Divorce 101

Olivia Howell

Divorce 101 is a short-form educational podcast series from Divorce Happens, designed to make divorce less confusing, less intimidating, and a lot more human. Hosted by Olivia Howell—founder of Fresh Starts Registry and one of the leading voices in modern divorce education—each episode breaks down a single divorce-related term, concept, or number in clear, compassionate, plain language. Think Schoolhouse Rock, but for divorce. Whether you’re in the thick of it, just starting to ask questions, or supporting someone you love, Divorce 101 helps you understand what’s happening, what your options are, and what actually matters—without legal jargon, fear tactics, or shame. Because divorce happens. And then, you start fresh.

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20 episodes
Updated April 1

Episodes20

Newest first

April 1 · 4 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter Z
In this final episode of Divorce 101 A to Z from the Divorce Happens podcast, Olivia Howell explores zero-sum thinking, a mindset that frames divorce as a win-lose battle instead of a restructuring of life and family systems. Brought to you by the letter Z and the number 0, this episode explains why divorce does not need a scoreboard — and how releasing zero-sum beliefs can reduce conflict, guilt, and emotional exhaustion. Listeners learn how zero-sum thinking shows up in negotiations, parenting decisions, and financial discussions, and how shifting away from this mindset supports healthier outcomes for adults and children alike. Olivia also offers a grounding reflection to help listeners identify and release one belief that keeps them stuck in a win-lose framework. This episode is ideal for anyone navigating divorce, co-parenting, mediation, or emotional healing after separation. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
April 1 · 4 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter Y
In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains your best interest standard, the legal principle courts use when making custody and parenting decisions in divorce cases. Brought to you by the letter Y and the number 3, this episode breaks down the three core areas judges evaluate: a child’s needs, safety, and stability. Listeners learn what the best interest standard means, what it does not mean, and how aligning decisions with a child’s wellbeing supports stronger outcomes in custody and parenting plans. Olivia also offers a grounding reflection to help parents identify the three most important needs their child has right now. This episode is ideal for divorcing parents, co-parents, family law professionals, and anyone supporting children through divorce. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
April 1 · 4 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter X
In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains the meaning of ex parte, a critical legal concept used in emergency or safety-related situations during divorce or custody cases. Brought to you by the letter X and the number 1, this episode explores how ex parte requests work, why they are used when immediate protection is required, and what happens after an ex parte order is granted. Listeners learn the difference between temporary and long-term orders, the types of situations where ex parte actions are appropriate, and the emotional experience of navigating an emergency legal process. Olivia also shares a grounding reflection to help listeners identify one safety-related question they may need clarity on. This episode is ideal for anyone navigating domestic violence, emergency custody concerns, or sudden financial risks — as well as anyone who wants to understand how courts handle urgent matters in divorce. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
March 31 · 5 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter W
In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explores the emotional side of divorce that most people never talk about: the withdrawal of emotion. Brought to you by the letter W and the number 2, this episode explains why most divorces have two endings — the emotional ending and the legal ending — and how those timelines often unfold at different speeds for each partner. Listeners learn the subtle signs of emotional withdrawal, why it happens, and how this internal shift impacts the divorce process. Olivia also offers a grounding exercise to help listeners identify the two emotional truths they’re holding right now, creating space for clarity and self-compassion. This episode is ideal for anyone experiencing emotional disconnection in their marriage, preparing for divorce, or trying to understand a partner who appears distant or “already done.” 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
March 30 · 4 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter V
In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains the meaning of visitation — a traditional legal term that describes when and how a child spends time with each parent after separation or divorce. Brought to you by the letter V and the number 7, this episode highlights why most parenting schedules center around a seven-day structure and explores the most common visitation arrangements, including 2-2-5-5, 3-4-4-3, alternating weekends, supervised visitation, and long-distance parenting plans. Listeners learn the emotional impact of visitation for both parents and children and receive a grounding action step to help them identify the weekly routines that matter most to their child’s wellbeing. Olivia also reframes visitation in modern, child-centered language, emphasizing that the number of overnights does not define a parent’s worth. This episode is ideal for anyone building a parenting plan, navigating co-parenting, or trying to understand family law terminology. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
March 30 · 5 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter U
In today’s Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell breaks down one of the most essential pillars of divorce education: understanding your rights. Brought to you by the letter U and the number 5, this episode outlines the five fundamental rights every person should know when entering the divorce process, including the right to safety, financial transparency, marital assets, parenting involvement, and professional support. Listeners learn why understanding their rights protects them from pressure, misinformation, or fear-based decision-making — and how clarity creates stability during an emotionally turbulent time. Olivia also offers a grounding reflection to help listeners identify the five questions they need answered to feel more confident. This episode is ideal for anyone preparing for divorce, considering divorce, or supporting someone through the process. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
March 30 · 5 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter T
In today’s Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell breaks down the concept of a divorce timeline — one of the most grounding and helpful tools in the divorce process. Brought to you by the letter T and the number 6, this episode walks listeners through the six common stages of divorce: consideration, preparation, filing, negotiation, resolution, and implementation. Listeners learn why timelines matter, how they reduce overwhelm, and how emotional timelines often unfold differently from legal ones. Olivia also provides a simple reflection exercise to help listeners identify the six steps they anticipate in their own journey. This episode is ideal for anyone beginning the divorce process, planning ahead, or needing clarity about what comes next. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
March 30 · 5 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter S
In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell breaks down what a divorce settlement is and why it is the foundation of every finalized divorce. Brought to you by the letter S and the number 4, this episode walks listeners through the four key components of a settlement: parenting arrangements, support obligations, asset division, and debt division. Listeners learn how settlements are created, why most divorces end in settlement rather than trial, and how settlement acts as both a legal roadmap and an emotional milestone. Olivia also discusses the emotional experience of reaching settlement and offers a grounding action step to help listeners identify their core priorities. This episode is ideal for anyone negotiating their divorce, preparing for mediation, or trying to understand what a settlement actually includes. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
March 18 · 5 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter R
In today’s Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell breaks down one of the most important concepts in any divorce: resolution. Brought to you by the letter R and the number 3, this episode explains the three primary paths to resolution — agreement, mediation, and litigation — and helps listeners understand how their divorce might reach its final outcome. Listeners learn what resolution actually includes, from parenting plans to financial agreements, and why reaching resolution is as much an emotional milestone as a legal one. Olivia also offers a grounding reflection to help listeners identify the three outcomes they most want from their divorce process. This episode is ideal for anyone in the middle of divorce, preparing for negotiations, or trying to understand the roadmap to a finalized divorce. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
March 11 · 5 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter Q
In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains what a QDRO (Qualified Domestic Relations Order) is and why it’s essential for dividing certain retirement accounts during divorce. Brought to you by the letter Q and the number 1, this episode highlights the one category of assets that require a QDRO — qualified employer-sponsored retirement plans. Listeners learn how QDROs work, which accounts require them, common mistakes people make, and why these documents are crucial for protecting financial security and avoiding tax penalties. Olivia also explores the emotional side of dividing retirement funds and offers a grounding action step to help listeners begin the process with clarity. This episode is ideal for anyone dividing retirement assets, preparing for mediation, or navigating financial decisions in divorce. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
January 17 · 4 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter P
In today’s Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains what a parenting plan is and why it is one of the most important documents in any divorce involving children. Brought to you by the letter P and the number 2, this episode highlights the two essential components of every parenting plan: parenting time (when the child is with each parent) and parental responsibility (how decisions are made). Listeners learn the purpose of parenting plans, the different types of schedules families may choose, and how a thoughtfully structured plan helps children feel secure, grounded, and loved across two homes. Olivia also explores the emotional challenges of creating a parenting plan and offers a grounding action step to help parents begin with clarity and compassion. This episode is ideal for divorcing parents, mediators, therapists, and anyone supporting children through family transitions. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
January 15 · 5 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter O
In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains one of the most essential parts of the divorce process: orders. Brought to you by the letter O and the number 4, this episode breaks down the four major types of orders — temporary orders, financial orders, custody and parenting time orders, and final orders — and explains how they guide, protect, and structure the entire divorce journey. Listeners learn why orders matter, what happens when someone violates an order, and how these instructions create predictability and safety during a highly emotional time. Olivia also offers a grounding action step to help listeners understand which orders already exist in their case or may be coming next. This episode is ideal for anyone newly navigating divorce, trying to understand court paperwork, or feeling overwhelmed by legal terminology. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
January 14 · 4 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter N
In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains the importance of notice in the divorce process. Brought to you by the letter N and the number 30, the episode breaks down what notice is, why legally valid service is required, what methods are accepted in most states, and how notice ensures fairness, predictability, and due process in divorce proceedings. Listeners learn the emotional and logistical realities of giving and receiving notice, as well as the common “30-day rule” that governs many divorce deadlines and responses. Olivia also offers a grounding action step to help listeners organize their next 30 days of divorce-related tasks. This episode is ideal for anyone beginning the divorce process, preparing for service, or navigating upcoming court deadlines. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
January 13 · 4 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter M
In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell breaks down the meaning of mediation — one of the most common and collaborative ways to navigate divorce without litigation. Brought to you by the letter M and the number 3, the episode explains the three essential qualities that make mediation successful: openness, honesty, and willingness to find common ground. Listeners learn what mediation is, how it works, when it’s appropriate, and when it’s not. Olivia explains the mediator’s role, the emotional experience of sitting across from a spouse, and why mediation offers many families a more peaceful, cost-effective path forward. A grounding action step helps listeners identify their own intentions for the process. This episode is ideal for anyone considering mediation, entering mediation sessions, or weighing different divorce process options. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
January 12 · 5 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter L
In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains what a legal separation is, how it works, and why some couples choose it instead of divorce. Brought to you by the letter L and the number 6, this episode outlines the six most common reasons couples choose legal separation — from health insurance considerations to religious beliefs to emotional readiness and financial protection. Listeners learn what legal separation does (and doesn’t) accomplish, how it compares to divorce, and why it is available only in certain states. Olivia also explores the emotional complexity of choosing separation and offers a grounding action step to help listeners assess whether this option might support their needs. This episode is perfect for anyone considering separation, evaluating divorce options, or needing clarity on legal choices during major life transitions. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
January 11 · 4 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter K
In today’s Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains what a kitchen table agreement is and how couples can use this collaborative approach to outline the terms of their divorce without high conflict or litigation. Brought to you by the letter K and the number 2, this episode highlights why kitchen table agreements work best when two people can communicate respectfully and want to shape their own future rather than leave decisions to the courts. Listeners learn which topics are typically covered in a kitchen table agreement, why informal negotiations still need legal review, and when this approach is not appropriate — especially in situations involving abuse, imbalance of power, or limited financial transparency. Olivia also shares the emotional reality of sitting across the table from someone you’re separating from and offers a simple, grounding action step to support clarity and collaboration. This episode is ideal for couples pursuing mediation, amicable separation, or low-conflict divorce. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
January 10 · 5 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter J
In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell explains the meaning of a divorce judgment — the final court order that legally ends a marriage. Brought to you by the letter J and the number 2, the episode breaks down the two major components of a judgment: the legal dissolution of the marriage, and the detailed terms outlining custody, support, property division, and more. Listeners learn the differences between a judgment, a decree, and a settlement agreement, and why the judgment becomes the foundational document for all future decisions, questions, or disputes. Olivia also addresses the emotional experience of receiving a final judgment and offers a simple action step to support clarity and empowerment. This episode is ideal for anyone in the final stages of divorce, reviewing paperwork, or preparing for settlement negotiations. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
January 9 · 4 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter I
In this Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell breaks down one of the most common — and most misunderstood — legal terms in divorce: irreconcilable differences. Brought to you by the letter I and the number 1, this episode explains the meaning of irreconcilable differences in plain language, why it exists, and why most modern divorces use this no-fault ground. Listeners learn why this term simplifies the divorce process, how it protects privacy, and why it doesn’t require proving wrongdoing. Olivia also discusses the emotional reality behind the phrase — how something so simple can feel so heavy — and offers a grounding action step to support clarity and self-trust. This episode is perfect for anyone considering divorce or trying to understand modern no-fault filing requirements. 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
January 8 · 4 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter H
In today’s Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell breaks down what a hearing actually is during a divorce. Brought to you by the letter H and the number 10, this five-minute explanation clarifies why hearings are usually short, simple, and procedural — often lasting 10 minutes or less — and why they matter even when they feel overwhelming. Listeners learn what happens during a hearing, the types of issues hearings resolve, the difference between a hearing and a trial, and why most of the fear around hearings comes from uncertainty, not reality. Olivia also offers a gentle action step to help listeners prepare emotionally for their next court date. This episode is ideal for anyone who has an upcoming hearing, feels anxious about court, or wants to better understand the legal process of divorce. 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/
January 7 · 4 min
Divorce 101: A to Z - Letter G
In today’s Divorce 101 A to Z episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia Howell breaks down a key legal term at the start of every case: grounds for divorce. Brought to you by the letter G and the number 2, this five-minute guide explains the difference between fault-based and no-fault divorce, how each option works, and why most modern divorces proceed through the no-fault pathway. Listeners will learn which grounds may still affect alimony or custody, why no-fault divorce reduces conflict, and how to choose the filing approach that best supports emotional wellbeing, privacy, and safety. Olivia ends with a grounding action step to help listeners identify their intentions before filing. This episode is perfect for anyone considering divorce, navigating early legal steps, or supporting someone who is beginning the process. 🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry: The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry 🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/ 📬 Magazine: https://divorceguidemagazine.com/