The Divorce Planner

TDP LLC

Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be. The Divorce Planner Podcast is your essential guide for navigating one of life's most challenging transitions with financial clarity and confidence. Hosted by divorce prep expert Alex Beattie, each episode delivers actionable strategies to help you prepare effectively for divorce. Each week features conversations with top divorce experts who share tips and insights into the process that will help you gather essential documents, assess your financial realities, identify your priorities, kick-start your healing, negotiate well, and help you reframe this life change as an opportunity.  Whether you're just thinking about divorce, or ready to take action, this podcast empowers you to become your own best advocate.  Subscribe now and transform an overwhelming process into an opportunity to create your best next chapter. Host Alex Beattie has helped hundreds of clients and thousands more through her digital tools. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, and Real Simple, and is recommended by divorce professionals nationwide.

  1. How to Tell Your Spouse You Want a Divorce: Conversation Scripts & Expert Tips with Kim Polinder

    15H AGO

    How to Tell Your Spouse You Want a Divorce: Conversation Scripts & Expert Tips with Kim Polinder

    If you're facing one of the hardest conversations you'll ever have—telling your spouse you want a divorce—this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Kim Polinder, a relationship coach, for essential guidance on how to have this life-changing conversation with compassion, clarity, and control. Kim breaks down the practical and emotional aspects of "the talk"—from choosing the right timing and location to managing your spouse's unexpected reactions and protecting yourself emotionally. We dive deep into what actually works when you need to deliver difficult news with as much care as possible. What we cover: Choosing the right timing and why when you have this conversation matters as much as what you sayLocation strategy and why where you have the talk can escalate or defuse emotionsWhat to say and what not to say including specific phrases that workManaging unexpected reactions from shock and anger to denial and bargainingHow to stay grounded when emotions escalate (breathing techniques, mantras, grounding strategies)When to pause the conversation and give both of you space to processProtecting your kids and why the conversation with your spouse happens firstPlanning for immediately after including where you'll go and who you'll callWhat to do if you're still living together and how to create space in a shared homeWhether you've been planning this conversation for months or you're just starting to prepare, this episode provides the scripts, strategies, and emotional support you need to navigate one of life's most difficult moments. For detailed conversation scripts and preparation guidance, check out my blog post "How to Tell Your Spouse You Want a Divorce: A Compassionate Guide." Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips. Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.

    26 min
  2. CDLP 101: What Is a Certified Divorce Lending Professional with Tami Wollensak

    APR 1

    CDLP 101: What Is a Certified Divorce Lending Professional with Tami Wollensak

    If you're navigating divorce and wondering what happens to your home or how you'll qualify for a mortgage on your own, this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Tami Wollensak, a Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP), for an essential conversation about protecting your real estate and mortgage interests during divorce. Most people don't realize there's a specialized professional who can prevent costly mortgage mistakes during divorce—and they wait until after their divorce is finalized to get mortgage guidance, which can be a huge financial mistake. Tami breaks down what a CDLP does, why timing matters more than you think, and how bringing this expert onto your divorce team early can save you from impossible mortgage situations written into your settlement agreement. What we cover: What a CDLP is and how they differ from regular mortgage professionalsThe biggest timing mistake people make with mortgage planning during divorceRealistic mortgage qualification assessments based on your post-divorce incomeCreative mortgage solutions specifically designed for divorce transitionsHow settlement language can make or break your future mortgage eligibilityStructuring support payments to maximize mortgage qualification benefitsCredit protection strategies during and after divorceWhen to bring a CDLP into your divorce team (hint: earlier than you think)As Tami powerfully explains: "The biggest mistake I see is people waiting until after their divorce is finalized to consult with a mortgage professional. Once the divorce decree is signed, you're legally bound to those terms—even if they create impossible mortgage situations." Whether you're hoping to keep the family home, planning to buy a new place, or refinancing to remove your ex-spouse, this conversation provides the specialized guidance you need to make informed decisions that actually work in the real world. Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips. Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.

    20 min
  3. CDFA 101: What Is a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst with Josephti Cruz

    MAR 25

    CDFA 101: What Is a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst with Josephti Cruz

    If you're navigating divorce and worried about protecting your financial future, you need to know about one of the most valuable professionals most people have never heard of: a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA). In today's episode, I'm sitting down with CDFA Josephti Cruz for a crucial conversation about when to bring financial expertise into your divorce process and what critical blind spots could cost you thousands. Most people think their divorce attorney handles all the financial aspects, but as Josephti reveals, your attorney isn't enough for comprehensive financial planning during divorce. A CDFA brings specialized expertise in analyzing the long-term financial implications of settlement offers that can make or break your post-divorce financial security. What we cover: What a CDFA does and how they differ from regular financial advisorsWhen to bring in a CDFA (hint: earlier than most people think)Common financial blind spots that cost divorcing people thousandsHow to protect retirement accounts during property divisionWhy your attorney alone isn't enough for financial planningLong-term wealth strategies beyond just settlement dayTax implications of different settlement structuresThe financial mistakes people make that haunt them for yearsWhether you're just beginning to consider divorce or actively negotiating your settlement, this episode provides essential financial guidance to help you make informed decisions that protect your wealth and create a solid foundation for your future. Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips. Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.

    24 min
  4. Helping Kids Transition Between Two Homes: Expert Tips from Fiona Kong

    MAR 18

    Helping Kids Transition Between Two Homes: Expert Tips from Fiona Kong

    If you're worried about how your children will handle going back and forth between two homes during or after divorce, this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Fiona Kong, creator of the Home Sweet Homes Journal, for a practical conversation about making transitions easier for your kids—and for you. Fiona developed the Home Sweet Homes Journal from her own experience navigating co-parenting and realizing her children needed a better way to communicate their feelings and experiences across two households. We dive deep into how simple tools and intentional communication can help your children maintain stability and security during one of the biggest changes in their lives. What we cover: Techniques for maintaining stability during transitions between homesEffective communication strategies for keeping both parents involved in daily lifeCreating cohesive parenting plans that support consistency across householdsHow the Home Sweet Homes Journal works as a communication tool for kids and parentsPrioritizing your child's mental health during and after divorceCo-parenting with a united front even when you don't get along with your exAge-appropriate ways for children to express their feelings about the transitionsWhen you have the right tools and strategies, you can create a stable environment where your children feel secure and loved—even across two homes. Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips. Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.

    17 min
  5. When Should You Meet With A Divorce Attorney? Insights From Attorney Dennis Vetrano Jr

    MAR 11

    When Should You Meet With A Divorce Attorney? Insights From Attorney Dennis Vetrano Jr

    If you're at a point in your marriage where you're wondering when the right time is to meet with a divorce attorney, the answer is simple: now. If you're asking the question, you're already contemplating change—and this is your cue to start educating yourself about the road ahead. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Dennis R. Vetrano Jr., a New York-based family law attorney and mediator, for a crucial conversation about preparing for attorney consultations and what to expect when you take that first step. Dennis shares invaluable insights into how to approach this pivotal transition from contemplation to action. We dive deep into the practical and emotional considerations you need to understand before starting the divorce process. What we cover: When to start meeting with attorneys and why earlier is better than you thinkWhat to consider when meeting with local family law attorneysHow to pick the right attorney for your specific situation (it's like finding the right bed in Goldilocks)Essential preparation before your first consultations to save time and moneyWhat to be mindful of BEFORE starting the divorce process including financial readiness and emotional considerationsDifferent legal routes (litigation, mediation, collaborative divorce) and how to chooseStrategic ways to save time and money during the divorce processHow to prepare for consultations so you get the most value from each meetingMeeting with a divorce attorney doesn't necessarily mean you're committing to divorce. It's about education and empowerment. Gathering information, understanding your rights, and preparing yourself mentally and financially are all part of laying the groundwork for whatever decision you make. Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips. Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.

    22 min
  6. Creating a Parenting Plan During Divorce: Expert Tips from Coach Samantha Boss

    MAR 4

    Creating a Parenting Plan During Divorce: Expert Tips from Coach Samantha Boss

    If you're navigating divorce with children, creating an effective parenting plan might be the most important document you'll ever write. But how do you create a plan that actually works in real life—especially if you're dealing with a high-conflict co-parent? In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Samantha Boss, a parenting plan expert and mediator who specializes in helping parents develop practical solutions that prioritize children's wellbeing while creating sustainable co-parenting relationships. Samantha breaks down the essential strategies for creating parenting plans that function in the real world, not just on paper. We dive deep into what needs to be addressed now to avoid conflicts later and how to become your own best advocate throughout the process. What we cover: Choosing the right attorney for parenting plan development and why this matters more than you thinkEssential elements every plan needs including schedules, communication protocols, and decision-making frameworksCommon mistakes like vague language that leads to conflict down the roadStrategies for high-conflict situations including detailed boundaries and neutral exchange locationsChild-centered considerations that go beyond legal requirementsAge-appropriate provisions that evolve as your children growConflict resolution mechanisms to handle disagreements without constant renegotiationThis conversation perfectly illustrates why I'm so passionate about helping parents prepare effectively before finalizing their divorce agreements. When you invest time upfront to create a detailed, functional parenting plan, you save countless hours of conflict later while protecting what matters most—your children's wellbeing. Whether you're just starting the divorce process or modifying an existing arrangement, this episode will help you create a framework that serves your children's needs and sets up a sustainable co-parenting relationship. Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips. Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.

    25 min
  7. Should I Stay or Go? How to Decide If Divorce Is Right for You with Betsy Pake

    FEB 25

    Should I Stay or Go? How to Decide If Divorce Is Right for You with Betsy Pake

    If you're stuck in the painful cycle of not knowing whether to stay in your marriage or leave, this episode is exactly what you need. In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Betsy Pake, a midlife change expert and host of "The Art of Living Big" podcast, for a transformative conversation about finding clarity when you're facing one of life's most difficult decisions. This isn't your typical "should I stay or should I go" advice. Betsy and I dive deep into why this particular decision feels so impossible and how the indecision itself takes a physical and emotional toll on your body and health. What we cover: The physical toll of indecision and how your body literally stores this stressDistinguishing authentic intuition from fear-based denial when making major decisionsBreaking free from others' expectations to hear your own inner wisdomThe mindset shift that helps move from paralysis to clarityWhy midlife divorce decisions involve unique considerationsA specific journaling exercise that consistently cuts through confusionEssential emotional preparation before consulting attorneysOne of the most powerful moments in our conversation is when Betsy explains how our bodies physically store the stress of indecision, creating symptoms we often misattribute to other causes. This insight alone could change how you approach your decision-making process. This conversation perfectly illustrates why I'm so passionate about addressing the emotional side of divorce alongside the practical preparation. Whether you ultimately decide to stay or leave, finding clarity through your own inner wisdom—not external pressure—is what empowers you to become your own best advocate. Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips. Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.

    26 min
  8. Estate Planning During Divorce: What You Must Update with Attorney Mindy Stern

    FEB 18

    Estate Planning During Divorce: What You Must Update with Attorney Mindy Stern

    In today's episode, I'm sitting down with Mindy Stern, an estate planning attorney, for a crucial conversation about protecting your financial future when everything in your life is changing.  Mindy breaks down why divorce is a significant end that requires a fresh look at your entire universe of estate plans (will, trust, etc.). We dive deep into the practical steps you need to take and the common mistakes that could cost you dearly if you wait too long. What we cover: When to start the process and why timing is critical during divorceThe 4 biggest mistakes people make with estate planning during divorceKey documents to update including wills, trusts, and beneficiary designationsGuardianship decisions for minor children and why this can't waitPowers of attorney updates when your spouse can no longer make decisions for youTax implications you need to consider before making changesIf you're going through divorce, the idea of having to update your estate planning documents can make you feel like burying your head in the sand. Don't stress - this episode is exactly what you need to hear to motivate you to get it done. Want more resources? Check out my blog for expert interviews and grab my free "24 Questions to Ask Your Divorce Attorney" guide. Need personalized help? Book a free 15-minute call or subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tips. Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals about your situation.

    18 min

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

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out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Divorce is hard. Preparing for one doesn't have to be. The Divorce Planner Podcast is your essential guide for navigating one of life's most challenging transitions with financial clarity and confidence. Hosted by divorce prep expert Alex Beattie, each episode delivers actionable strategies to help you prepare effectively for divorce. Each week features conversations with top divorce experts who share tips and insights into the process that will help you gather essential documents, assess your financial realities, identify your priorities, kick-start your healing, negotiate well, and help you reframe this life change as an opportunity.  Whether you're just thinking about divorce, or ready to take action, this podcast empowers you to become your own best advocate.  Subscribe now and transform an overwhelming process into an opportunity to create your best next chapter. Host Alex Beattie has helped hundreds of clients and thousands more through her digital tools. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, and Real Simple, and is recommended by divorce professionals nationwide.

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