Coparenting Beyond Conflict: High-Conflict Divorce and Custody Strategies
A podcast for parents navigating the hardest kind of co-parenting—when every message feels like a minefield and peace feels out of reach. Whether you’re dealing with a narcissistic ex, coercive control, or the exhaustion of family court battles, Coparenting Beyond Conflict is your lifeline. You’re not alone, and you’re not powerless.Each episode delivers practical strategies, clinical frameworks, and real-world tools to help you protect your kids, disengage from emotional chaos, and establish lasting boundaries—even if your co-parent never changes. 🔗 Learn more & resources: https://bestinterest.app/coparenting-podcast 🎧 What You’ll LearnDe-escalation tactics to defuse hostile exchanges and elimin...
The Umbrella Question: A New Way to Approach Co-Parenting Conflict with Sam Imperati
What if co-parenting conflict didn’t have to be a debate about who is right and who is wrong? In this episode of Coparenting Beyond Conflict, Sol sits down with attorney, former judge, and mediator Sam Imperati to explore a different way of approaching conflict: moving from debate to exploration.
Sam shares what he learned from decades in litigation, on the bench, and in mediation—including why even the “winner” in a courtroom battle may walk away feeling depleted. He explains how conflict can become a self-perpetuating cycle of suspicion, documentation, and preparing for the next battle, with chi...
High Conflict Divorce, or Post-Separation Abuse? with Ksenia Muench
What happens when divorce doesn’t actually end the conflict? For some families, the dynamics that made a relationship difficult continue long after separation—through communication, finances, the court system, parenting disagreements, and the children. In this episode of Coparenting Beyond Conflict, Sol sits down with high-conflict divorce coach Ksenia Muench to explore whether what we commonly call “high conflict divorce” is sometimes better understood as post-separation abuse.
Ksenia shares her own experience navigating a high-conflict divorce and explains how she learned to move from emotional reactivity toward clarity, discipline, and strategy. She and Sol discuss why traditio...
When Blended Families Get Complicated: Boundaries, Exes & In-Laws with Alicia Krasko
What happens when you fall in love with someone who already has a family?
In this episode, Sol and Louise sit down with stepmom coach and Stepmom Side podcast host Alicia Krasko to explore the realities of blended family life—including the parts nobody prepares you for. Together, they talk about finding your role as a stepparent, navigating exes and in-laws, managing the emotional intensity of custody transitions, and building a strong partnership when conflict from the other household inevitably affects your family.
Alicia shares her own journey from feeling overwhelmed and unsure of her pl...
When One Parent Is High Conflict: How to Protect Your Kids with Hallie Strauss and Kate Alcamo
What happens when the conflict between co-parents becomes the center of family life—and the kids get caught in the middle? In this episode, Sol sits down with Hallie Strauss and Kate Alcamo, co-founders of The Co-Parent Collective, to explore how parents can reduce conflict, protect their children’s emotional wellbeing, and build healthier post-divorce family dynamics.
Hallie brings the perspective of a psychologist, parenting coordinator, custody evaluator, and mediator who works with families navigating high-conflict dynamics. Kate is a licensed marriage and family therapist and child specialist who helps parents understand divorce from the child’s perspe...
Bill Eddy on High-Conflict Co-Parenting: Stay Calm, Set Limits & Protect Your Kids
High-conflict co-parenting can leave you feeling like you’re constantly walking on eggshells—every text message, exchange, or court filing has the potential to pull you into another cycle of conflict. In this episode, Sol sits down with Bill Eddy, co-founder of the High Conflict Institute, therapist, family lawyer, mediator, and creator of the internationally recognized BIFF® communication method.
Bill shares four decades of practical wisdom on how to communicate without escalating conflict, why trying to “teach the other parent a lesson” almost always backfires, and how parents can protect their children by modeling emotional regulatio...
The Emotional Divorce Most Parents Never Complete with Dr. Lee Baucom
What if the legal divorce is over—but the emotional relationship is still running the show?
In this episode, Sol sits down with relationship coach, therapist, author, and Save the Marriage podcast host Dr. Lee Baucom to explore why high-conflict dynamics often continue long after a marriage ends. Together, they unpack the hidden emotional systems that keep co-parents stuck in the same painful patterns and explain how lasting change can begin with just one person choosing to respond differently.
You’ll learn why reacting to your co-parent often reinforces conflict, how to reclaim your sense of a...
Why So Many Adult Children Cut Off Their Parents (And How to Prevent It) with Catherine Hickem
Nearly one in four adult children are estranged from at least one parent—a trend that’s becoming increasingly common, yet rarely discussed.
In this episode of Coparenting Beyond Conflict, Sol sits down with parenting expert Catherine Hickem, founder of Parenting Adult Children Today and author of It’s Never Too Late to Be a Great Parent. Together they explore why parent-child relationships break down in adulthood, how divorce impacts family relationships across generations, and what parents can do now to build lasting trust with their children.
Whether you’re raising young children, navigati...
How Dads Can Show Up Better After Divorce with Larry Hagner
What does it mean to be a “legendary” father—especially when you’re navigating divorce, co-parenting, and the daily pressures of work and life?
In this episode of Coparenting Beyond Conflict, Sol interviews Larry Hagner, host of the Dad Edge podcast and author of The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood. Larry shares practical insights on what children truly need from their fathers: presence, emotional safety, and the willingness to repair after mistakes.
Larry explains why great parenting is a learnable skill, how staying together “for the kids” can sometimes do more harm than good, and why children oft...
How to Divorce Without Going to Court with Amanda Singer
What if divorce didn’t have to mean years of litigation, mounting legal fees, and a judge deciding your family’s future?
In this episode of Coparenting Beyond Conflict, Sol speaks with Amanda Singer, a family law mediator and attorney who has spent more than 13 years helping couples resolve divorce and custody issues outside of court.
Amanda explains how mediation offers families a more collaborative and cost-effective path through separation. Rather than battling through attorneys, couples work with a neutral professional to create agreements around parenting plans, support, and property division while staying in control of t...
Fighting to Stay a Father in Family Court with Derek Salyers
A high-conflict custody battle can make even the most devoted parent feel powerless. In this episode, Derek Salyers shares the deeply personal story of fighting for shared parenting after being falsely accused, cut off from his son for months, and pulled into a years-long family court battle.
Derek opens up about the mental health toll many fathers silently carry, the realities of parallel parenting, and why he believes the family court system still struggles with bias. He also shares how AI tools like ChatGPT helped him navigate legal documents, parenting plans, communication, and court preparation during one...
Stop Saying “I’m Sorry”: Reclaiming Power After Divorce with Nicole Sodoma
Divorce is often framed as something you “win” or “lose”—but what if that mindset is exactly what keeps you stuck? In this episode, family law attorney and author Nicole Sodoma shares candid, hard-earned insights from both sides of the courtroom. After decades advising clients—and then going through her own divorce—Nicole reveals what actually matters when you’re navigating high-conflict co-parenting.
From why saying “I’m sorry” can be disempowering, to the realities of parallel parenting, to the small communication shifts that can completely change your dynamic, this conversation is grounded, practical, and refreshingly honest. If you’re feeling over...
Secrets of the Narcissist Mind with Tracy Malone
Are you co-parenting with someone who seems to change the rules, twist reality, and keep you constantly on edge? Divorce is hard enough—but when you’re dealing with manipulation, control, and emotional chaos, it can feel impossible to find your footing. In this episode, Tracy Malone, author and renowned narcissistic abuse recovery coach, breaks down exactly how to protect your peace, support your kids, and reclaim your power in a system that often feels stacked against you.
Learn more about Tracy Malone at: https://tracyamalone.com/ and https://narcissistabusesupport.com
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How to Protect Your Peace in a High-Conflict Divorce with Karen Covy
Think family court will give you closure, fairness, or emotional justice? Think again.
If you’re walking into divorce expecting the system to make things right, you may be setting yourself up for more frustration, confusion, and costly mistakes. Karen Covy—attorney, divorce coach, and founder of Divorce Road Map—pulls back the curtain on what the legal system actually does (and what it doesn’t), and why so many people feel blindsided by the process. This conversation will help you shift from overwhelmed and reactive to clear, strategic, and in control—so you can protect your peace, your kids...
Stop Saying Yes: How People-Pleasing Is Sabotaging Your Co-Parenting with Amy Ballantyne
Are you saying “yes” just to keep the peace—while quietly losing yourself in the process? If you feel trapped between avoiding conflict and honoring your own needs, you’re not alone. Amy Ballantyne, executive coach and host of Power to the People Pleasers, breaks down how people-pleasing patterns show up in co-parenting—and how to start setting boundaries without guilt, escalation, or self-abandonment.
Learn more about Amy Ballantyne at: https://www.amyballantyne.com/
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Other Resources Mentioned:
• Celebrate Yourself by...
Reclaim Your Authentic Self After Narcissistic Abuse with Dr. Kerry McAvoy, PhD
Why does your ex still live in your head—even after the relationship ends?
If you still feel triggered, controlled, or second-guessing yourself, you’re not alone—and you’re not stuck. Dr. Kerry McAvoy, psychologist and host of Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse, explains why toxic dynamics become an internal “echo”—and how to quiet it, reclaim your voice, and parent from a grounded, empowered place.
Learn more about Dr. Kerry McAvoy, PhD at: https://kerrymcavoyphd.com/
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Other Resources Ment...
The Calm Anchor: Navigating the Storm of High-Conflict Divorce with Kirk Martin
Is your anxiety "dumping" all over your kids and fueling the conflict?
In this powerful episode, Kirk Martin of the Calm Parenting Podcast joins guest host Louise Love to reveal why your child's "defiance" is often a mirror of your own internal storm. You will walk away with a radical shift in perspective: moving from trying to control an uncooperative co-parent or a strong-willed child to becoming the "calm anchor" that leads your family to peace through your own self-regulation.
Learn more about Kirk Martin and the Calm Parenting Podcast...
Regulate Before You Respond: Somatic Strategies for High-Conflict Co-Parenting with Cherie Morris
In this conversation, Cherie Morris shares her journey from being an attorney to a coach specializing in co-parenting and conflict resolution. She emphasizes the importance of emotional regulation, somatic healing, and the need to slow down in high-conflict situations. Cherie discusses the significance of role modeling for children, setting boundaries, and the power of emotional validation. The conversation highlights practical steps for navigating co-parenting challenges and fostering a healthier environment for families.
Learn more about Cherie Morris at: https://deardivorcecoach.com/
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<...
Becoming Unbothered: An Energetic Strategy to Disarm the Narcissist with Denise Kavaliauskas
In this conversation, Denise Kavaliauskas shares her insights on navigating the complexities of divorce and co-parenting, emphasizing the importance of emotional healing, effective communication, and understanding the dynamics of high conflict situations. She discusses the pitfalls of the divorce industry, the significance of self-empowerment, and offers practical strategies for individuals facing challenging co-parenting scenarios. The discussion also touches on the concept of narcissism, the four pillars of healing, and the journey towards achieving an unbothered state amidst chaos.
Learn more about Denise Kavaliauskas at: https://winningyourdivorce.com/
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The Hidden Trauma of Family Court: A Mediator's Guide to Protecting Your Kids with Joe Dillon
In this conversation, Joe Dillon, a seasoned mediator, shares his journey into mediation, influenced by his childhood experiences with divorce. He emphasizes the importance of understanding children's perspectives during parental conflicts and the need for effective communication between parents. Joe discusses the role of mediation as a peaceful alternative to litigation, highlighting the emotional and financial challenges faced by families. He provides insights into the skills necessary for effective mediation and offers techniques for dealing with difficult personalities, particularly in high-conflict situations. The conversation concludes with a message of hope for parents navigating divorce, emphasizing that with support and...
How to Drop the Narcissist: Why Labels Keep You Stuck with Teresa Luse
In this conversation, Teresa Luse shares her journey through co-parenting and the challenges of navigating relationships with ex-partners. She emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, empathy, and communication in fostering a healthier co-parenting dynamic. Teresa discusses the impact of labeling co-parents as narcissists and encourages listeners to focus on their own actions and responses. The conversation highlights the potential for healing and growth, even in difficult situations, and offers practical strategies for improving co-parenting relationships.
Learn more about Teresa Luse at: https://teresaluse.com/
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Modern Divorce and Coparenting Tools for 2026 with Erin Levine of Hello Divorce
In this conversation, Sol and Erin Levine discuss the complexities of divorce, especially during the holiday season. Erin shares her journey from being a family law attorney to founding Hello Divorce, a platform aimed at providing a more humane and accessible approach to divorce. They explore the emotional challenges of divorce, the importance of communication in co-parenting, and how technology, particularly AI, can help ease the process. Erin emphasizes the need for alternatives to the traditional lawyer-led model and offers insights on how to navigate the divorce process with less conflict and more understanding.
Learn more...
Wrapping Up 2025: Our Favorite Episodes of Coparenting Beyond Conflict
Sol and Louise reflect on their podcast journey, discussing the challenges of co-parenting, the importance of community support, and the valuable insights shared by their podcast guests. They highlight key episodes that resonated with listeners, emphasizing the need for child-centric approaches in high-conflict situations. The conversation also touches on future plans for the podcast.
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EPISODES MENTIONED IN THIS RECAP:
In Episode 1, narcissism expert Dr. Ramani Durvasula validates the painful reality that co-parenting with...
What Every Co-Parent Should Know About Gaslighting and Emotional Safety with Dr. Karalynn Royster
In this conversation, Dr. Karalynn Royster discusses her journey into the field of co-parenting and high-conflict divorce, emphasizing the importance of supporting both parents and children through these challenging dynamics. She delves into the concept of gaslighting, its implications in co-parenting, and how parents can recognize and address it. Dr. Royster highlights the significance of emotional validation, self-regulation, and the impact of parental behavior on children's well-being. The discussion also touches on the pressures of perfection in parenting and the importance of seeking support during difficult times.
Learn more about Dr. Karalynn Royster at: https...
Dad’s Law School: Tools to Advocate for Your Kids with David Pisarra
In this conversation, David Pisarra, Esq. discusses the challenges fathers face in family law, particularly in child custody cases. He shares insights from his experience in family law, emphasizing the importance of effective communication, emotional support, and self-representation. David highlights the need for fathers to advocate for themselves in court and provides practical advice on how to navigate the complexities of family law, including dealing with parental alienation and the benefits of support groups. He also discusses the role of technology, such as AI, in managing co-parenting communication and the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with children during...
You’re Not Crazy, You’re in Family Court: Lessons from a High-Conflict Strategist with Bridget Bennett
In this conversation, Bridget Bennett shares her insights on navigating the complexities of family court, particularly for co-parents dealing with high conflict situations. She discusses the importance of understanding the legal process, the value of self-representation, and effective communication strategies. Bridget emphasizes the need for proper documentation, setting boundaries, and finding support systems to empower parents in their journey. The discussion also highlights the predictable patterns of high conflict dynamics and the significance of maintaining focus on the child's best interests.
Learn more about Bridget Bennett at: https://www.breakingbadasscoaching.com/
Connect...
Attachment Science for Coparents: Expert Guidance from Todd Sarner, LMFT
In this conversation, we explore the journey of shifting focus from working directly with children to engaging with parents for greater impact. The discussion delves into the importance of resilience, the challenges of parallel parenting, and strategies for fostering a calm and confident family environment. The episode emphasizes hope and the potential for positive change in family dynamics, even in the face of co-parenting difficulties.
Learn more about Todd Sarner at: https://www.toddsarnermft.com/ and https://transformativeparenting.com/
Also check out Todd’s LinkedIn profile and YouTube channel.
Get the...
Prenups, Narcissists & Parenting Plans: A Family Lawyer’s Candid Take with Kirk Stange
In this conversation, Kirk Stange shares his unexpected journey into family law, emphasizing the importance of crafting effective parenting plans and navigating high-conflict co-parenting situations. He discusses the role of technology in communication, the significance of prenuptial agreements, and the emotional impact of family law cases. Stange also provides insights on choosing the right attorney, court expectations for cooperation, and remedies available for high-conflict situations. He concludes with advice on self-care during legal battles, highlighting the need for individuals to maintain their well-being throughout the process.
Learn more about Kirk Stange at: https://www.stangelawfirm.com/
<...Understanding Your Child’s Experience of Divorce: Co-Parenting Tips from Christina McGhee
In this conversation, Christina McGhee discusses the complexities of co-parenting, emphasizing the importance of keeping children at the center of the process. She shares insights on navigating high conflict situations, the role of professionals, and practical advice for parents. McGhee highlights the significance of developing guiding principles, understanding children's perspectives, and creating meaningful moments. She also addresses the necessity of self-care, setting boundaries, and the power of one parent to positively influence the co-parenting dynamic. The conversation concludes with encouraging words about hope and resilience in the face of challenges.
Resources Mentioned
Christina's...The Hidden Cost of Aggressive Divorce Tactics with Attorney Elise Buie
In this conversation, Elise Buie, a family law attorney, shares her insights on the emotional complexities of divorce and co-parenting. She emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, education on toxic behaviors, and the transformative potential of divorce. Elise discusses her personal journey through divorce, the role of AI in improving communication, and the necessity of building a supportive team for navigating family law. She advocates for emotional safety in co-parenting relationships and encourages seeking help during struggles, highlighting that it is normal to face challenges during such transitions.
Learn more about Elise Buie at: http://elisebuiefamilylaw.com/<...
Coparenting with a Narcissist: How to Protect Your Peace and Your Kids with Heather Wolfe
In this enlightening conversation, Heather Wolfe shares her extensive experience in social work and her insights into co-parenting with a narcissistic partner. She discusses the challenges faced by parents in high conflict situations, the importance of understanding narcissism, and practical strategies for managing these relationships. Heather emphasizes the need for documentation, building a support network, and self-care for non-narcissistic parents. The conversation also covers the nuances of parallel parenting and navigating the court system, providing listeners with valuable tools and hope for their situations.
Learn more about Heather Wolfe at: https://www.empoweringsh.com/
Check...
Toxic Love and Healing After Abuse with Stephanie McPhail
In this episode of Coparenting Beyond Conflict, host Sol Kennedy speaks with Stephanie McPhail, a Divorce Certified Crisis Counselor and Life Success Coach. They discuss the complexities of navigating unhealthy relationships, the importance of self-discovery and healing, and the role of boundaries in relationships. Stephanie shares her personal journey through an abusive marriage and how she learned to empower herself and others. The conversation also touches on co-parenting in high-conflict situations, the impact of technology on communication, and the importance of teaching children to deal with difficult people. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes the possibility of creating a new life...
Conscious Uncoupling: How to Divorce Without Destroying Each Other with Greg Wheeler
In this conversation, Greg Wheeler shares his journey as a single dad and the challenges he faced, leading to the creation of resources for single parents. He discusses the importance of co-parenting, the concept of conscious uncoupling, and how personal growth can transform relationships. The dialogue emphasizes the need for awareness of negative patterns, the role of curiosity in communication, and the significance of individual work in fostering healthier family dynamics.
Learn more about Greg Wheeler at: https://www.gregwheelercoaching.com
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How to Represent Yourself in Divorce Court with Been There Got Out
In this conversation, we explore the complexities of navigating the family court system, particularly focusing on self-representation in high conflict divorce cases. Chris Barry and Lisa Johnson share their insights on the emotional challenges, strategic communication, and the importance of building a supportive team. They discuss common pitfalls faced by self-represented litigants and emphasize the need for proper documentation and understanding courtroom decorum. The role of technology and innovative tools in legal battles is also examined, alongside the transformative journey from trauma to empowerment. Finally, Chris and Lisa outline their upcoming resources and courses aimed at helping individuals navigate...
ACEs, Coparenting & Breaking the Trauma Cycle of a Difficult Divorce with Vicky Townsend
In this conversation, Vicky Townsend discusses her journey through the divorce process and the systemic issues within the divorce industry. She emphasizes the emotional and financial toll of divorce, particularly on children, and advocates for alternative methods such as mediation and coaching. Vicky also highlights the unique challenges faced by first responders in navigating divorce and the importance of mental health support. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the role of technology in providing accessible resources for those going through divorce.
Learn more about Vicky Townsend at: http://divorcerightinc.com/
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Financial Security After Divorce: Smart Moves with CDFA Melissa Pavone
In this conversation, Melissa Murphy Pavone, a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, shares her insights on navigating the financial complexities of divorce. She emphasizes the importance of understanding financial implications, avoiding common mistakes, and the need for effective communication during and after the divorce process. Melissa also discusses the significance of teaching financial literacy to children and building a support system of professionals to assist in the divorce journey.
Learn more about Melissa Murphy Pavone at: https://mindfulfinancialpartners.com/
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...
Holidays with a High-Conflict Ex: How to Protect Your Peace
In this episode of Co-parenting Beyond Conflict, hosts Sol and Louise discuss the challenges of navigating special days like Father's Day and Mother's Day in high-conflict co-parenting situations. They explore how narcissistic or antagonistic co-parents can create conflict during these times and offer strategies for reducing engagement and stress. The conversation emphasizes the importance of reframing the significance of these days, allowing for flexibility in celebrations, and prioritizing self-care.
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Scared to Date Again? Rewriting Your Love Story After Divorce with Hope Petrow
In this conversation, Hope Petrow shares her journey of navigating life after divorce, emphasizing the importance of building confidence, joy, and clarity in what one wants from future relationships. She discusses the challenges of co-parenting while dating, the significance of integrating children into new relationships, and recognizing the signs of a healthy partnership. Hope also provides practical advice on avoiding past mistakes and the healing process necessary for moving forward after a divorce.
Learn more about Hope Petrow at: http://hopepetrow.com/
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Disarming the Narcissist: Expert Coparenting Strategies with Wendy Behary
In this conversation, Wendy Behary, an expert in narcissism and schema therapy, discusses the complexities of dealing with narcissistic individuals, particularly in co-parenting situations. She emphasizes the importance of understanding narcissism, setting boundaries, and using empathic confrontation strategies to navigate relationships with narcissists. Wendy also highlights the impact of narcissism on children and the necessity of breaking the cycle of generational narcissism. Throughout the discussion, she offers hope and practical advice for those affected by narcissistic behavior, encouraging self-advocacy and emotional health.
Learn more about Wendy Behary at: https://disarmingthenarcissist.com/
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Divorce as Transformation: Exploring the Spiritual Side of Separation with Tamara Rowles
In this conversation, Tamara Rowles shares her transformative journey from litigation to mediation and divorce consulting. She emphasizes the opportunity for personal growth and healing that divorce can provide, framing it as a hero's journey. Tamara discusses the importance of mindset shifts, accountability, and self-reflection in navigating divorce gracefully. She introduces her app, Divorce Wave, designed to support individuals through the emotional challenges of divorce, offering guided mindfulness experiences and tools for managing communication with ex-partners. The conversation highlights the significance of co-parenting, parallel parenting, and allowing children to form their own relationships post-divorce.
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From Courtroom Chaos to Parenting Peace with Paulette Rigo
In this episode of Co-Parenting Beyond Conflict, host Sol welcomes Paulette Rigo, founder of Better Divorce Academy, who shares her personal journey through divorce and her transition into divorce coaching. Paulette discusses the common challenges faced by co-parents post-judgment, the importance of effective communication, and the emotional complexities involved in navigating new relationships after divorce. She emphasizes the need for self-reflection and learning from past mistakes to foster healthier co-parenting dynamics and personal growth.
Learn more about Better Divorce Academy at: https://betterdivorceacademy.com/
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