Rebranding Divorce: The Post-Divorce Growth Cycle—Radical Self-Care, Money Confidence, and Community Founders Mimi Sullivan and Carolyn Bilyak of Rebranding Divorce join Karen and Catherine to unpack the Post-Divorce Growth Cycle—a practical framework that helps women move from survival to confidence through radical self-care, money clarity, and healthy relationships. We discuss why community accelerates healing, how nervous-system awareness changes your money story, and why clear financial data—not emotion—drives better post-divorce decisions. Key Takeaways Clarity compounds: build confidence in one pillar (money or self-care) and the others strengthen. Regulate, then calculate: calm the nervous system so you can actually work the numbers. Community beats isolation: safe spaces prevent ruminating, revenge-energy, and rushed decisions. Data protects you: verified financials reduce mistakes, regrets, and legal costs. Growth is cyclical: each pass through the cycle allows deeper work (from budgeting → investing, from rest → purpose). If you’re thinking about divorce—or already in it—and want fact-based financial clarity, start with our Free Financial Assessment. Then use the MDS Financial Portrait™ to see verified numbers, disclosures, and your settlement options so you can move forward with confidence. Have a question for Karen & Catherine? Email: wechat@ck11.net Resources & Links Rebranding Divorce — ⁠rebrandingdivorce.com⁠ Free MDS Financial Assessment — ⁠https://myfinancialportrait.com/⁠  MDS Community (Free) —⁠ https://community.mydivorcesolution.com/⁠ MDS Financial Portrait™ — a verified, flat-fee roadmap to divorce financial clarity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thinking about divorce mediation? Before you walk into the room, ask yourself one question: What exactly are you mediating if you don’t even know what you have? In this episode of Divorce Explored, Karen Chellew (Legal Liaison) and Catherine Shanahan, CDFA® (Certified Divorce Financial Analyst) from My Divorce Solution reveal the most common — and most costly — mistake they see every week: people going into mediation without complete, verified financial information. They’ll show you why financial clarity is the strategy, and why mediation is just a tool. What You’ll Learn: ✅ Why “just mediating to get it over with” can cost you thousands later ✅ The real difference between asset division and spousal support ✅ How a “55/45 split” can be misleading (and not actually in your favor) ✅ How to avoid the pressure of signing after 10+ hours at the table ✅ When to say “I’m not ready” — and why that’s your legal right ✅ How the MDS Financial Portrait™ prepares you for mediation with facts, not fear. Before You Mediate: 1) Verify all assets and debts (not just what someone says out loud) 2) Confirm income for both parties 3) Know your realistic support range 4) Review property division scenarios 5) Identify your non-negotiables 6) Get your MDS Financial Portrait™ to organize it all About My Divorce Solution: Founded by Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan, CDFA®, My Divorce Solution has helped over 15,000 families navigate divorce with financial confidence and clarity, saving over $1M in legal costs using their signature process — the MDS Financial Portrait™ Start with their free Financial Assessment, then get your verified Financial Portrait™ to walk into mediation empowered, informed, and prepared. 🌐 Website: https://mydivorcesolution.com 👥 Join our free Divorce support community: https://community.mydivorcesolution.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of We Chat Divorce, Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down once again with the inspiring Jessica Frew—wife, ex-wife, mom, stepmom, podcast host, and now author of Shove Your Shoulds. Jessica shares how her unique journey through divorce, co-parenting, and remarriage has shaped her mission to help women step out of overthinking and into powerful decision-making. Jessica opens up about: Navigating divorce after discovering her husband was gay—and why she chose to stay married for several years after knowing. How she and her ex built a co-parenting relationship rooted in respect and friendship, putting their daughter first. Why letting go of “shoulds” frees us from shame and judgment, allowing space for clarity and confidence. The power of informed, intentional choices—whether staying, leaving, or rebuilding life after divorce. Why confidence comes not from having all the answers, but from taking action, one step at a time. Karen, Catherine, and Jessica also discuss how financial clarity—through tools like the MDS Financial Portrait™—helps women face uncertainty with strength, whether they decide to stay married or divorce. Knowledge is power – facing your reality (financial and personal) allows you to make empowered decisions. Be willing to pivot – life may not go as planned, but that doesn’t mean it can’t still be good. Let go of the shoulds – true confidence comes from action, not perfection. Learn more about Jessica and grab her new book Shove Your Shoulds: shoveyourshoulds.com Follow Jessica on Instagram: @heyjessicafrew Explore the MDS Financial Portrait™: mydivorcesolution.com We Chat Divorce is brought to you by My Divorce Solution, the #1 resource for financial clarity during divorce. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Divorce Explored episode of We Chat Divorce, MDS co-founders Catherine Shanahan, CDFA®, and Karen Chellew, Legal Liaison, reveal how common financial shortcuts can cost divorcing couples thousands—sometimes hundreds of thousands—of dollars. From so-called “honesty policies” that skip verification, to misclassifying home-sale proceeds as income, to cashing out retirement accounts too soon, Catherine and Karen unpack the real impact of assumptions, missing documents, and misunderstood advice. They’ll show you why verified data—not verbal promises—is the only way to protect your financial future. Whether you’re preparing for mediation, negotiating a settlement, or already divorced, this episode will help you spot red flags before they turn into regret. You’ll Learn How To: Identify the red flags that signal financial shortcuts in divorce Understand when assets ≠ income in support calculations Avoid costly mistakes when dividing or liquidating retirement accounts Confirm accurate valuation dates and tax implications Use the MDS Financial Portrait™ to model real cash flow before you sign Resources Mentioned Free MDS Financial Assessment – discover your starting point The Divorce Financial Portrait™ – verified data = financial clarity MDS Community – connect for support and education Listen & Subscribe - Follow We Chat Divorce on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube for weekly financial divorce insights that turn fear into focus, focus into knowledge, and knowledge into power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What really happens behind the scenes at a divorce law firm? In this eye-opening episode of We Chat Divorce, co-founders Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan sit down with Attorney Kirk Stange, Founding Partner of Stange Law Firm, to uncover the truth about how family law really works—from the attorney’s side of the table. Kirk has guided clients through divorce for more than 20 years, leading a firm with offices across 30 states. He joins Karen and Catherine for a candid conversation about what makes a great divorce attorney, why so many clients lose trust in the legal process, and how preparation and financial clarity can change everything. Together, they discuss: What makes a lawyer truly good at family law Why some attorneys avoid going to trial (and what that means for you) How judges pressure lawyers to settle cases The real story behind billable hours and “winning” in divorce Why financially prepared clients make better decisions If you’ve ever felt frustrated or confused by your attorney—or just want to know how to work smarter with one—this episode will change the way you see the legal side of divorce. 👉 Learn how the MDS Financial Portrait™ gives you the clarity and confidence to protect your future and collaborate effectively with your attorney. mydivorcesolution.com Hosts: Karen Chellew, Legal Liaison & Co-Founder of My Divorce Solution -and- Catherine Shanahan, CDFA®, Divorce Financial Specialist & Co-Founder of My Divorce Solution Guest: Kirk C. Stange, Founding Partner & President, Stange Law Firm 🌐familylawrepresentation.com | stangelawfirm.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re over 50 and quietly wondering whether to stay or go, you’re not alone. In this episode of We Chat Divorce: Divorce Explored, My Divorce Solution co-founders Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan, CDFA®, break down the real truths behind gray divorce—and why so many couples live in a silent divorce long before they ever make a decision. They share personal stories, client experiences, and the financial insights that can help you stop the emotional bleed and start building a plan. Whether you’re thinking about divorce, living in financial fog, or simply craving clarity, this conversation will help you move from confusion to confidence. You’ll learn: What a silent divorce really looks like—and how to recognize if you’re in one The biggest financial mistakes people make in gray divorce Why clarity—not conflict—should guide your next steps How to use the MDS Financial Portrait™ to see your complete financial picture Why Step Zero (getting organized) is the most important part of your divorce journey About We Chat Divorce Hosted by Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan, CDFA®, co-founders of My Divorce Solution, We Chat Divorce explores the financial, emotional, and practical sides of divorce so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. Learn more about The MDS Financial Portrait™:https://mydivorcesolution.com/financial-portrait  Join the MDS Community for guidance, resources, and support:https://mydivorcesolution.com/community Listen to more episodes: https://mydivorcesolution.com/podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🚨 The Hidden Cost of Toxic Love 🚨 Why is it so hard to leave someone who hurts you? And how do trauma bonds show up in divorce — emotionally and financially? In this episode of We Chat Divorce, hosts Catherine Shanahan, CDFA® and Karen Chellew, Legal Liaison, sit down with Dr. Nadine Macaluso — therapist, author of Run Like Hell, and survivor of one of the most infamous toxic marriages in modern history. Dr. Nadine was once married to the real-life “Wolf of Wall Street,” a chapter of her life portrayed in the blockbuster film. Together we explore: 💔 What a trauma bond really is (and why it’s so hard to break) 💰 How toxic love often comes with financial abuse and control 🚩 Red flags to spot early in relationships 🔥 Why leaving can feel like pulling the fire alarm 🌱 How to protect yourself — emotionally and financially — in divorce Dr. Nadine shares her story of survival and transformation, and how she now helps others break free from trauma bonds and reclaim their power. 🔗 Connect with Dr. Nadine: Website: drnadine.com Instagram: @TheRealDrNadine Book: Run Like Hell Resources from My Divorce Solution: Learn about the MDS Financial Portrait™ → https://mydivorcesolution.com/ Join our supportive Community → https://community.mydivorcesolution.com/ ✅ Subscribe for weekly episodes of We Chat Divorce — the #1 podcast for financial divorce preparation and empowerment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make — but what happens when that decision collides with divorce? In this episode of We Chat Divorce, co-founders Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan dive into the risks, timing, and financial implications of purchasing real estate during divorce. They share a real client story where a “protective clause” in a sales contract turned out to be anything but protective, highlighting how emotions, timing, and the wrong assumptions can create long-term financial consequences. You’ll learn: Why feeling “protected” isn’t the same as being legally and financially protected The hidden risks of using retirement accounts or insurance loans to fund a property purchase How buying too soon can complicate your divorce settlement and negotiations Why waiting (even when it’s hard) can sometimes be your best financial strategy How the MDS Financial Portrait™ helps you make confident, informed decisions before signing any major contract Whether you’re tempted to buy a new home right now, or just want to understand how real estate fits into the divorce process, this episode offers the clarity you need to move forward wisely. Share them with us — we’d love to hear your story. Know someone navigating these same challenges? Send them this episode. Have questions about real estate decisions during divorce?  Email us WeChat@CK11.net Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Karen and Catherine talk with Tina Keyes, a Florida Supreme Court certified family mediator and divorce coach. Tina shares how her own family experiences led her to create a Kids First mediation model, designed to reduce conflict and keep the focus on families—not legal battles. We cover what pro se mediation really means, how to know if it’s the right fit, and why coming prepared—both financially and emotionally—is the key to success. Key Takeaways What pro se mediation is and who it works best for Why Tina avoids 8-hour “marathon” sessions and instead uses short, focused meetings How to prepare for mediation: from parenting plans to verified financial data The importance of putting kids first throughout the process Why making decisions based on facts, not emotions, leads to better long-term outcomes About Our Guest Tina Keyes is a Florida Supreme Court certified family mediator, certified divorce coach, and co-parenting specialist. She is also certified in trauma-informed practice, special needs divorce, and high-conflict co-parenting. Through her Kids First Mediation framework, Tina helps families reduce stress, save money, and make child-focused decisions. Learn more: floridadivorcemediation.com Kids First program: kidsfirstmediation.com Resources Prepare for mediation with the MDS Financial Portrait™: mydivorcesolution.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful and timely episode, Karen and Catherine discuss what really happens when you’re blindsided by divorce—whether through infidelity, unexpected papers, or emotional betrayal—and why your first step should not be calling a lawyer, but gaining financial clarity. They break down the emotional chaos that can follow the shock of divorce and offer a different approach: one grounded in calm, informed decision-making. Drawing from their personal experiences and years of professional insight, Karen and Catherine explore how the MDS Financial Portrait™ can provide structure and security in the most destabilizing moments. What You’ll Learn: The emotional toll of being blindsided—and how to pause before reacting Why rushing to a lawyer can be financially dangerous without preparation How the MDS Financial Portrait™ gives you clarity on what you own, owe, and deserve Real-life examples of how emotional decisions in divorce can backfire financially Why understanding the scope of professionals like forensic accountants or attorneys is critical How to regain control and create a smart, sustainable path forward—even in crisis If you’re feeling lost, overwhelmed, or caught off guard by divorce—this episode is for you. Get the clarity you need to make empowered decisions. Visit mydivorcesolution.com to learn more about how we help you prepare financially for divorce with confidence and peace of mind. Loved this episode? Share it with a friend, subscribe for weekly insights, and leave us a review. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Divorce isn’t just a legal or financial process—it’s an emotional one. In this powerful episode, Karen and Catherine are joined by Virginia Gilbert, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and author of Transcending High Conflict Divorce, to talk about a topic most people don’t expect to encounter during divorce: grief. Together, they explore: The emotional toll of divorce grief—even if you’re the one initiating it Why grief can leave you feeling financially stuck or frozen The real reason some spouses feel guilt or shame about asking for financial clarity How emotional reactivity can sabotage financial decisions The pressure many women feel to hold on to the family home The myths and realities of “nesting” after divorce How to move from emotional reactivity to radical acceptance—and why it matters Virginia also shares her own story of navigating a high-conflict divorce, how that experience reshaped her career, and why she believes divorce can be a transformative experience—if you're willing to do the inner work. Divorce grief is real—and it’s not linear. Expect to cycle through denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and finally, acceptance (aka “DABDA”). High-conflict dynamics often carry over from the marriage into the divorce. Learning to disengage emotionally is essential. Financial empowerment starts with overcoming emotional roadblocks and becoming an active participant in your own decision-making. Letting go of control, identity, or even the family home can be one of the hardest—but most liberating—parts of healing. Radical acceptance doesn’t mean indifference. It means understanding what you can’t change and choosing how you’ll respond next. About Our Guest: Virginia is a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing in California, North Carolina, and Florida via telehealth. She specializes in helping people disengage from high-conflict exes and take their power back. She’s the author of Transcending High Conflict Divorce and leads therapeutic divorce groups for men and women navigating emotional entanglement and reactivity. Learn more: virginiagilbertmft.com At My Divorce Solution, we help clients move from emotional overwhelm to financial clarity. If you're navigating divorce grief, remember: your healing starts with knowing. And your financial empowerment begins with preparation. Explore the MDS Financial Portrait™, our verified divorce preparation tool, at MyDivorceSolution.com Key Takeaways: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re wrapping up Divorce Summer School with real-world examples from the divorce frontlines. In this episode, Karen and Catherine walk through true-to-life financial case studies to show how preparation, clarity, and the right support can completely transform the divorce experience. You’ll hear what went right, what went wrong, and what you can do differently—so you don’t become a cautionary tale. What You’ll Learn: Why “simple” divorces can still go financially off the rails The cost of emotional decision-making (and how to avoid it) Real examples of how the MDS Financial Portrait™ changes outcomes How one couple saved thousands by getting clarity before hiring professionals The questions that could have saved others months—and tens of thousands of dollars Send us your story or question: wechat@ck11.net. We may share lessons from it in a future episode. Get your Financial Portrait™ started at mydivorcesolution.com Join our community for tools, support, and real-life insights Thank you for joining us for Divorce Summer School! Catch up on all 6 episodes and begin your journey to financial clarity and smart decision-making in divorce. Free Resources: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week in Divorce Summer School, we’re breaking down a popular article: “7 Things to Do ASAP When Your Spouse Wants a Divorce” from MSN & Money Talks News—and giving you the MDS-approved version. Karen and Catherine go tip-by-tip to explain what advice holds up, what you should reconsider, and what most people get wrong when panic sets in. If you’re unsure how to respond when divorce is suddenly on the table, this episode will help you shift from reaction to strategy. Why hiring an attorney might not be your first step How to run a credit report (and why your score isn’t enough) What “entitled” really means in divorce—and why mindset matters How to protect your assets without escalating conflict Smart, emotionally aware ways to talk to your kids What financial clarity actually looks like (and why it changes everything) Start your financial assessment at mydivorcesolution.com Next Week on Divorce Summer School: “Real Life, Real Numbers – Unpacking Financial Case Studies in Divorce.” What You’ll Learn:Free Resources: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week in Divorce Summer School, we’re answering one of the most overwhelming questions in the divorce process: Who should I hire? Karen and Catherine break down the roles of attorneys, mediators, CDFAs, coaches, therapists, and more—so you can confidently build the right team for your needs (not someone else’s). You’ll also learn how financial preparation helps every professional on your team do their best work—and saves you from wasting time, money, and emotional energy. If you’re unsure where to start or afraid of making the wrong hire, this episode is your roadmap. The true role of an attorney—and when it’s too soon to hire one Why mediators aren’t financial advisors or decision-makers The essential difference between forensic accountants, CDFAs, and daily money managers How emotional overwhelm leads to costly professional hires Why preparation before professionals is the smartest path forward Start your financial assessment at mydivorcesolution.com Next Week on Divorce Summer School: “Real Life, Real Numbers – Unpacking Financial Case Studies in Divorce.” What You’ll Learn:Free Resources: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week in Divorce Summer School, we’re getting real about one of the most confusing—and expensive—parts of the divorce process: financial discovery. In this eye-opening episode, Karen and Catherine break down how the traditional legal discovery process can drain time, money, and energy—and how My Divorce Solution’s Financial Portrait™ helps you take control before things spiral. If you’ve ever asked, “Doesn’t my attorney already do this?”—this episode is for you. What financial discovery actually means in litigation or mediation Why most attorneys aren’t equipped to provide financial clarity How the MDS Financial Portrait™ saves you time, money, and stress Real case examples of overspending on legal fees vs. proactive prep Why informed clients make the best decisions (and spend less doing it!) Tools Mentioned: MDS Financial Portrait™ mydivorcesolution.com Attorney Prep Guide Document Checklist Divorce Summer School continues next week with Episode 4: “7 Smart Divorce Tips—What We Recommend (and What We Don’t).” What You’ll Learn: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Week 2 of Divorce Summer School, we’re bringing back one of our most talked-about episodes—an honest, eye-opening look at financial abandonment and what to do when you're cut off from money, access, or support during divorce. Karen and Catherine break down what financial abandonment actually looks like—not just from your spouse, but sometimes even from your own legal team. This episode is packed with tips to help you prepare, advocate for yourself, and stop feeling stuck, alone, or powerless when it comes to your finances. Whether you're just starting to think about divorce or already in it, this conversation is your reminder that you have more options—and more power—than you think. What You’ll Learn: What financial abandonment really means (it’s not just about money) How to advocate for yourself when your spouse—or your attorney—fails to Steps to take if your access to credit, cash, or documents is suddenly cut off How to avoid emotionally driven financial decisions Why preparation is your strongest form of protection Email us at wechat@ck11.net or leave a comment. Your question might be featured in a future Divorce Summer School episode. Start Your Free Financial Assessment: Take the first step toward regaining clarity, control, and confidence. https://mydivorcesolution.com/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re kicking off Divorce Summer School with one of our most powerful and timely past episodes—now more relevant than ever. This conversation with marriage and relationship exit strategist, Tonya Carter dives deep into the emotional side of divorce: how to stop second-guessing, start trusting yourself, and build the confidence to take control of your financial future. If you're stuck in fear or self-doubt, this episode is your permission slip to take the next step—even if you're not 100% ready. What self-trust really means in the context of divorce Why emotional and financial clarity are deeply connected How to reclaim your voice, your decisions, and your future How to prepare for divorce without fear—even when your spouse controls the finances Real, practical ways to rebuild your identity and financial confidence Where in your divorce journey are you still waiting for permission to act? What would change if you trusted yourself just 10% more? We’d love to hear from you. Email us your thoughts or questions at wechat@ck11.net  Or leave a comment wherever you're tuning in. We’d love to answer your question in a future Divorce Summer School episode! Start Your Financial Assessment Instagram: @IamTonyaCarter Website: www.TonyaCarter.com Podcast: Purposely Thriving Podcast What You’ll Learn:Listener Check-In:Resources:Connect with Tonya Carter: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paying for college is stressful—add divorce to the mix, and it gets even more complicated. In this episode, Karen sits down with college planning expert Vicki Vollweiler to unpack what divorcing parents need to know about the FAFSA process, financial aid, and protecting both your future and your child’s dreams. Vicki brings her unique expertise at the intersection of personal finance, college planning, and post-divorce parenting to help families avoid costly mistakes and missed opportunities. Whether your child is 3 or 17, this is an essential listen for any parent going through divorce. What You’ll Learn: Why FAFSA rules have changed—and how they impact divorced parents Who should fill out FAFSA—and why it’s not always the custodial parent The financial impact of remarriage on aid eligibility Key differences between FAFSA and CSS Profile How and when to use 529 plans vs. loans Why college planning should start during divorce (not after) What to do if a parent refuses to participate in the aid process Why honors programs can be a hidden financial win How to negotiate for more aid and appeal award letters Key Takeaways: “Don’t put your head in the sand because you don’t want to deal with the money. With planning, families can save tens—and sometimes hundreds—of thousands of dollars.” Start thinking about college costs during your divorce—not after Include financial aid participation clauses in your divorce agreement Appeal and negotiate financial aid packages—you can ask for more Consider honors programs and in-state schools as cost-saving strategies Proactive planning saves the most money (and stress) Resources from Vicki Vollweiler: College Financial Prep – Free 15-minute consultations available Upcoming Book + Workbook for Divorced & Widowed Parents (stay tuned!) Online courses, workshops, and soon: a book club for parents navigating this journey Have Questions? Email us at wechat@ck.11.net or visit mydivorcesolution.com Remember: Knowledge is power—and you are stronger than you think. Like and subscribe to We Chat Divorce so you never miss an episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this eye-opening episode of We Chat Divorce, we welcome Kara Chrobak, a Colorado-based family law attorney who brings deep insight into high-net-worth divorce, complex asset division, and marital agreements. Kara recently launched her own practice—Bespoke Law LLC—after over 15 years in big law. What we talk about with Kara: Why mediation sometimes feels more like pressure than resolution—and how to shift that narrative How to approach settlement with a risk tolerance lens rather than fear Why documentation and financial clarity are non-negotiable before negotiating The nuances of gray divorce, including retirement planning, lifetime maintenance, and emotional shifts When and how to consider a postnuptial agreement—and the legal pitfalls to avoid The critical importance of aligned communication between attorneys and financial professionals How MDS clients enter legal conversations more prepared and empowered Kara also shares her thoughtful, compassionate approach to working with clients and why education is the antidote to anxiety in divorce. Whether you're divorcing at 35 or 65, this conversation offers clarity, wisdom, and real-world advice from professionals who believe in empowering you with knowledge. Connect with Kara Chrobak, Esq., Founder, Bespoke Law LLC, Colorado  bespokelawllc.com Next Steps: Take the Free Divorce Financial Assessment Share this episode with someone navigating a high-net-worth or gray divorce Follow us for more empowering conversations Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should you take the lump sum or stick with monthly support payments? In this episode, Catherine and Karen unpack one of the most misunderstood yet consequential decisions in divorce: alimony buyouts. Together, they demystify how these lump sum payments are calculated, who truly benefits, and what hidden pitfalls can jeopardize your financial future. From passive income projections to payout timing and mortgage qualification hurdles—this deep dive explores the real-world scenarios and tough questions you must ask before signing your agreement. Lump Sum Alimony: Pros & cons for both payer and recipient Tax implications & investment risks Liquidity vs. long-term cash flow Calculating present value & discount rates Passive income assumptions—and why timing matters What if the payer can’t pay all at once? Tranches, step-down payments, and protective clauses Impact on mortgage eligibility The role of life insurance and estate protection Why enforceability & agreement language matter The crucial importance of stress-testing financial plans Listener Challenge: Are you considering a lump sum offer? Screenshot this episode and send it to a friend or family member who might be weighing the same decision. Share the clarity. 📲 Follow us for more financial clarity in divorce. New episodes drop weekly. #WeChatDivorce #DivorcePlanning #AlimonyBuyouts #DivorceStrategy #FinancialClarity #DivorceExplored Key Topics Covered: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices