In this episode, host Mardi Winder welcomes Dr. Robin Buckley, Ph.D., an expert in clinical psychology with a specialty in cognitive behavioral methodology and executive coaching. Together, they explore the power of applying clear, practical strategies and goal-setting to both marriage and divorce. Dr. Robin shares insights from her years of experience, reflecting on the transition from traditional therapy, focused on intervention and healing from past wounds, to her current emphasis on proactive coaching that builds toward a meaningful and intentional future.

The discussion unpacks the differences between coaching and therapy, noting that coaching helps clients focus on what they can control in the present to create the future they want. Dr. Robin explains how our brains often become stuck in reactive patterns during the stress of divorce, making logical decision-making difficult. She suggests that by engaging the prefrontal cortex, people can step away from the "fight, flight, or freeze" response and approach divorce with clarity and strategic thinking.

A central theme of the conversation is the concept of a "mission statement for divorce." Dr. Robin helps clients articulate what they want life to look like after divorce, whether it involves successful co-parenting, remaining friends, or setting firm boundaries for a clean break. Rather than simply aiming to finalize the legal process, couples are encouraged to envision their goals for their lives beyond the separation. This mission statement serves as a guiding compass throughout the process, helping couples navigate conflict and remain focused on respectful outcomes even in tense moments.

The episode also touches on changing trends, with more people, especially in younger generations, seeking collaborative and multidisciplinary approaches to divorce. Dr. Robin shares her excitement about these supportive models, which often include financial advisors, therapists, and legal professionals working as a team. In closing, Dr. Robin introduces her new book, Marriage Incorporated, which brings strategic planning and business principles into the realm of relationships, offering readers practical tools to create stronger foundations and improve communication in both marriage and divorce.

About the Guest:

Dr. Robin Buckley holds a PhD in clinical psychology with specialized training in cognitive behavioral methodology and executive coaching. Through her data-driven, strategic coaching model, she helps individuals, couples, and organizations achieve personal and professional goals. Her expertise has been featured by Entrepreneur, Chief, Nike, and TED. Robin's coaching empowers clients to move beyond insight into actionable, lasting success.

To connect with Dr. Robin:

Website: https://drrobinbuckley.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drrobinbuckley/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-robin-buckley/

About the Host:

Mardi Winder is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4women

Thanks for...

In this episode, Mardi Winder welcomes Karen McNenny for a conversation about how divorce doesn't have to be a destructive ordeal. Karen, who works as a mediator, divorce coach, and host of the Good Divorce Show Podcast, brings her own experience and her work with families to the table. She talks openly about how her own divorce shaped her career path and her belief that divorce can be handled thoughtfully and kindly, especially when kids are involved.

Karen explains how the usual approach to separation, immediately involving lawyers and preparing for conflict, rarely serves families well. Instead, she advocates for reaching out to coaches and mediators first, and focusing on clear, honest communication before making big decisions, especially those involving children. Her Good Divorce Experience program helps families figure out critical next steps, from breaking the news to kids, working out living arrangements, co-parenting plans, and even involving trusted professionals when needed. Karen highlights the importance of setting the tone right from the start and ensuring everyone involved, children, teachers, friends, and family, is on the same page.

Mardi and Karen also talk candidly about the intense emotions that come with divorce, such as anger, grief, and disappointment. They reflect on why even couples who want an amicable split find themselves struggling with frustration, and how self-reflection and support can make a big difference. Karen reminds listeners that the goal isn't just to end a marriage, but to create a healthy new family structure that supports the kids and lets everyone move forward.

About the Guest:

A dynamic speaker with over two decades of experience commanding stages across the country, Karen brings both authenticity and authority to conversations about workplace culture, effective leadership and employee engagement. She has moved audiences from intimate workshops to packed conferences Karen McNenny is a mediator, divorce coach, and therapist dedicated to transforming how families navigate divorce. Through her Good Divorce Experience™, she helps couples not only get divorced but also learn how to maintain healthy post-divorce relationships, especially when children are involved.

With more than 25 years of expertise, Karen focuses on co-parenting, financial planning, and relationship literacy, guiding families towards compassionate outcomes. A TEDx speaker and host of The Good Divorce Show Podcast™, Karen draws from her own divorce journey to offer hope and healing. She lives in Missoula, Montana, with her family and dog, enjoying the outdoors in the Rocky Mountains.

To connect with Karen:

Website: thegooddivorce.com

Website: karenmcnenny.com

Facebook: gooddivorcecoach

Instagram instagram.com/gooddivorcecoach

LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/gooddivorcecoach

YouTube: youtube.com/@gooddivorcecoach

About the Host:

Mardi Winder is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4women

Thanks for Listening!

Thanks so much for...

In this episode, relationship coach Michelle Chung sits down with host Mardi Winder to share her perspective on finding happiness and love after divorce, especially for women who are feeling pressured to jump back into the dating scene. Michelle brings both professional experience as a love strategist and a very real, personal story. She talks about how her own divorce in her 30s, after an injury that forced her to slow down, became a turning point. Instead of immediately looking for a new partner, Michelle looked inward, studying kinesiology and mind-body medicine, and slowly discovered that her marriage didn't align with her true values anymore.

Michelle walks listeners through what happened when she re-entered the dating world and realized that swiping through dating apps wasn't bringing her any closer to real happiness or fulfillment. She shares stories from her adventurous travels, her artistic pursuits, and all the ways she learned to trust her intuition rather than just doing what everyone expected. Michelle and Mardi talk about how easy it is to get caught up in society's message that you need to couple up quickly, and how empowering it can be to focus on your own purpose, your passions, and your personal growth instead.

One of Michelle's key messages is that women, especially those who are successful and independent, don't need someone else to complete them. She encourages listeners, whether they're single by choice or by circumstance, not to settle for less or follow the old model of relationships. Instead, she recommends letting love come naturally as a result of living authentically and in alignment with yourself. For those interested in learning more, Michelle offers a free masterclass designed to help women reconnect with their inner guidance and attract the right people into their lives without the stress of dating apps.

About the Guest:

Michelle Chung is a Love Strategist for high achieving women entrepreneurs and professionals, the podcast host of 'Love,Life & Energy', bestselling author of 'How to Stop Dating & Be In A Committed, Effortless Relationship' serial entrepreneur, property investor and has hacked the process to finding the right man and relationship that supports your vision, career and lifestyle without dating or using online apps.

For Michelle's gift: Free Masterclass 3 Steps to Meet Your Ideal partner without dating!: https://www.michellechungcoach.com/masterclass

To connect with Michelle:

Podcast: https://lovelifeenergypodcastwithmichellechung.buzzsprout.com

DM and follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/michellechungcoach/

DM and follow me on Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-chung-05550616/

Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@michellechungcoach

Website link https://www.michellechungcoach.com

Get the Book 'How to Stop Dating & Be In an Effortless, Committed Relationship' https://www.michellechungcoach.com/ebook-stopdating Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=how+to+stop+dating+%26+be+in+an+effortless&crid=1YSK06ASJDX05&sprefix=how+to+stop+dating+%26+be+in+an+effortless%2Caps%2C364&ref=nb_sb_noss

About the Host:

Mardi Winder is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook -...

Listen in as Mardi Winder sits down with Dr. Tamara White, a counselor and coach based in Texas, for an insightful chat about stress, burnout, and how these issues can sneak up on anyone, especially during tough times like divorce. Dr. White, who’s worked with a wide variety of people over the past 25 years, talks honestly about how burnout doesn’t just happen overnight. It builds up slowly, often showing up first as sleepless nights, constant frustration, or just a general sense that everything feels harder than it should.

During their conversation, Mardi and Dr. Tamara reflect on how today’s always-on world, especially with social media, piles on the pressure and adds to that feeling of overwhelm. They share some real-life signs that you might be heading toward burnout and why it’s important to notice these signals before things get too heavy. Dr. White also points out that asking for help isn’t a weakness, whether it’s from a coach, a therapist, or another trained professional, sometimes just talking to someone who “gets it” can make all the difference.

To help listeners figure out where they stand, Dr. White offers a free Clarity Compass guide, which is designed to help people sort through their thoughts and stress levels. The episode is a gentle reminder that it’s okay to admit when you’re struggling, and that reaching out for support can be the first step to feeling better, especially when life feels overwhelming or when you’re in the midst of big changes like divorce.

About the Guest:

Dr. Tamara White, "The Divine Disruptor," empowers women to live courageously. With 25+ years as a counselor and coach, she's guided thousands to fulfillment. Through her "Courageous Woman Effect" program, she helps accomplished women conquer stress, heal emotional wounds, and thrive in their careers and relationships.

She is the author of "7 Strategies for Courageous Living" and "Courageous Women Rise," in addition to being the creator of the "Courageous Woman Network." As a Burnout & Stress Management Coach, Licensed Counselor and Speaker, she addresses fear, doubt, and overwhelm, helping to foster purpose-driven lives. Dr. White holds a Doctor of Divinity and a Master's in Educational Psychology. She enjoys dancing in the kitchen and eating chocolate.

For Dr. Tamara’s gift: Clarity Compass Guide https://lnkd.in/g9h7zU9g

To connect with Dr. Tamara:

Website: https://tamarawhitecoaching.com/

Instagram: @TamaraWhiteCoaching https://www.instagram.com/tamarawhitecoaching/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/successwithtamara

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@courageouswoman

About the Host:

Mardi Winder is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn:...

In this episode, Mardi Winder welcomes J. Lumen, a transformational trainer, certified master life coach, and bestselling author, for an honest and heartfelt conversation about moving forward when life throws you off course. J. opens up about her own story, which started with all the pieces in place. She had a long-term relationship, a “good” job, and a life that, from the outside, seemed just fine. But beneath the surface, things were far from okay. She describes feeling drained and trapped, responsible for everything, and convincing herself she had to tough it out until life magically improved.

Things took an unexpected and frightening turn after she ended her relationship, when her ex-boyfriend showed up out of the blue and held her hostage in her home. She shares how the situation quickly escalated to a traumatic, life-altering ordeal. J. talks candidly about how there were no classic warning signs, sharing her experience as a cautionary tale.

Rather than staying stuck in fear or regret, J. explains how she used the experience to hit reset on her life. She and Mardi discuss finding happiness by reconnecting with your core values, remembering what used to bring you joy, and realizing you’ve already made it through challenges before. They make it clear that no one has to have everything figured out before taking the first step. Instead, J. encourages exploring new interests, giving yourself space to mess up and learn, and trusting that confidence grows from action and curiosity, not perfection.

Throughout the conversation, J. brings warmth and humor, reminding listeners that big life changes don’t have to wait for a crisis. She also offers a free self-assessment tool to help people get started, showing that small steps and self-reflection can make a huge difference. This episode is full of supportive, practical advice for anyone feeling stuck or ready for a new chapter.

About the Guest:

J. Lumen is a Transformation Trainer, an International Speaker, Certified Master Life Coach and an International best-selling contributing author. J. knows first-hand how it feels to be silently dissatisfied with life. For her, this was feeling trapped in a relationship that was emotionally over and at a toxic job she hated but not seeing a way out or even what she wanted.

Eventually breaking free from the relationship, she convinced herself of all the reasons to keep the job and figure out what she wanted. But two months later, an unexpected knock at her door changed her life drastically as the night ended with an arrest for attempted murder. Of her. Using her own transformation, she's on a mission to empower others to stop waiting for a life-altering event of their own and start living a life they'd never imagine possible, full of authentic joy and one they don't regret.

For J.’s gift: https://resumeyourlife.com/

To connect with J:

Website: https://theunknownbucketlist.com/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/J.lumen8

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theunknownbucketlist/

About the Host:

Mardi Winder is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to...

In this conversation, Mardi Winder-Adams welcomes Kate Kripke, a licensed clinical social worker and PMH-C, to talk about what it’s really like for high-achieving moms who find themselves facing divorce while trying to keep everything else on track. Kate speaks from both professional expertise and personal experience, sharing how her own upbringing, her parents’ divorce, and her struggles with anxiety and post-partum challenges shaped her commitment to supporting mothers and families navigating big transitions.

Kate sheds light on the silent pressure so many women feel to perform as the best mom, partner, employee, and more. She points out how this constant push can make it hard for women to slow down, check in with their own feelings, and actually allow space for emotion, particularly during a divorce. Rather than focusing solely on “doing,” Kate encourages moms to pay attention to “how” they’re experiencing emotions, something she’s learned makes all the difference in both adult and child mental health.

Mardi and Kate talk about how moms often fear their children’s difficult emotions during divorce, wanting to protect them from sadness or anger. Kate reassures listeners that it’s not only normal for kids to feel upset, but that moving through those feelings is vital. She emphasizes that being steady and supportive, even if you don’t have all the answers, helps kids build resilience and feel secure through change. She also challenges the idea of labeling a marriage as “failed,” highlighting that sometimes relationships simply run their course, and it doesn’t need to be seen as a disaster.

Throughout the episode, Kate shares practical thoughts on how parents can create small moments of connection and security, even when families are splitting time between homes. She reminds listeners that kids don’t need perfection, but rather a steady presence who’s willing to listen and be real. To support moms further, Kate offers her “Calm Mama Reset,” a 21-day guide full of realistic, bite-sized strategies for anyone looking to regain some calm and steadiness during stressful times.

About the Guest:

Kate Kripke, LCSW, PMH-C, helps high-achieving women break free from emotional overwhelm, guilt, and burnout in motherhood. As a maternal mental health expert and transformative coach, she guides mothers in shifting old patterns, regulating their emotions, and reconnecting with their intuition—so they can feel calm, confident, and in control while balancing both career and motherhood.

Kate believes that thriving as a mother doesn’t mean sacrificing personal success, and she equips women with the tools to build deep, lasting connections with their children while continuing to pursue their passions.

For Kate’s gift: https://itlist.co/i/3453/the-calm-mama-reset-21-day-interactive-wellness-challenge

To connect with Kate:

Website: https://www.katekripke.com/

IG @katekripke, https://www.instagram.com/katekripke/

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube:...

Determining when to start dating in the divorce process and how to tell the kids is a big issue for many women. This week, host Mardi Winder-Adams is joined by Laurie Gerber, the founder of Laurie Gerber Coaching and a renowned expert in the Handel Method, a holistic approach to personal transformation. Together, they explore one of the most common, yet daunting, questions faced after the end of a marriage: when and how should you start dating again?

Laurie opens up about her personal path into the world of love coaching, sharing how her own search for career clarity led her to revitalize her marriage and ultimately discover her true calling. She breaks down the fundamentals of the Handel Method, emphasizing the importance of aligning your actions, thoughts, and emotions to achieve authentic self-love and meaningful connections.

Mardi and Laurie talk about telltale signs that signal you might not be ready to date, including unresolved emotions and an inability to tell a balanced story about your breakup. Laurie offers practical advice for managing the emotional and logistical complexities of post-divorce life, from stabilizing your home, career, and finances to reclaiming your sense of self after years of focusing on “we” instead of “me.”

The conversation also tackles the delicate topic of dating with kids, covering everything from how and when to talk to your children about new partners, to respecting their feelings while pursuing your own happiness, whether your kids are little ones or adults with children of their own.

Full of real-life anecdotes, compassionate wisdom, and actionable steps, this episode is a must-listen for anyone considering love after divorce. Whether you’re dipping a toe into casual dating or searching for your next meaningful relationship, Mardi and Laurie offer nuanced, judgment-free guidance for navigating this exciting and sometimes tricky new chapter.

About the Guest:

Laurie Gerber is one of the most engaging and effective life coaches and presenters in the country. After holding several positions at Handel Group® over the last 20 years, including President of HG Life, Laurie is currently licensing The Handel Method® and running Laurie Gerber Coaching, Inc. focusing on LOVE coaching. Laurie has appeared on the Today Show, Dr, Phil, MTV and A & E and been the resident love expert at Match, Zoosk, Jdate, and many more.

She has been presenting to and coaching individuals, couples, and groups, with a wide range of partners including: the dating sites above, General Assembly, She Tribe, BeSocialChange, IvyConnect, Ellevate, and many more. She has appeared on television shows, podcasts, radio shows, and all over the internet. Check out “The Secret-Free Diet”, her TedX talk on the power of truth telling. When not working from her NYC townhouse, she’s meditating, jogging, or attempting to get cuddles from her 10, 20 and 22-year old kids and husband of 26 years.

For Laurie’s gift: https://lauriegerber.com/webinar

To connect with Laurie:

Website: lauriegerber.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lauriegerberdatingcoach

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/lauriegerber_coach/ Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@lauriegerbercoach

Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauriegerber

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities?...

In this episode, Mardi Winder-Adams is joined by Anisa Palmer, whose life and work offer insight into the power of service, resilience, and purpose in the face of significant adversity. Anisa shares the path that led her to become a combat veteran, author, and dedicated social impact leader, with a special focus on health equity for underserved communities. Drawing inspiration from her father's entrepreneurial compassion and her mother's dedication to serving others even during her battle with breast cancer, Anisa learned early on the importance of connecting with and uplifting those around her.

After two tours in Iraq, Anisa felt called to serve in a new way, driven by personal experiences that echoed her mother's influence during her deployment. The loss of her mother to breast cancer at just 38 shaped Anisa's mission, leading her to found I Will Survive, Inc. The organization started by providing a listening ear. It evolved to address the broader needs of cancer survivors and their families, offering everything from food and rental assistance to transportation and crucial mental health resources. Anisa shares information on the mentoring programs and partnerships that help entire families, acknowledging the ripple effect of a cancer diagnosis on loved ones and caregivers.

Through the discussion, Anisa highlights how finding purpose during life's lowest moments can spark personal transformation. She recounts guiding clients through dark times by helping them visualize a life beyond their diagnosis, and she is candid about her own journey through postpartum struggles and divorce. Anisa emphasizes the importance of accessible support, healthy lifestyle choices, and the small steps that foster long-term well-being.

About the Guest:

Anisa Palmer is a combat veteran, author, and social impact leader dedicated to health equity and community empowerment. Born in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, she served two tours in Iraq before founding the nonprofit I Will Survive, Inc. in 2010, inspired by the loss of her mother to breast cancer.

Based in Atlanta, her organization provides economic support, prevention education, and wellness services to those affected by breast cancer. Anisa holds a B.A. in Speech Communications from Georgia State University and an MPA from the University of Central Florida, focusing on nonprofit management and public health. She is also the CEO of Palmer Firm Group, a veteran-owned consultancy offering coaching and nonprofit strategy.

For more information on how to support survivors directly or join our mission to provide wellness kits, emergency funding, and mental health services:

https://www.iwillsurviveinc.org/donate https://www.youtube.com/IWillSurviveChannel

To connect with Anisa:

Organization Website: https://www.iwillsurviveinc.org

Firm Website: https://www.palmerfirmgroup.com

Books by Anisa Palmer: Purpose: The Ultimate Climax https://www.amazon.com/Purpose-Ultimate-Climax-Guide-Finding/dp/1702351017

Nonprofit Success Blueprint: https://www.amazon.com/Purpose-Ultimate-Climax-Guide-Finding/dp/1702351017

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anisapalmer

Facebook Group: I Will Survive, Inc. https://www.facebook.com/iwillsurviveincPage

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/IWillSurviveChannel

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about...