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