Financially Ever After Widowhood

This week, Stacy is joined by Joy Loverde, a consultant on active aging and the elder-care industry. She’s the author of, “Who Will Take Care of Me When I’m Old” and “The Complete Eldercare Planner.” It’s important to think about what you can be doing to age as active and happy as possible. In this episode, Joy highlights how important it is to have an insurance policy that will allow you to remain independent. In order to support family, women are constantly putting their own financial well-being in jeopardy. What you may fail to realize is if you can’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to take care of those dependent on you. You will gain insight on: What to put in a long-term plan (05:18) Medicare (05:55) Insurance policies for long-term care and what isn’t covered in Medicare (12:20) Spousal discount on your long-term care (12:20) Community and Caring (16:55) Joy Loverde | W: www.elderindustry.com E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

This week Stacy is joined by successful business woman, Jenny Powers. Jenny married her childhood sweetheart and then found herself filing for divorce, mainly due to issues around money. When Jenny’s divorce attorney asked her basic questions related to her financial situation and she realized she couldn’t answer them, she decided things needed to change. Jenny is someone who has learned from her mistakes and is now happily re-married and having smart money conversations with her husband. In this episode, Stacy and Jenny will share helpful tips on how to have the money conversation with your partner. Jenny shares her insight on all of the below questions: Do you feel like your ex-husband had a handle on the household finances? (04:34) Do you feel that the lack of conversation about money led to your decision about the divorce? (06:29) How long did your divorce take? (08:46) How did you choose a lawyer? (11:12) How did you manage to support yourself afterwards? (12:36) What did you take away from your marriage regarding finances? (15:33) What is your strategy in your new marriage? (21:08) Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected] Jenny Powers | W: http://www.running-with-heels.com/

Nationally recognized transitional life strategist, author, keynote, and reinvention expert, Randi Levin joins Stacy this week on Financially Ever After. Randi’s core belief is that women have the choice and the power to carve out and curate their own legacy based on embracing their ongoing evolution. This inspiring episode is for individuals who are going through a major life transition and are struggling with how to navigate it. Stacy and Randi stress how “Now” is the time to start your new chapter with no regrets, especially if you find yourself sacrificing the things you enjoy for the sake of others. You will gain insight on: ü How you can stand up and take care of yourself first (10:05) ü How to own your past and not feel like it needs to be erased (13:14) ü How to move forward in your life with more courage and less fear (16:25) ü The blocks that hold you back when contemplating divorce (23:38) We guarantee you will leave this podcast episode feeling fulfilled and empowered. Visit Randi’s website for upcoming workshops and more information on tools to help you navigate difficult life transitions. Randi Levin | W: www.randilevincoaching.com P: 201-803-1333 E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

This week Stacy is joined by successful business woman, Lara Kisielewska. You will gain insight on a whole new, cheaper and quicker approach to divorce. Do It Yourself (DYI) is a technique that eliminates the need to hire outside professionals, making the process extremely cost-effective. Lara met her current husband on a volunteer trip and highly recommends volunteer based travel as one of the best things you can do when you find yourself in a rut. She claims, “you may not find a husband, but you're definitely going to break your patterns, get a new perspective and heal in some ways large and small.” In this episode, we will focus on: ü When you should use a DIY approach (04:42) ü Where to get a DIY guidebook (11:16) ü Who is the DIY approach most suitable for? (12:45) ü How does having children impact this decision? (18:34) ü Tips and tricks when going through divorce (29:55) Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

This week, Stacy is joined by attorney, social worker, and founder of DLM Divorce Mediation, Debra Mechanick. Debra clearly understands the clinical dynamic of family relationships, and will advise you on how to take a peaceful approach to separation and divorce. How does one make well-reasoned, logical financial decisions when in the midst of what, arguably, is one of the most emotionally-traumatic experiences a family can go through? In this episode, Stacy and Debra will provide you with tools for approaching the divorce process by separating emotions from rational decisions. You will gain insight on: Three big mistakes women make when rushing through the divorce process (6:29)Understanding new laws (12:31)How to separate emotions from the decision-making process (19:18)Techniques for avoiding unhealthy communication that may influence negotiation (23:10)How to compartmentalize the divorce process into 3 components (28:32)Taking care of yourself (36:41)Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E:[email protected] Debra Mechanick | W: http://www.dlmdivorcemediation.com/ P: (646) 428-5151 E: [email protected]

Mali List Mayer, a single mother and solopreneur, who has launched her life independently, joins Stacy this week. Mali hones in on the importance of educating yourself financially from a young age. From learning how to budget to choosing the right adviser for you. Stacy and Mali provides savvy tips to get on top of your investments and not rely on your other half for help. In this episode, you will gain insight on: Educating yourself on financial terminology and concepts – 8:17 Choosing the right portfolio and adviser for you – 11:32 Approaching your adviser in the most effective way – 15:23 Understanding how advisers charge – 21:50 Teaching the next generation about your values of money – 28:17 Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

This week Stacy is joined by psychiatrist and author of Fulfilled for a valentine’s day special about finding yourself before you find your soulmate. Fulfilled illustrates how the science of spirituality helps you live a happier, more meaningful life. In this episode Stacy and Anna provide you with real life examples and exercises focusing on four important points during a divorce: relinquishing victim mentality, having faith and giving/offering forgiveness, rising above indecision and owning your thoughts & feelings. You will gain insight on: What made Anna decide to write Fulfilled? (3:03)How to start healing yourself (5:38)The Mirror Principle (6:28)What are some of those tools that women can work through to start to find that nugget that might not be fully ready in themselves? (8:07)Harnessing your personal power (16:05)How do you move beyond feeling like a victim in a divorce? (16:48)Faith and forgiveness (18:29)What would Queen Elizabeth do in this situation? (24:06) Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected] Anna Yusim | W: https://www.annayusim.com/ P: (917) 727-9437 E: [email protected]

This week, Stacy is joined by Francis Financial’s very own, Davon Barrett. Davon shares his personal story of growing up in a divorced family and how it’s impacted him today. This powerful episode brings to light a child’s perspective and provides key takeaways for what parents can be conscious of when bringing up their children in a split home. Stacy touches on the following questions: What worked well with your mom and dad? How did they try and make you feel comfortable at each of the new homes? (5:30) How did you deal with the compromise and change? (7:08) Did you notice any differences with regard to money? (11:14) Do you ever find yourself having to make uncomfortable decisions on who to spend time with? (13:30) Has your parent’s relationship taught you lessons for when you might get married someday? (30:50)

This week, Stacy and matrimonial attorney, Randi Karmel, dive into the importance of preparing a divorce settlement that incorporates planning for your special needs child’s financial future. Randi shares words of wisdom, pulling from her extensive experience, to ensure you are supporting your child, regardless of potential disagreements in parental decisions. In this episode, Stacy and Randi focus on cases where divorcing parents must work collaboratively to do what’s in the best interest of the child and find a middle ground, financially. You will gain insight on: Dealing with contradicting opinions for your child’s treatment (05:10) What expenses need to be planned for (09:46) How to financially care for your adult children with special needs (14:59) Who becomes the trustee during a transition (18:18) (20:20) Randi Karmel | W: www.randikarmel.com P: 212-755-0224 E: Upon request Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

Stacy is joined by Publisher and Editor in Chief of The New York Amsterdam News, Elinor Tatum. Elinor is a single mom to her 7 year old daughter, and has been divorced for 5 years, and in this episode, she talks about the importance of taking care of yourself and building your support team for life. There may be weeks where you need 24/7 support, and it is important to recognize how much stress you, personally, can take on, and who you should go to for the advice you need, whether it be your attorney, financial advisor, mental health professional, or friend. Elinor and Stacy specifically touch on the following topics: Who does the most supportive team consist of? (7:19) Finding the perfect attorney/ financial advisor/ mental health professional (9:50)(12:36)(13:25) How to not break the bank on legal costs (16:47) What to do when the relationship with your attorney isn’t working (28:14) Top consideration for your mental health during the divorce process (33:04) Elinor Tatum | W: www.amsterdamnews.com E:[email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

Summary: Do you hate your ex-spouse more than you love your child? For this holiday episode, Stacy is joined by Shari Bornstein, Director of Parent Services at FamilyKind, to discuss how to put bitterness aside and prioritize your children when celebrating the holidays. In this episode, you will gain insight on: How to prevent and prepare for possible conflict during the upcoming holidays (12:19) Finding middle ground when it comes to differing parenting styles (15:01) Scheduling your holiday sharing plan (15:47) Parenting techniques, such as the pizza delivery technique, and using buzzwords to avoid bitterness and conflict in front of the kids (17:46) How parents can avoid being “naughty” by coordinating traditions and not “out-gifting” each other (21:58) Tips on how to make the holidays less stressful for your children (28:29) Holidays can be a stressful time for many, especially for divorced families whose children split their time between parents. FamilyKind is non-profit organization located in New York City that provides education and support services to families experiencing divorce and separation. If you have any questions or queries, you can contact Shari or visit the Family Kind website. Shari Bornstein | W: www.familykind.org P: 860-302-2631 E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

Stacy is joined by internationally recognized communications and relationship expert, Dr. Patty Ann Tublin, as she shares her passion for ending the gender pay gap and her research on why women become unaware of their financial situation once they get married. In this episode, Stacy and Patty Ann focus on the importance of fighting for your worth in the workplace, emphasize the need for a change in women’s mindsets about money, and demonstrate ways to not drop your financial IQ as soon as he puts a ring on it. You will gain insight on: ü How to advocate for yourself and get what you deserve (12:11) ü Why educated women become financially illiterate when they get married (17:17) ü How the impact of women’s lack of financial control affects them in divorce (20:55) ü Financial advice for women going through transition (22:50) Dr. Patty Ann | W: www.relationshiptoolbox.com P: 877-456-7230 E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

Now happily remarried with a three-year-old son, Kim Mishkin joins Stacy to share her powerful story about how she transitioned from an abusive marriage and built the strength to fight for her worth. In this episode, Kim and Stacy acknowledge the importance of telling your story, giving yourself time to grow on your own, and finding the balance of the key players needed to help you through your transition. In this episode you will gain insight on: Having the courage to come forward about being abused (3:40) How to have ‘the conversation’ about moving forward (6:52) Helpful support networks and resources (8:02, 14:48) The healing process and how to find happiness again (18:54 ) Kim is also a co-founder of Support and Solutions (SAS) for Women. SAS provides divorce support and coaching for women who are considering, in the process of, or recovering from divorce. Since 2012, they have helped women come to terms with questions such as how to prepare for divorce in practical and emotional ways, what are the effects of divorce on children, and how to deal with life after divorce. Their mission is to provide women comprehensive support as they navigate and grow from the process of change and major-life challenges. Kimberly Mishkin | W: www.sasforwomen.com P: 646-438-5163 E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

Boo! This Halloween, what is more spooky than having your ex inherit all of your money if you die? Alison Besunder, expert in trust and estate planning, elder law, estate litigation, commercial litigation and intellectual property law, joins Stacy to discuss the importance of an estate plan, particularly when going through a transition, such as divorce. In this episode, Alison and Stacy highlight the first and most important steps that you should take to help you take the least financially-draining path during this time. Alison reveals the shocking consequences of lacking an estate plan, and how that can impact the most important people in your life. They answer questions that could save yourself from the devastating possibilities of life without a will, such as: Why do you need an estate plan when you get married vs. getting divorced? (11:38) What happens if your spouse dies during your divorce and there is no will? (16:25) Can your ex-spouse still make the medical decisions for you after divorce? (21:26) Alison Besunder | W: http://www.besunderlaw.com P: (212) 584-1139 E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

This week, Stacy is joined by Grief & Gratitude workshop creator, Jenny Douglas. Jenny focuses on the importance of curiosity, patience, and standing with a community after divorce. She shares the grieving techniques which helped her find the best version of herself, during her own divorce, and move forward. And she shares this with the women in her workshops, as well. In this episode, you will gain insight on: · How to feel gratitude about your marriage regardless of the heartbreak · How to gain emotional stability during a big change in your life · The importance of not having to rely on your partner for finances Jenny has achieved an incredible amount since her divorce and inspires others with the unique and stimulating activities in her workshop. To attend a Grief & Gratitude workshop, visit the website provided below. Jenny Douglas | W: www.thebrooklyncottage.org E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

This week, Stacy is joined by Elise Pettus. Divorced mom and founder of UNtied, Elise created an online network to connect fellow divorced women and help them re-discover their confidence, post-divorce. In this episode, you will gain insight on: ü Conquering the process of divorce and coming out the other side “financially ever after” ü Pre-divorce tips and help with the grieving process ü Building a team, including an attorney, specific to your needs Elise emphasizes that women need both professional and social support during this transition. She recommends that women not look at their split as a tragedy, but rather as a challenging and meaningful opportunity to create a new chapter. Elise Pettus | W: www.untied.net P: (917) 797-6465 E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

This week, Deborah Donenfeld recounts the moment she realized that she was entitled to leave her unhappy marriage of 22 years. By allowing herself to grieve and focus on her self-worth and her children, Deborah ultimately freed herself and gained more clarity and control in her financial life. Deborah Donenfeld | W: www.deborahdonenfeld.com P: 212-675-4420 E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

This week, top matrimonial attorney, Caroline Krauss-Browne, shares how she persevered in her career, going from working part-time to raise her son to becoming a partner at a top New York City law firm. Stacy and Caroline dive into the harsh reality of child custody within same-sex divorces. Are you protected as a legal parent of your child? In this episode, you will hear a powerful pro-bono case Caroline worked on that fought for the right of a non-biological mother. Caroline Krauss-Browne | W: www.blankrome.com P: (212) 885-5426 E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

This week, Stacy is joined by friend and single mother, Deirdre Coupe Hopkins as she reflects on her divorce and the role money played in this chapter of her life. After leaving her alcoholic ex-husband, Deirdre raised all four children on her own. With the help of education, family and community, she ultimately gained her financial independence. Deirdre always lives her life with the glass half full mentality and continues to do so 25 years later. Show Contact Info: Deirdre Coupe Hopkins | E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

Top New York City divorce coach, Liza Caldwell, joins Stacy to discuss how to navigate her proven approach of the 4 stages of divorce. In this episode, Liza opens up about how going back to school and how being a role model for her children were major turning points in her life. Whether you are contemplating, navigating or recovering from divorce, Stacy and Liza dive into how to overcome the challenges and fears associated with this transition. Liza Caldwell | W: www.sasforwomen.com P: (917)485-1323 E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected] For more programs on Divorce and life after divorce, visit: www.DivorceSourceRadio.com Financially Ever After is a Divorce Source Radio production.

This week, Stacy chats with successful business woman, caring mother, and friend, Kathy Ellman, as she shares her story of divorce. Stacy and Kathy reflect on her first marriage, the lessons she learnt and how she was able to find love again. She reveals how communication is key in maintaining her relationship, shared finances and teaching the value of money to her three sons. Show Contact Info: Kathy Ellman | W: www.bayardad.com P: (917) 848-6280 E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

Stacy and Jennifer Kouzi, a top matrimonial and family attorney, discuss mistakes you might make when going through divorce, tips for making custody battles go as smoothly as possible and understanding the difference between legal and physical (residential) custody. Ever wondered what your judge is thinking? In this episode, you will gain insight on how judges view your statement of net worth, in order to better prepare yourself for the courtroom. Jennifer Kouzi | W: http://www.kkallp.com/ P: 212-921-5526 E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

This week, Financially Ever After welcomes Marcia Butler, author of The Skin Above My Knee. Marcia shares how listening to music starting at the age of 4 saved her life and was ultimately the reason she survived an abusive childhood. Marcia Butler's difficult childhood experiences led her to pick men that were not good for her, later in life. Three divorces later, Marcia talks about the tools she used to survive divorce and for thriving in her new single life. Marcia Butler | W: http://marciabutlerauthor.com/book P: (718) 937-4220 E: [email protected] Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]

Award-winning financial advisor, Stacy Francis, debuts her “Financially Ever After” podcast and interviews life, career and grief coach, Nesreen Mahmoud. Together, they discuss the grief involved in the divorce process, financial mistakes to avoid and how best to take care of yourself in order to move forward in this new chapter of your life in a positive way. You will receive access to a wellness tracking sheet, learn about the Ostrich effect and hear a sneak preview of episodes to come. Nesreen Mahmoud | W: http://www.harborlightcoaching.com/ P: 917-830-6863 E: [email protected] Free gift for podcast listeners (wellness tracking sheet): www.harborlightcoaching.com/everafter Stacy Francis | W: www.francisfinancial.com P: 212-374-9008 E: [email protected]