Journey Beyond Divorce Podcast

In this episode of the Journey Beyond Divorce Podcast , host Karen McMahon speaks with somatic healer and coach Lori James about the powerful role of somatic healing in recovering from the trauma of divorce . They explore how emotional pain from divorce and toxic relationships often becomes stored in the body, manifesting as anxiety, depression, and physical tension. Lori shares her own post-divor...

In this powerful episode of the Journey Beyond Divorce Podcast , host Karen McMahon is joined by licensed marriage and family therapist, certified co-parenting coach, mediator, and award-winning author Aurisha Smolarski . Together, they explore effective co-parenting strategies after divorce , with a focus on creating stability and emotional security for your children. Aurisha shares actionable ad...

In this powerful episode of the Journey Beyond Divorce Podcast , Karen McMahon sits down with Craig Perra, a global leader in sex and porn addiction recovery. Craig explores the deep-rooted causes of compulsive sexual behavior, especially in high-achieving men and women navigating high-conflict divorce. He shares how lack of self-love, shame, and isolation fuel addiction—and how accountability and...

The divorce conversation has happened—and now you're still living together.** Tensions are high, emotions are raw, and the atmosphere at home feels like a ticking time bomb. In this episode, we unpack what to do *after* the divorce bomb drops—how to survive and even strategically thrive in the uncomfortable in-between of sharing space with someone you're separating from. First things first: before...

Disclaimer: This conversation includes discussions of sensitive topics such as rape and trauma, which may be triggering for some listeners. In this empowering episode of the Journey Beyond Divorce Podcast, host Karen McMahon sits down with Kyera T. Kacey, Author of Rich B$tch Money Goals and founder of LiberateHER™. Kyera shares her transformative journey of overcoming trauma, including sexual ass...

Divorce often uncovers hidden money patterns that impact both your relationship and divorce negotiations. In this episode, we explore how your money personality—whether you're a spender or a saver—shapes your marriage and divorce. We dive into the deeper financial motivations that may be influencing your decisions and offer strategies to break free from limiting beliefs around money. Divorce isn't...

In this episode, expert coach Dawn Smith joins Karen McMahon to dive into marital conflict and how to navigate relationship challenges. With over a decade of experience understanding how men and women process emotions and make decisions differently, Dawn provides strategies for couples facing marriage issues. Dawn combines couples counseling with practical coaching to help partners break free from...

Divorce can disrupt every aspect of your life—your home, finances, and family dynamic. Clarity is key to navigating this challenge successfully. In this episode, I sit down with Andrea Vacca, a leading New York divorce attorney and expert in collaborative divorce, to explore essential steps for a smoother process. We discuss understanding your legal rights, organizing financials, initiating the co...

In this episode, Lundy Bancroft, a renowned expert on narcissism, abusive relationships, and the family court system, reveals how abusive men manipulate both their partners and the legal system to maintain control. With over 30 years of experience working with abusers and training professionals, Lundy exposes the subtle and overt tactics used by high-conflict individuals to gain power in custody d...

Divorce, especially in high-conflict situations, can feel like an endless emotional tug-of-war. In this solo episode, Karen dives into the struggles of trying to control a soon-to-be ex during divorce proceedings, whether it's about co-parenting , finances, or decision-making. Engaging in these battles only fuels the high-conflict personality and keeps you stuck in stress and frustration. Karen ex...

One of the most emotional and financially complex decisions in divorce is what to do with the marital home . This property often represents security, stability, and normalcy—especially with children involved. However, the decision to keep or sell the marital home comes with significant financial and legal implications that many people, and even attorneys, may overlook. In this episode, we'll explo...

Divorce can be terrifying, especially when you're the lesser-monied spouse facing financial uncertainty. If you're worried about how you'll support yourself or fear making the wrong financial decisions, you're not alone. The anxiety of losing your lifestyle or not knowing where to begin is real. Financial security may feel like an uphill battle, but understanding where you stand today is the first...

In this emotional episode of the Journey Beyond Divorce Podcast , host Karen McMahon dives deep into the complex emotions of divorce grief with expert guest Shelby Forsythia , a grief coach, author, and founder of Life After Loss Academy . Together, they explore the often-overlooked and multi-layered grief that accompanies the end of a marriage and how it impacts individuals during and after divor...

In this episode, we dive into the transformative journey of navigating divorce with emotional resilience. We explore how societal expectations and limiting beliefs often shape our approach to divorce and healing. With practical strategies for building emotional strength, self-compassion, and empowerment, listeners will learn how to break free from outdated conditioning and embrace a future of pers...

For those of us with furry friends, our pets ARE members of the family and when there is a breakup, how to handle them is complex and filled with an array of emotions.  Today we're tackling the issue of pet custody during a breakup or divorce. I speak with Karis Nafte, a certified dog behavior consultant and accredited family mediator, who provides expert guidance on how to navigate this emotional...

Making the decision to divorce is one thing—telling your spouse is another. In this episode, I walk you through the emotional and practical aspects of this pivotal conversation. I know how overwhelming this moment can feel, which is why I want to help you prepare, not just with what to say, but how to say it with clarity and confidence. This is not a request or a debate—it's your decision, and I'l...

In today's episode, we're diving into an empowering conversation with intimacy expert and relationship coach Allana Pratt. If you're navigating divorce, looking to heal emotionally, or seeking to rediscover yourself, Allana's insights will guide you on your journey to finding love after divorce and creating deeper connections. Allana is a Certified Master Coach with over 5.6 million YouTube viewer...

Co-parenting after divorce is hard enough—but when every decision turns into a battle, it can feel impossible. Are you stuck in a cycle of never-ending arguments over schedules, school decisions, or medical choices? Do your attempts at communication seem to fuel more conflict rather than resolve it? If you're navigating a high-conflict co-parenting dynamic, you may be wondering if there's a way to...

For some, Valentine's Day is a celebration of love. For others, it's just another day on the calendar—one that can feel a little too loud when you're single, divorced, or navigating life after a breakup. If that's you, this episode is your invitation to laugh, let go, and see this day in a whole new light. Join me as we: ✅ Uncover the surprisingly weird and wild history of Valentine's Day (trust...

"I'm dedicated to dispelling financial uncertainty for women and guiding them toward self-reliance." - Donna S. Cates Divorce is challenging, especially when significant wealth is involved. Dividing assets, valuing complex holdings, and ensuring financial stability for both parties requires specialized expertise. In this episode, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®) Donna S. Cates provides...

In this episode, Karen McMahon explores the outer journey of divorce—navigating the practical challenges and taking actionable steps toward your new life. From deciding whether to stay or go, to understanding your legal rights, managing overwhelming emotions, and creating stability in your home, Karen offers guidance for the road ahead. Learn how to build a supportive team, including legal profess...

Navigating the aftermath of narcissistic abuse, coercive control, and domestic violence can feel overwhelming. The scars left by these forms of abuse run deep, affecting self-esteem, causing isolation, and trapping survivors in cycles of fear. Even after separation, post-abuse struggles continue—often amplified by legal battles, financial control, or ongoing manipulation. For parents, children are...

In this episode, Karen McMahon explores the emotional challenges of high-conflict divorce and the vital inner journey that accompanies it. She dives into the intense emotional turmoil, self-doubt, and fear many face, offering practical guidance for navigating this difficult time with resilience and self-awareness. Karen discusses how to shift from victimhood to empowerment, overcome limiting belie...

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about mental health challenges, including depression and suicide, that may be triggering for some listeners. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please reach out for support. You can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) , available 24/7. Your well-being matters, and help is always...

We're kicking off the year with a refreshed website, new programs, and a wealth of resources designed to help you navigate the toughest divorce challenges. Whether you're dealing with narcissism, manipulation, or other complex relationship dynamics, Journey Beyond Divorce is here to support you every step of the way. In this episode, co-founder, Karen McMahon, reflects on the lessons learned in 20...