Financially Ever After Widowhood: Recent Episodes
Stacy Francis
Widowhood is the state of being a widow or widower: a person whose spouse has passed away. This is a situation that no one wants to be in, but it is something that can happen, and that you and your family should be prepared for financially. When this kind of painful, life altering event occurs, it's important to have the structure in place for you and your family to be protected, and this year on Financially Ever After Widowhood, Stacy Francis is going to be talking to a diverse lineup of experts, and individuals who have gone through it themselves, to give you the tools and information you need to be prepared.
Prior to this year's series on Widowhood, Financially Ever After covered topics related to divorce. We invite you to check out these fantastic episodes if they are relevant to you.
Marc Zimmerman is an expert in all things probate. He is the co-founder of The Zimmerman Firm, a welcoming and informative resource for people seeking guidance on this important aspect of the law. He is committed to simplifying the often mystifying world of probate and estate planning and believes in taking a proactive approach to asset management; this has ensured smoother transitions for numerous families during times of loss. Marc joins Stacy Francis on this episode of Financial Ever After Widowhood to demystify the complexities of probate and highlights its significance, especially when assets are involved without a designated beneficiary.
Probate, a legal process where assets are frozen until the executor appointed in a will seeks the Surrogate's Court's approval, has seen considerable delays due to the pandemic. These delays can span from six months to over a year and can become more prolonged if any litigation is involved.
A revocable trust empowers individuals with control over their assets and ensures hassle-free access for the successor trustee upon their demise. Transferring assets into this trust is straightforward; while real estate uses deed assignments, tangible personal property, such as artwork, calls for individual assignment documents.
Assets in a revocable trust might not invite immediate taxes, yet they remain within the taxable estate. Conversely, assets within an irrevocable trust are viewed as finalized gifts and face different taxation criteria.
Acting on your estate planning requirements can be a gesture of care and responsibility towards your loved ones, ensuring they're spared unnecessary legal complications during an already emotionally taxing period.
Resources Marc Zimmerman on the web LinkedIn | Email | (212) 519-5114 The Zimmerman Firm 600 Third Avenue, 35th Floor New York, New York 10016
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Brian Corrigan is a seasoned expert specializing in trusts, estates, and fiduciary litigation. He brings a wealth of knowledge from his experience handling a diverse range of Surrogate Court matters, including will contests, contested accounting, fiduciary removal and surcharge, and discovery proceedings. With a primary focus on the implications for financial matters, Brian explains how a power of attorney, or an attorney in fact, is pivotal in decision-making on behalf of someone who becomes incapacitated. He joins Stacy Francis to offer key insights into common challenges, New York's legal adjustments, and protective measures against potential misconduct.
The choice of a power of attorney plays a critical role, particularly in the context of financial decisions during incapacitation. It’s important to select a responsible and trustworthy person, capable of meticulous record-keeping.
Understanding the legal nuances and state-specific requirements related to power of attorney is a must. In the absence of a power of attorney, alternatives like guardianship proceedings, though expensive and invasive, may become necessary.
To counter potential misconduct or abuse by unscrupulous agents, it’s recommended to appoint a monitor who can review the transactions performed by the agent and ensure their propriety.
A contingent power of attorney can step in if the primary agent is unavailable. You should have clear and open conversations with potential agents about their willingness and understanding of the responsibilities involved.
Resources Brian Corrigan on LinkedIn | Farrell Fritz | Email | T: 646-237-1804 Farrell Fritz Defensive Estate Planning
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
When faced with a terminal illness diagnosis, your emotions can be overwhelming. You still need to navigate the legal aspects, however, to ensure that you and your loved ones are protected. Stacy Francis’ guest this week is Alison Arden Besunder, a partner in charge of the Trust and Estates department at Goetz Fitzpatrick. Alison has extensive experience in guardianship and estate litigation. She joins Stacy to discuss end-of-life planning, including steps to take when the timeline is limited. Stacy and Alison delve into navigating the healthcare system, and the importance of having critical documents in place to convey your medical wishes clearly.
Highlights from this episode:
Ensure you have a healthcare proxy and living will in place to appoint someone as your medical decision-maker and provide evidence of your end-of-life intentions.
Discuss end-of-life decisions openly with your loved ones, promoting a foundation of good communication to handle high-stress situations effectively.
Even with your best efforts, you may feel helpless when dealing with a loved one's illness, but remember that your support and care are invaluable during these challenging times.
Avoid burnout as a caregiver by setting boundaries and not taking on more than you can handle. Seek support from therapists to manage the emotional burden effectively.
Find the right caregivers for your loved one by tapping into resources like personal needs guardians or geriatric care managers who can connect you with experienced aides.
When navigating end-of-life care decisions, ask questions and advocate for your loved one to ensure the best possible care and treatment options.
Bioethics committees in hospitals can offer support and assistance in decision-making, especially in challenging end-of-life care situations. They can help translate medical jargon and provide guidance to both physicians and families.
Even without a living will, there are other forms like MOLT (Medical Options for Life-Sustaining Treatment) or PULST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) that can be used to make end-of-life decisions in a hospital setting.
Navigating end-of-life decisions for pets also requires careful consideration, and sometimes there may be disagreements between family members on the best course of action.
For anyone facing end-of-life care decisions or other financial challenges related to medical care, seeking guidance from financial advisors can be crucial to manage expenses and make informed choices.
Resources Alison Arden Besunder on LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter Goetz Fitzpatrick | LinkedIn Phone: 212-695-8100 x289
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Charity is not just about giving; it's about making a difference. In this enlightening episode of Financially Ever After Widowhood, Mindy Stern joins Stacy Francis to discuss all things philanthropy. Mindy is a partner at Schwartz Sladkus Reich Greenberg Atlas LLP, specializing in real estate and estate planning. She has a passion for helping clients make a difference with charities during their lifetime and in their wills. She shares her wealth of knowledge on charitable giving, including insights into the intricacies of donations, the importance of understanding the mission of the institutions you support, and the impact of thoughtful giving.
You’ll hear Stacy and Mindy discuss:
The importance of aligning your charitable contributions with your personal mission. Mindy says that donors need to think through all aspects of their giving, including the potential impact on their estate and personal privacy.
Institutional flexibility in using donations. Mindy explains that while institutions will do everything possible to preserve the mission for which the money was given, there may be circumstances where this becomes impossible. In such cases, institutions need to have a "plan B."
"Giving big" can have a tremendous impact on both the donor and the recipient. This approach to giving can provide a lot of flexibility and support to the recipient organization.
The more specific a donor is about the use of their funds, the more difficult it can be for the institution to ensure that the funds are used exactly as the donor wishes.
The role of planning and considering other assets in giving. These conversations can provide a window into the donor's life, revealing what they value and collect, such as antique dolls or cars.
Resources Mindy Stern on the web | LinkedIn Email: mstern@ssrga.com Phone: 212.743.7028
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Anne DeButte is a respected and empathetic grief coach, author, and podcast host. She has made significant contributions to the field of grief counseling through her comprehensive approach to helping people navigate through their unique grief journeys. Her book, Grief's Abyss: Finding Your Pathway to Peace, encapsulates her insights on the impact of grief and offers practical advice for those who are navigating this challenging life experience. In this episode, she guides people through their healing process by debunking myths, offering strategies for coping, and emphasizing the importance of support and internal work.
Contrary to the adage, time does not heal all wounds. As such, distracting yourself from grieving a loss by filling your schedule may not always be beneficial. The grief journey varies greatly among individuals and rushing the process may only delay true healing.
Grief affects individuals mentally, physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. Healing requires internal work, such as understanding your stress levels, acknowledging and expressing emotions, and seeking help when necessary.
Isolation during grieving periods can be harmful. It's vital to seek support from friends, professionals, or community groups, especially those who can empathize with the experience of loss. This support is not just for advice, but more crucially, for understanding and companionship through a difficult time.
Strategies like meditation, journaling, and breath work have been proven to help with the acute pain of grief. Incorporating them into your routine as daily activities may help you get through the day.
Resources Anne DeButte on LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Grief’s Abyss: Finding Your Pathway to Peace Let’s Talk About Grief with Anne DeButte UnderstandingGrief.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Are you struggling to sort through your household items after the loss of a loved one? It's not just a matter of spring cleaning; it's an emotional journey that requires empathy and support. In this episode of Financially Ever After Widowhood with Stacey Francis, Janine Sarna-Jones, organizational maven, shares her expertise on navigating the process of dealing with a partner's belongings. She and Stacey explore the balance between keeping reminders and avoiding a mausoleum effect, and the importance of making thoughtful decisions about items with a future life. Janine offers valuable insights on honoring memories while finding space for joy.
There is no predetermined timeline for sorting through your partner's belongings after their passing. Take the necessary time to mourn and be emotionally ready for the task.
Going through your loved one's items can bring up memories, thoughts, and feelings. It's a process that allows space for grieving and healing.
Finding a balance between keeping reminders and creating a space that brings joy is essential. Curating meaningful items and letting go of the rest can help you maintain a healthy environment.
If moving to a new space, avoid making hasty choices in the midst of grief. Moving should be a well-thought-out decision that aligns with your long-term goals and financial capabilities.
Making thoughtful choices about items that can benefit others allows for a sense of purpose and ensures that belongings don't end up in the landfill. It's an opportunity to make a positive impact beyond personal grief.
Items can be given a future life through donation to charities, animal shelters, and nonprofit organizations.
Clothing and personal items can be repurposed and given new life. Tailoring clothes to fit yourself or transforming them into quilts or memory pieces can be a meaningful way to honor memories.
There are no rules on how to deal with the personal effects of someone you love. Each person should find a way that brings them comfort and preserves the memories in a way that feels right for them.
Kindness and self-compassion are essential during the grieving process. It's important to show yourself the same understanding and grace when navigating the challenges of sorting through belongings.
Seeking support from professionals and involving your friends and loved ones can make the organizing process more manageable, physically and emotionally.
Resources Janine Sarna-Jones on Website| LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram Donations and Waste: Junkluggers Donations: Salvation Army | Goodwill | Dress for Success | Housing Works (tend to be East Coast – will pickup) | Local shelters | Coalition for the Homeless Selling Items: Craigslist | Ebay Making Clothes into Quilts and other items: Memory Stitch TV Shows: The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning WHAT DO YOU DO WITH ALL OF THE STUFF WHEN YOU LOSE A LOVED ONE?
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com A Financial Guide for Widows Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Amber Flanagan, CFP, is Principal at ASHCON Financial and advises clients from all walks of life about their financial and insurance needs. Her approach is to listen to her clients' unique situations, then determine what actions best suit their needs.
Dr. Gerda Maissel, known as “The Medical Sherpa,” is a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Medicine physician, former health system executive, and founder of My MD Advisor. Her role is to advocate for patients with complicated medical problems and help them access the best possible treatment.
In this episode, Amber and Dr. Gerda discuss the health insurance options available to women after divorce, as well as tips on how to afford better medical care and prevent medical mistakes.
Healthcare in the US is particularly difficult for immigrants, women, people of color, and other social groups considered different. White men are not immune from not paying attention and coordinating care.
COBRA typically allows divorcess to remain on their previous health insurance plan for up to 18 months, unless there are extenuating circumstances.
Doctors do not want noncompliant patients - if you and your doctor aren’t getting along, they probably don’t want you in their practice. It’s better for both parties to move on to other people if the relationship isn’t therapeutic.
You can put money into an HSA (Health Savings Account) at a tax-free rate once you have a policy approved by the IRS.
Resources Amber Flanagan on LinkedIn | Facebook Email: aflanagan@ashconfinancial.com Contact Amber at: 347-574-6615 AshConFinancial.com
Dr. Gerda Maissel on LinkedIn Email: Gm@mymdadvisor.com Contact Dr. Gerda at: 845-316-0175 MyMDAdvisor.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Bobbi Rebell, CFP® is the author of Launching Financial Grownups: Live Your Richest Life by Helping Your (Almost) Adult Kids Become Everyday Money Smart, a financial literacy advocate, the host of the Money Tips for Financial Grownups podcast and the founder of GrownupGear.com. She was previously a global business news anchor and personal finance columnist at Reuters and held various journalist positions at top news outlets, including CNBC, CNN, and PBS. Bobbi discusses the importance of gift-giving to children and how it can help them become financially successful adults. She also provides advice for parents on how to raise financially responsible children and how to ensure financial security post-divorce.
Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, parents can now keep their children on their health insurance plan and have other financial ties to them until age 26.
After a divorce, it’s important to take some time for introspection and identify what’s important to you. When reentering the dating pool and going into another marriage, you should have common values with your partner. That doesn’t mean you have to agree with every financial decision - you should just want the same things.
Talking about money in a kind and respectful way is conducive to building and maintaining a healthy relationship. When disagreements arise, be sure to pick your battles wisely.
Oversubsidizing your children to a level where it hurts your future also hurts them. There will come a time when you can no longer sponsor their livelihood, which leaves them floundering as they have not learned how to be a skilled financial grownup.
Resources Bobbi Rebell on the Web | LinkedIn | Twitter Email: hello@financialgrownup.com GrownUpGear.com Sign up for Bobbi’s newsletter!
Get Launching Financial GrownUps here! Liked the book? Leave a review here! Bobbi is happy to answer questions about her book.
Jewish Women International
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Paula Jones is founder and Principal of Jones Estate Group and adjunct professor at the Western New England University School of Law. With over 25 years of experience, both internationally and domestically, she helps individuals of moderate to high net worth ensure that their assets transfer to the people they love in the right way. Paula shares how listeners can protect themselves and their family during the divorce process in the event of an untimely death. She busts a myth about wills and talks about what to do after divorce where estate planning is concerned.
If a divorced or divorcing couple has a settlement agreement, they must honor that agreement when drawing up an estate plan. Existing obligations that continue from a divorce are legal duties, and they cannot be ignored, or else they may face legal repercussions.
An estate plan is not just about putting together a will and getting powers of attorney. It involves identifying your assets and who owns them, who your beneficiaries are, how your assets are titled, and if they need to be retitled so they all wind up in the same place.
Tenancy by the entirety is a legal arrangement that applies to married couples, where they share equal ownership of an asset with survivorship rights. In the event one of them passes, ownership automatically passes to the survivor.
Power of attorney is a legal authorization for a designated person to make decisions on another person’s behalf. A complete estate plan includes a will and financial and medical powers of attorney. You should name a primary choice and a backup choice.
Resources Paula Jones on LinkedIn
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Tracy Coenen is a Forensic Consultant and Fraud Investigator at Sequence Inc. Forensic Accounting. She is also the creator of the Divorce Money Guide, an online 10-step handbook for people going through divorce who suspect their spouse has been fraudulent. For over 25 years, she has been conducting fraud investigations. She also specializes in family law and divorce, and litigation. Tracy shares how to find out the likelihood of fraud in your marriage, and what to do about hidden investments.
In divorces where one spouse is trying to pull the wool over the other’s eyes, that spouse is usually the one in charge of the finances. The spouse being deceived typically doesn’t know the in and out of every dollar.
Financial infidelity involves lying about how much money you have and where the accounts are, having hidden accounts, and spending money inappropriately outside of the agreements you have as spouses.
Sending a subpoena to a bank is something your attorney can do to investigate your spouse’s transaction history, among other things. A subpoena is a legal document that instructs an institution to comply with an investigation by submitting the relevant documents.
If you need support, have a friend or family member who’s good with numbers sit with you and go through the information you’ve collected.
Resources Tracy Coenen on LinkedIn | Instagram Email: tracy@sequenceinc.com SequenceInc.com Your Divorce Money Guide (Coupon code for $100 off Divorce Money Guide: FRANCIS) Red Flag Assessment
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Melissa Rubenstein is a residential and commercial real estate agent at Christie's International Real Estate in Northern New Jersey. For the past 18 years, she has had her thumb on the pulse of what happens in real estate across the country. She is also an expert in divorce, her practice lending the relevant know-how to help clients navigate the challenges of buying and selling property. Melissa shares insights on current market conditions, and gives advice on how to get top dollar for your property when selling.
During the thick of the pandemic, interest rates in the real estate market dropped to historic lows of around 2.5% - 3%. Many people took advantage of this amazing opportunity to buy their first home, which resulted in a scarcity of inventory.
Prices are softening in luxury markets. With the lifted restrictions, people have resumed commuting to work, so they aren’t spending as much time in their homes.
Investors should consider whether it’s a good idea to flip a house in the current market climate. Houses that need to be renovated are at price points that have investors competing against first-time home buyers.
Doing a pre-listing inspection for divorcing sellers ensures there are no surprises. You can negotiate before bringing in a buyer. Having two sellers negotiate inspection items is a lot easier than having two sellers who may not be communicating.
Resources Melissa Rubenstein on the web | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook MovesByMelissa.com Email: movesbymelissa@gmail.com Office: 201-962-9552 Mobile: 646-872-5912
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Sherry Smith is a licensed marriage and family therapist, psychotherapist, certified divorce coach, author, speaker, and podcast host. She combines her training, practice, and experiences to promote non-adversarial divorce environments that support the family system. Sherry defines and describes co-parenting and shares tools, techniques, and resources parents can use to ensure their children are supported and empowered.
Co-parenting occurs when you and your former spouse have a somewhat amicable relationship and are united in how you raise your children. Your parenting relationship is still there as it was before, but you’re doing it from two different homes.
Parenting coordinators are individuals who act as an intermediary between the parents and help them learn how to communicate more effectively. They are helpful in situations where there’s difficulty and enmity between the parents.
When frustrations arise, it’s easy to say things in the height of emotion, but you often regret it as the dust settles. Instead, you should take some time to calm down and engage in a self-soothing practice, like deep breathing, to gather your thoughts and communicate them in a progressive manner.
Sometimes, situations occur when one parent is neutral about their former spouse in front of their children so they can foster love for the other parent, but the other parent speaks negatively about them. In time, the children will see which parent is more well-adjusted.
Resources Sherry Smith on LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram: @divorce_resiliency DivorceResiliency.com Email: Sherry@divorceresiliency.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Deborah Nason is a journalist who has been covering business for the past 20 years, for both InvestmentNews and CNBC.com. She is on a mission to ensure people of all income levels get the financial advice and guidance they need. Deborah shares resources for helping people find the ideal financial advisor regardless of the state of their wallet, including some fantastic pro bono deals.
A financial advisor is a trained, experienced professional who helps you understand your financial options, create a comprehensive financial plan, and make the right financial decisions along the way. They can help you plan a holistic approach to your financial life.
Financial planning does not always involve investment management. Regardless of whether you plan to invest or not, it’s a good practice to have a financial advisor helping you with income and expense planning, creating goals, and maximizing your employee benefits.
One of the best ways to ensure your advisor has the relevant experience in expertise and designations is by doing a broker check on FINRA.
Like medical professionals, financial advisors also specialize. From divorce to entrepreneurship, there are a multitude of specializations under the financial advisor umbrella. The idea is to find somebody who really understands who you are and what you're about.
Resources Deborah Nason on LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook Email: findtherightfinancialadvisor@gmail.com C4SB.com The People’s Guide to Finding the Right Financial Advisor
FINRA.org FINRA Broker Check IAPD - Investment Advisor Public Disclosure Securities Investor Protection Corporation Savvy Ladies Foundation for Financial Planning XY Planning Network Garrett Planning Network
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Elizabeth Eiss is founder and CEO of ResultsResourcing, an online recruiting platform that matches employers with the right people. She is a serial entrepreneur, investor and gig economy expert who is passionate about business and driving win-win solutions for buyers and sellers in today's fluid talent market. Kelley Joyce is a career coach helping professionals discover their career path and land their dream job with confidence. She is founder and CEO of The Truth At Work, where she works with individuals who want to take their career to the next level. They share insights about all things careers, including tips for resume writing and calculating the value of your time. Elizabeth and Kelley discuss how listeners can elevate their careers and earn the income they deserve.
Technology has created marketplaces that allow people who need skills to find people that have skills. If you want to work as a freelancer, you need to know what you’re good at and be able to translate that into a technology platform.
Figuring out what you want to do with your life isn’t easy regardless of how old you are. Getting in touch with your ‘why’ makes it easier.
One of the stumbling blocks in getting your first job is a company’s objective to get results - this proves as an obstacle to many because they don’t have the results in the package the company is used to seeing.
When writing a resume, start by gathering information about yourself and then decide how you want to present it. The cover letter should include three compelling reasons why someone should hire you.
Resources Elizabeth Ellis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: eeiss@resultsresourcing.com ResultsResourcing.net | How We Help Video ROI Calculator: Value of Time
Kelley Joyce on LinkedIn | Twitter Phone: 917-566-0808 Email: kelley@thetruthatwork.com Complimentary Consultation TheTruthAtWork.com Resume Writing Roadmap Free copy of Kelley’s ebook Resume Writing Roadmap Free copy of Kelley’s ebook 5 Simple Ways to Find Your Dream Job Myers-Briggs Test The Strong Interest Inventory *Kelley is a certified assessor of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and the STRONG Interest Inventory. Both tools require a trained and licensed assessor for its proper administration and evaluation.
Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In by Roger Fisher and William Ury What Color is Your Parachute? by Richard Nelson Bolles
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Laura Terrell is an executive coach with over 25 years experience working with high-achieving professionals. She helps her clients build wealth and tap into a mindset that will help them achieve more financial success personally and in their professional lives. Laura shares common pitfalls to avoid, and three questions to consider that will put you on the path to long-term financial security.
People are often nervous about acknowledging that money is very important to them in a professional role. Money is almost like a taboo subject, as it’s something people tend to avoid talking about.
Money is about your values, your priorities, and your goals in life. Some of these things help drive the finances, but they don’t depend on being able to do advanced calculus.
It’s important to learn to be your own advocate. Advocating for the compensation you deserve can be daunting, but it’s imperative that you don’t negotiate against yourself and toss a number that’s too low.
Households with a female breadwinner are often subjected to societal pressures - people sometimes believe something is wrong when a man is not providing for his family.
Resources Laura Terrell on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: laura@lauraterrell.com LauraTerrell.com Free Discovery Call
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Genevieve Anderson is an investing and financial wellness coach dedicated to helping people take control of their finances. She teaches them how to invest, build wealth, and create healthy money habits through a 12-step recovery process. Genevieve uses her own experience to identify key signs of financial abuse and how to move forward healthily. She shares resources listeners can use to protect themselves and their family, and put them on the path to long term financial security.
If you don’t have a lot of assets, it might be easier to go to your local bank or credit union and ask for help in doing simple processes like creating a budget or paying down debt. On the flip side, if you have a lot of assets, it’s really easy to find a wonderful financial advisor to help you navigate your financial journey.
Signs like being given a strict allowance and spending limits, threats of cutting off financial support, limiting access to money, and even not being able to pursue a career may not feel significant, but the longer it happens, the more they compound.
Society has a tendency to shame women when they get hurt and scammed by men. It’s important to remember that it’s not your fault, it’s not embarrassing, and it happens to more people than we realize.
It’s helpful to talk to a counselor or therapist about serious concerns in your relationship - a third party and professional can tell you whether your partner is exhibiting normal behavior or not.
Resources Genevieve Anderson on Instagram Email: gen@holisticpersonal.finance.com HolisticPersonalFinance.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Kathryn Ford is an award-winning celebrity coach and consultant, and the founder and CEO of Excellence Institute, the premier community for sophisticated, extraordinary women. She is also an Amazon best-selling author specializing in helping high-achieving women live with an abundance of health, wealth and love. Kathryn is a Los Angeles Business Journal nominee for Woman of the Year, and has been named ‘One of the top female entrepreneurs disrupting the business world' by Entrepreneur Magazine. She shares how she turned trauma and tragedy into inspiration, and how listeners can do the same in their own lives.
We all have an inner pharmacy within us. When we are happy and thriving, that pharmacy kicks out sparkling, beautiful chemicals that bathe every cell in a “fountain of youth,” which helps us maintain our youthfulness - not just in appearance, but in every organ as well.
Your personal passion prescription is a blueprint for where you’re headed. To develop it, you must ask yourself the most important question: what would you love?
The most important real estate you will ever manage is your mind. When you learn to manage your mind, you can create whatever you would love.
As women, when you are in your “divine feminine” or the receiving mode, your awareness is opened, and you are able to see that there are other ways and opportunities for increasing your wealth.
Resources Kathryn Ford on LinkedIn Email: kathryn@excellenceinstitute.com KathrynFord.com | ExcellenceInstitute.com Be Well! A 7-Step System for Radical Healing
Three Men, Six Lives When You Realize How Perfect Everything Is No Endings, Only Beginnings
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Syble Solomon is the creator of Money Habitudes, a financial tool that helps people understand the psychology of money and make wiser financial decisions. She is a member of the Financial Therapy Association and a pioneer in looking at the intersection between money and emotions. Syble shares insights on what motivates financial decisions, and the deep-rooted and complex feelings we often have towards money. She talks about Money Habitudes, and the six different patterns you need to know to emerge from the divorce process in a financially sound place.
Money Habitudes is a self-assessment game that helps players become aware of their habits and attitudes towards money. There are six habitudes that any one person may possess, but people usually have one pattern they follow the most.
Most people get so caught up in the conflict their differences create that they don’t realize those differences balance each other out.
Our first relationship with money is developed based on the messages we pick up from our parents. We inherit these messages, which influences the way we view money and make financial decisions.
One thing you must learn to do is communicate when you are angry, in a way that meets your needs rather than just letting the anger out.
Resources Syble Solomon on LinkedIn MoneyHabitudes.com - Cards | Online
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Seth Feinman is a 15-year veteran in the mortgage industry. His current role is Vice President of Silver Fin Capital, where he manages the licensed loan origination team. He is most proud of working one-on-one with clients to find the best loan product based on their unique situations. Mark D. Friedman is an award-winning real estate broker at Brown Harris Stevens and also represents buyers and sellers in Manhattan real estate as the co-founder of the Friedman-Rosenthal team. Seth and Mark share with listeners how they can have lenders fight for their business. They talk about interest rates and how to win the property.
When divorce happens, one party may potentially need to keep the home and refinance, and the other is going to be moving out and potentially buying.
Self-employed borrowers need to work with mortgage brokers as opposed to mortgage bankers - it affords them more options and different ways to structure their loan.
You have to be smart about who you hire as a mortgage broker, and ensure that you do research yourself as well.
People who work in banks will act in the interest of their employers, and in order to keep them happy they will sell clients whatever product their lender has available, which may or may not be what works best for the client.
Resources Seth Feinman on LinkedIn Silver Fin Capital Group
Mark D. Friedman on the Web | LinkedIn | Twitter
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Karen Chellew and Catherine Shanahan are the founders of My Divorce Solution, a divorce preparation platform team that includes a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA) and Legal Liaison (LL). Having both experienced divorce, they combined their professional experiences in the financial and legal world to develop the MDS Financial Portrait™, which endeavors to erase the confusion and frustration you have been facing during the divorce process. Karen and Catherine share insights about their services - they talk about how they build each client’s Portrait, how their process works, and how they help clients move on.
During the divorce process, there is often a gap between financial analysis and legal requirements. Financials mostly focus on data, which is only helpful in litigation and in processing a divorce if you have the documentation to support it.
Not knowing what you have, what you need, what you want, and what your options are is a detriment to yourself - you can’t make smart decisions if you don’t have the proper information.
My Divorce Solution prides themselves on their symmetry in documentation - they have flowing communication with every professional involved in their client’s divorce process, and share information so that things progress smoothly without any confusion,
Divorce does not define who you are. It is a chapter in your story, and you get to define who you are moving forward.
Resources Karen Chellew on LinkedIn Catherine Shanahan on LinkedIn Phone: +215-486-8347 Email: hello@mydivorcesolution.com My Divorce Solution | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube We Chat Divorce Podcast
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Jaime Morgan is a Certified Life Coach who has helped many women going through the divorce process move toward a new life filled with happiness. She brings years of experience to her clients, as well as her personal experiences with a failed marriage and divorce, as she assists them in creating action-oriented plans for life post-divorce. Jaime guides listeners through a three step process they can use to “accept, surrender, and move on.” She shares tips for dispelling “negative Nellies” - unhappy thoughts about yourself and your situation - and turning downward spirals upwards.
Accepting your situation begins with looking within. It’s human nature to point fingers when bad things happen to us, but we have no power over the things outside of us - we don’t have control by wanting everything else to change. We only have power over our thoughts, actions, and reactions.
Letting go is the result of other actions. It involves creating a new awareness of your thought patterns and saying “it is what it is” when you find yourself dwelling on regrets. It takes constant practice and intention - it’s not going to happen overnight.
Meditation helps you organize your thoughts and acknowledge your emotions. By taking a break and simply focusing on your body, you give yourself an opportunity to stop an adverse reaction dead in its tracks.
True, authentic confidence occurs when we know our flaws inside out and are willing to do the work to mitigate them. We know who we are and what we need, and we accept it all - we love the good with the bad.
Resources Jaime Morgan on LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Website Mobile Phone: +250-212-1739 Email: connect@jaimemorgan.com Join Jaime's Free Facebook group VIP Abundant Life
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
James Guberman is partner and founder of Guberman Advisors, an advisory firm helping clients to understand the financial consequences of the decisions they face during their lives, including divorce. James is also a Certified Financial Analyst (CFA) and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA). He is a board member of Savvy Ladies, a nonprofit passionate about bringing financial planning education to women. He educates listeners about the nature of hidden assets - why they’re not really “hidden,” and how to uncover them.
If you know how to read bank and brokerage account statements, most things are not hidden. The only truly hidden things are those that don’t go institutional, like cash exchanges and purchases - there’s no paper trail associated with them because hardly anyone bothers to take receipts anymore.
Hiding an asset greatly overlaps with fraud, and as with fraud, there must be a motivation and an opportunity to do it. In divorce, that motivation is the breakdown of the relationship - one partner can see things may end, so they want to take certain things off the table to ensure they won’t have to share them.
It’s important to not take your spouse’s word as gospel when they tell you about the value of their assets, especially if it’s a business. It’s better to talk to a business valuation expert to double check.
Developing your financial reading skills is the critical first step to discovering hidden assets. You have to replace your partner’s skill set in financial literacy with someone you can trust, and what better person than yourself?
Resources James Guberman on LinkedIn Email: james@gubermanadvisors.com Phone: (646) 906-5194 Guberman Advisors
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
We’re bringing back a popular episode from last year where Stacey Francis interviews Lisa Zeiderman about divorcing a narcissist.
Lisa Zeiderman is Managing Partner at Miller Zeiderman, one of the leading matrimonial firms in New York and the tri-state area. She is also a certified Divorce Financial Analyst and has been recognized by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys as one of the 10 Best Family Law Attorneys for Client Satisfaction. She joins Stacy Francis to share everything you need to know about divorcing a narcissist.
Some traits that may indicate that your partner is a narcissist include: charm and charisma, proficiency in manipulating situations to suit their benefit, lying, and a lack of empathy.
People married to narcissists usually have volatile relationships that are more prone to being emotionally abusive. Divorce is already a challenging process, and it is even more so when a divorcee is afraid of their partner.
If you suspect your partner may be a narcissist, and you want to divorce them, you need to collect information and be as informed as possible. This will help you prepare for the process as much as you can.
A strong attorney who will advocate for you is a key component to successfully divorcing a narcissist because oftentimes a narcissist will use mediation as a form of control.
Resources Lisa Zeiderman on LinkedIn Email: lz@mzw-law.com Contact Lisa at +914-455-1000 LisaZeiderman.com Divorcing a Narcissist on Psychology Today https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/legal-matters/201906/divorcing-narcissist-be-prepared
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
In this episode, Stacy Francis joins the Healing Broken Families Podcast for a crossover interview. She shares how to create empowering strategies for financial planning and wealth management before, during, and after divorce. She explores becoming financially savvy and taking a step closer to financial mastery.
Divorce incurs both short-term and long-term expenses. Most people don’t focus much on the long-term expenses, but they are arguably the more debilitating, especially for women, whose ability to rebound financially is less than their male counterparts.
Some women going through divorce prefer to keep their marital home for a variety of reasons, some of which include maintaining stability and keeping expenses low. However, this decision often works against them, as they would have to give their spouse an asset(s) of equal value.
In high net worth divorces, it is imperative that each party understands each account and what the tax implications of them are; they must not only look at what’s on their net worth statement, but also what it will look like after taxes.
The most successful clients of Francis Financial are the ones who have a team of their matrimonial attorney, financial coaches, and therapists. They are better equipped to work effectively with their attorneys and deal with difficult spouses.
Resources Barbara La Pointe on LinkedIn | Twitter Barbara La Pointe.com Healing Broken Families Podcast Mint.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Tiffani Higgins is owner and CPA at Stay at Home Bookkeeper Academy, where she proves you can succeed being a stay-at-home parent and generate income to live your life to the fullest, without sacrificing family time. She is also the owner of Missouri Cannabis CPA, a firm specializing in government regulations for companies in the cannabis industry. Tiffani teaches listeners what their options are for elevating their career while being a stay-at-home parent. She shares the biggest business mistakes that hold back women from being successful, and the tools they need to overcome them. She also gives tips for starting your own business.
One of the biggest challenges for listeners is juggling their desire for a career to provide for their family after a divorce, with the demands of corporate America, and their domestic responsibilities.
Stay at Home Bookkeeper Academy essentially helps clients launch their own businesses. They assist with all aspects of business ownership, including how to market yourself in ways that are comfortable.
Being an entrepreneur, consultant, or any type of worker that operates freelance, part-time or on contract falls under the ‘gig economy,’ which has seen astounding growth in recent times. As of 2021, roughly 1 in 10 people use online platforms for the gig economy.
The great thing about having a bookkeeping business is that you can make it a side gig, or you can scale it up to your heart’s desire. This allows parents more flexibility for their working hours.
Resources Tiffani Higgins on LinkedIn | Have Your Cake and Eat It Too | Facebook TiffaniHiggins.com The Stay At Home Bookkeeper
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Nathan Astle is founder of Relational Money, an organization that specializes in helping people deal with issues related to their emotional difficulties with money, as well as helping couples experiencing financial conflict. He is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a Certified Financial Therapist. Nathan is a member of the board of directors of the Financial Therapy Association, and has been featured on CNBC and USA Today. He explains the role of a Certified Financial Therapist, and educates listeners on how to regain power over their lives after a financially abusive relationship. He also shares a resource to help listeners regulate their emotions, particularly around money.
Money has different meanings for different people: it can be a necessary evil that enables them to live the life they want, a representation of security and safety, and a way to assert dominance and influence over a person.
The way you were raised has a significant impact on the way you experience money. How your parents treated wealth and wealthy people, the explicit messages you were taught about money, and what went unsaid, all played a part in shaping your perception of money.
Emotional regulation becomes a challenge when people are going through traumatic experiences, because they often respond to situations in ways that best guarantee their survival.
Focusing on your senses can help you control your emotions. When you feel yourself slipping, pay attention to the texture of something near you; it’s a helpful tool for recentering yourself in the moment.
Resources Nathan Astle on LinkedIn
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
T.H. Irwin and Jessica Klingbaum were divorced at the same time and had only each other to rely on for support. Now, through exEXPERTS, they help other women at every stage in the divorce journey, whether they are only just considering it, and even after. They use their experience to teach women everything they wished they knew, and provide them with the assistance they need. T.H. and Jessica share insights about their community, and the important role money played in their divorces.
After her divorce, T.H. ensured that her expenses could be covered by child support to create a financial cushion. In the case of any emergency or unexpected circumstance, she would then have the finances to take care of it.
It is imperative that women develop financial skills to support themselves after divorce, because they typically cannot rebound as quickly as their ex-husbands can; especially if their ex-husbands were the primary breadwinners.
Jessica needed to hire a forensic accountant to discover the money her husband was hiding. Many women are often victims of financial infidelity in their marriage, which occurs when their partners hide information about their finances.
Self-love is all about moving forward. If you feel stuck you need to look within yourself for a way to help yourself; the power to change your circumstances lies in your decisions.
Resources T.H. Irwin on LinkedIn
Jessica Klingbaum on LinkedIn exEXPERTS.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Lisa Zeiderman is Managing Partner at Miller Zeiderman LLP, and an official member of Forbes Business Council. She specializes in complex financial and custody divorce matters for high-net-worth individuals. In 2020, Lisa was named a 10 Best Family Law Attorney for Client Satisfaction by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys. She is a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, a Certified Financial Litigator, and teaches other matrimonial attorneys how to deal with complex assets in divorce. In this episode, she talks with Stacy Francis to give listeners a crash course about high net worth divorce.
Before high net worth individuals start the divorce process, they must understand whether their income is coming into their household from employment or investments. Then, their monthly burn rate must be taken into account.
A forensic accountant is sometimes brought in to appraise a business, if a party of a high net worth divorce is a business owner. They will examine the books, general ledgers, and expenses; they may also conduct income stream analysis.
When looking for a matrimonial attorney for your high net worth divorce, you should ensure that the person you’re consulting with is going to be part of your case to minimize legal fees.
Going into a high net worth divorce is like going for a heart surgery: you don’t have to know how to do the surgery, but you have to know a great heart surgeon. Ideally, your team should consist of a great matrimonial attorney and a great Certified Divorce Financial Analyst.
Resources Lisa Zeiderman on LinkedIn Email: lz@mzw-law.com LisaZeiderman.com SavvyLadies.org Contemplating Divorce During Bonus, Equity Award Season Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
In this crossover episode, you'll get to hear Stacy Francis when joined the hosts at DIVORCE etc… to talk about the best ways to protect your wealth during divorce, how to decide who gets what, and what your biggest asset actually is.
The biggest asset you have is your earning capability, which is even larger than the value of your home. Whether or not you have wealth to inherit does not impede your ability to earn ongoing income. Additionally, it’s the asset that women have most control over.
Some things you can do to protect your nest egg are: ensure you have car insurance in your name, the right homeowner’s insurance, and insurance for your engagement ring if you decide to keep it. You can also sell your engagement ring and invest it, since the money it was bought with was premarital.
It’s very rare that we have good financial surprises. An emergency fund is a powerful tool all women should have; it protects your overall financial stability because there will always be things you don’t plan for.
Similar to a candle, you should never leave a credit card unmonitored. During a divorce, ensure that the credit card you use is in your name, and that you pay it off at the end of the month.
Resources DIVORCE etc…
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Dr. Randy Heller is a marriage and family therapist, collaborative mental health professional, and Adjunct Professor at Nova Southeastern University. She founded The Family Network, Inc., a comprehensive counseling center providing individual, couple, family, and group services to children, adolescents, and adults. In this episode, she talks with Stacy Francis about navigating the demands of life and starting the new year in balance and shares an action plan to make 2022 your best year.
Thanksgiving to Christmas is typically a period of fear and uncertainty for families going through divorce. Many women experience fear of the unknown; they wonder if they will be alone forever and whether they can manage being on their own.
You need to give yourself permission to be the best you can, rather than being perfect. If you allow yourself a day or two where you don’t hold yourself to the ideal you, you can take that time to rest and recharge so you can resume meeting your personal expectations.
When you find yourself in massive internal chaos, stop for a moment to just breathe. If you can breathe easily, then you can think about your next step. Like yoga, if you’re not focused on what you’re doing at the moment, you’re going to fall.
Worrying about all the ‘shoulds’ will only prevent you from actually doing things. Instead, pay attention to the things you can manage today, and celebrate those accomplishments. The rest can be done tomorrow.
Resources Dr. Randy Heller on LinkedIn FamilyNetworkFlorida.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Karen’s former husband had been struggling with a gambling addiction for over 20 years. Lynn’s ex-husband’s gambling addiction pervaded the last seven years of their almost 20-year long marriage. Karen and Lynn share their stories of being married to people who developed gambling addictions, how that upended their finances and sense of self, and how they found help. They share insights about compulsive gambling and how to recognize it, what resources are available for assistance, and how to protect yourself and your family.
According to national studies, as many as 10 million Americans struggle with compulsive gambling. Even more disturbing is the fact that older adults aren’t the only ones; in fact, one in 20 college students meet the criteria for compulsive gambling, which is double the rate of the overall adult population.
Being divisive about shared resources actually helps partners of gambling addicts to financially isolate themselves from their partners’ gambling debts.
Love and trust are two different things; you can love your partner and still not trust them with your finances. People often shy away from taking steps to protect themselves because they believe a lack of trust shows a lack of love.
Symptoms of compulsive gambling include lying, manipulation, blaming, rationalization, and fantasizing. You cannot have a rational marital conversation about money with a compulsive gambler because they only care about getting money for the next bet.
Resources
GAM-ANON.ORG (international self-help group for friends and family members of compulsive gamblers. Lists of meetings, literature, etc.) GAMBLERSANONYMOUS.ORG (international self-help group for compulsive gamblers. Lists of meetings and information are at this website) GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS HOTLINE FOR New York: 855-2CALLGA (855-222-5542) The National Council on Problem Gambling HELPLINE 800-522-4700 Our local hotline for our Gam-Anon group 716-800-1426
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Ian Steinberg is an Associate Attorney at Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein, LLP, where he focuses on the litigation, negotiation, and settlement of matrimonial and family law cases. Prior to his current role, he worked at a real estate firm representing building owners and courts throughout New York City. He shares important information on the division of equity in the marital home in divorce, what happens if there's separate property, and the issues that arise when one spouse buys out the other.
Real estate is usually someone’s biggest asset, and it becomes a challenge to settle a divorce when it is involved. There’s something about real estate that makes it different from other assets.
When doing the financial splitting during the divorce process, it’s important that you take a bird’s eye view and do a financial analysis instead of just saying you want to find a way for everyone to get an equal amount.
With real estate involved in a divorce, you should have a team of experts weighing in to contribute from their respective lenses; with a combination of essential, different perspectives, you can arrive at the best possible solution.
Approaching the issue of real estate from a completely objective standpoint makes the process run more smoothly. Rather than focusing on comfort, a practical mindset is necessary to make a decision that will best set you up for the future.
Resources Ian Steinberhg on LinkedIn
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Christopher Melcher is Partner at Walzer Melcher LLP, where he specializes in Family Law and represents clients in complex, high-stakes family law disputes. He is also Adjunct Professor at Pepperdine Law. Christopher is frequently hired by other family lawyers as a consultant, expert, or co-counsel on significant divorce cases in California. He joins Stacy Francis to talk about the breadwinning woman, and the financial considerations she needs to think about if she’s considering divorce.
In recent times, the number of women who are considered breadwinners has been the highest recorded number in history. More women than men are graduating college and, due to societal issues, are taking the lead in their families to earn more. The implications for how this affects marriage are such that marriages with female breadwinners are 50% more likely to end up in divorce.
When it comes to alimony agreements, it’s better to accept them and move on than to try contesting them in court. What that does is increase the amount of money you spend on legal fees and decrease the amount of money you have readily available, ultimately leaving the attorneys as the real winners.
Before pulling the plug on marriage, it’s important to seek advice from a good divorce lawyer and financial planner to prepare yourself for the economic changes that being single again will bring.
Chris recommends having a friend help you put together a team of a divorce lawyer, financial planner, and counselor while you go through the divorce process.
Resources Christopher Melcher on LinkedIn | Twitter | YouTube WalzerMelcher.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Alla Roytberg is a Founding Partner at Roytberg Traum Law and Mediation P.C. She is also a collaborative attorney and mediator member of the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals. Alla has 25 years of experience in mediation and litigation, and specializes in legal and mediation services for families and small businesses, international and cross-cultural issues, divorce, residential real estate, wills and estate. She joins Stacy Francis to talk about finding the right divorce professional for you.
Some of the better ways to find the right professional for you are to reach out to your local bar association, people you know who have gone through the divorce process, and trusted professionals in your life such as your psychotherapist.
The recent rise of public interest in mediation can be credited to the current pandemic, due to courts being closed and access to the divorce process being obstructed. For many individuals, mediation was something that worked for them, especially since it doesn’t require the court system.
For clients who live in different parts of the world, the divorce process can be difficult because of different laws and jurisdictions. It’s important to have somebody who can flag the issues and connect with the appropriate lawyers so that any agreement generated is actually enforceable and workable.
Some questions you should ask when interviewing a divorce professional are: What is your experience? What is your background? How many cases have you worked on? How many cases have gone to court? Would you go to court if needed? If so, what would that look like?
Resources Alla Roytberg on LinkedIn | Twitter
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Nesreed Ahmed is founder and CEO of Harbor Life Coaching, and is an ICF credentialed Professional Certified Life and Grief Coach. She is passionate about helping people find their North Star and transforming their grief into superpower. She joins Stacy Francis to discuss her role as a grief coach, and how listeners can convert their grief into resilience.
Many people do not handle grief very well. Grief coaching helps you deal with all the emotions and upset that you are feeling in practical ways, which is more proactive and focused than counseling or therapy.
We grieve in several different ways, and each experience that causes grief is going to be different. We must understand that grief is something that happens to us, as we cannot just choose when we’re going to fall apart, so we must allow ourselves to ride the wave.
Part of the problem with divorces lies in self-flagellation. We doubt ourselves, asking questions like ‘How did I allow this to happen with this person? How did I not see it with this person?’
A survey of 150 divorced women revealed that the majority of them felt like they didn’t have enough support during their divorce, and only a minority worked with a coach or therapist to help them through the process.
Resources Nesreen Ahmed on LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram Phone: (917)830-6863 Email: Nesreen@harborlightcoaching.com HarborLightCoaching.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Chelsea Brennan is a contributing writer at Forbes, as well as the founder and host of Mamas Talk Money and Smart Money Mamas. Smart Money Mamas is a family finance website that helps mothers build wealth in alignment with their values and in ways that feel good to them. Chelsea's mission is to change the way that we talk about money so that women see it as a means of self-care, similar to going to the gym. She talks about financial concepts that seem overwhelming but are actually easy to do.
Women are conditioned from a young age to have an uncomfortable relationship with money. The things women want are generally treated as frivolous purchases, and things that bring them joy are considered bad expenses.
If you are dealing with deep-seated anxiety surrounding finances, you may want to see a professional called a money therapist. They have the specific training necessary to help you through emotional blocks caused by money.
While it’s essential to have serious conversations about money with your children, it’s equally important that your daily financial operations, decisions, language and even body language align with those conversations.
A family’s financial values are key to understanding what is most important to them, what their priorities and goals are, and what they want their money to do in the world.
Resources Chelsea Brennan on LinkedIn SmartMoneyMamas.com Family Money Values Template
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Andrea Boulanger, a university administrator, is the breadwinner of her family and describes herself as ‘happily divorced.’ She joins Stacy Francis to discuss her journey, from her marriage to deciding to get divorced and life after divorce. She shares how she was able to move forward despite having so many responsibilities, including being the caretaker for her son with autism.
Studies have shown that women who are breadwinners are often doing just as much work at home, and even sometimes more. The bigger the income disparity between her and her partner, the more she does.
Mothers often decide not to leave or get divorced because they worry how it will affect their children; they don’t want their kids to have to go through the difficulties of seeing their parents separate and all the changes that come with it.
Gathering all the information you can about the divorce process can help you build confidence in your decision and make you feel at ease. Too many unknowns can be overwhelming.
When getting divorced, you should carefully consider if staying in your home is the right financial decision to make. Rather than clinging to the sentimental value, you must go over whether you can safely afford to keep your home or whether it would be wiser to move.
Resources Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Karen McMahon is a certified relationship and divorce coach and the host of the Journey Beyond Divorce podcast, where she helps men and women navigate difficulties in the divorce process. In this special episode, she draws from her personal experience of a high-conflict divorce as well as a decade of helping her clients as she shares what we need to build muscles of acceptance for moving on.
Karen gives details about her divorce. Rather than focusing on all the shortcomings of her then-husband, she paid attention to her part in the conflict and her responsibility in reconciliation. When she emerged from her divorce, she felt healed and refined.
At the heart of resistance is the belief that the world should be operating and unfolding in accordance with your views. If we could expect and accept what we know to be true, our suffering would be reduced.
Accepting your circumstances gives you choices that you would have otherwise missed. When you are in resistance, these choices are not visible because you don’t have the right perspective to see them.
We must always remember to treat ourselves with deep compassion and gentle kindness whenever we are struggling with something. Adding self-condemnation on top of that struggle is only going to push you backward, not forward.
Resources Karen McMahon on LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook JBDDivorceSupport.com | Podcast
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Tanya-Marie Dubé is a master of transformation. She has lived through some very traumatic experiences: from being born into the foster care system, to being homeless from ages 12 to 18, to leaving her marriage of 18½ years without her home or any finances. Through each adversity, Tanya was able to change her perspective and come out a stronger, happier person. Now she teaches women around the world how to thrive after divorce. She joins Stacy Francis to talk about the five stages of transformation and things women need to know to create the best life possible for themselves and their families.
Tanya says that her life has presented her with a series of transformational opportunities. She started to study psychology at age 17 and inadvertently started to coach others. She learned that the only way for her to grow was to help others achieve their goals.
By the time Tanya left her marriage 3½ years ago, she had been out of the workforce for more than a decade. Information about how to survive through and after divorce was hard to find. This inspired her to put together her first online summit where she invited 21 experts to speak on every aspect of separation. Over 300,000 women have been impacted to date.
There is a time and place for tears and anger when you’re experiencing a divorce. However, when you're rebuilding your life after divorce you need to remove the emotion out of it some of that time so you can focus on what’s working.
Tanya shares why gratitude and meditation are vital, no matter what you’re going through.
Stacy asks about the five stages of transformation after divorce. Tanya says that the five steps are building blocks and you’re going to be in and out of them, much like the grief cycle. She emphasizes that you need to work with someone because you need a new perspective and a mindset shift.
The five stages of transformation are:
Visionary: building a new foundation by working on your belief systems. This stage focuses on aligning who you think you are with who you want to become.
Renewal: self-love and reconnection to spirituality. You learn how to overcome your addiction to people-pleasing and putting yourself last. You begin to take charge of your healing and personal development.
Alignment: busting through your comfort zone. If you push yourself out of your comfort zone, you’re going to move forward. The confidence you gain by doing so will propel you into other areas of your life and open doors and opportunities you never dreamed of.
Courage: finding your true purpose. Tanya shares the simple but powerful exercise she used to find her purpose.
Powerful: creating incredible relationships. Now that I found my purpose, how am I going to achieve it? Who do I need to surround myself with? How can I become the best version of myself so that I’m showing up for everybody else the right way, but I'm also attracting people at this high energy level?
Stacy talks about the importance of community when you’re going through a divorce. Tanya has created a membership site where these women can find the support they need through divorce and after, to launch them into the next phase of their lives. She shares how listeners can be part of that community, as well as the summits she produces.
Resources: Tanya-Marie Dubé | Facebook
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Victoria McCooey was one of the many women who thought she had a husband who loved and idolized her but found herself married to an abusive man who kept her isolated and financially disempowered – questioning her own knowledge and pressuring her into taking on debt while controlling almost every aspect of her life. Victoria saved herself and her children from this situation and has gone on to help hundreds of other women take their power back from abusive, narcissistic partners.
Victoria McCooey is a transformational divorce coach, speaker and inspirational thought leader committed to guiding smart but overwhelmed people out of a toxic marriage and into a life they can’t wait to live. In this episode of Financially Ever After, Victoria and Stacy talk about recognizing, understanding and escaping from abuse, and how to handle the aftermath, and how Victoria has dedicated her life to helping other women escape deadly situations.
How Victoria came to the realization that her situation was not normal, not okay, and not going to end well [10.15]
The myths too many people believe about abuse in marriage [14:00]
The moment Victoria left the situation [23:15]
What Victoria is doing now – and how she is turning her experience into programs and support for other women in similar situations. [28:45]
Victoria’s advice to women who are currently in abusive situations. [35:15]
Resources
Domestic Violence Help: https://www1.nyc.gov/nyc-resources/service/1542/domestic-violence-help-for-victims https://ncadv.org/resources
Victoria McCooey Victoria McCooey | Email Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Karen McMahon is a certified relationship and divorce coach and the host of the Journey Beyond Divorce podcast, where she helps men and women navigate difficulties in the divorce process. In this special crossover episode, she invites Stacy Francis to talk about the complexities of executive compensation packages, understanding the worth of alternative investments, and the importance of assessing your business’ value if you or your spouse owns one.
Stock options are the most common type of executive compensation package. They allow employees the opportunity to purchase a stock in the future at a certain price. Stock options are great wealth generators because the value of most stocks increases over time.
Even the best matrimonial attorney can potentially put their clients at risk if they don’t have experience working with high net-worth. These divorce cases are best settled with seasoned experts.
There is a lot of risk associated with cryptocurrency. The good thing about digital assets is that you are now required to report them on your tax returns, which makes it more difficult to hide money this way.
Real estate is an asset that should be reviewed more often. Sometimes the sentimental value we place on our vacation homes can cloud our vision of what’s best for us financially. We should first consider whether we can afford to support the ongoing upkeep and costs before we get attached to the idea of keeping a house.
Resources Karen McMahon on LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook JBDDivorceSupport.com | Podcast
The High Net Worth Divorce Playbook
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Paul Stagias is Senior Advisor at Francis Financial, where he provides comprehensive financial planning, wealth management, and divorce planning to help clients navigating a life transition organize, grow, and protect their assets. He is also a CFP®, CDFA®, and CPWA®. Paul is a matrimonial and divorce expert specializing in financially complex divorces. He joins Stacy Francis to share do’s and don’ts pre- and post-divorce. They discuss why it’s important for women to be financially intelligent, and how you can rebuild your life in the aftermath of divorce.
Divorce causes disproportionately more financial harm to women. For most women, income drops significantly after they and their partner have completed the process.
A cross-country survey of divorced women revealed that the majority of respondents felt like they had no support. 60% said they wished they had some type of mental health professional or coach to help them through the process, and 64% regret not having a financial advisor.
Sometimes after a divorce, one spouse is required to pay off the debts of the other spouse, despite not being the one to rack them up. It’s imperative that both parties make clear who will be responsible for paying off debts during the divorce process. Unfortunately in the case of credit card debt, divorce settlements have no bearing on the legalities; whoever’s name is on the card will have to pay it off.
An important step to rebuilding your finances after divorce is to remove your name or your spouse’s name from any joint accounts that were created during your marriage.
Resources Paul Stagias on LinkedIn FrancisFinancial.com
Financial Do's & Don'ts Before, During & After Divorce Webinar Presentation
Unveiling the Unspoken Truth: The Financial Challenges Women Face During and After Divorce
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Download our free divorce resource guide: Divorce Checklist
Reach out to clientservice@francisfinancial.com to receive a copy of the template statement of net worth
Elise Pettus is the founder and Editorial Director of UNtied.net, an online community for NYC women navigating separation and divorce. UNtied hosts online panels each month featuring experts who provide assistance and resources to make the divorce process as smooth as possible and help members become their best selves. Elise joins Stacy Francis to talk about how women can relaunch their lives post-divorce and feel their best during the process. She shares her personal journey to find happiness and fun.
When going through a divorce, it’s better to let the grief for your lost relationship run its course. You can’t skip it or run around it; trying to suppress or ignore your grief will only force it to become deeper and eventually so unmanageable that it will explode in your face.
UNtied is a community of women who have experienced divorce. The purpose of the community is to provide a safe space for women to talk to other women who intimately understand their circumstances and can provide practical and emotional assistance.
Having a community of people who accept, support, and encourage you is important, and even more so during a divorce. Separation is not easy, but it becomes easier to navigate when you have a team.
Many women often forget that taking care of their mental health is critical and do not prioritize themselves. Self-care should be seen as a medical necessity; even something as simple as going for a massage is a good activity to indulge in.
Resources Elise Pettus on LinkedIn UNtied.net
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Ivy Slater is the founder and CEO of Slater Success. She works with C-Suite executives and upper-level managers to create clear strategies that impact their business. She is a speaker, a bestselling author, and host of a podcast and LinkedIn Live show. She joins Stacy Francis to discuss succeeding through a divorce as a business owner and pulling your emotional and professional support teams together.
Even when we are aware of an impending crisis, it still catches us off-guard, and we never truly understand the scope and impact of it until it happens. Crises are notorious for not allowing time for us to create strategies to combat them.
When couples who are also business partners are going through a divorce, priorities can get mixed up. It is important to know who your support team is, and have professional counsel for your business that is separate from your matrimonial affairs.
One of the most frustrating things about divorce is how much time it takes. Take a step back and delegate your responsibilities to people you trust while you are going through the divorce process.
Sometimes we need someone to be our cheerleader, coach or consultant, especially when we fail or don’t do as well as we hope. We don’t have the same compassion for ourselves as they would have for us, so their support will help us succeed.
Resources Ivy Slater on LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook SlaterSuccess.com | Connect Connect with me on Clubhouse!
Visionary Leader Roundtable Info Sheet
National Association of Women Business Owners Women Presidents’ Organization The Alternative Board
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Evan Schein is a matrimonial attorney and head of the litigation department at Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein, LLP. He specializes in financially complex divorce litigation and is the host of the Schein On Podcast. He joins Stacy Francis to discuss how to identify if litigation is the right process for you and how you can use that process to come to the settlement table quickly. He shares tips for how you can build your circle of trust to help you come out of your divorce as healthily and financially secure as possible.
Divorce cases often evolve into unnecessarily complex litigations. This happens because proper preparation and research are not done in the early stages of the case.
For many people, mediation and collaborative law are not sufficient solutions to resolve their divorce. In these cases, litigation is selected because there is no alternative.
The divorce litigation process provides structure, oversight, and clarity, as well as the benefit of having judges, court staff, and court attorneys. It helps move cases forward, but that doesn’t always mean things will be resolved quickly.
You should choose the divorce process that works best for you and your circumstances. It should also protect you, because you’re making decisions that will impact you for the rest of your life. Being well informed is a good way to ensure this happens.
Resources Evan Schein on LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram Email: eschein@berkbot.com ScheinOnDivorce.com BerkBot.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Dr. Elizabeth Cohen is a clinical psychologist, a specialist in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with over 15 years experience treating anxiety and depressive disorders. She is a columnist whose work has been featured on NBC News, Wall Street Journal, and Huffington Post. Elizabeth is the author of Light on the Other Side of Divorce: Discovering the New You. She is also the host of The Divorce Doctor podcast, where she applies her extensive knowledge about mental health to helping women heal, grow, and thrive post-divorce. She joins Stacy Francis to discuss the cognitive effects that divorce has on one’s life and shares exercises listeners can use to start deliberately designing the life they want for themselves.
Divorce can be considered a kind of trauma, as trauma delivers a shock to your nervous system. When you are experiencing trauma, the amygdala, which is responsible for your emotions, overrides your frontal cortex, which is the more logical side of your brain.
Zebras’ way of dealing with stress is episodic as opposed to humans’ chronic nature of worry and anxiety; zebras respond to physical stressors and immediately return to their daily activities when the stressor is gone. By adopting the zebra way of thinking, we can reduce the effects of stress on our minds and bodies.
Many women who go through divorce are left without a sense of identity and an uncertainty of what they want to do. One exercise women can use to understand their wants is to write down their ideal weekend, hour-by-hour.
Coaches can provide assistance with resources and exercises, psychologists can diagnose and psychiatrists can prescribe medication. Deciding what kind of support to get during and after divorce depends on your personal needs.
Resources Elizabeth Cohen on LinkedIn | Facebook DrElizabethCohen.com - Free Course: “How to Not Screw Up Your Kids: 3 Secrets from A Psychologist” Email: doctorcbt@gmail.com The Divorce Doctor Podcast
Light on the Other Side of Divorce: Discovering the New You | Amazon | Bookshop | Barnes & Noble Free Course: “How to Not Screw Up Your Kids: 3 Secrets from A Psychologist”
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Michelle Sarao is the founder and Principal of Divorce Rx, a company that focuses on the needs of divorcing parents and families. Her background as an educator and professional organizer gives her the key techniques and experience to support clients going through the divorce process and provide them with the tools they need to move forward. She joins Stacy Francis to talk about how she facilitates amicable divisions of possessions and how newly divorced women can set up new homes for their families.
Overwhelm or concern over how their shared possessions will be allocated is one of the most common obstacles that hold people back from deciding to move forward with a divorce or separation.
Hiring a professional organizer as a neutral third party during a divorce can reduce friction and make the process of dividing belongings much smoother.
Ensure that your children have the comforts of home in each parent’s house. This is essential to helping them adjust to a divorce. Let them choose how to decorate their rooms: this gives them some control in an otherwise uncontrollable situation.
Reimagining your living space can assist with moving forward after a divorce. Instead of purchasing new things to replace what your spouse took with them, creatively fill the spaces by remodeling the layout of your home.
Resources Michelle Sarao on LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram Divorce-Rx.com Email: michelle@divorce-rx.com Phone: 646-753-1401
Three Ways to Work with a Professional Organizer During Divorce
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Wendy Sterling is a parent coach at Circle4Parents, featured coaching expert at The Forem, and the founder, CEO and Divorce Recovery Specialist at The Divorce Rehab. She has helped hundreds of women overcome divorce and move to a place of empowerment, drawing strength and compassion from her own experience. She joins Stacy Francis to teach listeners about setting and communicating boundaries, as well as saying no and standing up for themselves without having to give explanations.
A divorce can be the most empowering experience that anybody can go through to find their true voice and identity. It can help you start designing and creating a life you love from a place of confidence instead of feeling stuck wherever you are.
Some common reasons people have for not setting boundaries are guilt, and fear of judgment, resentment, abandonment and rejection. It is very difficult for people pleasers to set boundaries because the hardest word for them to say is ‘no.’
Two go-to phrases that people who have challenges setting boundaries can use when they feel a boundary is being stepped on are: “Interesting,” and “We’re going to have to agree to disagree.”
We often think that we have to be automatic in our responses to things. Time is a very valuable thing that people do not set boundaries around enough.
Resources Wendy Sterling on LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Podcast WendySterling.net | wendy@wendysterling.net | +1 (310) 283-5053 Free Divorce Recovery Support Call
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Nikki Bruno is the founder and CEO of The Epic Comeback™ and a technical recruiter at Rocket. She is an empowerment coach and a thought leader in high-conflict divorce, emotional abuse, and intuition. As a successful 20-year veteran of the publishing industry, she has been featured in Forbes, Reader’s Digest, and Cosmopolitan. Nikki joins Stacy Francis to teach divorced women how to start their epic comeback. She shares her testimony of her high-conflict divorce and how it inspired her to not only reclaim her power but help others to do the same as well.
Having an epic comeback is a decision you must consciously make. Different things motivate different people, but something aligns within you when you reach the point of making that decision.
An epic comeback is different for each person. In order to have one, you must first have an epic low.
When you allow yourself to be open even in the midst of pain and challenges, you’ve reached the turning point that marks the earliest stage of your epic comeback.
One of the best ways to disempower a woman post-divorce is to mess with her finances. Working with a professional like a coach, financial analyst or advisor accelerates the process of your epic comeback after your divorce.
Resources Nikki Bruno on LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook Email: nikki@coachnikkibruno.com Phone: 617-417-9242 Schedule a Free Consultation The Epic Comeback | Podcast GetRocket.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Robin Hauser is a director and producer at Finish Line Features and Managing Director at Unleashed Productions, Inc. Her most recent film, $avvy, is a documentary for women that emphasizes the importance of understanding and taking control of their finances. It investigates the historical, cultural, and societal norms surrounding women and money, and brings humor and honesty to why women take a backseat to managing their money. Robin joins Stacy Francis to discuss why it is critical for women to take the reins of their financial future.
The pandemic has impacted women in negative ways. Statistics show that due to the current crisis, the rates of unemployed women have risen and the rates of women being promoted have declined. Additionally, a 2019 study showed that 54% of women abdicate major financial decisions to men in their lives, and 61% of millennials are doing the same.
One way for married women to become more involved in their finances is by asking their spouse questions about how their money is being managed. It raises a red flag if their spouse becomes defensive and wants to withhold such information.
Women spend more time out of the workplace to care for elderly parents and children, which makes them earn less money and less social security. Single women are impacted the most by this.
The stock market is the number one generator of wealth in the US, but the aggressive, warlike attitudes and terminologies associated with it intimidate women and deter them from participating in it.
Robin Hauser on LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram FinishLineFeatures.com
$avvy | Santa Barbara International Film Festival
When She Makes More: 10 Rules for Breadwinning Women
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Mia Poppe is a matrimonial attorney and Managing Partner at Law Firm of Poppe & Associates, PLLC. She is an author and the host of a 6 part series called The Anatomy of Divorce, where she provides counsel for women by dissecting and navigating the divorce process. She joins Stacy Francis to share insights about her series and how to leverage your covered capital.
Divorce psychosis is the temporary state of mind that people experience when they go through a divorce, where they typically feel like things are spiraling out of control.
Women and men think, act, and respond differently; often during divorce, women will want to take the high road, which they perceive as a communal agreement. However, men typically view winning as taking the high road.
During the divorce process, your mind is racing through all the what-ifs, and the outcomes that you fear the most seem to be real possibilities. Fear is insidious and paralyzes you, but you have to learn to sit through it and affirm in your mind that the fear is just false evidence appearing real.
You can convert the intangible to tangible. The grit and passion we all have inside of us can be leveraged and turned into successful businesses and careers once we give ourselves permission to go for it.
Mia Poppe on LinkedIn | Twitter MiaPoppe.com | nylawsa.com | YouTube
The Anatomy of Divorce
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Kim Ciesinski is a matrimonial attorney, author, and founder of Kim M. Ciesinski, Esq., PLLC - ADR Law. She is also the co-founder of Empower Divorce Transitions, Inc., Adjunct Professor at Hofstra, and the podcast host of Happily Even After. Kim has been designated as a Super Lawyer for 11 years in a row and has received the highest rating in legal ability and ethical standards. She joins Stacy Francis to discuss women, money, and divorce, as well as financial abuse and how to come out of the divorce process as financially secure as you can be.
Divorce is not just a slip of paper that legally recognizes you as single. It involves many other ancillary issues, topics, and changes that need to be addressed and made.
Financial abuse occurs when a spouse is relegated to the position of a child and has no control, knowledge, or agency over their finances. This results in a paternalistic and punitive financial relationship. Often, the victim is given a paltry sum of money as an allowance that is altered if they upset their spouse.
In every divorce case, there is a mandatory disclosure of all financial information. Therefore, if there is a case of financial abuse, attorneys can legally force uncooperative parties to share their financial information by serving them a subpoena.
Divorce is often a form of rebirth for women; they can live entirely new lives and become new people when they find the courage to claim the happiness they are entitled to.
Resources Kim Ciesinski on LinkedIn ADRLawNY.com Phone: 516-308-2922 Email: KMC@ADRLawNY.com Radio Station: Happily Even After Thursdays 5:00 pm EST- 6:00 pm EST 103.9 FM LI (Long Island) News Radio
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Priya Royal is the Managing Attorney at Royal Law Firm, PLLC. She specializes in taxation, trusts and estates, and business law. Priya was recently named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers and is considered the creme de la creme of trust and estate attorneys in the District of Columbia. She joins Stacy Francis to discuss narrowing the wealth gap, and shares the ins and outs that women with significant assets need to know to protect themselves in the event of divorce and/or remarriage.
Estate planning is a necessary practice during or after a divorce.
A trust ensures that the people and things that you consider most important are taken care of. Financial advisors and investment managers assist in protecting your assets in a trust.
Designing a trust is the responsibility of your estate planning attorney, so it is imperative that you work with a reputable one who understands all your options and can lay them out for you.
In order to build intergenerational wealth in marginalized communities, women need to support one another and share resources and expertise.
Resources Priya Royal on LinkedIn | Twitter RoyalESQ.com | pproyal@royalesq.com | (877) 780-8955
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Lisa Zeiderman is Managing Partner at Miller Zeiderman, one of the leading matrimonial firms in New York and the tri-state area. She is also a certified Divorce Financial Analyst and has been recognized by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys as one of the 10 Best Family Law Attorneys for Client Satisfaction. She joins Stacy Francis to share everything you need to know about divorcing a narcissist.
Some traits that may indicate that your partner is a narcissist include: charm and charisma, proficiency in manipulating situations to suit their benefit, lying, and a lack of empathy.
People married to narcissists usually have volatile relationships that are more prone to being emotionally abusive. Divorce is already a challenging process, and it is even more so when a divorcee is afraid of their partner.
If you suspect your partner may be a narcissist, and you want to divorce them, you need to collect information and be as informed as possible. This will help you prepare for the process as much as you can.
A strong attorney who will advocate for you is a key component to successfully divorcing a narcissist because oftentimes a narcissist will use mediation as a form of control.
Resources Resources Lisa Zeiderman on LinkedIn Email: lz@mzw-law.com Contact Lisa at +914-455-1000 LisaZeiderman.com Divorcing a Narcissist on Psychology Today https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/legal-matters/201906/divorcing-narcissist-be-prepared
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Elysa Greenblatt is the owner of Greenblatt Law, specializing in Matrimonial and Family Law, Litigation, and Collaborative Law. She represents and helps children get through the divorce process. She joins Stacy Francis to discuss what it means to be an attorney for children and the situations that warrant such legal assistance.
Matrimonial attorneys must go through the necessary training and obtain the relevant certification to be permitted to represent children in family court. In addition, these attorneys are usually court-appointed.
High-conflict court cases often rack up expensive bills in legal fees, especially if emotions are high and court appearances are frequent since attorneys have hourly rates. The courts typically decide which parent pays the fees.
Court-appointed attorneys for children are not mandated reporters who are obligated to call in any suspected abuse or neglect, so dealing with situations where the child may be in danger with one parent may be tricky to work out.
A common misconception about attorneys for children is that they are biased, which is untrue. Attorneys for children have a children-centered practice, therefore any decision they make or counsel they offer is always on behalf of the child, with their best interest at heart.
Resources Elysa Greenblatt on LinkedIn GreenblattLawLLC.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Emma Johnson is the founder of Moms for Shared Parenting and WealthySingleMommy.com, the only site dedicated to helping professional single moms build amazing lives through career, money, dating, sex, and parenting. She is a business journalist, a speaker, and activist at the United Nations, and the author of The Kickass Single Mom: Be Financially Independent, Discover Your Sexiest Self, and Raise Fabulous, Happy Children. She joins Stacy Francis to talk about the top mistakes to avoid as divorced single mothers and what successful single mothers have in common. She also debunks a lie about alimony and child support that women have believed for years.
The majority of families that are not two-parent cohabiting families have an arrangement in which the children stay with the mother, who is often financially dependent on the alimony and child support that the father is ordered to pay.
The women that thrive after divorce or separation are the ones that understand that they have experienced a loss they need to grieve. Additionally, they do not attempt to replicate what they previously had and don’t feel entitled to the financial security they had before.
Child support holds women back, as it is dependent on them earning less than their ex-husbands, who are then incentivized to earn as little as possible.
Society will improve when women everywhere are making their own money and are financially independent.
Resources Emma Johnson on LinkedIn | Twitter Wealthysinglemommy.com The Kickass Single Mom: Be Financially Independent, Discover Your Sexiest Self, and Raise Fabulous, Happy Children
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Do you hate your ex-spouse more than you love your child? For this holiday replay of a favorite episode from 2017, Stacy is joined by Shari Bornstein, a matrimonial and family law attorney at the Law Firm of John Yacos, P.C, to discuss how to put bitterness aside and prioritize your children when celebrating the holidays. Shari is dedicated to empowering clients with knowledge and strong legal advocacy through collaboration, mediation and litigation.
In this episode, you will gain insight on:
How to prevent and prepare for possible conflict during the upcoming holidays
Finding middle ground when it comes to differing parenting styles
Scheduling your holiday sharing plan
Parenting techniques, such as the pizza delivery technique, and using buzzwords to avoid bitterness and conflict in front of the kids
How parents can avoid being “naughty” by coordinating traditions and not “out-gifting” each other
Tips on how to make the holidays less stressful for your children
Resources Shari Bornstein on LinkedIn Call Shari at (212) 587-9560 Email: shari@yacoslaw.com www.yacoslaw.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Regina DeMeo is a top matrimonial attorney and mediator and has regularly appeared as a legal commentator on TV, radio, and print. For over 2 decades she has been helping families with a variety of legal issues. She joins Stacy Francis today to help listeners as she shares the secret ingredient to preserving family wealth, goodwill, and relationships.
Regina has noticed throughout the years that clients who are stuck in the past with feelings of anger, guilt, or remorse have a harder time moving through the divorce process.
People that use anger as a shield may feel that extending forgiveness will make them more susceptible to accepting a settlement that is less than what they deserve. Regina shares some insightful tips on this matter.
When going through the divorce process, you have the choice of either remaining in a state of victimhood, or finding a way to become a survivor by ensuring that you have financial and emotional support.
Regina shares her experience of how forgiveness played a huge role in her life. She talks about the journey of finding her father after he was absent for most of her life, and learning to forgive him.
Resources Regina DeMeo on LinkedIn | Twitter ReginaDeMeo.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Carrie Casden is a business manager, Certified Money Coach, and the founder of Summit Financial Management. She joins Stacy Francis to discuss the eight money archetypes and how to identify them, becoming the driver on the road to financial security, and how to spend wisely.
Your money archetype is the facet of your personality that involves your relationship with money. The money archetypes are: the innocent; the victim; the martyr; the warrior; the fool; the artist; the tyrant; and the magician.
Carrie has observed that the divorce process often triggers a breakdown in women’s lives. She recommends employing a financial coach as well as an attorney so you can make informed decisions about your financial future and feel more in control.
Parents should not try to buy their children’s affection during divorce. “Children need love,” Carrie says. “The majority of what they need is free and our guilt does them a disservice. When we get divorced and feel guilty, they need more love, not more stuff.”
Parents should be open and honest with their children about money and their needs, but not burden them with the details of potential financial distress.
Resources Carrie Casden on LinkedIn Email: carrie@summitla.com SummitLA.com Book: Money Magic: Unleashing Your True Potential for Prosperity and Fulfillment Money Personality Quiz
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
Danielle Kunkle Roberts is a health insurance and Medicare expert and a MarketingInsiders.com contributor. She is the co-owner of Boomer Benefits, an insurance agency that helps individuals navigate Medicare in 48 states. She joins Stacy Francis to share information about Medicare that will allow divorcees to make better decisions about health insurance.
If you are in the divorce process and your health insurance is covered in your spouse’s name, and you also have your own coverage through your job, there is a special election period to enroll in your own group coverage.
COBRA is an act that allows employees to keep group health insurance for up to 18 months if they experience a loss of group health insurance coverage due to various reasons, divorce being one of them.
Aged, divorced women who have not attained the 10 year working experience can still qualify for free Medicare part A under their ex-husband’s work history if they had been married for at least 10 years.
Corporations often have open enrollment for health insurance in the fall because they set their benefits up to run from January through December.
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation.
Resources Danielle Kunkle Roberts on LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook BoomerBenefits.com Medicare.gov Healthcare.gov 10 Costly Medicare Mistakes You Can’t Afford to Make
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Nancy founded Smarter Divorce Solutions in 2011 after going through her own less-than-optimal divorce process. She has over 20 years of experience in both investment management and financial planning and is the founder and a Senior Advisor with Smarter Financial Solutions. In 2016, Nancy founded the Divorce Financial Planner Training Center to offer continuing education to CDFA holders everywhere.
The term “executive compensation” is a misnomer, as it is given to a lot more people than just executives.
Executive compensation is tricky: while an employee’s spouse may be entitled to the value of half of the compensation, most times the executive compensation plan does not allow those holdings to be transferred to anyone other than the employee.
Executive compensation, which is often paid out in the form of a bonus, is considered an asset.
Nancy implores listeners to get another financial advisor if the one they have right now is not educating them.
Resources Nancy Hetrick on LinkedIn | Twitter SmarterDivorceSolutions.com
Divorce is Not for Dummies: How to Cover your Assets
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Nancy Burner is the Founder and Managing Partner of Burner Law Group, a professor at Hofstra University, and a Certified Elder Law Attorney. She has been named a Super Lawyer in the field of Elder Law for 11 consecutive years. She joins Stacy Francis today to discuss the important things you should know with regards to estate planning in the event of a Biden presidency.
Estate and trust planning should always be done with a certified attorney, as it is very easy to make a mistake when you don’t know the tricks of the trade.
If you give a gift in your lifetime and survive that by three years, it does not come off your estate tax under New York State law.
The best way to leave assets for your children and their descendants is through a trust.
A trustee is the manager of the trust assets. Beneficiaries are those who derive advantages from the trust assets.
Resources Nancy Burner on LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook Email: nburner@burnerlaw.com Phone: (212) 867-3520 Website: BurnerLaw.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com Phone: (212) 374-9008 Website: FrancisFinancial.com
Katherine Miller is the Founder of Miller Law Group and Director in Training of the Center for Understanding and Conflict. She is the host of the radio show and podcast Divorce Dialogues, as well the author of The New Yorker's Guide to Collaborative Divorce and the co-author of the Amazon best-seller, A Cup of Coffee. She has been featured on CBS, NBC, The New York Times and Newsday Money Magazine. She joins Stacy Francis to discuss when to get a divorce and how to prepare for it.
Katherine believes it's important to be able to work through a divorce from a place of acceptance and personal serenity, but not necessarily forgiveness.
The way in which you perceive divorce may affect the way it affects you.
One of the first things someone should do when they decide to divorce is to get their finances in order.
Having emotional support is extremely helpful while going through a divorce.
Resources Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation.
Katherine Miller on LinkedIn Call or text Katherine: (914) 738-7765 WestchesterFamilyLaw.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com Phone: 212-374-9008 FrancisFinancial.com
Crystal Levy is a Senior Associate at Lassar & Cowhey LLP and a manager at Marcum LLP. She focuses on making thoughtful estate plans for modern and emerging families as well as high net worth households. Janis Cowhey is a Trusts & Estates and Tax Partner at Marcum LLP, who specializes in estate, gift and income tax planning, as well as working with same-sex couples and unmarried families. They join Stacy Francis to give insights about the required tax considerations in estate planning that the modern family needs to know about, especially if they are considering divorce. They also share how you can make sure your children and stepchildren are financially protected during and after a divorce.
The traditional family consists of a married man and woman with 2.5 kids. The modern family has morphed into everything except that.
Some legal considerations for getting divorced are: getting a good matrimonial, having all your documents in place, identifying legal obligations, and ensuring that your beneficiary designations are in order.
Most couples continue to file joint amended returns for quite some time until they are actually divorced.
It’s never a bad idea to update your documents before a divorce is final.
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation.
Resources Crystal Levy on LinkedIn Email: crystal.levy@lcllp.com MarcumLLP.com
Janis Cowhey on LinkedIn Email: janis.cowhey@marcumllp.com Call or text Janice: (212) 485-5660 MarcumLLP.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Renee Bauer is a podcast host, a Connecticut Divorce Attorney at Bauer Law Group and the CEO of Happy Even After, an organization dedicated to family and matrimonial law. She joins Stacy Francis to talk about how your thinking patterns can emotionally and financially affect you during and after your divorce, and shares tools to help you have the right mindset.
The type of questions clients ask are good indicators of where their mindset is, Renee claims. Clients that ask questions like “How will I ____” are looking externally for the solutions, whereas clients that ask “What can I do to ____” are looking internally for solutions.
There is no law stating that you can’t date during your divorce, but you need to be sure that you’re in the right mental space for it.
Renee recommends therapy for people going through a divorce, at least for a short time; it’s a grieving process that you shouldn’t have to do alone, she says.
Many women hesitate to get a divorce because they feel ashamed, Renee shares.
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation.
Resources Renee Bauer on LinkedIn FamilyLawyerCT.com MsReneeBauer.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Dawn Cardi is a founding partner at Cardi & Edgar LLP. She has considerable experience in corporate and securities law, and has spent dozens of years as a matrimonial attorney, representing individuals in divorce and custody proceedings. She joins Stacy Francis to talk about the financial advantages and disadvantages of both formal marriage and common law marriage.
People are often shocked to learn that when they get married, everything they earn, except for certain exceptions, becomes marital property regardless of whose name it is in. Exceptions include inheritances and third party gifts that you don’t commingle into your joint bank account.
The biggest issues for common law spouses, according to Dawn, are that they are not accumulating joint wealth that can be distributed during a divorce, they are not accumulating joint retirement monies, and they are not eligible for spousal support.
Dawn recommends that couples sign postnuptial agreements if one spouse is going to be a stay-at-home parent, or if the couple is moving out of the country to a place where one spouse cannot get employment.
Statistics show that divorced women over the age of 65 are the most likely women to live below or at the poverty line.
Resources Dawn Cardi on LinkedIn CardiEdgarLaw.com
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Paige Zandri is a Managing Partner and the Lead Mediator of Artese Zandri. She has significant expertise in helping couples create an amicable separation. She joins Stacy Francis to discuss social media, and its effects on divorce.
One’s presence on social media can impact alimony, child support, custody, and can be used as evidence in court. Paige advises that parties in divorce act as if there is a judge looking over their shoulder.
What a person posts on social media can be taken out of context in incriminating ways, creating a presumption that they must overcome.
You shouldn’t post anything on social media after consuming alcohol, Paige warns.
Paige suggests that listeners who are considering reconnection should solicit the help of a third party.
Resources Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
Paige Zandri on LinkedIn Email: paige@artesezandri.com ArteseZandri.com
Helene Bernstein is a Divorce Attorney and Mediator of her own firm and has been a family law attorney in Brooklyn, New York for the past 25 years. She sits on the board of Family Kind, a non-profit organization that offers reduced fee mediation services for couples going through divorce or separation. She is also a member of the board of directors of the Family Divorce Mediation Council and chairs their Continuing Education Committee. She joins Stacy Francis to talk about how COVID-19 is affecting the divorce process and ways to get to the best resolution.
Children are experiencing difficult times with the existence of COVID-19 and their shift to long distance learning, but those whose parents are going through divorce or separation have an additional source of stress.
Family Court is the emergency room of the American judiciary system
Parties that live in New York City who want to get divorced quickly are encouraged to file their papers in upstate New York County.
In any current divorce or separation agreement, there must be a COVID provision to deal with parenting.
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation.
Resources Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter FrancisFinancial.com Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com Phone: 212-374-9008
Helene Bernstein on LinkedIn | Twitter HBernsteinLawandMediation.com Email: helene@hbernsteinlawandmediation.com
David Perry is a licensed real estate broker and certified Divorce Real Estate Specialist at Brown Harris Stevens. He joins Stacy Francis to talk about how to navigate buying and/or selling one’s home during a divorce.
According to David, accounting is the language of business, economics is how you run it, and real estate is the marriage of both.
Having a real estate broker as a resource from the beginning is important, David says, even if couples aren’t sure whether they want to buy or sell.
Pricing houses close to the market value is a safe decision; if priced too high, and the house remains on the market for a long period of time, the value will decrease as time progresses.
There is a perception that one can buy a house at a better price if a couple is selling it because they are getting divorced.
Resources Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: stacy@francisfinancial.com FrancisFinancial.com
David Perry on LinkedIn | Twitter Email: dperry@bhsusa.com BHSUSA.com
Emiliya Zhivotovskaya is the CEO of The Flourishing Center, an organization dedicated to “training the change agents of the world” by using science to help people lead more fulfilling lives. She joins Stacy Francis to discuss how to navigate your emotions during divorce and to share three tips on how to change your habits.
Self-awareness brings about self-compassion, which brings self-care, which enables more self-awareness. Human beings have been wired with a negativity bias, so we pay more attention to the negatives, regardless of the existence or abundance of positives.
Many people assume that happiness is an event that takes place in the absence of difficulty. Positive psychology advocates approaching emotions as a science to identify what skills are necessary to build and maintain happiness and resilience.
Changing your habits involves changing how you think, how you feel, and what you do.
The main thing that distinguishes humans from animals is that we can actively choose our response to stimulus.
Resources Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation. FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@francisfinancial.com Phone: 212-374-9008 Emiliya Zhivotovskaya on LinkedIn TheFlourishingCenter.com | Podcast
Linda Rosenthal is a matrimonial lawyer and partner at McLaughlin & Stern. She joins Stacy Francis to chat about prenups and postnuptial (postnups) agreements, and how the latter may prove beneficial. Here are a few highlights from their conversation:
A prenup is a contract agreed upon by the involved parties before a marriage, in the event of separation, divorce, or death; a postnup is a contract agreed upon during a marriage.
Postnups provide the advantage of making decisions during your marriage with more information about specific life events.
You should discuss postnup agreements with your spouse before you make a big economic decision (like reducing your income, for example), in reliance on your spouse’s income.
Linda believes that a marriage is an economic partnership and both parties should be aware of the rules that apply with regards to the law, so doing a prenup – or at least learning about the economic rules of marriage - should be mandatory before marriage.
Resources Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation. FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@francisfinancial.com Phone: 212-374-9008 Linda Rosenthal on LinkedIn Email: lrosenthal@mclaughlinstern.com Call or text Linda at: 212-455-0358 McLaughlinStern.com
Sophie Jacobi-Parisi is a partner at Warshaw Burnstein, LLP and practices matrimonial and family law, representing people in matrimonial, custody and support matters. She joins Stacy Francis to discuss relocation issues and how you can resolve them.
Relocation is not automatic; you do not have the right, just because you’re the mother, to take your children and move away from their other parent.
Make your case for relocation as strong as possible: consider all the benefits that the relocation may provide for your children, such as a nicer home or better extra-curricular programs at a better school.
If a parent takes a child on an international trip and doesn’t bring the child back, the other parent can file a Hague case in the child’s home state or country in order to bring jurisdiction back to their country.
People need an education on what it truly means to get divorced, Sophie says. She believes that generally, marriages can survive relocation, and divorce may not always be the answer.
Resources Sophie Jacobi-Parisi on LinkedIn Warshaw Burnstein, LLP
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation. FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@francisfinancial.com Phone: 212-374-9008
Laurie Marchel is a business executive in the financial services industry and the author of The Stepmoms’ Club: How to Be a Stepmom Without Losing Your Money, Your Mind, and Your Marriage. She joins Stacy Francis to share tips for navigating a blended family.
When making decisions regarding the safety of your children, their best interest should come first.
According to statistics, 1300 stepfamilies are formed every day in the US.
The four D’s of stepparenting are: Documents, which will give you, as a stepfamily, a glimpse into your future; Dollars, which involves understanding financial obligations and responsibilities; Delegation, which centers around seeking professional assistance; and Do stay true to yourself, which is a reminder to stepmothers to not lose sight of who they are in the wake of assuming their new responsibilities.
Parents in blended families need to communicate about plans for Mother’s Day, as a lack of communication may result in plans that unintentionally slight stepparents.
Resources Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation. FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@francisfinancial.com Phone: 212-374-9008
The Stepmoms’ Club on Facebook | Instagram TheStepmomsClub.com The Stepmoms’ Club: How to Be a Stepmom Without Losing Your Money, Your Mind, and Your Marriage
Rich Heller is a conflict coach and trained mediator, with a master’s degree in social work and a certificate in coaching, who works with couples struggling to manage conflict. Whether a couple has decided to separate or divorce, Rich’s goal is to help minimize the friction, so the couple can maximize the support they give to their children.
Rich talks about how, during difficulties in your marriage, children are taking in everything you say about, and how you treat, your spouse – and that the children’s needs and feelings should come first.
Rich and Stacy discuss how and when you can use the services of a mediator to help with challenges in your marriage, and how they can help you negotiate your options for moving forward together or separately, all while staying true to your principles and values.
Rich expands on how you can “divorce-proof” your children - communicating with them honestly, helping them develop resilience and grit, and encouraging them to have good relationships with both of their parents, even when there is conflict and negativity.
Resources Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation. FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@francisfinancial.com Phone: 212-374-9008 Rich Heller: RichInRelationship.com Rich@RichInRelationship.com
Cindy Gunraj is a certified divorce coach, author, and the CEO and Founder of Stillness Blooms- a platform for people going through difficult life changes and in need of support. She joins Stacy Francis to chat about how to draw on your family’s support in your divorce. Here are some highlights from their conversation:
Cindy reached her breaking point, and realized that she would have a better life if she were no longer married.
As women, we sometimes base our worth on how good of a mom we are.
When you have a difficult goal and are without support, being able to envision meeting your goals and devising a plan are key.
People come into our lives to teach us something.
Resources Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation. FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@francisfinancial.com Phone: 212-374-9008 Cindy Gunraj: Cindy@stillnessblooms.com LinkedIn | Twitter Winning Your Parents' Approval for Divorce: 7 Practices to Leave Your Marriage with Their Blessing
Randi Karmel is the Owner of Randi L. Karmel, PLLC. Randi has been practicing law for over 20 years, acquiring extensive litigation and trial experience. Randi currently represents clients in negotiating prenuptial and mid-nuptial agreements, separation and settlement agreements and actions for divorce that include equitable distribution, maintenance, visitation, support, and custody. She joins Stacy Francis to talk about the coronavirus and its impact on divorce processes.
Here are a few highlights from their conversation:
Current legal limitations of filing actions in court
How to co-parent and do what’s in the best interest of your child
Who to speak to if you decide to move forward with divorce proceedings
How to put your differences aside in order to do what is necessary during this time of crisis
Resources Randi Karmel on LinkedIn RandiKarmel.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary second opinion consultation. FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@Stacyfrancis.com Phone: 212-374-9008
This week, we bring you a special episode of Financially Ever After where your host, Stacy Francis, answers your questions on how the impact of COVID-19 may impact your financial situation - especially if you are going through divorce or are recently divorced. Stacy will answer important questions such as:
What should I do with my money now?
Will this downturn impact my divorce settlement, child support or spousal support?
How can I best protect myself and my family?
I don't have the long-term to recover from this. When do we pull the "emergency cord" and go to cash?
Should I use this as an opportunity to invest the extra cash I have?
Visit francisfinancial.com/podcast/ and click email me new episodes and we will send you the invitation to our free virtual HIIT and yoga workouts. If you have any questions about your personal financial situation, please also click submit a question and we will be sure to respond to you! Resources Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation. FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@francisfinancial.com Phone: 212-374-9008
Nicole Noonan of New Chapter Capital is a former attorney with years of experience seeing women boxed in with financial challenges during a divorce. Divorce can be expensive; the average divorce in New York costs 17k per person, and can sometimes be much worse. This fact can keep women trapped in marriages they don’t want to be in, and unable to get the kind of legal and financial support they need. Stacy and Nicole talk about divorce funding, why it’s an important tool, and who it can be helpful for. Some of the highlights of their conversations include: · Sometimes you have situations where one of the spouses in a divorce is moneyed – having much more access to cash than the other – for those non-moneyed spouses, divorce funding can be a powerful option. · Not all segments of the attorney population offer something like divorce funding, and communicating what it is, how it works and why it’s a good thing is one of Nicole’s biggest challenges. Stacy believes it is going to catch on in a big way. · Many attorneys recommend not changing your spending – it’s not the time to make big extravagant new purchases – but what if you don’t have the resources to maintain your current lifestyle? Resources Reach out to receive a complimentary second opinion consultation. FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@Stacyfrancis.com Phone: 212-374-9008 Nicole Noonan: New Chapter Capital Phone: 212 404 7807
Lauren Gaynor is a Litigation & Real Estate Partner specializing in Matrimonial Litigation at Teitler & Teitler. She chats with Stacy Francis about custody, child support, and how to make your divorce easier for your children.
Here are a few highlights from their conversation:
During your divorce, finding the right attorney in matrimonial is important to achieve an emotional fit.
The amount of time your child spends with you is a key factor in child support calculation.
Being too specific about what expenses child support covers can box you into a hole.
Divorce works best for the children when parents can get along for their children’s sake.
Resources Teitler & Teitler Lauren Pruzan Gaynor Teitler | LinkedIn Francis Financial
Turning Divorce into a Positive
This week’s guest is Gabrielle Hartley, a divorce mediator who is known as a case closer. She has been able to keep 99% of her cases out of the courtroom. She chats with Stacy Francis about how she manages to move her clients through the divorce process without using the courts. She also discusses why she believes divorce can be a positive in your life.
Gabrielle is committed to leading the positive divorce movement because her own parents had an amicable divorce.
The ‘Better Apart’ method helps you to clarify your thinking through the lens of patience, respect, clarity, peace, and forgiveness.
Gabrielle reminds listeners that you are whole just as you are; your family is not broken, it is transformed; your child’s life is not shattered, it is reconfigured; and this is the perfect moment to reassess what you want from your life, and to have the confidence to activate your inner agency.
Stacy takes away three new tools from this week’s show. Her new ‘screwdriver’ is the bookending exercise.
Resources Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@Stacyfrancis.com Phone: 212-374-9008
GabrielleHartley.com Better Apart: The Radically Positive Way to Separate
This week’s guest on Financially Ever After is Dana Stutman, a matrimonial divorce attorney who runs a successful private practice in partnership with her husband Michael Stutman. She brings a unique insight on the topic of being in business with your spouse, and shares important tips women can use to protect themselves and their family in the event of a divorce.
A partnership agreement protects you, your spouse, your team and your clients. You don’t want the business to suffer as a result of what you and your spouse are going through.
The breakdown in communication is the biggest problem in marriages.
Dana broaches the sensitive topic of prenuptial agreements.
Stacy shares personal information about her struggle with being a business owner and what would happen if she and her husband divorce.
Resources Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@Stacyfrancis.com Phone: 212-374-9008
Dana.Stutman@sslllp.com Stutman Stutman & Lichtenstein, LLP
In this episode of Financially Every After, Stacy Francis speaks with Bari Tessler, the author of The Art of Money. They talk about how your relationship with money can impact all aspects of your life, the unfortunate fact that many of us had inconsistent, or totally absent financial educations, and the surprising ways our bodies can physically react when it comes to making decisions around money. This is a fascinating episode, filled with practical tips and actions you can take to transform your relationship with money.
Her student loan coming due made Bari realize that she didn’t have a healthy relationship with money. She set herself the goal of becoming financially literate.
Bari advises you to have a weekly money date with yourself.
Start with the money healing process before getting to the practical aspects of transforming your relationship with money.
Getting support is one of the strongest and bravest things you can do.
Resources Find out more about the Second Opinion program FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@Stacyfrancis.com Phone: 212-374-9008
Learn more about Bari Tessler: BariTessler.com The Art of Money
Host Stacy Francis welcomes attorney and social worker, Kristen Lyndaker to this week’s show. Kristen holds a Master’s degree in Social Work and has worked in the foster care and adoption field. She is also a practicing matrimonial attorney who specializes in Collaborative Family Law and Mediation. This area, she says, is a niche in law where she could combine her social work skills and family and child knowledge with the legal system to help people.
Stacy asks Kristen how her experience with social work as well as mediation changes the way she looks at the divorce process. She responds that she looks at what’s best for the family as a whole instead of advocating for one client. She empowers her clients by showing them all the options at their disposal. An adversarial approach is rarely necessary, she says, as it does not serve most couples’ and families’ needs. [4:24]
Kristen explains the difference between mediation and collaboration and why collaboration is being used more and more these days. [6:19]
Mediation and collaboration is voluntary, Kristen says. Even if you do litigate, most likely your case will end up in settlement, usually 18 months and thousands of dollars later. You can have the same result, plus save time and money, by choosing alternative dispute resolution. You also walk away feeling empowered, knowing that you made meaningful decisions for your children and your future. [10:13]
Kristen shares some practical tips she uses to keep couples from falling into litigation, including looping and taking notes. [13:32]
You can take five routes to divorce, and for each route, you give up a certain amount of control:
Litigation - you give up total control because the court decides your future.
Collaboration - you work through an attorney who looks to you for guidance about what’s best for you.
Mediation - you have more control but less legal guidance and structure.
Do It Yourself - all the control but no guidance. [17:42]
Kristen advises you to align yourself with a professional who has your best interest at heart, and who you feel comfortable working with. [19:35]
Going to court might be the best option if there is distrust and a lack of transparency. It’s also the right choice in cases of abuse and domestic violence. [20:37]
Stacy asks how children can be protected through the divorce process. Kristen says parents should remember that their children love them both. She urges listeners to follow the Children’s Bill of Rights as well as the Parents’ Bill of Rights, to protect children during and beyond this scary period. When children are older and they start asking questions, answer them in an age-appropriate manner without disparaging the other parent. Always let them know that they are safe, loved and protected. She recommends speaking with a mental health professional and praises the work of the Ackerman Institute. [22:27]
Children love routine and consistency, so try to maintain the status quo as much as possible. However, things might have to change and it may not be ideal, but do the best you can in your situation and move forward. [29:32]
If your relationship is looking like it will end in divorce, don’t let fear and anger take over. This is just a temporary situation and you’re going to move past it, Krista reminds listeners. Take care of yourself. Treat yourself like you would treat your best friend. [32:33]
We’re all trying to do the best we can. As we get older and have more experience, we grow and learn more about ourselves. [36:53]
Resources Kglmediation.com The Children’s Bill of Rights The Parents’ Bill of Rights The Ackerman Institute New York Association of Collaborative Professionals Find out more about the Second Opinion program FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@Stacyfrancis.com Phone: 212-374-9008
Mia Poppe had a successful 22-year career as a senior-level banker. Her own disastrous first divorce was the catalyst that led her to go to law school at the age of 42 and retrain as a matrimonial attorney. She now runs her own successful private practice. Mia joins Stacy Francis this week to chat about why it’s important to manage your money, knowing your value, and leveraging your capital into freedom.
Mia got married the month after her college graduation, at age 22. Her marriage failed after 12 years, however. A few weeks later she realized that her ex-husband had cleaned out the bank account. There she was, she says, a senior level banker with 3 children in private school and other expensive family overheads, and no money. She had to seek public assistance to get grocery money. [7:20]
Mia shares her story to reiterate that life can be unpredictable. Not having money puts you in an unduly vulnerable situation. It’s very important to manage your money and be financially responsible. She says that we owe it to our families and our communities to be givers into the public trust and not takers. [11:19]
Mia encourages listeners to have their own business because no one will value you like you value you. Stacy adds that having your own business gives you more options and financial freedom. The only limits you have are those you place on yourself, she says. Business ownership teaches you to love, value and care for yourself the same way you care for your loved ones. [17:51]
Stacy and Mia discuss the challenges of starting a business as a woman. Mia’s advice to women thinking of starting a business is to find a partner with like desire, hunger and integrity because collaboration gives you more ideas and synergies. You should treat your business like a Fortune 500 business, she says. [20:58]
Personal and business finances should be separate. When they are commingled, and you enter a divorce, you are going to lose out. It also makes the divorce more expensive. [27:19]
Women going through divorce, no matter their economic situations, have a fear of survival. Mia admits to having the same fear in her second divorce. [31:30]
Mia counsels her clients to finance themselves, even if they need to retool to do so. She quotes Hernando deSoto’s book, The Mystery of Capital, to emphasize that we all have resources at our disposal that we can convert into capital. We can leverage that capital into freedom, to create the life we want. Having accountability partners are an important part of creating that life because they help you stay true to your goals. [34:40]
Stacy says that money is a tool you need to build your life. It gives you options and opportunities, and even acts as a safety net, making you more comfortable with taking risks. [39:47]
When people are going through a divorce they often lose their minds, Mia says. She calls it divorce psychosis. As such, she insists on handling custody issues first, to ensure that the children are taken care of in the best way possible. Only after a fully executed parenting plan is in place does she tackle money issues. [41:54]
Resources The Law Firm of Poppe & Associates The Mystery of Capital by Hernando de Soto
Find out more about the Second Opinion program FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@Stacyfrancis.com Phone: 212-374-9008
Ten years ago, matrimonial attorney Lauren Friend started her own law firm because she wanted to help people through the worst times of their lives. Her clients see her as their support lifeline, which helps them get through the divorce process as healthily as possible. Apart from working with adults however, Lauren also works with children as an attorney for the child. She chats with Stacy Francis about when an attorney for the child might be needed, the things divorcing parents need to know, including tips about how child support can be modified.
An attorney for the child is appointed by the court when there are custody issues in dispute, once it’s determined that the parties cannot come to an agreement. [4:52]
Stacy asks how Lauren is able to get the child’s opinion, but also a wider view of the situation. Lauren responds that she gets the child’s view and the reasons for his or her position, but she also speaks with all the treating professionals in the child’s life, such as their teacher, doctor and therapist, in order to get as full a picture as possible. [8:45]
In allegations of abuse or neglect, an attorney for the child would be appointed very early in the process. [14:48]
Lauren describes how she manages her attorney-client relationship with children. Toward the end of her representation she would have developed a bond with them, she says, and interviews become easier. She makes it clear to them that they will not decide the final custody arrangement, as empowering them to such an extent could cause extremely loyalty or guilt toward one parent. For this reason, she ensures that they understand that there are other factors being considered in addition to their view. [15:17]
Stacy says that many listeners don’t realize that the amount of time that your child spends with you can impact the amount that you're entitled to for child support. Lauren explains that the court classes the custodial parent as the one with whom the child spends the most nights. This parent would get child support as well as add-ons. The add-ons are pro-rata based on income. [20:05]
Stacy emphasizes that it’s important to know your child’s expenses to make your case for child support. [22:38]
In New York state only the first $148,000 of a spouse’s income is considered for child support. Anything over that is discretionary. Lauren advises that it’s always best to work out an agreement with just your attorneys. [24:30]
You can go back to court for a modification of child support, custody or visitation if there are substantial changes in circumstances. [25:27]
The best advice she can give to divorcing parents, Lauren says, is to try to sublimate your feelings of anger and hostility for the benefit of your children. They are much happier and healthier in two separate happy households. [29:14]
The courts take parental alienation very seriously. Judges have been known to switch custody in extreme cases. [29:45]
Before you enter into a custody agreement, envision if it would work until your child is 18. Your attorney should also build in some loopholes into the agreement so there is room for modification without returning to court. [32:12]
A question to ask yourself before you do or say anything is, will this help or hurt my child? [36:00]
Lauren shares advice on how to choose an attorney if you’re thinking about divorce. [37:41]
When she represents adults, Lauren is able to give her clients real life examples of how their actions may help or hurt children, due to her experience as an attorney for the child. [40:33]
Resources LaurenFriendLaw.com Avvo.com Martindale.com
Find out more about the Second Opinion program FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@Stacyfrancis.com Phone: 212-374-9008
Claire, this week’s guest on Financially Ever After, has lived through many hardships. She bravely shares her story so that listeners who may be in a similar situation can find some help and hope.
Claire has been living month to month for the last year and a half. Her ex-husband decided not to pay alimony this month to spite her, so she has not been able to pay her bills. [2:34]
In the beginning, Claire’s ex-husband treated her like a princess, but soon he started to get angry and blame her whenever he lost money at his job. [4:16]
Claire was in a cycle of emotional and physical abuse but she had nowhere to go. She reached out to her parents to try to escape, but they said no. [8:43]
We often associate physical, emotional and financial abuse with lower income. However, Stacy says, there is a secret that it happens in front of our eyes to accomplished women like Claire. [11:40]
Claire still struggles with self-confidence and thoughts of suicide. Her animals and the 12 step program she attends helps her heal. She also practices staying positive and keeping her body positive. [14:19]
When you’ve been a victim of abuse you’re a changed person, Stacy says. If you’ve been abused as a child you should seek support because you usually relive those cycles. [19:50]
It’s important for women to have agency over our money because it gives us options to escape from unsafe situations. [23:15]
Claire shares that she was abused as a child by a relative. [25:50]
Stacy urges Claire and listeners to keep a network of support around them so that they can continue to be strong and make good decisions, now that they’re out of the past situation. With the right support around you, you can continue to make good decisions even though it feels like your past is pulling you back. [28:27]
When Claire can’t find the strength in herself to carry on, she hears the voice of her son Tyler telling her how much she means to him. [32:20]
Claire continues to be strong so that she can help someone. She has seen how honesty can strengthen one another. Stacy adds that she enjoys helping others in part because it makes her feel good about herself. Helping others builds our self-worth. [34:04]
Animals love you unconditionally and they don’t judge. They help you heal. Stacy urges you to volunteer at a shelter. [37:52]
Claire’s advice to anyone listening that’s struggling is to go deep into your soul and know that you are special. That glimmer of hope will help you get through the tough times. [38:53]
Stacy urges you to reach out to your support network to hold you when you don’t have the strength. You can also reach out to her. If you feel stuck because you don’t have the money to go elsewhere, let us help you with that, Stacy advises. [41:08]
Resources FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@Stacyfrancis.com Phone: 212-374-9008
Tanya-Marie Dubé is a master of transformation. She has lived through some very traumatic experiences: from being born into the foster care system, to being homeless from ages 12 to 18, to leaving her marriage of 18½ years without her home or any finances. Through each adversity, Tanya was able to change her perspective and come out a stronger, happier person. Now she teaches women around the world how to thrive after divorce. She joins Stacy Francis to talk about the five stages of transformation and things women need to know to create the best life possible for themselves and their families.
Tanya says that her life has presented her with a series of transformational opportunities. She started to study psychology at age 17 and inadvertently started to coach others. She learned that the only way for her to grow was to help others achieve their goals. [4:18]
By the time Tanya left her marriage 3½ years ago, she had been out of the workforce for more than a decade. Information about how to survive through and after divorce was hard to find. This inspired her to put together her first online summit where she invited 21 experts to speak on every aspect of separation. Over 300,000 women have been impacted to date. [5:22]
There is a time and place for tears and anger when you’re experiencing a divorce. However, when you're rebuilding your life after divorce you need to remove the emotion out of it some of that time so you can focus on what’s working. [9:12]
Tanya shares why gratitude and meditation is vital, no matter what you’re going through. [10:51]
Stacy asks about the five stages of transformation after divorce. Tanya says that the five steps are building blocks and you’re going to be in and out of them, much like the grief cycle. She emphasizes that you need to work with someone because you need a new perspective and a mindset shift. [13:36]
The five stages of transformation are:
Visionary: building a new foundation by working on your belief systems. This stage focuses on aligning who you think you are with who you want to become. [13:58]
Renewal: self-love and reconnection to spirituality. You learn how to overcome your addiction to people-pleasing and putting yourself last. You begin to take charge of your healing and personal development. [17:30]
Alignment: busting through your comfort zone. If you push yourself out of your comfort zone, you’re going to move forward. The confidence you gain by doing so will propel you into other areas of your life and open doors and opportunities you never dreamed of. [22:24]
Courage: finding your true purpose. Tanya shares the simple but powerful exercise she used to find her purpose. [26:41]
Powerful: creating incredible relationships. Now that I found my purpose, how am I going to achieve it? Who do I need to surround myself with? How can I become the best version of myself so that I’m showing up for everybody else the right way, but I'm also attracting people at this high energy level? [31:19]
Stacy talks about the importance of community when you’re going through a divorce. Tanya has created a membership site where these women can find the support they need through divorce and after, to launch them into the next phase of their lives. She shares how listeners can be part of that community, as well as the summits she produces. [33:30]
Resources: TanyaDube.com TanyaDube.com/membership Recommended Books:
The Mastery of Love - Don Miguel Ruiz
The Four Agreements - Don Miguel Ruiz
Emotional Intelligence - Daniel Goleman
The Power of Now - Eckhart Tolle
A New Earth - Eckhart Tolle
I Am - Howard Falco
Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway - Susan Jeffers
Think and Grow Rich - Napoleon Hill
How to Win Friends and Influence People - Dale Carnegie
The Power of Positive Thinking - Norman Vincent Peale
Mindset - Carol Dweck
Find out more about the Second Opinion program FrancisFinancial.com Stacy Francis: Stacy@Stacyfrancis.com Phone: 212-374-9008
John Yacos, of Yacos Law, has 30 years experience in matrimonial and family law. He joins Stacy Francis on this week’s show, to dispel the common myths about litigation, including the time it takes to get through the legal process.
Common myths and misconceptions about litigation arise because of statements made by professionals, the anecdotal experience of clients’ acquaintances, as well as incorrect online information. [4:04]
It’s important to be armed with information to guide you through the legal process with as little damage to the family as possible. John says that clients cannot make these important decisions without accurate information. [4:50]
Litigation is only one of the options available, and John prefers to view it as a last resort. People should always consider Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). [6:45]
Stacy asks, when might someone know that ADR is not a good fit and they need to take the next step to litigation? John shares several tips to help listeners decide. [8:21]
One common myth is that you have to choose between mediation and litigation. The truth is that you can have both: use mediation for some parts of your matter and litigation for other parts. It does not have to be one or the other. [10:18]
A parent coordinator can unlock seemingly intractable custodial issues. [12:25]
Another myth John busts is that your divorce proceeding will be quick. John says that each case is fact-specific and that there are many variables to consider, including whether you go to family court or Supreme Court. He explains the differences between the two court systems. [13:40]
John tells listeners what they should look for in a litigation attorney. You need someone who:
Can present a reasonable argument to the deciders in your case;
Can make their clients understand the importance of being seen as reasonable;
Can explain to their clients that the children’s best interest is going to be the most important consideration in litigation;
Is professional and ethical, and works well with other attorneys;
Doesn’t create barriers by being aggressive or nasty;
Can adapt their strategy if circumstances change.
Has a high level of emotional intelligence. [21:51]
You don’t need the most expensive lawyer to represent you in your matter. You can get great advocacy if your lawyer is familiar with the court and knows how to resolve the five major issues of divorce with children - custody, child support, maintenance, equitable distribution and potential for counsel fees. [26:38]
There are only two ways to end a case, John says. One way is to come to an agreement, and the other way is when the judge renders a decision. [35:36]
Stacy says that a common belief is that the quickest way to end a matter is through litigation. John dispels this myth by saying that litigation is generally used to resolve issues that are more difficult. With the large number of cases before the courts, litigation is more of a marathon than a sprint, he points out. [37:32]
Even when you’re using ADR, you should have your own attorney advising you. The cost of a consulting attorney could save you thousands in the future. [44:44]
Resources YacosLaw.com Email: john@YacosLaw.com Phone: 212-587-9560 Find out more about the Second Opinion program Stacy Francis: Stacy@Stacyfrancis.com Phone: 212-374-9008
This week’s guest is Dr. Debi Silber, author of Amazon bestseller The Unshakable Woman: Four Steps to Rebuilding Your Body, Mind and Life After a Life Crisis. Dr. Debi was blindsided by a personal betrayal that inspired her to study how women experience and heal from betrayal. She shares the five stages that we go through from betrayal to breakthrough. She also talks about Post Betrayal Syndrome and Post Betrayal Transformation and shares a tool you can use to see how far along you are in the process of healing.Betrayal is an earth-shattering feeling that the world as you've known it no longer exists. [3:40]The Post Betrayal Transformation (PBT) Institute grew out of Dr. Debi’s experience. She teaches that our biggest crisis leads to our greatest gift. [4:26]Her Ph.D. research involved studying the lived experience of women who had experienced betrayal. She wanted to understand who they were before, and how the betrayal affected them physically, mentally and emotionally. Also, she wanted to understand the steps they took to heal. [5:51]If you're willing to do what it takes to move from one stage to the next, your healing from betrayal is predictable. [6:58]Stacy asks Dr. Debi to describe the five stages from betrayal to breakthrough. She lists them as:Stage 1 - Ignoring your gut instinct that something is wrong. Focusing on the physical and mental, more than the emotional and spiritual.Stage 2 - You’re blindsided. It causes a breakdown of your body, mind, and worldview. Your body goes into a stress response. Your mind is confused and overwhelmed. Your worldview is shattered, and you no longer trust your betrayer nor yourself.Stage 3 - The practical stage. You focus on surviving. You can get stuck at this stage if you’re not careful. Dr. Debi describes the self benefits you start receiving at this stage, and what you need to do to move to the next stage.Stage 4 - Adjusting to your new normal. You're redefining yourself and your rules.Stage 5 - Rebirth. Dr. Debi describes how you come through this stage with a new view of yourself and the world. [7:50]Dr. Debi shares 3 reasons why someone may not heal from betrayal. [15:32]Post-Betrayal Syndrome is a collection of physical, mental and emotional symptoms specific to betrayal. [17:54]Post-Betrayal Transformation is the state of complete healing after an experience with betrayal. [19:33]You can take an objective quiz, developed by Dr. Debi and her team, to show you where you are in the process of healing. You can’t heal from what you’re not aware of. [21:10]The beauty of betrayal, Dr. Debi says, is that it gives you the opportunity to rebuild something so fabulous that you never would have built had the betrayal not happened. Stacy adds that it’s the opportunity to decide who you're going to be and to start working towards making that happen. [24:51]Healing is a gift to yourself because you love yourself and your family so much that you want to move on. [26:03] “I have yet to see anyone on the planet stronger than a woman who has healed from betrayal,” Dr. Debi says. ResourcesQuiz on Betrayal Find out more about PBT, including certification: Post Betrayal Transformation Institute Dr. Debi Silver’s TED Talk Book: The Unshakable Woman: Four Steps to Rebuilding Your Body, Mind and Life After a Life Crisis Find out more about the Second Opinion program Stacy Francis: Stacy@Stacyfrancis.comPhone: 212-374-9008
Jaime Weiss is an expert matrimonial attorney with Teitler & Teitler LLP in New York. She is well versed in litigation and is focused on helping her clients finish their cases quickly and efficiently. Having majored in Human Development and Family Studies as an undergrad, she brings to her law practice a deep understanding of the psychological drivers that guide how we make decisions, which helps her to discern her clients’ wants and needs and help them move to a happier place in their lives. In her conversation with Stacy Francis in this week’s show, she will share how you can prepare financially for divorce, how you can make the best case for custody, and how you can prevent your information from inadvertently getting into your spouse’s hands.If you’re thinking about getting divorced, Jaime first asks you if you’ve exhausted every option. She feels that lawyers should not push people into a decision they’re not ready for. [6:35]Start arming yourself with the financial information you would need if you think a divorce is imminent. Get copies of records, your tax returns, your bank statements and credit cards. Ask yourself, What is my spending rate? What is my budget? How much income do I expect to earn after the divorce? Do I know what my spouse earns? What records can I get about that? [7:41]Be careful about what you say or write to your spouse. In custody matters your words may be used against you. The courts focus a lot these days on your ability to co-parent, so try to communicate with your spouse in a healthy way. Ask yourself, would I feel comfortable if this piece of communication were to come before a judge? [8:55]Stacy asks how women can get access to financial information that may be withheld by their spouse. Jaime describes four ways you can get the information you need:Look around the house for financial documents. You can request your tax returns from your accountant;Your lawyer can subpoena the documents;During the deposition, your lawyer can ask questions that may uncover financial information. [17:58]When a client is going through the divorce process, Stacy says it’s her job to make them as comfortable and as prepared as possible. She reminds them that she will be with them during the entire process. She also lets them know that when they get back their transcript after a deposition, they can correct any errors that they inadvertently made. This helps dampen any fear or anxiety they may feel about the process. [26:17]Stacy asks Jaime to share a story about a successful divorce case. [33:00]You need to be mindful of how you use technology when you're embarking on a divorce. Your spouse may be privy to your emails and texts if you're on the same iCloud account. [38:53] Resources Teitler & Teitler LLP Jaime’s email: jlweiss@teitler.com Phone: 221-930-3607 Articles Separate vs marital property Protect Yourself via Technology How to Prepare Financially for Divorce Learn more about the Second Opinion Program
Contact Stacy Francis: Stacy@Stacyfrancis.com212-374-9008
Rosalind Sedacca is a consultant with decades of experience in helping couples protect their children before, during and after divorce. She talks with host Stacy Francis about how to do divorce right when you have children. She discusses the 6 keys to tell your kids about your impending divorce in the right way, and how to avoid the common mistakes couples make during divorce.Rosalind's son was 11 years old when she divorced. She remembers being very concerned about his emotional well-being so she came up with a unique way to break the news to him. Her process worked: her son was in his early twenties when he said thanks to her for how she helped him. This made her realize that she could share her approach with other parents. She founded the Child-Centered Divorce Network and became a divorce & parenting coach. She also wrote her signature book, How Do I Tell the Kids About the Divorce? [3:15]The D- word (divorce) is a huge, frightening thing for children of any age. [5:41]Divorcing couples can tell their kids about their divorce by creating a picture book of cherished family memories, and sharing these key messages:They are never at fault no matter what's going on;This is about change, not about blame;We will always be a family, but now we will be living in separate houses;We will always be your parents, and we will always love you;You are and will always be safe;Things will work out ok. [7:00]Parents are prone to making mistakes when talking about divorce with their children because when they get emotional and contentious with one another, they may inadvertently do and say things that are hurtful to children. Rosalind says that there are ways of addressing all the challenges of divorce in a way that protects and supports children as they grow. [10:50]Rosalind shares how to avoid the common mistakes parents make during and after divorce when they're co-parenting. The biggest mistake of all, she emphasizes, is using your child as your confidante. When you confide in your child, you are making them privy to adult information they have no business knowing. Their young brains cannot handle this kind of information; moreover, they are helpless to change anything. They can never again be the carefree, happy children they were before they had this adult information. You are, in effect, robbing them of their childhood. [11:43]To this day Stacy remembers a mistake her mom made 30 years ago. Stacy felt like the world just stopped at that moment. [16:59]Conscious, caring parents protect their children's well-being during a divorce. They must also choose conscious, caring professionals who are family-oriented because these professionals are going to have a big influence on them. Divorce as a parent goes on for the rest of your life. [20:00] Ask yourself, do I love my children more than I hate my ex? You are role models to your children. They are watching and learning from what you do: your example shows them how to handle challenges in life, and how to move through and be successful. [25:04] ResourcesFind a directory of tools and resources at ChildCenteredDivorce.com Book: How Do I Tell the Kids About the Divorce? Contact Stacy FrancisStacy@Stacyfrancis.com212-374-9008
April Katz Israeli is my honored guest on today’s podcast. She is a celebrated matrimonial attorney at Williams Law Group, with over 25 years experience. She brings an interesting point of view to our show, seeing that she represented herself in her own divorce. She will share tips on how to keep the cost of your divorce as low as possible if you are going pro se, as well as how she got over her fear of divorce and how you can get through it too. April helped her husband find a suitable divorce attorney. She had worked with almost all the local attorneys so she knew it would be hard for him to find a lawyer as there would be a conflict with almost anyone he chose. She found him a good local attorney to keep everything above board and equitable so she could move on with her life. [4:10]It’s very difficult to maintain your objectivity and keep your cool as an attorney when it's your own divorce and you're a very upset spouse with all the associated emotions. April says her divorce started off smoothly but then got ugly. [5:20]Sometimes couples think they can work issues out themselves and come up with a suitable divorce agreement. They don’t go to a lawyer to save money. The problem is that issues come up in the future which they didn’t anticipate and have to seek litigation to deal with. They now find themselves spending money to fix what should have been done in the first place. [8:06]April shares how a mediator can be a cost-effective alternative to having separate divorce attorneys. [8:43]It's important to discuss deep issues and come to an agreement prior to marriage.This can help you avoid many problems in the future. [14:44]Relationships break down for many reasons. Some common issues are financial struggles and infidelity. When April works with couples her main focus is not so much the couple’s relationship issues but what’s best for the children. This is the court’s focus as well. [16:51]April started thinking about leaving her husband very early in her marriage. She reveals why she stayed for 23 years and what made her finally get over her fear and get a divorce. She comments that her divorce was the healthiest thing she did for herself. [22:02]If you're hearing your inner voice say that something is wrong, trust your instincts. Don't be embarrassed to talk to someone you trust about what steps to take. It's very unhealthy to internalize that voice because it will eventually manifest itself through physical illness or depression. If you feel divorce is the right decision, take the steps to give yourself that opportunity. [32:20] What you need to know about divorceIf you’re thinking about or going through divorce, download our free guide that unveils the financial challenges that women face during, and after divorce. Francisfinancial.com/divorce Contact Stacy Francis Stacy@Stacyfrancis.com 212-374-9008 April Katz Israeli info@williamslawgroup.com Resources Williams Law Group908-810-1083
Most women don't like to admit they need help. We often don't even know what to ask for help with. It is a fact, however, that people going through a divorce need extra support, be it emotional support or with the administrative tasks that go along with a divorce. Today's guest, Katie Lynch, is going to help us navigate this issue. Katie is the founder of Apiary Consulting, a bespoke divorce consultancy that coaches senior executives going through a divorce.Katie shares the interesting story of how she became a divorce consultant. [2:50]During and after a divorce, a woman is more dependent on her income. Stacy asks what women can do to tailor their lives to impact their careers as little as possible. Katie replies that divorce is overwhelming. Your decision-making abilities are going to be impacted because of the reduced level of sleep and the elevated levels of anxiety you are experiencing. You need an extra person to help you monitor yourself and ensure that you're not letting this stressful time have a negative effect on your professional life. [5:53]The first thing Katie does for her clients is to help them get organized. She helps them to package their case with the relevant financial and factual information so that the legal or financial professional can give them advice right away. Most importantly, she helps them find the right lawyer so that they can avoid ending up in a contentious divorce process. [9:21]Professional women going through a divorce are not typically given the same understanding or compassion as a woman who recently lost a spouse. Stacy asks Katie how a woman can approach the subject of her divorce with colleagues or managers in a way that preserves her job and her credibility as a successful professional. [12:50]Personal and professional lives cannot be separated. They are completely intertwined. Most companies try to help by providing things that make you happier rather than dealing with things when you're stressed. [15:05]Be more open and honest about what you are going through. Tell HR or management what is happening, that you're getting support, and how much time you're going to have to take off work. Trying to keep things under your hat is going to create more stress for you; you may be surprised that they actually may support you more than you think. [15:58]Don’t try to do it all. Recognize that this period of intense stress is only temporary. Take a step back and get the help you need. Try to be as happy as you can during this very difficult time. [19:48]Katie explains the bespoke service that she offers to clients. She describes a useful piece of software that helps you to organize your life during a divorce. [23:46]Stacy implores listeners to invest in themselves by seeking the help they need. She advises you to contact Katie if you need the service she provides. If you have questions about the financial end of divorce, you can reach out to Francis Financial. They can help you make decisions with confidence, knowing that your future is secure in the short and long term. [32:22]What you need to know about divorce
If you’re thinking about or going through divorce, download our free guide that unveils the financial challenges that women face during, and after divorce. Francisfinancial.com/divorce Contact
Stacy FrancisStacy@Stacyfrancis.com212-374-9008 Katie Lynchkatielynch@apiaryconsulting.com Resources Apiary Consulting Dtour.life Francis Financial Option B by Sheryl Sandberg
Can you imagine your divorce being written about in the national tabloids? Today’s guest on the show is celebrity divorce lawyer Laura Wasser, who helps her clients navigate through that every day. Her clients include Kim Kardashian, Ryan Reynolds, Angelina Jolie, Stevie Wonder, Maria Shriver and more. She has been named one of the best lawyers in America, and she is passionate about making divorce something that people can understand, work through and afford more easily.Laura talks about how she got into the Matrimonial Law field. There was a strong family precedent for going into legal practice, and almost despite herself, Laura ended up going to Law school and working with her father at his family law practice. She discovered that she loves learning about the people and industries she worked with at the firm. [02:20]Laura talks about the level of trust and the code of honor required to work with celebrities. She grew to understand that no one knows what's best for a family better than the family themselves. [05:30]Stacy asks Laura why it’s so common for women in relationships not to have an intimate understanding of the family finances. This is changing, but historically, there hasn’t been an equal division of earnings and financial management. It’s stressful, complicated and not fun - so often, letting someone else ‘take care of it’ is appealing. Laura points out that even when women are the major breadwinners, that’s no guarantee they’ll be the main financial manager of the household. [07:00]Divorce is often a big financial wakeup call for the person in the relationship who isn’t involved in the finances. Laura talks about what a shock it can be when you don't know the details of your income and expenses, especially when there is a public expectation that you’ll live a certain lifestyle. [10:30]What steps should you be taking before you’re married, or while you’re happily married to prevent shocks and pain down the road? Laura gives some strategies for how to protect yourself in the future, no matter what happens. [14:00]Stacy notes that the biggest fights couples have revolved around money - and when a relationship is ending or changing, that can be magnified. She asks Laura about the innovative way she is approaching divorce negotiations. This is a massive departure from traditional divorce and brings a lot of support and education to the table. [17:30]Laura talks about who is a good candidate for online divorce - it’s not everyone, but it is making things easier and more affordable for thousands of people. [21:30]Stacy and Laura talk about the benefits of community when you’re going through a divorce - having other people going through the same thing can be invaluable, and Laura talks about her book, website, and podcast - all designed to help people work through this difficult process. [26:00] ResourcesBook: It Doesn’t Have to be That WayWebsite: It’s Over EasyPodcast: Divorce Sucks ContactStacy Francis: Stacy@francisfinancial.com // 212-374-9008Laura Wasser: Instagram: @LauraWasserOfficial // Wasser Cooperman and Mandles
Today’s topic is very important and one that a lot of us avoid as much as possible.W e’re talking about taxes - and specifically, the tax law changes that you absolutely need to know. This is going to be interesting, and important. We promise! Stacy Francis talks with Matthew Feigin, a Matrimonial Law group partner at Katsky Korins, who used to work for the Mayor of NYC Michael Bloomberg. Matthew is, as his son describes: “A lawyer who helps people share things.”Matthew shares the rather surprising story of how he came to be practicing the specific type of tax law that he does, and how he ended up in the Mayor's Office. [2:12]When a family with children is separating, it’s important to make sure there is consistency between the different homes that children will be living in. Tax plays an interesting role in making this possible, and recent changes in the tax law mean that the obligations different parties have changed. [4:00]The new laws sound really good on their face, but the upshot of the change in who pays what kind of taxes is that the payers of alimony are now incentivized to provide less money. Matthew and Stacy discuss the new complexities (and political implications!) divorced families find themselves dealing with. [08:00]Stacy mentions that even financial planning softwares don't account for all of these complexities. Matthew provides some insight into how lawyers are handling the implications of different tax brackets. Because it’s a new framework, both the legal and financial services professions are having to adapt - and the news isn’t traveling as fast as anyone would like! [12:25]Settlement agreements can be unwieldy documents, where a dollar doesn’t always equal a dollar. Matthew talks about some of the situations where what is on paper doesn’t match up with what is in your bank account, and how to navigate these differences. [17:20]Stacy brings up some of the practical implications of varying tax situations, and how the different rates at which your assets are taxed have a major impact on your planning for your future. It’s important to look carefully at the vehicles your assets are stored in, so if you do have to split savings and assets, you know the implications of how that division will work in the future. [20:00]There are tax issues to consider when you’re thinking about how to take care of your children during and especially after a divorce. Matthew explains the specific taxes that will affect them and provides some pointers on the kinds of situations that can cause problems. [25:00]Matthew describes the unique elements of his practice, where he practices something called ConsensUS Mediation. This is a powerful, efficient and compassionate way of developing settlement agreements. These agreements often have more power than the courts when it comes to making provisions for your children. [28:00] Contact Stacy Francis Stacy@francisfinancial.com 212-374-9008Matthew Feigin Katskykorins.com212-716-3259
On this week’s episode of Financially Ever After, Stacy Francis has a fascinating conversation with Micki McWade, a clinical social worker and psychotherapist, whose primary work is with people contemplating or going through a divorce. She and Stacy discuss how to move on with your life - financially, professionally and emotionally after a divorce. Micki talks about her journey into social work and psychotherapy - it was never her original plan, but after an enriching experience with Al-Anon - she re-evaluated her life and decided to help other people recover from difficult life events. [02:50]Al-Anon has been a successful program since the 1930s, and Micki shares how learning to give up control over what isn’t controllable, let her focus on building her own personal foundation - she translates this into her current work for her current clients. [05:00]Looking back at the time after her divorce, Micki is proud of her accomplishments, and how her children saw her take control of her life, and what was happening for their family. Refusing to take on the victim role let Mick invest in her own power. SUNY Empire State College was an invaluable resource, providing the flexibility to get a degree that launched a new career. [09:30]Micki uses the 12-step framework to serve her clients - the tools, collaborative processes and opportunities for self-development help families move forward after major changes. She describes her role in these groups, and what an impact they can make. Collaborative divorce and mediation are always the best way forward if they are at all possible. [14:20]Stacy brings up that many women fear that going back to work or re-training will negatively affect their settlement. Micki talks about how this tends to play out, and what women should be aware of and plan for when they’re thinking about their financial future. [18:00]Micki found she was energized by working with people going through a divorce in a non-professional capacity. For everyone, listening to that cue, and going through the doors that open because of it helps show you what you should be doing. Stacy adds a story of someone who was able to achieve more than she had ever imagined by taking a chance and using her network. She discusses how other women can do the same. [22:50] There are a lot of feelings around your ex starting to date, or getting married, and likewise when deciding you are ready to start seeing people again. It’s hard to come back from divorce emotionally, and Micki recommends finding a support group of other people going through the same thing. Giving back to and helping others will always make you feel better, and connection is the most important thing you can create for yourself. [26:00]At a certain point you will need to have a conversation about who you, and who your ex is dating - and managing that can be intimidating. You should be very certain of a new person in your life before you bring them around your family. Stacy draws a parallel with how Francis Financial has a lengthy ‘get to know you’ process for new team members. [30:00]Micki shares some very excellent advice she was given while she was going through her divorce - a guiding principle she was able to use while a lot of different decisions had to be made. [34:00] ResourcesSUNY Empire State College |TheDivorceCoach.com - book a complimentary call if you have any questions. | MickiMcWade.com | Complimentary Second Opinion Call from Francis Financial ContactStacy FrancisStacy@francisfinancial.com212-374-9008 Micki McWademmcwade@mac.com
Today’s guest on the Financially Ever After Podcast is Robyn Mann, a matrimonial attorney and mediator who comes to her practice with a deep experience of and respect for the impacts divorce can have on a family - and what to prioritize in terms of mitigating them. Stacy and Robyn discuss the financial aspects of a divorce, as well as who needs what kind of care, and how to make sure as many needs are being met as possible. Divorce Affects the Whole Family Robyn understands the impact of divorce on children – and mediates from that perspective.In experiencing different kids of divorce, from different perspectives – a child and an adult going through the process, Robyn learned what really matters for a family going through this process, and how to prioritize the whole family through what is often a difficult time. Robyn believes that the majority of the upheaval that happens during a divorce should be on the shoulders of the parents, and nesting is one way to do that. This means the children situation in their home, and having the parents take turns being the primary caregiver in that house - it’s more challenging for the parents but keeps the stresses where they belong and makes it easier for children to adjust to their changing family. When Robyn was ending her marriage, she also walked away financially from the law firm she shared with her ex-husband – she ended up working as a waitress while she regained her footing. This is something many women will recognize: making the choices that must be made to move forward. What does it mean to be house-poor? This is a common situation that couples and individuals find themselves in – especially those who had a great deal invested in property during the 2008 recession. As a Real Estate Attorney, Robyn knew the bubble was going to burst but was unable to prevent a huge personal loss. She shares what it was like to know it was coming - but not be able to stop it. Asking for Help In building her own business, and later legal practice, Robyn learned many things – and the most valuable of them was asking for help. This is a skill many women aren’t encouraged to develop - but that can make a huge difference in times of stress. Stacy and Robyn talk about the widely believed but completely false myth that looking after your own finances requires a huge amount of specialized knowledge. It just takes time and attention. If you need a better understanding of your finances - you should do everything in your power to get it. Robyn believes that women should give themselves the education, information, and confidence they need to speak on equal terms with their spouses about their financial situation. Even if it is only to know for yourself that you understand and can make decisions about what is happening in your financial life. Robyn strongly recommends the one thing that over 60% of women experiencing divorce say they want but don’t have: access to mental health care. Women often put themselves at the bottom of the totem pole in terms of self-care and support, but to have the best possible result for yourself and your family, self-care is critical. Contact Robyn Mann https://kenjewell-law.com/ robyn.mann@kjlaw.netP: (718) 316-2219 Contact Stacy Francis Stacy@francisfinancial.com212-374-9008 Resources Family Kind https://familykind.org/ Grief Out Of Season https://www.amazon.com/Grief-Out-Season-Parents-Divorce/dp/0316363510
Our guest today, Jill Miller, runs a firm that specializes in formulating sophisticated personalized estate plans. What makes her stand out is her expertise isn’t limited to US only client or traditional families only. Jill and her firm help take away the fear surrounding - and the likelihood of - audits. Her clientele range from individuals to highly visible celebrities. When to Update Your Estate Plan Women often forget that they need to take care of their estate plan while going through a divorce. This includes a will, power of attorney, and health care proxy. Jill advises clients to be very careful while going through the divorce; you can’t make changes that will be in violation of any agreement you have while going through proceedings. Second, as soon as you know it’s okay to make the changes, do it right away. Who Should You Trust? The executor of the will, guardian of your children: who should you trust in these roles as you’re creating or updating your estate plan? For an executor, not only do you want someone who is organized, trustworthy, and good with administrative tasks; ideally, you also want someone who is close to you. They’ll be the one who needs to go into your home, secure your belongings, any pets, and generally pick up the pieces if you pass on. As for the guardian, it’s a huge topic. Many women can’t stand the thought of their ex-spouse gaining full custody of their children, and at the same time, courts don’t like to terminate parental rights. It’s an uphill battle to name a non-parent, but women do have options, and Jill lays out what they are. Naming Beneficiaries While updating your estate plan, it should be part and parcel of any good estate attorney to include naming beneficiaries of IRAs and 401Ks. But did you know you should also be talking to the people you’ve named for various roles in your estate? Jill explains why it’s important to have their agreement, too. An executor is personally liable if they make a mistake, and the same is true of guardianship. A Lesson from Celebrities When Marilyn Monroe passed away, she had a very large estate. In Marilyn’s case, her biggest assets were her IP, like rights to her movies, pictures, and music. Those went directly to people she wanted to have them, but when those people passed on, they went to strangers. His death came as a shock, and Prince was one of the most well-known celebrities in the world who didn’t have a will. There’s no use speculating whether that was an oversight on his part or his advisors, but Jill lays out some options for estate planning for people who prefer to keep their lives - and wishes - private. A living trust is a solution for everyone, not just celebrities. More importantly, it’s not just for the wealthy. Jill shares another story about Philip Seymour Hoffman left his family with a rather large mess and a tax bill that could have been avoided had he updated his estate planning and used a living trust. Jill reminds us that not only do we need solid estate planning; we need advisors who have experience with situations just like our own. Download the free resources on when you should update your own estate planning. This is the document Jill gives to every one of her clients. Contact Jill Miller Jill Miller & Associates, P.C.Educational Videos Francis Financial |Take Control of YOUR Financial Future If you’re ready to take control over your financial future, you’re invited to book a complimentary call with one of our advisors to discuss your options! Fill out the simple form to see if we’re a good fit for you.
What kind of tax aspects do you need to think about when going through a divorce? Today we have Nancy Goldfarb, President of Smart Transition Strategies and a certified financial planner, public accountant, and divorce financial analyst. On this episode, she breaks down what you need to consider to help you make good decisions about your finances during and after the divorce. When to reach out to a CDFA or a CPA: The best time to reach out to a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst or a Certified Public Accountant is as early as possible, even if you’re only just thinking of divorce. Educating and empowering yourself is incredibly important. You want to be able to face your financial challenges, and a CDFA or a CPA can help you develop strategies to enable you to achieve your goals and strengthen your financial security. Lifestyle analysis and marital property: It’s important to go back through one, three, and in some cases, five years of expenses, as well as three years of tax returns, to make sure you receive an equitable and fair distribution of assets in the home. Nancy talks about the importance of having a professional go through the process with you, as they can spot and dissect things the general public might not be able to so things are divided equally. For example: How do you divide low cost basis stocks? And what if the property is in only one of your names? Tailored advice: Women need advice tailored to them. Consider these factors: women live longer in general, we are the first generation of women who have had careers, women are more likely to take time off from the workforce, and statistically, we have likely learned less than men. This transition is a chance to seek financial education, and that is empowering. This allows you to have the knowledge to make decisions for your future. The marital home: The first decision is planning on how to divide or sell the marital residence. There are many options: selling the house and splitting the proceeds, trading off other property, a partial buyout, or even more out-of-the-box solutions, like delaying the sale until the children graduate, or keeping the house and taking turns living there and nesting. The next thing to think about is reviewing the financial aspects of each option. There have been recent tax changes, and a CDFA or a CPA would look at your income and prior tax returns to help you make a decision. They’ll also make sure you don’t get any tax surprises, and will help you plan to have enough deductions to decrease your taxes. The children: Financial professionals are going to look at your children’s expenses as well. How much do you need to save for your children’s college education? Should you commence a 529 plan? How can you manage it so you can afford your child’s current private school education? Social security: Nancy likes to combine social security and retirement planning. There are many factors to think about, for example: Did one spouse stay home to raise the children while the other spouse was working and has built up social security? How long have you been married? Consult your local social security office or specialist for more details, as the rules are changing all the time. Resources: Nancy Goldfarb (LinkedIn) | Smart Transition Strategies
Last week, we talked about financial abuse and gaslighting. On this episode of Financially Ever After, we’re diving deeper into the topic of gaslighting with our guest, Meredith Shirey. Meredith is the founder and practice director of her New York-based private practice, and is a psychotherapist who specializes in relationship issues through couples therapy. Today we’re talking about what gaslighting is, what to do to get yourself out of a gaslighting situation, and how to help someone who may be a victim.
Victoria McCooey was one of the many women who thought she had a husband who loved and idolized her but found herself married to an abusive man who kept her isolated and financially disempowered – questioning her own knowledge and pressuring her into taking on debt while controlling almost every aspect of her life. Victoria saved herself and her children from this situation and has gone on to help hundreds of other women take their power back from abusive, narcissistic partners.
After suffering far too long in an abusive marriage, Sheryl-Anne Sastow finally made the decision to get out of the relationship, only to then be faced with a drawn-out, expensive and emotionally painful divorce litigation. On this episode of Financially Ever After, Sastow shares how her own experience inspired her to become a divorce mediator and collaborative attorney - a role in which she helps divorcing couples resolve their issues and end their marriages peacefully. Among the many insights Sastow shares: How she gets divorcing couples to communicate even when they’re at their angriest, and why the most acrimonious divorces can see the biggest benefits in choosing mediation over litigation. [6:15] Why it is most often women who contact her to inquire about, and initiate the mediation process in their divorces. [14:15]
What the biggest differences are between mediation and litigation divorce processes (hint: one of them will save you time, money and lets you keep your divorce proceedings confidential ). [16:10] Why historically, mediation has been less prevalent than litigation - and why that trend appears to be reversing. [30:35] How to find the best mediator/collaborative attorney to ensure you make the most of all the benefits of mediation. [35:05]Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: (212) 374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com Sheryl Anne Sastow | W: www.sastowlawandmediation.com P: (516)314-6116 E: Sastow@SastowLawandMediation.com Links to Items Mentioned in the Podcast:
Find a mediation attorney or mediator: mediation.com
When journalist and writer, Abby Ellin, learned that the man she had been engaged to had lied to her about everything from being a Navy SEAL to working for the CIA -- and that he had been cheating on her much of the time they’d been together - she had to wonder why her usually strong professional instincts had let her down in her personal life. Abby has since written about her own experiences of romantic betrayal, and those of others -- both the betrayed and the betrayers - compiling her research into a new book, Duped: Double Lives, False Identities, and the Con Man I Almost Married. In this edition of Financially Ever After, Abby shares much of what she has learned about how and why women can be especially vulnerable to romantic, spousal deception, including: Why societal pressure that women be in coupled relationships can make them more likely to ignore or overlook relationship warning signs. [11:05] How scientific studies show it’s harder for people to detect deception when they’re in love. [13:00] Why, when a woman is in a committed relationship (made more complex by financial and familial ties), it is often to her benefit not to “see” the bad or painful things that a partner is doing. [14:45] Why deceptive behavior seems to be everywhere in our culture, and only getting more pervasive. [26:10] Why certain personality types can be more vulnerable to romantic deception; how you can protect yourself against being duped, and where to get support if you’re experiencing - or recovering from, a toxic relationship. [31:40] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: (212) 374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com Abby Ellin | W: www.abbyellin.com Links to Items Mentioned in the Podcast: Duped: Double Lives, False Identities, and the Con Man I Almost Married The White Collar Wives Project: https://thewhitecollarwivesproject.org/about-lisa-lawler/ Institute for Relational Harm Reduction: https://saferelationshipsmagazine.com/ Sexual Assault By Fraud: https://consentawareness.net/author/shortjm/
In this edition of Financially Ever After, Stacy is joined by Patricia Fersch -- founding partner at Fersch Petitti LLC, a matrimonial and family law firm in New York City. Patricia’s background includes successfully completing thousands of cases involving families caught in the turmoil of Family Law conflicts, and she is particularly well-known for handling high-profile clients and resolving complicated legal issues, all involving child custody or divorce-related matters. In this podcast, Patricia shares a number of insights and experiences, including: How her professional journey took her from college dropout, to business owner, to running her own law firm, and how her hard-earned business experiences inform her interactions with clients every day. (4:51) How she can quickly determine the likelihood that a spouse is hiding money. [17:20] How spousal support caps work in New York, why they can be a huge deal for couples in middle income brackets, and what factors can influence a court to waive them. [19:10] Why it’s vital for women to build and maintain security (eg: training, experience, social networks, money) of their own, even within their marriages. [32:48] How shared child custody can be - and often is - manipulated and used to avoid paying child support. [37:50] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: (212) 374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com Patricia Fersch| W: http://pffamilylaw.com/ E: PFersch@pffamilylaw.com Links to items mentioned in this podcast: New York State Child Support Resources http://ww2.nycourts.gov/divorce/childsupport/index.shtml New York State Spousal Support Resources http://ww2.nycourts.gov/divorce/MaintenanceChildSupportTools.shtml
From a frugal upbringing in India, to an almost 15 year-long career working as a stock trader on Wall Street, writer and researcher Nyla has always possessed a strong fluency in the language of money. But when faced with the abrupt endings of both her job and her marriage, Nyla took the opportunity to re-examine her life path, and her relationship with money. In this episode of “Financially Ever After”, Nyla shares some of the insights she has discovered that have helped her unleash her most creative, well-rounded and generative self, including: Why, when it comes to marriage, looking at finances and value creation between two spouses as a zero sum game is not healthy and can prevent you from seeing one another as equal partners. [14:48] Why financial coaching should be an important and lifelong educational process for individuals and couples, alike. [25:30] How a dramatic “life audit” shifted her understanding of the value of money and has led her to now view money as a tool that makes possible incredible opportunities and experiences [37:48] How she has learned to redefine her net worth as a “holy triangle” comprised of: social capital (your network), human capital (yourself) and financial capital [44:10] Why your creative and generative potential is the key to your sense of well-being, and how when that is out of whack, you do a disservice to everyone in your life. [46:40] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: (212) 374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com Links to items mentioned in this podcast: Financial Therapy Association www.financialtherapyassociation.org
On this week’s “Financially Ever After”, Stacy is joined by Laura Israel Sinrod (Senior Staff Attorney) and Rachel Braunstein (Managing Policy Attorney), two powerhouse legal professionals whose work with NYC not-for-profit, Her Justice, helps provide family and matrimonial law assistance to women in poverty, many of whom are survivors of domestic violence. Listen in as Rachel, Laura and Stacy discuss the history of this 25-year-old organization, talk about the unique issues faced by Her Justice’s clients, and share some of the ways the volunteer lawyers of Her Justice support their extremely vulnerable clientele, including: How Her Justice’s unique “Pro-Bono First” model allows training and mentorship for more than 1,800 legal volunteers who are then able to provide services to more than 9,000 women and children (80% of whom are survivors of domestic abuse). [3:45]
The top issues that women in poverty face when going through divorce, including compounding of issues such as financial illiteracy, custody and parenting, and financial isolation. [10:10] How women in poverty face additional collateral consequences of litigation: from lost income to facing an abusive partner. [18:30] Why Her Justice’s lawyers are trained not just in the substance of the legal issues, but also in empowering their clients with knowledge and information and ability to make decisions. [20:10]Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: (212)374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com Laura Israel Sinrod | W: HerJustice.org P: (212)695-3800 Rachel Braunstein | W: HerJustice.org P: (212)695-3800 Links to Items Mentioned in This Podcast:
LawHelp.org
HerJustice.org
Her Justice Legal Information Guidelines
Statement of Net Worth
Their helpline is open on Thursdays from 10am to 1pm and most callers will be able to speak to a lawyer the same day for a free consultation.
From growing up in a home where dysfunctional dynamics around money created a “rollercoaster in the house”, to entering a marriage where the financial roles from her childhood were repeated, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Barbara Bennett knows firsthand the emotional conflicts that can stem from marital money issues. In this week’s episode of “Financially Ever After,” Barbara joins Stacy for a moving and insightful conversation revealing: How a lack of equity around financial knowledge can create a power differential in a marriage and weaken the relationship. [10:10] Why we replay the financial roles we’ve learned in childhood, bringing those imbalances into our adult relationships until we wake up and understand what we’re doing. [12:00] How she faced her fears around money, and worked to become knowledgeable about finances while also pursuing the education that could give her financial self-reliance. [18:45] Why she strongly advises those facing divorce to join a divorce support group. [20:00] How to look for a marriage therapist, and what to do if couples therapy isn’t working. [28:20] Links to Items Mentioned in the Podcast: Internal Family System Therapy https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapy-types/internal-family-systems-therapy 92nd St Y Divorce Recovery Group (new group starts 2/25). https://www.92y.org/class/divorce-support-group FamilyKind.org Stacy Francis | E: stacy@francisfinancial.com P: (212) 374-9008 W: www.francisfinancial.com Barbara Bennett | E: barbara@barbarabennettlmft.com P: (646)389-8020 W: https://www.barbarabennettlmft.com | https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/barbara-bennett-new-york-ny/278399
In this episode of Financially Ever After, Stacy talks with New York “Super Lawyer” Adria Hillman. With a long-standing history practicing corporate and family law, Adria’s client list has included well-known celebrities and entertainers, but her initial and continuing passion around family and divorce law remains helping all people who need help. Listen in as Adria shares insights from her lifetime of experiences helping women empower themselves around financial issues during divorce, including: How celebrity divorces differ from those of average income couples - and why courtroom litigation should be the last resort for any couple hoping to maintain control over proceedings [10:12] Why you need to Face the “Big Three Fears” (Fear of: Finances, Family Dissolution and the Future), but why you don’t need to face them alone! [14:03] Understanding Trusts, Marital Debt, Tax Returns & Credit Cards -- Why these four financial areas can create a financial disaster if you're not aware of them [19:10] Why you should never let the fear of “hidden secrets” keep you from seeking information about the financial unknowns. [32:30] Why she is so driven in her work as a founding member of New York Women's Foundation, and why it’s more important than ever for women to support other women in building wealth. [36:44] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: (212) 374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com Adria Hillman | W: https://adriashillman.com P: (212) 593-5223 E:info@adriashillman.com Links to items mentioned in this podcast: New York Women’s Foundation: https://www.nywf.org/
This week on Financially Ever After, Stacy is joined by New York family and matrimonial law attorney, Carolyn Walsh Parry. After an initial successful legal career in corporate law, the opportunity to participate in a Hague Convention (international child parental abduction) case led to Carolyn’s decision to transition from civil law to family law. Join Stacy and Carolyn in this podcast as they discuss the implications of Hague Convention Treaty on multinational families experiencing divorce, as well as sharing advice for all women who are facing tough decisions during divorce. Among the topics discussed in this episode: How parental abduction of children happens much more frequently than we realize, and how easy it can be for non-custodial parents to take children across international borders. [5:50] What to look for in a divorce lawyer and what to avoid when selecting a divorce attorney (hint: be wary of the “bulldog”). [19:50] How good negotiation skills are just as important in litigation as they are in mediation. [24:20] Where to look for an emotional support system and why everyone who is dealing with a divorce needs one. [30:40] Why, when in the midst of divorce preparation and proceedings, you should behave as though each of your emails, phone calls and actions could be shared with a judge. [31:20] For more information on Carolyn Walsh Parry, and additional resources from this show: Carolyn Walsh Parry | W: www.carolynparrylaw.com P: (917) 797-0713 Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: (212) 374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com Links to items mentioned in this podcast: Information on the Hague Convention/International Child Abduction: https://www.hcch.net/en/instruments/conventions/specialised-sections/child-abduction Francis Financial’s “Unveiling the Unspoken Truth” - Francis Financial’s groundbreaking survey and whitepaper: https://francisfinancial.com/white-paper-confirmation/
Join Stacy in an info-packed conversation with award-winning family and matrimony attorney, Amanda Trigg. Based in New Jersey, Amanda brings years of experience protecting her clients and their families through the complex and challenging process of divorce. In this episode, Amanda details how women who are contemplating divorce can prepare for the possibility of divorce and find the financial information without raising their spouse’s suspicions. Among her insights: • Why you should never panic, but you should “just ask”. [7:20] • What to do when “just asking” doesn’t work - legal ways women can get information about a spouse’s finances. [14:30] • Understanding the grey area between “Awkward” and “Illegal”. [15:50] • What constitutes a reasonable expectation of privacy within the home. [27:00] • What is “safe”/ “legal” to look at when it comes to digital files and online information [27:47] • How valuable credit applications can be when searching for financial information [30:40] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: (212) 374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com Amanda Trigg | W: www.amandatrigg.com E: ast@lmllawyers.com Items mentioned in this podcast (Stacy’s Recommended Readings) 1. The Richest Man in Babylon George S. Clason’s classic book shares the secrets to overcoming your personal financial problems. Read and absorb the inspirational and informative “Babylonian parables” containing stories on thriftiness, financial planning and personal wealth. 2. MONEY Master the Game: 7 Simple Steps to Financial Freedom Tony Robbins has released his first book in two decades. It includes extensive research and interviews with more than 50 renowned financial experts. Use his easy-to-follow, seven-step plan to get your finances in order, create a lifetime income plan and achieve financial freedom. 3. When She Makes More: 10 Rules for Breadwinning Women Do you earn more than your partner? Personal finance expert Farnoosh Torabi explains how women can avoid burnout, infidelity and divorce as the family breadwinners. Check out her 10 rules to achieving personal and professional success. 4. Prince Charming Isn’t Coming: How Women Get Smart About Money, by Barbara Stanny 5. On My Own Two Feet: A Modern Girl’s Guide to Personal Finance, by Manisha Thakor and Sharon Kedar 6. The Debt Escape Plan, by Beverly Harzog 7. Worth It: Your Life, Your Money, Your Terms, by Amanda Steinberg
In this episode of “Financially Ever After”, Stacy talks with Sunny Joy McMillan, a recovering attorney, a practicing master life coach, award winning author, and a radio host. Sunny is also a happy divorcée who, after an incredibly high-conflict marriage, shared an amazing post-divorce friendship with her ex-husband until his passing in 2018. Listen in and learn how Sunny helps her clients use divorce as a catalyst for personal transformation and create a kick-ass new life. Among the insightful information, Sunny shares: How after years in a high-conflict marriage and unfulfilling legal career, she found her life-calling as a life coach. [3:04] How tools like the seemingly simple act of writing a letter can be some of the most empowering exercises in healing relationships and working toward your essential life path. [6:27] How our thinking creates our feelings, and sometimes those thoughts are not in our best interest, or even true. [19:46] How often the answers we seek can be found within, and how we can build our capacity to get in touch with, and listen to our inner wisdom to build the life that will truly make us fulfilled [22:00] 32:08 Why self-love and self-compassion are the foundation for EVERYTHING in building a life of integrity and fulfillment [32:08] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: (212) 374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com Sunny Joy McMillan | W: www.goldenoversoul.com E:sunnyjoy@goldenoversoul.com Links to items mentioned in this podcast: UNHITCHED: Unlock Your Courage and Clarity to Unstick Your Bad Marriage https://unhitchedbook.com “Sunny in Seattle” Radio Program: 1150kknw.com/show/sunny-in-seattle/
In this week’s podcast, Stacy talks with New York Divorce attorney Chaim Steinberger - a passionate believer in “divorce without destruction”, as he shares his unique perspective on how women can find the right lawyer to represent them. Chaim went through his own rather nasty divorce and said to himself, “There’s got to be a better way!” Finding an attorney who truly cares about you, fully understands your story, and is driven to bring you justice is just some of the useful advice Chaim shares during the show. You’ll also learn: Why a win/win,“Game Theory” approach to divorce is preferable to a zero sum game strategy [2:46] The four most important factors women should consider when choosing a divorce attorney [6:53] How there seems to be a disconnect between what women really want from a divorce attorney vs. what attorneys think they want [12:10] Why the best lawyers not only listen to their clients’ divorce stories, but fully understand the subtext of their story. [17:40] Why the single greatest determinant of a case’s outcome is whether or not the lawyer truly believes in their gut of the justice of the case. [24:55] Why good lawyers never lie, but great lawyers are masters of spin control who expertly weave together the facts to create a compelling case. [27:40] Links to items mentioned in this podcast: Article - “Divorce without Destruction”https://thenewyorkdivorcelawyers.com/divorce-without-destruction/ Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: (212) 374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com Chaim Steinberger | W: www.thenewyorkdivorcelawyers.com P: (212) 964-6100 E: admin@tnydl.com
This week on Financially Ever After, Stacy is joined by “The Divorcierge,” Karen Bigman. Karen’s background includes both an M.B.A. and Divorce and Life Coach training, making her a powerful source of practical and tactical divorce advice. In addition, Karen also brings personal pre- and post- divorce experience to her work. In this conversation, she shares lessons learned in working with the wrong financial advisor, and how women facing divorce can find the right financial advisor for them. Some of the highlights Karen offers include: The clues that her financial advisor didn’t understand her lifestyle and her plans for her financial future, and wasn’t really hearing her. [7:20] How a lack of transparency around fees, taxes and portfolio makeup affected her income expectations. [10:55] The importance of asking the right questions when interviewing a financial advisor (see link below for a list of questions provided by Francis Financial) [17:05] Why choosing your advisor based solely on a friend’s recommendation can be a bad idea.. [27:40] The surprisingly emotional process of moving to a new advisor, and how rewarding it was in the end. [30:08] For more information on Karen, and additional resources from this show: Karen Bigman | W: thedivorcierge.com P: (646) 612-7800 E: Info@TheDivorcierge.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: (212) 374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com Links to items mentioned in this podcast: Questions to ask a financial advisor: https://francisfinancial.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Questions-to-Ask-a-Potential-Advisor.pdf
Managing Money Emotions and Money Behaviors with Master Money Coach, Carrie Rattle In this week’s episode, Stacy talks with CEO & Founder of Behavioral Cents, Carrie Rattle. As a Master Money Coach for professional women, Carrie is living her passion to empower women with the skills and knowledge to save and build wealth. As she so brilliantly states it, “With wealth, women gain an equal vote in the world, build security and control and have choices about how they want to live.” Listen in as Carrie shares some incredible insights regarding the deep and complex relationship between emotions and money behaviors, and learn: How Carrie’s work as a money coach differs from that of a financial adviser: Dealing with the money emotions that drive money behaviors [4:50] Why so many professional women are earning real money but are not acquiring real wealth (hint: It’s not their fault!), and how so many layers of societal “stuff” get between women and money. [9:00] How being “selfish” with money is an act of self-care. [14:30] Why taking the time to fill out a happiness chart is the first, and possibly the most important step on the road to financial empowerment, and how comparison destroys joy [18:19] And more! Links to items mentioned in this podcast: Receive your free money profile here: http://www.behavioralcents.com/my-money-behaviors/ Download your free happiness chart here: http://info.behavioralcents.com/happiness-chart Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: (212) 374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com Carrie Rattle | W: http://www.behavioralcents.com P: (914) 923-6081 E: CarrieRattle@BehavioralCents.com
Matrimonial attorneys, Linda Decorato and Bryan Goldstein, share the top tips you need to know to get on top of your financial picture, without arousing the suspicion of your husband, before you file for divorce and while you are still under the same roof. Linda and Bryan tell real-life stories of women who went from being financially clueless to financially smart, making great decisions that led to their long-term financial security. In this episode, you will learn: How to cope with emotional pain, and realize it is not permanent (6:34) Why it’s better for your children to see strong mothers who make the decision to leave an unhealthy relationship (12:00) The difference between going through divorce when you’re involved and not involved in your finances (15:10) Why you need to be financially aware, so his debts and his fraud don’t become yours (17:45) How to protect yourself, as a non-working woman, with your own account and build your savings (20:00) When the innocent spouse rule doesn’t apply (24:45) If it’s smart to inflate your expenses on your statement of net worth (SNW) (28:00) What is “stockpiling syndrome” and what expenses are most often questioned (34:15) Where to find experienced professionals at any price point (39:51) Linda Decorato | W: www.dcsf.com P: 212-742-8700 E: decorato@dcsf.com Bryan Goldstein | W: www.dcsf.com P: 212-742-8700 E: Goldstein@dcsf.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: (212) 374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, Stacy is joined by Sallie Mullins Thompson, a CPA who has been through the divorce process, herself. Sallie focuses on the importance of being financially independent for a healthy marriage, as well as for a healthy divorce, should it come to that. Becoming financially independent, like coming to the decision to end one’s marriage, is not a transition that happens overnight - both require a tremendous amount of time and preparation, financially and emotionally. In this episode, you will hear about: How Sallie realized the importance of being financially independent (03:21)Her process of becoming aware of spending and educating herself in finance (05:52)Planning the transition to divorce (08:46)How Sallie overcame the fear of leaving her marriage (15:44)Tips to become financially independent, and when to work with a financial advisor (21:22)Resources for experienced CDFAs Sallie Thompson | W: www.smtcpapllc.com P: (212) 243-9126 E: smt@wt.net Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: (212) 374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, Stacy is joined by divorce and family mediator, Rachel Green. Rachel focusses on the importance of communication not only for a happy marriage, but also for a happy divorce. Mediation is a process for resolving disputes by which an independent mediator assists the parties in reaching a mutually satisfactory settlement. It is an extension of the parties’ own negotiations and is sometimes referred to as a "supercharged negotiation." In this episode, you will gain insight on: Couples who lack communication in the mediation process (05:00) incorporating your attorney in mediation (16:39) Three ways to know if mediation is right for you (19:44) How Rachel mediates cases when one of the spouses has been a victim of domestic violence (23:52) What ‘Shuttle diplomacy’ means (28:33) Some of the mistakes Rachel sees women make as they go through the divorce process (34:48) Rachel Green | W: www.mediate2resolution.com/ P: 718- 965-9236 E: Rachel@mediate2resolution.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, Stacy is joined by the financial editor of NBC’s TODAY show, owner of DailyWorth, AARP’s personal finance ambassador and host of the podcast HerMoney, Jean Chatzky. In this episode, Stacy dives deeper into Jean’s book, ‘Age Proof’ to focus on the importance of what women can do to achieve both financial independence and biological strength to get you there. In this episode, you will receive answers to the following questions: As a financial expert, did Jean deal with all the finances in her marriage? What are her top tips? – (05:26) How does Jean pick the best investments and manage her finances? (12:05) What is the link between health and wealth? Jean explains how you can secure both. (14:20) What is a Health Savings Account? Do you need one? (17:58) What are the best options for health insurance plans for newly divorced women? (23:34) What are some words of wisdom for divorced women who want to stay financially and physically fit? (28:23) Sign up for Daily Worth’s Newsletter, helping women earn more, save more and spend smarter: subscribe@dailyworth.com. Subscribe to Jean’s Podcast, ‘HerMoney’ – Making money make sense Order Jean’s Book ‘Age Proof’ – Live longer without running out of money or breaking a hip Jean Chatzky | W: www.jeanchatzky.com P: 914- 260-0610E: jsc@jeanchatzky.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, Stacy is joined by experienced seasoned litigator and matrimonial attorney, Richard Adago. Gray divorces have become increasingly common and Richard has come across numerous cases, both amicable and uncordial. In this episode, Richard provides an insight into the legal aspects of how to deal with an unexpected broken marriage and specifically when adult children are involved. In this episode you will gain insight on: Why there is an increase in gray divorces (03:00) How a gray divorce is different to a younger couple getting divorced (07:31) Client stories about being financially in the dark (09:38) What is not allowed in a marriage when fishing for financial information (15:37) Tips on how to legally disclose your husband’s financial information (17:58) What Richard’s financial story is (19:32) When mediation is the right route to take (26:19) When interviewing lawyers, how to know who is going to protect you from yourself (30:27) Richard Adago | W: www.phillipsnizer.com/ P: 212-841-0541 E:radago@phillipsnizer.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, Stacy is joined by Michelle Lisa Anderson, speaker, Author and CCO of movement ‘Love over Addiction.’ Michelle shares her personal story of divorcing a man who suffered from drug and alcohol addiction. She also opens up about the details behind her dysfunctional marriage, which she kept hidden, and how she opened the door to happiness. She emphasizes the importance of loving ourselves for the people we are today and not the people we are trying to become tomorrow. In this episode you will gain insight on: How to support a friend or family member who is going through a dysfunctional marriage (07:43) Why we so frequently pursue those who can't love us in the way we need (12:04) How to prevent this from this happening again (18:42) How to know when to leave (22:44) How to know whether your situation is ‘normal’ (29:29) Where to receive emotional support during a transition (34:04) Those interested in receiving Michelle’s Free 12 Tips Every Woman & Mother Need to Know When Loving Someone Who Drinks Too Much or Suffers From Substance Abuse can visit: http://loveoveraddiction.com/stacy and enter your email address. The freebie will be emailed to you. Michelle Anderson | W: LoveOverAddiction.com E: Info@LoveOverAddiction.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, Stacy is joined by Certified Divorce Financial Analyst®, and budget coach, Michelle Jacobik. Her financial solutions and support programs have helped numerous women rebuild their financial life before, during and after divorce. In this episode, Michelle provides an insight into being financially prepared for such a drastic transition and what to avoid during this difficult time from both a personal and professional aspect of divorce. In this episode, you will gain insight into: What a budget coach does (4:11)How Michelle got into the budgeting industry (7:04)What financial consistency means (9:49)How Michelle brought stability to her finances (14:30)What prosperity after divorce means (20:06)What tools make budgeting and recording your spending easier (22:30)Useful resources for budgeting (28:19) How to prepare yourself for your post-divorce financial situation (33:00)· Michelle Jacobik | W: https://michellejacobik.com/ P: 860-334-1351 E: michelle@michellejacobik.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week Stacy is joined by Christine Barranca, who shares her courageous divorce story. Christine was in the middle of an unhealthy marriage, and at the same time she was also dealing with a career change, and battling cancer. Stacy and Christine discuss the challenges of feeling trapped in a marriage, and how she ultimately succeeded in leaving. Christine is now thriving, and enjoys spending time with her son's family, friends, reading historical novels, mentoring junior agents in her real estate work, and supporting and guiding women diagnosed with breast cancer. In this episode, you will hear answers to the following: What were some changes during and after the divorce? (2:56) How did you gain the courage to say “this is not how I want to continue living my life?” (4:24) How did you keep a strong bond with your children throughout this process? (9:50) How was your life going to change financially? (12:17) What did you do when he withdrew all the money from the joint accounts? (16:59) How did you know the right lawyer to choose? (19:00) Options for staying in your neighbourhood post-divorce when you realized it could be very expensive? (24:19) How do you pick the right real estate agent? (29:25) Stacy Francis | P: 212-374-9008 | E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com | W: www.francisfinancial.com Christine Barranca | P: 646.461.8477 | E: cbarranca@compass.com
This week, Stacy is joined by Kathleen Burns Kingsbury, a wealth psychology expert, founder of KBK Wealth Connection, host of the Breaking Money Silence® podcast, and an internationally published author and speaker. In this episode, Kathleen highlights how important it is to have regular financial conversations with your partner and that research has shown it increases intimacy in relationships. Kathleen holds an interest in financial psychology, background in banking and drive to empower people to take control of their financial lives. This episode is filled with insightful secrets on how to make good financial decisions when going through divorce. You will gain insight on: What gave Kathleen the courage to not make the money conversation taboo (03:38) The difference between men talking/not talking about money compared to women (05:37) If finances have anything to do with the fact that 50% of first marriages end in divorce (06:58) Why couples try to hide finances from their spouse (08:16) What happens when one person is overpowered in a meeting with their financial planner (11:09) How to best manage your money relationship according to your generation, age and background (16:35) Top tips for women going through divorce to make sure they have the right mindset to make good financial decisions (27:26) Kathleen Burns Kingsbury | W: www.kbkwealthconnection.com P: 617-773-2344 E: kbk@kbkwealthconnection.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, Stacy is joined by matrimonial attorneys and Certified Divorce Financial Analysts, Lisa Zeiderman and Faith Miller. It was their own difficult divorces that their path to a career in matrimonial law was forged. They recognize that organization, responsiveness and knowledge of complex finances is necessary in order to best advocate for their clients. In this episode, Stacy, Lisa and Faith focus on the financial, real estate and emotional assistance a matrimonial attorney provides. You will gain insight on: Postponing getting divorced until a maintenance alimony is not taxable to you (05:07) Poor financial mistakes being made regardless of guidance (07:56) Reassuring your child in a non-expensive way (11:40) What not to put in your joint account (15:54) The difference between passive appreciation and active appreciation (19:42) How finances are different from your parents’ generation (23:25) Prenups and Postnups (42:05) Lisa Zeiderman | W: https://mzwnylaw.com/ P: 212-324-3707 E: LZ@MZW-LAW.COM Faith Miller | W: https://mzwnylaw.com/ P: 212-324-3707 E: fgm@mzw-law.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, Stacy is joined by Joy Loverde, a consultant on active aging and the elder-care industry. She’s the author of, “Who Will Take Care of Me When I’m Old” and “The Complete Eldercare Planner.” It’s important to think about what you can be doing to age as active and happy as possible. In this episode, Joy highlights how important it is to have an insurance policy that will allow you to remain independent. In order to support family, women are constantly putting their own financial well-being in jeopardy. What you may fail to realize is if you can’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to take care of those dependent on you. You will gain insight on: What to put in a long-term plan (05:18) Medicare (05:55) Insurance policies for long-term care and what isn’t covered in Medicare (12:20) Spousal discount on your long-term care (12:20) Community and Caring (16:55) Joy Loverde | W: www.elderindustry.com E: jloverde@elderindustry.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week Stacy is joined by successful business woman, Jenny Powers. Jenny married her childhood sweetheart and then found herself filing for divorce, mainly due to issues around money. When Jenny’s divorce attorney asked her basic questions related to her financial situation and she realized she couldn’t answer them, she decided things needed to change. Jenny is someone who has learned from her mistakes and is now happily re-married and having smart money conversations with her husband. In this episode, Stacy and Jenny will share helpful tips on how to have the money conversation with your partner. Jenny shares her insight on all of the below questions: Do you feel like your ex-husband had a handle on the household finances? (04:34) Do you feel that the lack of conversation about money led to your decision about the divorce? (06:29) How long did your divorce take? (08:46) How did you choose a lawyer? (11:12) How did you manage to support yourself afterwards? (12:36) What did you take away from your marriage regarding finances? (15:33) What is your strategy in your new marriage? (21:08) Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com Jenny Powers | W: http://www.running-with-heels.com/
Nationally recognized transitional life strategist, author, keynote, and reinvention expert, Randi Levin joins Stacy this week on Financially Ever After. Randi’s core belief is that women have the choice and the power to carve out and curate their own legacy based on embracing their ongoing evolution. This inspiring episode is for individuals who are going through a major life transition and are struggling with how to navigate it. Stacy and Randi stress how “Now” is the time to start your new chapter with no regrets, especially if you find yourself sacrificing the things you enjoy for the sake of others. You will gain insight on: ü How you can stand up and take care of yourself first (10:05) ü How to own your past and not feel like it needs to be erased (13:14) ü How to move forward in your life with more courage and less fear (16:25) ü The blocks that hold you back when contemplating divorce (23:38) We guarantee you will leave this podcast episode feeling fulfilled and empowered. Visit Randi’s website for upcoming workshops and more information on tools to help you navigate difficult life transitions. Randi Levin | W: www.randilevincoaching.com P: 201-803-1333 E: Randi@randilevincoaching.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week Stacy is joined by successful business woman, Lara Kisielewska. You will gain insight on a whole new, cheaper and quicker approach to divorce. Do It Yourself (DYI) is a technique that eliminates the need to hire outside professionals, making the process extremely cost-effective. Lara met her current husband on a volunteer trip and highly recommends volunteer based travel as one of the best things you can do when you find yourself in a rut. She claims, “you may not find a husband, but you're definitely going to break your patterns, get a new perspective and heal in some ways large and small.” In this episode, we will focus on: ü When you should use a DIY approach (04:42) ü Where to get a DIY guidebook (11:16) ü Who is the DIY approach most suitable for? (12:45) ü How does having children impact this decision? (18:34) ü Tips and tricks when going through divorce (29:55) Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, Stacy is joined by attorney, social worker, and founder of DLM Divorce Mediation, Debra Mechanick. Debra clearly understands the clinical dynamic of family relationships, and will advise you on how to take a peaceful approach to separation and divorce. How does one make well-reasoned, logical financial decisions when in the midst of what, arguably, is one of the most emotionally-traumatic experiences a family can go through? In this episode, Stacy and Debra will provide you with tools for approaching the divorce process by separating emotions from rational decisions. You will gain insight on: Three big mistakes women make when rushing through the divorce process (6:29)Understanding new laws (12:31)How to separate emotions from the decision-making process (19:18)Techniques for avoiding unhealthy communication that may influence negotiation (23:10)How to compartmentalize the divorce process into 3 components (28:32)Taking care of yourself (36:41)Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E:stacy@francisfinancial.com Debra Mechanick | W: http://www.dlmdivorcemediation.com/ P: (646) 428-5151 E: debra@dlmdivorcemediation.com
Mali List Mayer, a single mother and solopreneur, who has launched her life independently, joins Stacy this week. Mali hones in on the importance of educating yourself financially from a young age. From learning how to budget to choosing the right adviser for you. Stacy and Mali provides savvy tips to get on top of your investments and not rely on your other half for help. In this episode, you will gain insight on: Educating yourself on financial terminology and concepts – 8:17 Choosing the right portfolio and adviser for you – 11:32 Approaching your adviser in the most effective way – 15:23 Understanding how advisers charge – 21:50 Teaching the next generation about your values of money – 28:17 Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week Stacy is joined by psychiatrist and author of Fulfilled for a valentine’s day special about finding yourself before you find your soulmate. Fulfilled illustrates how the science of spirituality helps you live a happier, more meaningful life. In this episode Stacy and Anna provide you with real life examples and exercises focusing on four important points during a divorce: relinquishing victim mentality, having faith and giving/offering forgiveness, rising above indecision and owning your thoughts & feelings. You will gain insight on: What made Anna decide to write Fulfilled? (3:03)How to start healing yourself (5:38)The Mirror Principle (6:28)What are some of those tools that women can work through to start to find that nugget that might not be fully ready in themselves? (8:07)Harnessing your personal power (16:05)How do you move beyond feeling like a victim in a divorce? (16:48)Faith and forgiveness (18:29)What would Queen Elizabeth do in this situation? (24:06) Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com Anna Yusim | W: https://www.annayusim.com/ P: (917) 727-9437 E: annayusim@gmail.com
This week, Stacy is joined by Francis Financial’s very own, Davon Barrett. Davon shares his personal story of growing up in a divorced family and how it’s impacted him today. This powerful episode brings to light a child’s perspective and provides key takeaways for what parents can be conscious of when bringing up their children in a split home. Stacy touches on the following questions: What worked well with your mom and dad? How did they try and make you feel comfortable at each of the new homes? (5:30) How did you deal with the compromise and change? (7:08) Did you notice any differences with regard to money? (11:14) Do you ever find yourself having to make uncomfortable decisions on who to spend time with? (13:30) Has your parent’s relationship taught you lessons for when you might get married someday? (30:50)
This week, Stacy and matrimonial attorney, Randi Karmel, dive into the importance of preparing a divorce settlement that incorporates planning for your special needs child’s financial future. Randi shares words of wisdom, pulling from her extensive experience, to ensure you are supporting your child, regardless of potential disagreements in parental decisions. In this episode, Stacy and Randi focus on cases where divorcing parents must work collaboratively to do what’s in the best interest of the child and find a middle ground, financially. You will gain insight on: Dealing with contradicting opinions for your child’s treatment (05:10) What expenses need to be planned for (09:46) How to financially care for your adult children with special needs (14:59) Who becomes the trustee during a transition (18:18) (20:20) Randi Karmel | W: www.randikarmel.com P: 212-755-0224 E: Upon request Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com
Stacy is joined by Publisher and Editor in Chief of The New York Amsterdam News, Elinor Tatum. Elinor is a single mom to her 7 year old daughter, and has been divorced for 5 years, and in this episode, she talks about the importance of taking care of yourself and building your support team for life. There may be weeks where you need 24/7 support, and it is important to recognize how much stress you, personally, can take on, and who you should go to for the advice you need, whether it be your attorney, financial advisor, mental health professional, or friend. Elinor and Stacy specifically touch on the following topics: Who does the most supportive team consist of? (7:19) Finding the perfect attorney/ financial advisor/ mental health professional (9:50)(12:36)(13:25) How to not break the bank on legal costs (16:47) What to do when the relationship with your attorney isn’t working (28:14) Top consideration for your mental health during the divorce process (33:04) Elinor Tatum | W: www.amsterdamnews.com E:elinor.tatum@amsterdamnews.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com
Summary: Do you hate your ex-spouse more than you love your child? For this holiday episode, Stacy is joined by Shari Bornstein, Director of Parent Services at FamilyKind, to discuss how to put bitterness aside and prioritize your children when celebrating the holidays. In this episode, you will gain insight on: How to prevent and prepare for possible conflict during the upcoming holidays (12:19) Finding middle ground when it comes to differing parenting styles (15:01) Scheduling your holiday sharing plan (15:47) Parenting techniques, such as the pizza delivery technique, and using buzzwords to avoid bitterness and conflict in front of the kids (17:46) How parents can avoid being “naughty” by coordinating traditions and not “out-gifting” each other (21:58) Tips on how to make the holidays less stressful for your children (28:29) Holidays can be a stressful time for many, especially for divorced families whose children split their time between parents. FamilyKind is non-profit organization located in New York City that provides education and support services to families experiencing divorce and separation. If you have any questions or queries, you can contact Shari or visit the Family Kind website. Shari Bornstein | W: www.familykind.org P: 860-302-2631 E: sbornstein@familykind.org Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com
Stacy is joined by internationally recognized communications and relationship expert, Dr. Patty Ann Tublin, as she shares her passion for ending the gender pay gap and her research on why women become unaware of their financial situation once they get married. In this episode, Stacy and Patty Ann focus on the importance of fighting for your worth in the workplace, emphasize the need for a change in women’s mindsets about money, and demonstrate ways to not drop your financial IQ as soon as he puts a ring on it. You will gain insight on: ü How to advocate for yourself and get what you deserve (12:11) ü Why educated women become financially illiterate when they get married (17:17) ü How the impact of women’s lack of financial control affects them in divorce (20:55) ü Financial advice for women going through transition (22:50) Dr. Patty Ann | W: www.relationshiptoolbox.com P: 877-456-7230 E: dr.pattyann@gmail.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com
Now happily remarried with a three-year-old son, Kim Mishkin joins Stacy to share her powerful story about how she transitioned from an abusive marriage and built the strength to fight for her worth. In this episode, Kim and Stacy acknowledge the importance of telling your story, giving yourself time to grow on your own, and finding the balance of the key players needed to help you through your transition. In this episode you will gain insight on: Having the courage to come forward about being abused (3:40) How to have ‘the conversation’ about moving forward (6:52) Helpful support networks and resources (8:02, 14:48) The healing process and how to find happiness again (18:54 ) Kim is also a co-founder of Support and Solutions (SAS) for Women. SAS provides divorce support and coaching for women who are considering, in the process of, or recovering from divorce. Since 2012, they have helped women come to terms with questions such as how to prepare for divorce in practical and emotional ways, what are the effects of divorce on children, and how to deal with life after divorce. Their mission is to provide women comprehensive support as they navigate and grow from the process of change and major-life challenges. Kimberly Mishkin | W: www.sasforwomen.com P: 646-438-5163 E: kmishkinnyc@gmail.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: stacy@francisfinancial.com
Boo! This Halloween, what is more spooky than having your ex inherit all of your money if you die? Alison Besunder, expert in trust and estate planning, elder law, estate litigation, commercial litigation and intellectual property law, joins Stacy to discuss the importance of an estate plan, particularly when going through a transition, such as divorce. In this episode, Alison and Stacy highlight the first and most important steps that you should take to help you take the least financially-draining path during this time. Alison reveals the shocking consequences of lacking an estate plan, and how that can impact the most important people in your life. They answer questions that could save yourself from the devastating possibilities of life without a will, such as: Why do you need an estate plan when you get married vs. getting divorced? (11:38) What happens if your spouse dies during your divorce and there is no will? (16:25) Can your ex-spouse still make the medical decisions for you after divorce? (21:26) Alison Besunder | W: http://www.besunderlaw.com P: (212) 584-1139 E: alison@besunderlaw.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, Stacy is joined by Grief & Gratitude workshop creator, Jenny Douglas. Jenny focuses on the importance of curiosity, patience, and standing with a community after divorce. She shares the grieving techniques which helped her find the best version of herself, during her own divorce, and move forward. And she shares this with the women in her workshops, as well. In this episode, you will gain insight on: · How to feel gratitude about your marriage regardless of the heartbreak · How to gain emotional stability during a big change in your life · The importance of not having to rely on your partner for finances Jenny has achieved an incredible amount since her divorce and inspires others with the unique and stimulating activities in her workshop. To attend a Grief & Gratitude workshop, visit the website provided below. Jenny Douglas | W: www.thebrooklyncottage.org E: jennydouglas@me.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, Stacy is joined by Elise Pettus. Divorced mom and founder of UNtied, Elise created an online network to connect fellow divorced women and help them re-discover their confidence, post-divorce. In this episode, you will gain insight on: ü Conquering the process of divorce and coming out the other side “financially ever after” ü Pre-divorce tips and help with the grieving process ü Building a team, including an attorney, specific to your needs Elise emphasizes that women need both professional and social support during this transition. She recommends that women not look at their split as a tragedy, but rather as a challenging and meaningful opportunity to create a new chapter. Elise Pettus | W: www.untied.net P: (917) 797-6465 E: elise.pettus@gmail.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, Deborah Donenfeld recounts the moment she realized that she was entitled to leave her unhappy marriage of 22 years. By allowing herself to grieve and focus on her self-worth and her children, Deborah ultimately freed herself and gained more clarity and control in her financial life. Deborah Donenfeld | W: www.deborahdonenfeld.com P: 212-675-4420 E: deborah525@gmail.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, top matrimonial attorney, Caroline Krauss-Browne, shares how she persevered in her career, going from working part-time to raise her son to becoming a partner at a top New York City law firm. Stacy and Caroline dive into the harsh reality of child custody within same-sex divorces. Are you protected as a legal parent of your child? In this episode, you will hear a powerful pro-bono case Caroline worked on that fought for the right of a non-biological mother. Caroline Krauss-Browne | W: www.blankrome.com P: (212) 885-5426 E: ckraussbrowne@blankrome.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, Stacy is joined by friend and single mother, Deirdre Coupe Hopkins as she reflects on her divorce and the role money played in this chapter of her life. After leaving her alcoholic ex-husband, Deirdre raised all four children on her own. With the help of education, family and community, she ultimately gained her financial independence. Deirdre always lives her life with the glass half full mentality and continues to do so 25 years later. Show Contact Info: Deirdre Coupe Hopkins | E: deirdrecoupe@gmail.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
Top New York City divorce coach, Liza Caldwell, joins Stacy to discuss how to navigate her proven approach of the 4 stages of divorce. In this episode, Liza opens up about how going back to school and how being a role model for her children were major turning points in her life. Whether you are contemplating, navigating or recovering from divorce, Stacy and Liza dive into how to overcome the challenges and fears associated with this transition. Liza Caldwell | W: www.sasforwomen.com P: (917)485-1323 E: info@sasforwomen.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com For more programs on Divorce and life after divorce, visit: www.DivorceSourceRadio.com Financially Ever After is a Divorce Source Radio production.
This week, Stacy chats with successful business woman, caring mother, and friend, Kathy Ellman, as she shares her story of divorce. Stacy and Kathy reflect on her first marriage, the lessons she learnt and how she was able to find love again. She reveals how communication is key in maintaining her relationship, shared finances and teaching the value of money to her three sons. Show Contact Info: Kathy Ellman | W: www.bayardad.com P: (917) 848-6280 E: KathyE@BayardAD.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
Stacy and Jennifer Kouzi, a top matrimonial and family attorney, discuss mistakes you might make when going through divorce, tips for making custody battles go as smoothly as possible and understanding the difference between legal and physical (residential) custody. Ever wondered what your judge is thinking? In this episode, you will gain insight on how judges view your statement of net worth, in order to better prepare yourself for the courtroom. Jennifer Kouzi | W: http://www.kkallp.com/ P: 212-921-5526 E: jennifer@kkallp.com Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
This week, Financially Ever After welcomes Marcia Butler, author of The Skin Above My Knee. Marcia shares how listening to music starting at the age of 4 saved her life and was ultimately the reason she survived an abusive childhood. Marcia Butler's difficult childhood experiences led her to pick men that were not good for her, later in life. Three divorces later, Marcia talks about the tools she used to survive divorce and for thriving in her new single life. Marcia Butler | W: http://marciabutlerauthor.com/book P: (718) 937-4220 E: marcia@marciabutler.com
Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com
Award-winning financial advisor, Stacy Francis, debuts her “Financially Ever After” podcast and interviews life, career and grief coach, Nesreen Mahmoud. Together, they discuss the grief involved in the divorce process, financial mistakes to avoid and how best to take care of yourself in order to move forward in this new chapter of your life in a positive way. You will receive access to a wellness tracking sheet, learn about the Ostrich effect and hear a sneak preview of episodes to come. Nesreen Mahmoud | W: http://www.harborlightcoaching.com/ P: 917-830-6863 E: Nesreen@harborlightcoaching.com Free gift for podcast listeners (wellness tracking sheet): www.harborlightcoaching.com/everafter Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: Stacy@francisfinancial.com