Queer Divorce Club Podcast
Episode 24: Chrissy Heyne, Finding Strength in Change
In this episode of the Queer Divorce Club, Chrissy shares her personal journey through divorce, from the initial shock and emotional turmoil to co-parenting and rebuilding her life. She discusses the process of choosing mediation, the importance of community support, and the strategies that helped her cope. Chrissy reflects on the ongoing nature of personal growth and the value of viewing life changes as opportunities rather than setbacks. She also offers advice for those just starting their own divorce journey, emphasizing resilience, self-compassion, and the power of community.
Episode 23: Flint, Renewal through Self-Discovery
In this insightful episode of the Queer Divorce Club podcast, Flint candidly shares their experiences with two different queer divorces, discussing the emotional challenges and the journey of reconciling their identity within societal expectations. Flint emphasizes the importance of therapy, community support, and rediscovering personal interests as crucial elements of healing and rebuilding life post-divorce.
This conversation delves into the complexities of emotions during life transitions, offering listeners mindfulness practices and self-care strategies, especially beneficial for queer and trans individuals. Flint's story highlights the path to contentment and a fulfilling life, focusing on living intentionally and finding peace in everyday activities. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion that provides valuable insights on resilience, healing, and self-discovery.
Episode 22: Brenda Bridges, Divorce Myths
In this episode of the Queer Divorce Club podcast, Tera is joined by Brenda Bridges, author of "Oh Shit! I'm getting divorced," and a seasoned divorce coach, financial advisor, and certified collaborative divorce mediator. Brenda sheds light on crucial aspects of divorce while debunking prevalent myths surrounding topics like child support, alimony, and the timing of filing. Gain valuable insights and practical advice on navigating divorce with emotional resilience and clarity. Tune in now for expert guidance on managing emotions and approaching divorce with empowerment and confidence.
Episode 21: Ashmeeta Madhav, Grief Support
In this episode of the Queer Divorce Club podcast featuring Ashmeeta Madhav, resilience and grief support advocate, and founder of Growth StoryHub. Ashmeeta shares her journey of navigating divorce at a young age, remarriage, and the profound loss of her second husband to a terminal illness, all while raising young children. Through her own experience, Ashmeeta recognized the need for support in processing grief, especially in the context of divorce, where it often goes unaddressed. She offers insights into the multifaceted emotions of grief, strategies for self-compassion, and navigating the process of rebuilding amidst loss. Ashmeeta empowers listeners to honor their intuition, set boundaries, and extend themselves the compassion they deserve during times of grief.
Episode 20: Amy Nielsen, Making Regulated Decisions for a Peaceful Divorce
Discover invaluable insights in this episode of the Queer Divorce Club, as Tera sits down with attorney and divorce coach, Amy Neilsen. With her wealth of experience supporting couples through divorce, Amy shares practical tips on navigating a peaceful divorce process and maintaining post-divorce harmony while co-parenting. Drawing from her own journey as a queer divorcee, Amy offers valuable advice on prioritizing your own well-being during the divorce process and ensuring that your needs are met. Tune in as Amy guides us through a process of self-discovery, helping us identify and communicate our needs effectively while navigating the complexities of divorce.
Episode 19: Lisa Johnson, Supporting your kids through high conflict divorce
In this episode, we're thrilled to introduce our first guest of the year, Lisa Johnson, co-founder of Been There Got Out, a high conflict divorce coach, and certified domestic violence advocate. Lisa expertly navigates the complexities of supporting children through a high conflict divorce, shedding light on the profound impact that conflict during divorce can have on kids. Throughout our conversation, Lisa shares invaluable strategies for parents facing this challenging terrain, offering insights into creating a safe and supportive environment for children amidst turmoil. Tune in as Lisa provides actionable advice on supporting kids, navigating parenting time with an unstable or unsafe parent, and fostering a secure home environment. Join us as we delve into the essential topic of guiding children through the challenges of divorce with compassion and resilience.
Episode 18: Tera Wozniak Stortz; Self-Compassion and Resistance
In this episode of the Queer Divorce Club, Tera provides an update on the club's progress and shares insights gleaned from her own divorce and rebuilding journey in 2023. Those lessons include how self-compassion has been such an asset to her and other lessons about how to function post divorce with kids.
Episode 17: Dr. Joe Kort; Gay in a Straight Marriage
In this episode of the Queer Divorce Club, join us in a candid conversation with Dr. Joe Kort, a distinguished psychotherapist and the founder of The Center for Relationship and Sexual Health in Southeast Michigan. Dr. Kort specializes in working with individuals, particularly men, who grapple with the realization of their gay identity while navigating straight marriages. We delve into the challenges of coming out within a marriage, the complexities of remaining in a marriage as a queer individual, and the arduous journey of making it through divorce. Dr. Kort aptly describes the process as brutal, and together, we explore strategies to navigate some of the toughest moments during this transformative period. Join us for insights, resilience, and a discussion about the positive destination that can be reached through the challenges of divorce and coming out.
Episode 16: Matthew Phifer; Co-Parenting in High Conflict
In this episode of the Queer Divorce Club, we delve into the profound insights of Matthew Phifer, a therapist, speaker, and trainer, specializing in navigating toxic relationships, narcissism, trauma, and emotional abuse. Tera and Matthew focus on the challenging terrain of co-parenting with a toxic ex, stabilizing both yourself and your children in the aftermath of divorce, and healing following a relationship with a narcissist. Matthew shares invaluable tips on establishing boundaries and cultivating a healthier post-divorce life, especially when dealing with an abusive ex-partner. His expertise sheds light on crucial aspects of post-divorce recovery, offering listeners practical guidance and a deeper understanding of the complexities involved. Tune in for a wealth of wisdom and actionable advice from Matthew Phifer on creating a more stable and empowered life after divorce.
Episode 15: Samantha Fox, Late Bloomer Lesbian
In this episode of the Queer Divorce Club Podcast, I had the privilege of conversing with Samantha Fox, a sexuality and curiosity coach specializing in Late Bloomers. Our discussion delves into the unique experiences of coming out later in life, exploring its profound effects on personal identity, family dynamics, and the journey to finding authenticity for late bloomers. Drawing from her own journey as a late bloomer, Sam shared valuable insights that I connected with, and I'm certain you will too. Sam also underscores the importance of community support as you navigate the intricacies of coming out and divorce. Join us for an insightful conversation that will resonate with anyone on a similar path.
Episode 14: Nina Raff, LCSW, Co-Parenting
In this episode of the Queer Divorce Club, we deep dive into the world of co-parenting. Tera is joined for a second episode with Nina Raff, a therapist who specializes in divorce and co-parenting. Nina offers invaluable guidance on navigating post-divorce parenting. Learn how to maintain a healthy co-parenting relationship with your ex, support your children through the challenges of divorce, and manage your own feelings of guilt. Nina's insights provide a wealth of support and information for parents on their divorce journey.
Episode 13: Jonelle Tunney, Transitioning and Divorce
In this episode, Tera has the privilege of speaking with Jonelle Tunney, a licensed professional counselor, transwoman, and divorcee, who generously shares her personal journey of transitioning while navigating the challenging terrain of divorce. Jonelle's story is a poignant narrative of resilience and growth.
During the conversation, Jonelle offers a wealth of insights drawn from her experiences of simultaneously managing significant life transitions over the past five years. She candidly discusses the lessons she's learned, both from her transition and her divorce, shedding light on what worked for her and what didn't. Additionally, Jonelle opens up about her co-parenting journey with her ex-wife, providing valuable perspectives and guidance.
Jonelle's journey is filled with invaluable gems of wisdom, and I'm excited to share her story with you.
Episode 12: Nina Raff, LCSW, Choosing Family Reconfiguration and Divorcing Peacefully
In this episode, I'm excited to have a conversation with Nina Raff, an experienced psychotherapist specializing in collaborative divorce and the discernment process. Her expertise shines as she shares invaluable insights on key aspects of divorce.
Throughout our discussion, Nina offers valuable advice on choosing the right divorce approach, recognizing signs it's time for divorce, and communicating this transition to your children. We also delve into challenges faced by queer divorcees and how to make informed decisions throughout the process. Nina's perspective on divorce as a reconfiguration of family dynamics is eye-opening, emphasizing that divorce is a choice, not a failure. By working together with our ex-partners, we can create a solid foundation for post-divorce life. Keep listening for insights to guide you through your divorce process.
Episode 11: Cariann Moore, Navigating the Messy Middle
In this episode, Tera has the privilege of connecting with the wonderful Cariann Moore as she bravely shares her journey through the intricate phase following her divorce, often referred to as the "messy middle." Through her vulnerability, Cariann opens up about her personal experience during this challenging period and offers profound insights into her healing process. We delve into the strategies she employed to navigate the messy middle during the post-divorce rebuilding stage and discuss how others can find their own paths to healing.
The "messy middle" is a shared experience after divorce, and Cariann's wisdom provides invaluable guidance on managing its complexities. While there's no one-size-fits-all approach, I hope that by listening to her story, you'll grant yourself the grace needed for your own healing journey.
Episode 10: Dr. Lynda Spann; Red Flags and When to Call it Quits
In this compelling episode of the Queer Divorce Club, I had the privilege of engaging in a meaningful conversation with Dr. Lynda Spann, the esteemed founder of the Lesbian Couples Institute. We delved into the crucial topic of recognizing red flags in relationships and navigating the difficult decision of when to call it quits or persevere to strengthen the marriage. Additionally, we explored the concept of consciously uncoupling and discussed how to embrace self-compassion and understanding when making the choice to get divorced.
Episode 9: Ethan Philbrick, Finding Community and Queer Divorce Culture
In this engaging episode, I had the privilege of chatting with the talented Ethan Philbrick, a cellist, artist, and writer. Ethan shares his heartfelt divorce story and the inspiring initiative, The Gay Divorcees, honoring the narratives of queer divorcees through music. Together, we explore the culture surrounding queer divorce and its significance in our country. Join us as we celebrate the transformative power of making the choice to get divorced, shaping dynamic individuals, and finding empowerment in life-altering choices. Tune in to be inspired by The Gay Divorcees' journey and the importance of community after divorce.
Episode 8: Ash and Dawn, Healing and Building New Relationships Post Divorce
Discover a captivating episode of the Queer Divorce Club podcast featuring Ash, a Certified Somatic Practitioner, and her wife Dawn, a relationship coach trained in a psychobiological approach to couples therapy. Join us as we delve into their inspiring journey of healing and love, from divorcees to a happily married couple. Explore their remarkable story of transformation and learn invaluable tips on healing, navigating new relationships beyond romance, and the profound impact of attachment styles on your healing journey and connections. Tune in now to gain insights that will empower your own healing and relationships.
Episode 7: Kate Herald Browne, Family Structure and Navigating the Murky Middle
Discover a powerful journey of healing and growth in this episode of the Queer Divorce Club. Join Tera, as she sits down with the incredible Kate Herald Browne, who candidly shares her personal story of divorce, remarriage, and co-parenting.
In this heartfelt conversation, Kate and Tera delve into the intricacies of queer divorce, exploring its unique dynamics and shedding light on the differences between queer and heteronormative divorces. Together, they uncover the transformative power of repairing relationships with ex-partners and offer invaluable insights into navigating the challenging "murky middle" of divorce.
Get ready to be inspired as we piece together the puzzle of divorce and self-healing, leaving you with a sense of awe and newfound understanding.
Episode 6: Rachel Kieras, Finances and Divorce
In this episode of the Queer Divorce Club, I had the pleasure of chatting with Rachel Kieras, a financial expert with certification in the divorce process. Together, we dive deep into the crucial topic of managing finances during divorce. Rachel breaks down the essential financial aspects to focus on and provides a step-by-step approach to navigate the complexities of the process.
Beyond the logistics, Rachel emphasizes the emotional aspects of finances and the importance of building a supportive team during divorce. We explore budgeting strategies and setting yourself up for a prosperous life post-divorce. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone contemplating divorce or currently undergoing the legal process. Even if you've already finalized your divorce, Rachel shares insightful advice on budgeting and saving that you won't want to miss.
Episode 5: Michelle Coulier and Miguel Ruiz-Santos, Real Estate and Lending During Divorce
In this episode of the Queer Divorce Club, we delve into the intricacies of buying and selling a home during the divorce process. Our special guests, Michelle Coulier and Miguel Ruiz-Santos, are experts in real estate and lending tailored to the LGBTQIA+ community. From understanding the legal aspects to ensuring financial stability, we cover it all. Join us as we explore strategies for equitable property division, negotiation with your ex-spouse, and working with understanding lenders. This episode provides essential information and support to help you confidently navigate this complex journey and create a secure future. Stay tuned and get one step closer to making informed decisions in your divorce.