Dishing on Divorce Podcast

Divorce Doesn’t Have to Be a Battle with Debra Whitson

A conversation about mediation, collaborative divorce, and healthier paths forward. On this episode of Dishing on Divorce, we’re joined by Debra Whitson, founder of Whitson Law and a vetted Vesta professional in New York. With more than 25 years of experience in divorce and family law, Debra has seen firsthand how litigation can deeply impact families—especially children. That experience led her to shift her work toward healthier, more intentional divorce pathways, including mediation and collaborative divorce.
Debra shares insight from her powerful resource, From the Kitchen Table to the Courthouse, and explains how the way a divorce begins can shape its emotional, financial, and relational outcomes long after it’s over.
In this episode, we discuss:
Why starting a divorce with blame often makes everything harder
The difference between kitchen-table divorce, mediation, collaboration, and litigation
When mediation is not appropriate—especially in cases involving power imbalances or safety concerns
Common myths about “telling your story” in court
The emotional and financial cost of prolonged conflict
How divorce impacts children and what parents can do to reduce harm
This episode provides practical guidance and a thoughtful perspective for anyone seeking a more informed, humane approach to divorce.
Resources mentioned:
From the Kitchen Table to the Courthouse – https://bit.ly/DebraWhitsonPDF
Divorce Like a Pro: A Better Way to Break Up –  https://whitsonlawfirm.com/divorce-like-a-pro/
Connect with Debra: https://whitsonlawfirm.com/
If you are experiencing domestic violence, coercive control, or feel unsafe, please reach out to local emergency services or a trusted support organization immediately.

From Client to Concierge: Finding Strength, Support and Healing Through Divorce with Jodi Goodman

In this powerful and deeply human episode of Dishing on Divorce, Deanna and Mandy sit down with Jodi Goodman, a longtime Vesta community member turned Concierge Specialist, to share her remarkable journey through divorce, healing, and transformation.
Jodi opens up about navigating two very different divorces, the emotional toll of starting over, and how finding the right support system changed everything. After discovering Vesta, she leaned into attending webinars during one of the hardest seasons of her life, Jodi found not only clarity and guidance—but a community that helped her rebuild her confidence, reclaim her voice, and move forward with intention.
Together, they explore:
What it truly feels like to go through divorce—and why support matters
How working with a coordinated team (attorney, coach, financial professional) can reduce chaos and overwhelm
The power of divorce coaching and having someone help you pause before reacting
How personal growth, self-awareness, and healing can emerge from even the most painful transitions
Why community, compassion, and connection are essential during life’s hardest chapters
Jodi also shares her own evolution—from client to trusted member of the Vesta concierge team—and how her lived experience allows her to support others with empathy, clarity, and deep understanding.
This episode is a heartfelt reminder that divorce doesn’t have to define you—and that with the right support, it can become the beginning of something stronger, healthier, and more aligned with who you truly are.
Listen in for honesty, laughter, and hope—and a reminder that you don’t have to walk this journey alone.
Connect with the concierge team: concierge@vestadivorce.com

Navigating Divorce in New Jersey: Custody, Finances & High-Conflict Cases with Danielle Konzelmann, Esq.

In this episode of Dishing on Divorce, Mandy and Deanna are joined by Danielle Konzelmann, Esq., a New Jersey family law attorney and mediator, and a Vesta-vetted professional in the New York / New Jersey Hub. With more than 20 years in family law, Danielle brings a calm, child-centered approach to high-conflict divorces, complex custody matters, and significant-asset cases—while firmly believing that divorce does not have to be nasty.
In this conversation, we cover:
Divorce process options in New Jersey, including mediation, collaborative divorce, and divorce from bed and board
Key differences between New Jersey and Massachusetts divorce laws
What truly drives high-conflict cases (financial control, restraining orders, complex assets, custody distrust)
Child support considerations in 50/50 parenting schedules
Why divorce is a marathon—not a sprint—and how perspective, pacing, and grace can lower conflict
Danielle also shares how her own childhood experience of divorce shaped her work and why keeping children at the center of the process can change outcomes for families long after the legal case ends.
A powerful reminder from this episode:How you divorce matters—because the story doesn’t end when the paperwork is signed.
 
Connect with Danielle: danielle@konzlaw.com
Website:  https://www.konzlaw.com/

Reclaiming Your Sexuality After Divorce: Healing Shame & Trauma While Rediscovering Desire with Zoë Kors

In this powerful and refreshingly honest episode of Dishing on Divorce, hosts Mandy Pullen Barr and Deanna Coyle sit down with renowned sexologist, integrative somatic trauma therapist, and author Zoë Kors to explore one of the most tender, transformative, and commonly misunderstood parts of life after divorce: reclaiming your sexuality.
Zoë —author of Radical Intimacy and resident Sex & Intimacy Coach at The Choral Lab—has spent decades helping women heal shame, reconnect with their bodies, and rediscover desire after major life transitions. Her work blends science, spirituality, trauma healing, and emotional intelligence, making her the perfect guide for this conversation.
Together, we dive into:
Why sexuality often shuts down during long-term marriages
What a “sexless marriage” does to emotional and physical intimacy
How cultural conditioning, religion, family messages, and early experiences create sexual shame
The impact of menopause, hormones, and midlife changes on libido
Navigating pornography and compulsive sexual behavior in relationships
The fears many people face about dating, vulnerability, and being seen naked again
What it truly means to build sexual confidence from the inside out
How somatic healing, trauma work, and self-intimacy can transform your future relationships
Zoë offers gentle, insightful pathways for healing—reminding listeners that nothing is broken and nothing is wrong. Whether you’re single, newly divorced, in the early stages of healing, or beginning to imagine intimacy again, this episode gives you the compassion, wisdom, and possibility you’ve been craving.
She also shares two beautiful quotes from Buddhist teacher Pema Chödrön, including the powerful reminder: “You are the sky. Everything else is just weather.”
This conversation is vulnerable, warm, surprising, and deeply needed. It’s a celebration of resilience, pleasure, and the courage to rediscover who you are. ✨ If this episode resonates, please subscribe and leave us a five-star review — your support helps others find hope, healing, and their path forward.
Connect with Zoë: https://www.zoekors.com/
Get Zoë's book: https://bookshop.org/p/books/radical-intimacy-cultivate-the-deeply-connected-relationships-you-desire-and-deserve

One Year of Dishing on Divorce: Lessons, Laughter & The Moments That Changed Us

In this special anniversary episode, Mandy and Deanna look back on an incredible first year of Dishing on Divorce—a year filled with wisdom, laughter, vulnerability, unforgettable guests, and profound moments that shaped both the show and their own lives.
They kick off with nostalgia, remembering their launch party led by mentor Jennifer Grace on December 7th—a celebration that brought together Vesta professionals, attendees, and fellow creatives from their podcast training. From fumbling through Zoom downloads to mastering Descript editing, they reflect on how launching imperfectly was precisely what allowed them to grow consistently and meaningfully. One year later, they haven’t missed a single week.
The conversation highlights how the podcast transformed their concierge calls. Many listeners now arrive already feeling connected—“I feel like I know you girls”—a testament to the authentic, girlfriend-style tone that makes the show feel both comforting and deeply informative.
Mandy and Deanna revisit standout episodes and the guests who left lasting impressions:
* Jennifer Grace, whose teaching on patience and co-parenting set the tone for episode one. https://bit.ly/Apple-Jennifer-Grace
 
* Claudia Brown Coulter, who shared her journey into mediation, her wisdom on “rejection is protection,” and her humor about finally being able to “pee whenever she wants.” https://bit.ly/Apple-Claudia-Brown-Coulter
 
* Dr. Thomas Jordan, whose book helped them understand patterns of love, grief, and healing in transformational ways. https://bit.ly/Apple-Thomas-Jordan
 
* Simonne Rossi, who opened up about betrayal, forgiveness, and clearing emotional space like “an old Parisian apartment.” https://bit.ly/Apple-Simonne-Rossi
 
* Jennifer Lee, who inspired conversations about legacy, family love letters, and “squeezing the juice” out of life. https://bit.ly/Apple-Jennifer-Lee
 
* Pascha Rose, who courageously shared her story of leaving a high-conflict marriage and depending role as an attorney to honor her role as a mother. https://bit.ly/Apple-Pascha-Rose
 
* Loren Larsen, whose real-estate expertise (and hilarious “limping antelope” metaphor) helped listeners approach the marital home strategically. https://bit.ly/Apple-Loren-Larsen
 
* Lisa Happ, who spoke with raw honesty about trauma, healing, and supporting clients through the most challenging moments. https://bit.ly/Apple-Lisa-Happ
 
Together, Mandy and Deanna reflect on how these conversations didn’t just help listeners—they changed the hosts too. They discuss learning to find levity in chaos, navigating grief, reframing difficult days, and embracing the personal growth that emerged throughout the year.
Most meaningful of all are the testimonials from listeners who say the podcast helped them feel informed, supported, and less alone during one of life’s most overwhelming transitions.
The episode closes with gratitude—between the co-hosts, for each other and the journey they’ve shared—and for every listener who’s walked alongside them this year.
Here’s to Year Two of learning, laughing, healing, and helping families move forward with clarity and hope.
Connect with Mandy and Deanna: concierge@vestadivorce.com

Dating After Divorce, Blended Families and Starting Over with Comedian Kelly MacFarland and Dr. Susan Trotter

In this episode of Dishing on Divorce, Deanna and Mandy welcome back one of Vesta’s favorite professionals, Dr. Susan Trotter, along with comedian, actress, and writer Kelly MacFarland, for a conversation that’s equal parts heartfelt, insightful, and laugh-out-loud funny.
Susan shares how she knew at 15 that she wanted to be a therapist and how her own midlife reinvention, divorce, and transition into coaching shaped her passion for helping people rebuild their lives, improve their relationships, and date with confidence and intention. She talks about mindset, our relationship with ourselves, why it’s essential to understand the role we played in past relationships, and how challenging seasons can actually become our greatest growth opportunities.
Kelly brings her signature humor and honesty to the realities of long-term partnership, COVID stress, and blended family life. She shares how she approached dating “differently this time,” what it was like to become a stepmom to her now 20-year-old stepson, and how she and her husband were intentional about introducing Kelly into his son’s life by building trust over time. Together, Susan and Kelly offer a warm, real-world look at blended families, co-parenting, and what it means to lead with authenticity—on stage, in relationships, and in life.
In this episode, we explore:
Why mindset and self-awareness are essential before dating again
How to avoid repeating patterns in future relationships
The emotional realities of starting over in midlife and beyond
Practical tips for blending families and building trust with kids and step-kids
The power of humor, gratitude, and authenticity when life doesn’t go as planned
If you’re navigating divorce, dating again, or blending a family, this episode will leave you feeling seen, hopeful, and a little lighter—proof that your next chapter can be both meaningful and full of laughter. And be sure to watch Kelly's recent special, Hot Gnome 2025! 
Check out Kelly's Hot Gnome 2025 Special: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_TSFuVXY_vI
Connect with Susan: Susantrotterphd@gmail.com

Selling the Marital Home in Divorce: What Every Couple Needs to Know with Loren Larsen

In this episode of Dishing on Divorce, we sit down with Loren Larsen — former family law attorney, top-producing Compass realtor, and founder of The Collective — to explore one of the most stressful and misunderstood parts of divorce: what to do with the marital home.
Loren brings a rare combination of legal and real estate experience, offering deep insight into how to navigate the sale or purchase of a home during divorce. She explains why choosing the right realtor is just as important as choosing the right attorney, the biggest pitfalls couples face, and how the wrong real estate strategy can cost you money, time, and emotional well-being.
We also dive into critical new changes, including:
Massachusetts’ updated rules around home inspections
The new tax withholding requirement for home sales over $1M
The impact of deferred maintenance on your net proceeds
How Compass Concierge can reduce stress and upfront costs
If you’re thinking about selling your home, staying in it, or want to understand your options during divorce, Loren’s guidance will help you feel informed, supported, and empowered.
Connect with Loren: https://thecollectiveatcompass.com/  or Email Loren: lorenlarsenre@gmail.com
Connect with Deanna and Mandy concierge@vestadivorce.com

Surviving Narcissistic Abuse: High-Conflict Divorce & Holiday Strategies with Lisa Happ

If you’re navigating narcissistic abuse, a high-conflict divorce, or the emotional chaos of the holidays, this conversation with Lisa Happ will give you clarity, comfort, and practical tools.
Lisa Happ is a certified divorce and narcissistic abuse coach and a grief recovery specialist. She guides clients through trauma bonding, emotional recovery, and toxic relationship dynamics—and even travels nationwide to support clients directly in court.
In this episode, we explore:
How narcissistic abuse shows up in relationships
What trauma bonding and the fawn response actually feel like
Strategies for navigating high-conflict divorce
How to get through the holidays when you’re separated, coparenting, or newly divorced
Creating new traditions when your kids aren’t with you
Nervous system tools to calm anxiety, overwhelm, and fear
Scripts for setting boundaries with toxic or draining family members
Whether you’re in the middle of a high-conflict divorce, leaving a narcissistic partner, or trying to survive the holidays emotionally intact, this episode offers hope, validation, and tangible steps forward.
Connect with Lisa 
Check out Lisa's Podcast: https://divorce-detox.com/
Learn more about Lisa: https://www.lisahapp.com/
Learn more about the Central Mass Hub: https://vestadivorce.com/central-ma-hub/

Getting Unstuck During Divorce: How to Stop Managing and Start Creating Your Life

Feeling stuck in life—or in your divorce journey? In this episode of Dishing on Divorce, hosts Deanna Coyle, Co-Founder of Vesta: A New Vision for Divorce, and Mandy Barr, Strategic Managing Partner, share empowering insights from the Tony Robbins AI Advantage Summit on shifting from managing your circumstances to creating your life.
Together, these Divorce Concierge Specialists explore the emotions that keep us stuck—fear, guilt, and uncertainty—and how to break those patterns through energy, mindset, and gratitude. Whether you’re contemplating divorce, navigating it, or rebuilding afterward, this conversation will help you find clarity, courage, and creative power.
🎙️ Brought to you by Vesta Divorce Concierge — personalized support for your next chapter.
Reach out to the concierge team: concierge@vestadivorce.com
Schedule a call any time: https://calendly.com/mandybarr or https://calendy.com/deannacoyle
Check out our book "Heal to Lead" - https://bit.ly/Heal-To-Lead 

Elder Law and Estate Planning After Divorce with Aaron Miller: Avoiding Probate and Protecting Your Family’s Future

From the Divorce Concierge team at Vesta: A New Vision for Divorce, elder law attorney Aaron Miller explains how families can protect their assets, navigate long-term care costs, and build a legacy with clarity during and after divorce.
Presented by Vesta: A New Vision for Divorce, where we’ve built a better way for people to navigate the divorce process — through expert guidance, professional counseling, and a community of support before, during, and after divorce. 
In this episode of Dishing on Divorce, your host and Vesta's co-founder, Deanna Coyle, speaks with elder law attorney Aaron Miller, founder of Miller Law Office in Plano, Texas. Aaron shares how a personal family experience led him to help others protect their legacies, avoid crushing long-term care costs, and maintain family harmony through thoughtful planning.
They cover:• The real difference between a will and a revocable living trust — and why wills still go through probate• What Medicare, Medicaid, and VA benefits actually cover (and what they don’t)• Strategies for paying for long-term care without depleting assets• Why updating your estate plan after divorce is essential — including wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations• How to start the hard conversation with aging parents about care and planning• How often to revisit your estate plan and why
This episode is packed with practical insights for anyone navigating divorce, caring for aging parents, or simply wanting to leave a smoother path for loved ones.
Connect with Aaron:Website: aaronmillerlaw.com
Phone: (214) 292-4225
Connect with Deanna and Mandy
email: concierge@vestadivorce.com
Learn more about Vesta’s Divorce Concierge services: vestadivorce.com