197. Thinking About Divorce? What to Know Before You Decide, with Guest Cindy Stibbard

If divorce is something you've been thinking about — even quietly, even just as a possibility — this episode is for you. Karen and Catherine sit down with Cindy Stibbard, certified relationship and divorce coach and creator of the Relationship Audit, to explore what it looks like to approach one of life's hardest decisions with intention, preparation, and clarity rather than fear or reaction. Too many people wait until they're in crisis before they start gathering information. But there's a better path. Cindy shares how her research-backed Relationship Audit helps individuals get an honest, data-driven picture of where their relationship stands across 12 core areas — from values alignment and emotional safety to finances, intimacy, and trust. When paired with the MDS Financial Portrait, people have both the emotional and financial picture they need to make a truly informed decision: whether that means investing in their marriage, pursuing a post-nuptial agreement, or moving toward divorce with a clear and intentional plan. The conversation also covers why how you begin the divorce process determines so much of what follows — from legal cost to co-parenting outcomes — and why getting the right experts involved early (financial first, hen legal) changes everything. Whether you're still deciding or already preparing, this episode gives you the tools and perspective to move forward thoughtfully. Download The What to Know Before You Decide: Your Emotional + Financial Preparation Checklist What’s inside: 10 questions to assess your emotional clarity, 10 questions to assess your financial readiness, overview of the Relationship Audit and MDS Financial Portrait, the right sequence for getting expert support, next steps and contact information for both resources. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices