Men's Divorce Recovery
Men's Divorce Recovery exists to empower divorced men through support, knowledge, and encouragement to survive and thrive beyond divorce and become resilient, strong, and wise. New episodes will be dropped every other week. We look forward to walking with you on this Journey to Recovery. Find us on Facebook and Instagram @officialmensdivorcerecovery or visit us at www.MensDivorceRecovery.org
Why Men Lose in Divorce—and How to Change the Outcome
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In this episode of Men’s Divorce Recovery, Dale and Chris sit down with Diana Romanov—founder of Romanov Law and a certified Family Law Specialist—to break down the hidden architecture behind why relationships fail and what men can do to navigate divorce with clarity and control. Drawing from her experience guiding thousands of clients through high-stakes divorces, Diana shares the patterns that quietly lead to disconnection, the costly mistakes men make early in the process, and how to approach divorce strategically rather than emotionally. The conversation dives into power dynamics, protec...
Betrayal, Trauma, and the Man You’re Meant to Be - Part Two
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PART TWO OF INTERVIEWÂ
In this episode of the Men’s Divorce Recovery Podcast, Dale sits down with Ralph Brewer to unpack the deep connection between childhood trauma, adult relationships, and the path to becoming a stronger man. Ralph shares how unresolved wounds can shape our wants, needs, and behaviors—often without us realizing it—until they surface through conflict or betrayal. The conversation dives into the emotional impact of divorce and infidelity, and what it really takes to move forward instead of staying stuck. Together, they break down the process of rebu...
Betrayal, Trauma, and the Man You’re Meant to Be - Part One
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In this episode of the Men’s Divorce Recovery Podcast, Dale sits down with Ralph Brewer to unpack the deep connection between childhood trauma, adult relationships, and the path to becoming a stronger man. Ralph shares how unresolved wounds can shape our wants, needs, and behaviors—often without us realizing it—until they surface through conflict or betrayal. The conversation dives into the emotional impact of divorce and infidelity, and what it really takes to move forward instead of staying stuck. Together, they break down the process of rebuilding identity, reclaiming control, and develo...
Burnout Isn’t Failure: God’s Invitation to Rest and Renewal
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In this episode of the Men’s Divorce Recovery Podcast, we talk with Keith Cole—a Marine Corps combat veteran and author of Burnout: God’s Recovery Plan—about why burnout after divorce isn’t failure, but often the result of carrying too much for too long while trying to do everything right. We break down how the “just push through” mindset can quietly lead to emotional, physical, and spiritual exhaustion, why burnout is not a lack of faith, and how it can actually be an invitation from God to slow down, surrender control, and b...
The Gift of Redemption Part Two
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PART TWO OF EPISODE
In this episode we sit down with author and theologian Dr. Chad Bird to explore what it means to walk with God through failure, loss, and the painful aftermath of divorce. Drawing from his books Night Driving, Limping with God, and Untamed Prayers, Chad shares how Scripture speaks honestly about broken lives and wounded disciples. Together we discuss how men can face face regret without despair, rediscover their identity in Christ after divorce, and learn to pray again when faith feels fractured. Using stories from the life...
The Gift of Redemption Part One
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In this episode we sit down with author and theologian Dr. Chad Bird to explore what it means to walk with God through failure, loss, and the painful aftermath of divorce. Drawing from his books Night Driving, Limping with God, and Untamed Prayers, Chad shares how Scripture speaks honestly about broken lives and wounded disciples. Together we discuss how men can face face regret without despair, rediscover their identity in Christ after divorce, and learn to pray again when faith feels fractured. Using stories from the life of Jacob, the raw prayers of...
Sobriety Saved My Marriage Part Two
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PART TWO
In this powerful episode of the Men’s Divorce Recovery Podcast, we sit down with a husband and father whose life was once defined by alcohol, drugs, denial, and the quiet slavery of addiction—but who found true freedom not through willpower, but through Jesus Christ. He shares what addiction really looked like behind closed doors, how it fractured trust and intimacy in his marriage, and the breaking point that brought him to surrender. Through an encounter with Christ, his identity—not just his behavior—was transformed, replacing shame with gra...
Sobriety Saved My Marriage Part One
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In this powerful episode of the Men’s Divorce Recovery Podcast, we sit down with a husband and father whose life was once defined by alcohol, drugs, denial, and the quiet slavery of addiction—but who found true freedom not through willpower, but through Jesus Christ. He shares what addiction really looked like behind closed doors, how it fractured trust and intimacy in his marriage, and the breaking point that brought him to surrender. Through an encounter with Christ, his identity—not just his behavior—was transformed, replacing shame with grace and self-destruction with pur...
Abide in My Love: A Year of Healing, Faith, and Recovery
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In this special year-in-review episode, Dale and Chris walk back through the full journey of Men’s Divorce Recovery in 2025 — beginning with the early uncertainty and fear that often mark the start of divorce and ending with hope, healing, and generosity.
Together, they revisit key conversations on faith under pressure, emotional pain and deep sadness, redefining what a “win” really looks like, navigating anger and lingering love, blended families, high-stress marriages, and finding peace during the holidays. Drawing from every episode released this year, Chris and Dale reflect on the lessons learned...
Giving Tuesday Means Giving Hope
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Please join us for this important Giving Tuesday episode.Â
Finding Peace This Thanksgiving After Divorce
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In this short Thanksgiving episode, we share a few simple but meaningful tips for spending the holiday alone after a divorce. From giving yourself permission to feel, to creating intentional plans, to starting new traditions, these ideas are designed to help you navigate the day with grace, purpose, and hope. Whether you’re facing your first Thanksgiving alone or another in a long journey, this episode offers gentle encouragement and practical steps to remind you that healing is possible—and you don’t have to walk it alone.
Bible Verse Inspiration: Isaiah...
Permission to Hurt and Permission to Heal
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In this heartfelt episode, Dale reflects on the ten-year anniversary of his own divorce — a milestone that brings both pain and perspective. He opens up about the deep valleys of heartbreak and how giving ourselves permission to hurt is the first step toward genuine healing. Dale reminds us that Jesus never avoided pain; He entered into it with us. Through that truth, Dale offers encouragement for finding peace and forgiveness in God, along with practical insights for walking through your own season of suffering.
Whether you’re in the middle of your...
What If I Still Love My Ex-Wife
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n this heartfelt episode, Chris explores one of the hardest questions men face after divorce — “What if I still love my ex-wife?” In the episode we unpack why feelings of love can linger, how to tell the difference between true love and emotional attachment, and how to release that love in a way that honors God. With Scripture, reflection, and encouragement, this episode helps men find peace in their past and healing in their faith.
Bible Verse Inspiration: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” — 1 Pe...
Facing the Fire: How Men Can Confront Anger in Divorce
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In this episode, we confront one of the hardest emotions men face in divorce — anger. Emotions are real, and like a thermometer, they reveal what’s happening inside us without defining who we are. We’ll talk about how emotions are morally neutral and how understanding them can lead to healing instead of destruction. Through biblical teaching, we’ll explore how God calls men to face their anger honestly and let it refine rather than consume them.
Bible Verse Inspiration: Ephesians 4:26–27 (NIV): “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go dow...
Blending Families with Faith Part Two
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PART TWOÂ
In this episode of Men’s Divorce Recovery, Dale and Chris sit down with Ron Deal, director of FamilyLife Blended®, to talk about the challenges and blessings of life after divorce. Together they unpack the realities of step-parenting, the pitfalls that can lead to re-divorce, and the biblical principles that offer hope for men navigating blended families. With wisdom drawn from Scripture and years of ministry experience, Ron shares practical tools and encouragement for fathers, stepfathers, and husbands who want to lead with faith, patience, and grace.
Insp...
Blending Families with Faith Part One
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In this episode of Men’s Divorce Recovery, Dale and Chris sit down with Ron Deal, director of FamilyLife Blended®, to talk about the challenges and blessings of life after divorce. Together they unpack the realities of step-parenting, the pitfalls that can lead to re-divorce, and the biblical principles that offer hope for men navigating blended families. With wisdom drawn from Scripture and years of ministry experience, Ron shares practical tools and encouragement for fathers, stepfathers, and husbands who want to lead with faith, patience, and grace.
Inspiration Verse: “If anyone is in...
Making Marriage Work, Divorce in First Responders
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In this episode, Dale and Chris sit down with Tim Rutledge, Director of LEAPS Training and a retired narcotics agent, to explore the unique challenges first responders face in marriage—and the difficult road many walk through divorce. Tim shares candid insights from decades of service, stories from the field, and practical tools to strengthen relationships under pressure. Together, they discuss how to build trust, communicate through stress, and find resilience and hope, whether you’re fighting for your marriage or navigating the pain of separation.
Bible Verse Inspiration:Â "Be on your...
Navigating the Deep Sadness of a Relationship Ending
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In this episode of Men’s Divorce Recovery, we explore the deep sadness that comes with the end of a relationship and how to navigate it in a healthy, God-centered way. Christopher Espinoza offers Biblical inspiration, practical tools, and encouragement for men struggling with heartbreak. Learn how to process grief, avoid common pitfalls, and take actionable steps toward healing, growth, and renewed hope.
Scripture Highlight: Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
Resources: www.MensDivorceRecovery.orgÂ
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What Does a Win Look Like?
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In this episode of Men’s Divorce Recovery, Dale Brown explores the question, "What does a win really look like after divorce?" Instead of chasing shallow victories, Dale unpacks five meaningful types of wins: gaining clarity, having passion, finding solidarity with others, making good decisions, and living with integrity. This episode offers a grounded perspective on success, growth, and healing during life’s most challenging transitions.
Resources: www.MensDivorceRecovery.org
Bible Verse Inspiration: Micah 6:8 (NIV): "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord requ...
When It All Falls Apart: Facing the Worst Day of Your Life
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We all face moments in life that bring us to our knees—days when it feels like everything we've built has come crashing down. In this solo episode, Chris gets real about what to do when you're living through the worst day of your life. Whether you're dealing with the shock of divorce, the loss of a relationship, or the weight of emotional pain, this episode offers both Biblical wisdom and practical tools to help you breathe, pause, and begin to heal.
You'll learn how to name your pain, avoid destructive re...
Divorced in Africa: One Man’s Story of Recovery and Redemption
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In this powerful episode we sit down with Michael Mmunthali from Malawi, to explore the often-unspoken realities of divorce for men in African cultures. Michael shares his personal journey through heartbreak, cultural stigma, and healing—and how faith, identity, and community shaped his recovery. We will discuss the differences between divorce in the U.S. and Africa, the silence surrounding men’s emotional pain, and how the global church can better support men walking through the aftermath of divorce.
Bible Passage Inspiration: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burden...
When You Hurt
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On today's episode Dale discusses important parts of his book, The Daily Survival Guide for Divorced Men. Specifically Dale discusses what happens when you hurt during the divorce process. He looks at what happens to you mentally and physically when we are hurting, what we can expect during this phase of recovery, and what we can do about it to not sink too far.ÂResources: www.MensDivorceRecovery.orgÂ
Faith Under Fire Part Two
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INTERVIEW PART TWOIn this powerful episode of Men’s Divorce Recovery, we sit down with Bree Sullivan-Howell, author of Crush Your Divorce and Keep Your Faith, to explore how Christian men can navigate the emotional, spiritual, and legal challenges of divorce without losing their faith in Christ. Bree shares personal insights, practical advice, and biblical encouragement for staying grounded, acting with integrity, and building spiritual resilience in the face of one of life’s hardest seasons. Whether you’re in the midst of a divorce or walking the long road of rec...
Faith Under Fire Part One
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In this powerful episode of Men’s Divorce Recovery, we sit down with Bree Sullivan-Howell, author of Crush Your Divorce and Keep Your Faith, to explore how Christian men can navigate the emotional, spiritual, and legal challenges of divorce without losing their faith in Christ. Bree shares personal insights, practical advice, and biblical encouragement for staying grounded, acting with integrity, and building spiritual resilience in the face of one of life’s hardest seasons. Whether you’re in the midst of a divorce or walking the long road of recovery, this conversation offers hope...Back to the Basics
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Today we take things back to the beginning by revisiting the Stages of Divorce developed by Dale. Specifically Dale and Chris will discuss the “Shock” stage and the “Raw Pain” stage, while touching on how they integrate with other stages along your recovery journey. No matter where you are in your recovery process, remembering what it was like in the beginning is key to keeping your grounded and helping others as your rise.ÂResources: www.MensDivorceRecovery.orgÂ
What We Can Learn About Love from the Life of Pope Francis
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In this episode we explore surprising lessons on love, healing, and personal growth through the life and example of Pope Francis. From his focus on compassion and forgiveness to his deep humility and expansive view of love, we unpack how his approach can help men recovering from divorce rediscover their identity, rebuild relationships, and redefine what love means in this new chapter of our lives.Resources: www.MensDivorceRecovery.orgÂ
Scars that Speak: What Healing Teaches Us
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Episode Title: Scars that Speak: What Healing Teaches UsScripture Focus: John 20:27
In this heartfelt episode, we explore the power and purpose of emotional scars—especially those left behind after divorce. Drawing from John 20:27, we reflect on how even Jesus chose to reveal His scars as a testimony of love, healing, and identity. You'll discover why your own scars are not signs of failure, but sacred reminders of survival and God's presence in your pain. Whether you're deep in the healing process or just beginning, this episode offers hope, perspective, an...
A Divorced Dad Story Part Two
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PART TWO OF INTERVIEWOn today’s special episode we welcome an actor, a producer, and a director from Hollywood to discuss their upcoming movie “Guys Night,” an inspirational story of overcoming adversity and growing as a divorced and single dad. The personal stories in this episode will inspire you and fill you with hope for your future. A special thanks to Niko Vitacco, Dave Eichhorn, and Andrew Baird for being on today’s podcast!Â
Bible Passage Inspiration: Proverbs 4:1-2 “Hear, O Children, a father’s instruction, be attentive...
A Divorced Dad Story Part One
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On today’s special episode we welcome an actor, a producer, and a director from Hollywood to discuss their upcoming movie “Guys Night,” an inspirational story of overcoming adversity and growing as a divorced single dad. The personal stories in this episode will inspire you and fill you with hope for your future. A special thanks to Niko Vitacco, Dave Eichhorn, and Andrew Baird for being on today’s podcast!ÂBible Passage Inspiration: Proverbs 4:1-2 “Hear, O Children, a father’s instruction, be attentive, that you may gain unde...
The Narrow Path
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On the episode Chris cover a reading from the Sermon on the Plain and how it relates to the divorce process. He discusses the narrow path of doing the right thing, even in the face of difficult times and intense emotions.ÂBible Passage Inspiration: Luke 6:27-38
"Jesus said to his disciples:“To you who hear I say,love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.To the person who strikes you on one cheek,offer the...
Bring Me a Higher Love
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On today’s podcast we hit fast forward to take a look at what could potentially be in store for you in a second marriage - if God wills that for your life. You may not find yourself ready to listen to this episode, depending on where you are in your divorce process, but we wanted to cover this topic to bring you hope in God’s mercy and resorting power. On this special episode Dale and Chris are joined by their current wives, Kelly and Megan.ÂBib...
When You Know Divorce is Coming
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On today's episode Dale talks about what to do when you know divorce is coming. At time we as men can be caught off guard by divorce, but most of the time we have a sense that things are heading in that direction. In this episode Dale discusses ideas and tips on how to better handle your kids, your job, your finances, and sleep when divorce first takes place.Rescources: www.MensDivorceRecovery.orgÂ
Sexpectations Part Two
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PART TWO OF INTERVIEWThey often say that there are three primary reasons why divorce takes place, with sexual issues being near the top of the list. But if sex factored into the dissolution of our marriage, what can we do to heal and repair our sexual brokenness to be restored in our relationship with God and also prepared for future romantic relationships? On today’s episode Dr. Carol Peters-Tanksley, author of the book "Sexpectations: Reframing Your Good and Not-So-Good Stories About God, Love, and Relationships” joins the show to discuss thes...
Sexpectations Part One
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They often say that there are three primary reasons why divorce takes place, with sexual issues being near the top of the list. But if sex factored into the dissolution of our marriage, what can we do to heal and repair our sexual brokenness to be restored in our relationship with God and also prepared for future romantic relationships? On today’s episode Dr. Carol Peters-Tanksley, author of the book "Sexpectations: Reframing Your Good and Not-So-Good Stories About God, Love, and Relationships” joins the show to discuss these issues and more.ÂDevotionals During Divorce Part Two
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Part Two of InterviewDivorce disrupts our daily routines and upends what our daily life looks like. During divorce we must choose how to spend our time and what activities will contribute to our recovery. Today we welcome Chris Bolinger to the podcast, who is the author of two Christian devotionals for men to help us understand the importance of daily devotionals during divorce and other topics that will help us recover in the proper way.Â
Bible Passage Inspiration: James 5:13-15 “Is anyone amo...
Devotionals During Divorce Part One
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Divorce disrupts our daily routines and upends what our daily life looks like. During divorce we must choose how to spend our time and what activities will contribute to our recovery. Today we welcome Chris Bolinger to the podcast, who is the author of two Christian devotionals for men to help us understand the importance of daily devotionals during divorce and other topics that will help us recover in the proper way.ÂBible Passage Inspiration: James 5:13-15 “Is anyone among you suffering? He should pray. Is anyone among you sic...
Navigating Divorce - Lessons from the Navy to Rebuild Your Life Part Two
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Part Two of InterviewAfter spending years on submarines and surface ships, Jay Patterson adjusted his heading to help men facing brutal battles, such as divorce, pivoting careers, hitting midlife, and other challenges. Having spent much of his life submerged, working excessive hours, and being crammed into a compact people tank with 130 men for weeks and months on end, there is no option but to get along. Post-divorce life includes uncharted objects and shoals, but you can navigate obstacles and become stronger with the right mindset. On today’s podcast Jay sh...
Navigating Divorce - Lessons from the Navy to Rebuild Your Life Part One
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After spending years on submarines and surface ships, Jay Patterson adjusted his heading to help men facing brutal battles, such as divorce, pivoting careers, hitting midlife, and other challenges. Having spent much of his life submerged, working excessive hours, and being crammed into a compact people tank with 130 men for weeks and months on end, there is no option but to get along. Post-divorce life includes uncharted objects and shoals, but you can navigate obstacles and become stronger with the right mindset. On today’s podcast Jay shares how he survived on a 300-f...Here Comes the Holidays
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In today’s episode Chris provides encouragement for men who are going through divorce as we begin to enter the holiday season. For many of us, this might be the first holiday season we are spending alone, away from our former wife. You can get through this, but you must put the effort into planning to ensure you don’t make poor decisions during this difficult time.Bible Passage Reference: 2 Corinthians 1:3-6
Resources: www.MensDivorceRecovery.orgÂ
The Three Voices in Our Head
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Divorce is a confusing time where we are asking to make decisions when we are not at the top of our game. If you ever asked yourself "where did that thought come from?," the answer may surprise you. Today Chris discusses the three voices we might hear in our head while recoverying from divorce and how to make the best decisions possible.Bible Passage: 2 Corinthians 11:14 "And no wonder, for even Satan masquerades as an angel of light."
Resources: www.MensDivorceRecovery.orgÂ
