibilities.   Join us each week as we walk the road to recovery, together. Let’s break the stigma, embrace vulnerability, and support one another on the journey to a brighter, more successful future after divorce. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

  1. 1d ago

    Divorced Dad Survival Guide: Own Your Off Week and Heal Like a Rockstar! 😤 || Bill Porter || DPTSP #161

    Divorced dads — what do you do during the week your kids are GONE? 🤔 That empty house, that silence, that overwhelming feeling of "now what?" If you're a man over 40 going through divorce, this episode might be the most important 30 minutes of your recovery. My guest today is Bill Porter, a divorced dad from San Mateo, California, and the founder of Halftime Dad — a membership community and weekly letter for fathers co-parenting after separation. Bill's entire philosophy is built around one powerful idea: the week you don't have your kids is where you either rebuild your life or fall apart. 💪 Bill also coined a term that will hit home for way too many of us: Jack-in-the-Box Dad Syndrome — those dads who only come alive when their kids are in the room, then coast through the rest of the week like a shell of themselves. 😴 Bill opens up about his own lowest moments — hiding at the office, ordering takeout, watching reruns, and going comatose during his off weeks — and exactly how he turned it around. In this raw and honest conversation, we cover: ✅ Why your kid-free week is the make-or-break moment of your divorce recovery  ✅ The warning signs that you're stuck in Jack-in-the-Box Dad Syndrome  ✅ How to keep adult conflict, lawyers, and arguments AWAY from your kids  ✅ Why using your kids as messengers to your ex is destroying your family  ✅ The "24-hour rule" — why kids need time to decompress when they come back to your house  ✅ How to handle tense custody handoffs without emotion (think Switzerland 🇨🇭)  ✅ Boundaries and consequences when the rules are different at each house  ✅ Why your kids are WAY more resilient (and way smarter) than you think  ✅ The oxygen mask rule: why self-care isn't selfish — it's survival ✈️  ✅ How to rebuild your "village" when you feel completely isolated Bill also shares the most common breakthroughs he hears from dads inside the Halftime Dad community, plus a special offer for listeners — a free founding membership and discount code in the show notes. 🎁 If you're sitting in an empty house right now wondering how you're going to make it through the week, this episode is your sign: you're not alone, and you don't have to figure this out by yourself. 🙏 🔔 SUBSCRIBE to the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast for new episodes every week helping men over 40 recover from divorce, rebuild their confidence, and become the dad their kids deserve. 💬 JOIN THE CONVERSATION: What does YOUR off week look like right now? Are you rebuilding... or falling apart? Drop a comment below and tell me ONE thing you're going to do this week for yourself. I read and reply to every single comment! 👇 👍 If this episode helped you, SMASH that like button and share it with a dad who needs to hear it. 📲 Connect with Bill #DivorcedDad #MenOver40 #DivorceRecovery #CoParenting #DadsOfYouTube #HalftimeDad #DontPickTheScab #Fatherhood #DivorceSupport #SingleDad Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    Divorced Dad Survival Guide: Own Your Off Week and Heal Like a Rockstar! 😤 || Bill Porter || DPTSP #161

  2. 3d ago

    Jack-in-the-Box Divorced Dad? How to Survive the Empty Week After Custody Swap 📦😔 Robert Gonnerman || Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast #160

    He lost his parents within 15 months, went through three hip surgeries, helped his wife through cancer while raising two boys and finishing nursing school — and then his marriage ended. 💔 Most men would stay down. Robert Gonnerman got to work. In this powerful episode of the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast, host David sits down with Robert Gonnerman — psychiatric nurse, coach, and founder of the Align Man Project — who lost over 140 pounds and rebuilt himself physically, mentally, and spiritually after his divorce. Today, he co-parents his boys more than half the time and helps men over 40 come back stronger than ever. 💪 In this episode, you'll learn: 🔥 Why "recovering" from divorce is keeping you stuck — and why REBUILDING is the mindset shift that changes everything 🧠 The #1 pillar men neglect (hint: it's not the gym) and why successful men — lawyers, doctors, nurses — are secretly breaking down ⚠️ Why jumping into dating right after divorce will crush you (Rob shares his own painful lesson) 📦 How to survive the "Jack-in-the-Box Dad" emptiness when your kids leave for their week with their ex 🙏 What it really means to become "selfish to become selfless" — and why putting your mask on first saves your kids too ❤️ How Rob helped his ex-wife through cancer while raising two young boys and finishing nursing school — and how it shaped the father he is today 🤝 Why every divorced man needs a network of guys who can "pull your head out of your ass" Whether you're freshly divorced, deep in the co-parenting trenches, or just feeling lost at 40+, this conversation will hit you right where you live. Rob doesn't sugarcoat it — and that's exactly what men in this season of life need to hear. 🎯 Connect with Robert Gonnerman: 🌐 Website: alignmanproject.com — grab a FREE 15-minute call 📸 Instagram: @alignwithrob ▶️ YouTube: Align Man Project Connect with David & the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast: 🔊 New episodes every week for men navigating divorce, co-parenting, and rebuilding life after 40 💬 Subscribe so you never miss an episode! 👇 JOIN THE CONVERSATION: What's the ONE thing you're rebuilding right now — your body, your mind, or your spirit? Drop it in the comments below. David reads every single one, and your story might be exactly what another brother in this community needs to hear today. 👇 👍 If this episode hit home, SMASH that like button, SHARE it with a friend who's going through it, and SUBSCRIBE for more real talk on divorce recovery for men over 40. Remember: Don't pick the scab — rebuild the man. 💪🔥 #DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #DivorcedDads #CoParenting #MensMentalHealth #RebuildYourself #DontPickTheScabPodcast #MensSelfCare #LifeAfterDivorce Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    Jack-in-the-Box Divorced Dad? How to Survive the Empty Week After Custody Swap 📦😔 Robert Gonnerman || Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast #160

  3. Sep 25

    Rannard Crawley - Family Court Strategist / Certified Family Mediator - BE PREPARED!! || DPTSP #159

    ⚠️ Most men walk into family court completely UNPREPARED — and it costs them their kids, their money, and their peace. Not anymore. In this episode of the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast, host David sits down with Rannard Crawley — certified family mediator, family court strategist, father of four, and founder of Crawley Mediation Services — to break down EXACTLY what divorced and divorcing men over 40 need to know before stepping into family court or mediation. ⚖️ Rannard isn't just talking theory. He's lived it. He went through a contested divorce, spent thousands on attorneys, represented himself successfully, and came out the other side a stronger father. Now he's helping men avoid the same expensive mistakes. 💪 🔥 IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN: ✅ Why attorneys can't guarantee you a win — but preparation CAN guarantee you're ready ✅ The #1 mistake men make walking into family court (it's not what you think) ✅ How to respond when the judge is watching your every move 👀 ✅ Why arguing with your ex in court hands the win to HER ✅ The "best interest of the child" factors that decide your custody case ✅ The mediation secret most men have NEVER heard: you can reach an agreement without ever being in the same room as your high-conflict ex 🤫 ✅ How growing up between two homes shaped Rannard's mission as a "girl dad" of four ✅ Why travel, journaling, and alone time are secret weapons for rebuilding after divorce ✈️ ✅ The mindset shift that saved David in his own high-conflict co-parenting journey: "I love my kids more than I hated my ex." ❤️ 💬 This episode is for YOU if: • You're a man over 40 facing divorce, separation, or custody battle • You're tired of attorneys draining your bank account 💸 • You're co-parenting with a high-conflict ex • You believe fathers DESERVE time with their kids • You're ready to stop picking the scab and start rebuilding 🛠️ 🔗 CONNECT WITH RANNARD CRAWLEY:  YouTube Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Facebook Snapchat X Website 🔔 SUBSCRIBE to the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast for real conversations about divorce recovery, co-parenting, and rebuilding life after 40 — new episodes every week! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    Rannard Crawley - Family Court Strategist / Certified Family Mediator - BE PREPARED!! || DPTSP #159

  4. Sep 20

    Stay Married, Do the Work, Water Your Grass! - Paula Waterman, Mediator - Castle Rock Mediation || Don't Pick the Scab Podcast #158

    🔥 Thinking about divorce — or already in the middle of one? STOP and watch this first. In this episode of the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast, host David sits down with Paula Waterman, founder of Castle Rock Mediation, to break down how divorce mediation can save men over 40 thousands of dollars, months of heartache, and years of court battles. Paula knows this world from the inside out. After 24 years of marriage, she was blindsided when her husband — a pilot living a double life — served her divorce papers while she was working at a church. Her painful, high-conflict divorce inspired her to become a mediator so others could navigate divorce with dignity instead of devastation. There are definitely pearls to consider with this podcast even if you are in a post-divorce phase. ⚖️ What you'll learn in this episode: ✅ What divorce mediation actually is — and why Colorado courts require it BEFORE you can see a judge ✅ The real cost: how an amicable mediation can cost UNDER $1,000 vs. $10,000+ in attorney fees ✅ Why "equitable distribution" almost always means 50/50 — and why demanding 70% will backfire in court ✅ The #1 mistake emotionally "dialed up" men make in mediation (Paula mediated SIX times because of it) ✅ How to prepare for mediation so you don't get steamrolled ✅ Why 50/50 parenting is the new normal — and what that means for Dads ✅ The common law marriage trap that could wreck men who never said "I do" ✅ Why prenups are "putting the teeth back" into divorce ✅ Should you stay together "for the kids"? Paula and David go head-to-head on this one 💬 Whether you're contemplating divorce, in the thick of it, or picking up the pieces — this conversation could save you a year and a half of litigation (like David's was) and a small fortune. 📌 Connect with Paula Waterman: 🌐 CastleRockMediation.com — Castle Rock, Colorado 🎧 New episodes of the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast drop weekly — real conversations about divorce recovery, healing, and rebuilding your life after 40. No pity parties. No picking the scab. Just forward motion. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    Stay Married, Do the Work, Water Your Grass! - Paula Waterman, Mediator - Castle Rock Mediation || Don't Pick the Scab Podcast #158

  5. Aug 23

    Rebuilding Life After Divorce: Seth Pickens’ Journey to Thriving 💪✨|| DPTSP#157 || David M. Webb

    🌟 Welcome to the ‘Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast,’ where we help men over 40 rebuild their lives with hope, resilience, and purpose after divorce! Hosted by David, this episode features an extraordinary guest, Seth Pickens, a man whose transformational journey from heartbreak to healing will leave you inspired. 💡 🔑 In This Episode: Seth shares his personal story of navigating divorce, losing loved ones, and finding himself at a crossroads in life. As a former pastor and behavioral psychology expert, Seth brings a unique perspective on emotional resilience, identity rebuilding, and the power of faith and mindset shifts. He dives into: How meditation and writing sparked his spiritual breakthrough 🧘‍♂️✍️The importance of humor in overcoming life’s darkest moments 😂Breaking free from invisible patterns of thinking that keep men stuck 🚪How to transform your crisis into a personal growth opportunity 🌱The life-changing power of gratitude 🙏 💬 Seth also opens up about his journey from working as a senior pastor to navigating job loss, raising two kids through divorce, and rediscovering his true self. His story will resonate with any man feeling stuck, lost, or unsure of how to move forward after a marriage ends. You can tell that Seth is really passionate about his beliefs and calling.  His energy was amazing! Thanks, Seth!   🧠 Why Watch This Episode? If you're a man over 40 struggling with divorce, identity, or co-parenting challenges, this episode is packed with insights to help you shift your perspective and take actionable steps toward healing. Seth’s humor, wisdom, and practical advice will empower you to rebuild your life with confidence and authenticity. 💪 🔥 Key Takeaways: Emotions Are Not Weakness: Learn the difference between suppressing emotions and building true emotional resilience.Co-Parenting Done Right: Seth explains how to prioritize your kids’ well-being while navigating a less-than-ideal relationship with your ex.Start with Gratitude: How focusing on the small wins can create massive shifts in your mindset over time.It’s NOT Too Late: Discover how to reclaim your purpose and identity no matter your age or stage in life. 🚀 Call to Action: 💬 We want to hear from YOU! What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced after a divorce? What strategies have helped you rebuild your life? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and let’s create a supportive community for men navigating life after 40. 🙌 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear this! 🎧 Follow Seth Pickens: 📸 Instagram: @DrSethGuidance 📺 YouTube: Guidance Church of Religious Science 🔗 Discover more about Seth’s incredible work in homelessness policy and his upcoming book, Unadulterated, by searching his name + USC. https://hpri.usc.edu/staff/seth-watson-pickens/ Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    Rebuilding Life After Divorce: Seth Pickens’ Journey to Thriving 💪✨|| DPTSP#157 || David M. Webb

  6. Aug 15

    Divorce Over 40: Michael Foglietta’s Powerful Resilience Journey || DPTSP #156 || David M. Webb

    Welcome to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast, hosted by David, where we focus on helping men over 40 navigate the challenges of divorce and find strength, purpose, and happiness in their new lives. In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Michael Foglietta—author, motivational speaker, and coach—who has overcome incredible life hurdles to help others thrive after trauma and divorce. Michael’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and hope. After surviving a ruptured AVM in 2003 that left him with severe physical limitations, PTSD, and memory loss, Michael rebuilt his life through his Accept, Adapt, Rebuild, and Live framework. This same framework applies not only to overcoming disabilities but also to navigating the emotional and practical challenges of divorce.  Michael did struggle a few times but his completion of the podcast is a testament to his resilience  I so respect that.  !  In this episode, Michael shares: ✅ How to Accept Your New Reality—Why acknowledging your emotions is the first step to healing. ✅ Adaptation Strategies for Men—How to adjust to life’s new challenges and find new passions. ✅ Rebuilding After Divorce—Practical tips to redefine your goals, identity, and daily habits. ✅ The Power of Resilience—Why life after divorce can be better than ever if you embrace change. Michael also opens up about caregiver burnout, redefining success, and how men can find their new identity after divorce. His raw, actionable advice is perfect for men looking to regain control of their lives, reconnect with their children, and rediscover their purpose. 🎙️ Michael's Key Takeaway: Divorce is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength. When one chapter ends, it’s an opportunity to write a brand-new one. 💬 What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced after divorce? Let us know in the comments! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mike.foglietta/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-foglietta/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MFoglietta1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfoglietta1/ Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    Divorce Over 40: Michael Foglietta’s Powerful Resilience Journey || DPTSP #156 || David M. Webb

  7. Aug 15

    🔓 Unlocking Fatherhood After Divorce: Dr. Ben’s Life Lessons

    Welcome to the Don’t PIck the Scab Podcast where David explores the raw and real challenges men face after divorce. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Binyamin Rothstein, a family physician, life coach, and father of eight, who shares transformative insights on how men can rise above the pain of divorce and thrive in life, love, and fatherhood. Dr. Binyamin dives into: ✅ The Power of Forgiveness: Why letting go of resentment can transform not just you, but your relationships. ✅ Fatherhood After Divorce: Simple but impactful ways to stay connected with your kids—like a weekly hug or wrestling with your boys. ✅ Breaking the Chains of Self-Sabotage: How subconscious patterns and poor nutrition hold men back—and what to do about it. ✅ The Respect Rule: Why being a respectable man is the first step to redefining your life. ✅ Practical Tools for Growth: From character building to improving emotional health, Dr. Ben outlines clear steps for becoming a dad your kids can look up to. 🎙️ Listen in as we discuss how to rebuild your life, foster deeper connections with your children, and create a legacy you’ll be proud of. 💬 What’s your biggest challenge post-divorce? Share in the comments below—we’d love to hear your story! 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more inspiring content on divorce recovery and parenting! Dr Ben's Website Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    🔓 Unlocking Fatherhood After Divorce: Dr. Ben’s Life Lessons

  8. Jul 26

    Healing Masculinity After Divorce 💔 | A Journey of Rediscovery with Joshua Rodriguez || DPTSP #154

    Welcome to another episode of the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast, where we dive deep into topics that help men over 40 navigate the aftermath of divorce. In this transformative episode, host David sits down with Joshua Rodriguez, founder of Foundations of the Liberated Man (FOTL), who is redefining what it means to be a man in today’s world. Joshua shares his deeply personal journey of healing, growth, and unlearning toxic beliefs about masculinity. From growing up in the hyper-masculine culture of 1980s New York to using vulnerability as a tool for connection and empowerment, Joshua’s story is packed with eye-opening insights. 💡 Here’s what to expect in this episode: ✅ The role of vulnerability and community in healing after divorce. ✅ How toxic masculinity impacts relationships and personal growth. ✅ The importance of self-awareness, self-forgiveness, and self-worth in redefining life after divorce. ✅ Practical steps for men to build deeper, meaningful connections. ✅ Why faith, mentorship, and introspection are key to becoming your best self. Joshua also explains how his work in creating safe spaces for men of all backgrounds—straight, gay, bi, trans, and queer—has helped redefine masculinity in today’s world. Through powerful storytelling, he reveals the common fears and challenges men face and how they can reclaim their power to lead fulfilling, purpose-driven lives. 🛑 Don’t let divorce define you. This episode is your guide to rediscovering your strength, purpose, and joy as a man. Joshua's Website: https://fotlm.com/ 💬 CALL TO ACTION: What does masculinity mean to you? How do you practice self-forgiveness and growth in your life? Share your thoughts in the comments below! 👇 Let’s start the conversation. Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the 🔔 notification bell to join us for more impactful episodes. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    Healing Masculinity After Divorce 💔 | A Journey of Rediscovery with Joshua Rodriguez || DPTSP #154
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Success, Divorce, and Reinvention—You’re Not Alone.   Divorce can shake even the most accomplished men to their core, no matter their age or status. The end of a marriage is often an emotionally and mentally taxing experience, especially for successful men who are accustomed to thriving in other areas of life. That’s why the "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" is here: a safe, open platform where successful men recovering from divorce can share their stories, find support, and gain practical tools for rebuilding.   Success doesn’t make divorce any easier. When you’re used to winning, starting over—emotionally, financially, and socially—can feel like uncharted territory. The challenges of re-establishing your identity and navigating new roles after a significant breakup are real, but you don’t have to face them alone.   Each episode dives into authentic conversations with men who have walked this path—from entrepreneurs and executives, to leaders in their fields. We explore the unique hurdles successful men encounter during divorce, from managing public perception and careers to processing the deeply personal emotions of grief, regret, anger, and hope. Alongside expert guests, we offer practical advice and proven strategies for healing and growth.   This podcast is about more than just surviving divorce—it’s about thriving in your next chapter. Through shared experiences and actionable insights, "Don't Pick the Scab Podcast" aims to help you rediscover meaning, rebuild confidence, and create a life filled with new possibilities.   Join us each week as we walk the road to recovery, together. Let’s break the stigma, embrace vulnerability, and support one another on the journey to a brighter, more successful future after divorce. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

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