Join us for an enlightening conversation with former Texas Associate Court Judge and Family Lawyer Michele Locke as we explore the complex issue of parental alienation. In this episode, Michele shares her unique perspective from the bench, discussing the limitations of a judge’s authority and what truly lies within their control. We also tackle the controversial tactics of "bulldog attorneys" who use parental alienation as a strategy—and why they often succeed. Packed with valuable insights, practical advice, and actionable tools, this episode is a must-listen for any parent facing the challenges of alienation.

Ep 123 Parent Alienation Interview w/ Michele Locke - Full Episode

In this episode, we explore the three distinct paths divorce can take: Transaction, Transition, and Transformation. The Transactional path focuses on the court's decree, often leaving unresolved contention and future conflicts. The Transitional path seeks a healthier process, emphasizing shared responsibility, healing, and long-term prosperity for both parties and their families. Finally, the Transformational path is a personal journey that breaks free from societal expectations and toxic dynamics to embrace a life of authenticity and growth. Join us as we challenge you to approach your divorce with a transition mindset, ensuring your post-divorce success exceeds the limits of your past relationship.

Ep124 The Three Divorce Paths

In this episode, I reflect on the struggles faced by the Gray family a year ago, before the Apalachee school shooting, particularly the emotional toll the father endured as he navigated divorce and sought to guide his family through pain and uncertainty. Drawing from my own experiences, both as a father and as a child of divorce, I share personal insights into the instability and insecurity faced by the son, creating a heartfelt connection with listeners who may be facing similar challenges. Through this compassionate lens, I encourage everyone navigating divorce to find strength in their journey, knowing they are not alone.

Transform your divorce experience for long-term success. Learn how to manage conflict, elevate relationship dynamics, and enhance financial savvy. Visit www.youtreecoaching.com now, or schedule a free consultation to determine what services might benefit you.

Ep 125 I Feel Your Pain

In this episode, we explore how resistance keeps us from fully moving forward in divorce. Often rooted in fear-based beliefs, resistance convinces us that stepping into the unknown will lead to negative outcomes. We’ll look at how this manifests in different areas of life—like family, finances, and health—and discuss practical ways to recognize and overcome these barriers.
By understanding the role of resistance and taking inventory of where it shows up, we can begin to shed the weight of our past and embrace a more empowered future. Tune in and let’s unpack what’s holding you back.


Transform your divorce experience for long-term success. Learn how to manage conflict, elevate relationship dynamics, and enhance financial savvy. Visit www.youtreecoaching.com now, or schedule a free consultation to determine what services might benefit you.

Ep 126 - Full Audio File

In this episode, I’m joined by Susan Shofer, a Divorce Coach specializing in Parent Alienation, who has worked with thousands of cases. We dive deep into the complexities of parent alienation, exploring how the alienating parent often exhibits traits of borderline personality disorder, making them resistant to change and always steps ahead. Susan shares critical insights on recognizing subtle alienation tactics and signs, such as the "friendship" approach that disrupts parenting roles and creates a damaging "good-cop/bad-cop" dynamic. Tune in to learn how to navigate these challenging situations and protect your relationship with your child.

To enjoy the remainder of this Premier Episode visit our Divorce Support Center on Patreon.  New subscribers pay just $3/month, after a 7-day free trial, for my full body of podcast episodes and exclusive community events.

Transform your divorce experience for long-term success. Learn how to manage conflict, elevate relationship dynamics, and enhance financial savvy. Visit www.youtreecoaching.com now, or schedule a free consultation to determine what services might benefit you.

Ep. 127 Parent Alienation Interview with Susan Shofer

 In episode 128, we dive into a question many ask but few can clearly answer: "How do I know when I'm ready to date after divorce?" This episode explores the complexity of dating readiness, especially when sexual connection and validation seem intertwined with post-divorce recovery. We'll break down the layers of dating motives—from fulfilling sexual needs to seeking deeper intimacy and partnership—while reflecting on how post-divorce dating can sometimes muddle personal growth. Through personal stories and reflections, we discuss how true readiness isn't defined by time but by acceptance, boundaries, and an openness to love. Tune in to find clarity on whether you're truly ready to open yourself to a new relationship.

Transform your divorce experience for long-term success. Learn how to manage conflict, elevate relationship dynamics, and enhance financial savvy. Visit www.youtreecoaching.com now, or schedule a free consultation to determine what services might benefit you.

Ep 128 How Do I Know When I'm Ready to Date?

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Gary Salyer, transformational relationship mentor and author of Safe to Love Again: How to Release the Pain of Past Relationships and Create the Love You Deserve. Together, we unpack the concept of the "Invisible Divorce," examining why so many couples allow their relationships to drift into this space without actively working on the issues. We dive into the crucial moment of accepting when a marriage isn't working, explore how "relationship rights" are often infringed upon—leading to the breakdown of trust—and discuss the painful topics of betrayal and how to regain trust safely to open the door to future relationships. Lastly, we cover how to avoid repeating past relationship mistakes, setting the foundation for healthier connections moving forward. If you're looking for a deeper understanding of these critical relationship dynamics, this episode is for you.

Transform your divorce experience for long-term success. Learn how to manage conflict, elevate relationship dynamics, and enhance financial savvy. Visit www.youtreecoaching.com now, or schedule a free consultation to determine what services might benefit you.

Ep 129 Healing After Divorce: Releasing the Past and Building Trust for New Love with Dr. Gary Salyer

Feeling financially trapped in marriage is a growing concern for couples who want to divorce but face the harsh reality of supporting two households. This episode explores how the cost of living—beyond just inflation—creates financial stress, impacting time, energy, health, and family prosperity. By breaking down real-life situations, from those barely getting by to couples who seem well-off but face financial tightness, this episode emphasizes the importance of assessing your financial situation early. Discover how taking proactive steps can transform the trap into an opportunity for better planning and a more amicable post-divorce life.

Transform your divorce experience for long-term success. Learn how to manage conflict, elevate relationship dynamics, and enhance financial savvy. Visit www.youtreecoaching.com now, or schedule a free consultation to determine what services might benefit you.

For additional divorce support visit our Divorce Support Center on Patreon, as well as online divorce support courses in the Patreon Shop.

Ep. 130: Financially Trapped in Marriage

In this episode, I sat down with Carol McKelvey, an experienced therapist and family mediator, to explore the complex issue of parental alienation from her unique vantage point. Carol, who has spent much of her career in behavioral health, transitioned into mediation to support families through divorce with an insightful, balanced approach. We delved into the subtler tactics of parental alienation—behaviors that often go unnoticed in court or mediation. Carol shared her perspective on how even subtle actions, like undermining the other parent's decisions in front of children, constitute alienation, and why these less overt forms can be particularly damaging. She offered practical advice for parents facing alienation on how to effectively advocate for their interests in mediation, along with insights on how the dynamic shifts when legal counsel is present. Throughout, Carol emphasized her role in restoring harmony when tensions run high, underscoring the importance of mediators in helping families reach resolutions that serve the best interests of everyone, especially the children.

Transform your divorce experience for long-term success. Learn how to manage conflict, elevate relationship dynamics, and enhance financial savvy. Visit www.youtreecoaching.com now, or schedule a free consultation to determine what services might benefit you.

Ep. 131:  Unseen Divides: Subtle Parental Alienation in Divorce – Insights from Mediator Carol McKelvey

In this episode, I reflect on key patterns observed over the past three years with men navigating divorce, and share insight why the common challenges exist. Many listeners describe long-standing "invisible divorces," feeling trapped in unhappy, often sexless marriages for the sake of family or finances. Upon being left, they’re blindsided by feelings of betrayal and unfairness, especially in cases involving parent alienation or financial strain. Men who initiate divorce face guilt and the desire for an amicable split, often met with resistance. Across the board, men seek validation quickly in new relationships, struggle with financial worries, and need short-term, focused support to push through. As we close out 2024, I’m excited to announce a refreshed podcast format launching on December 23—featuring higher-quality audio and video episodes, with monthly guests offering both professional insights and real-life divorce stories.


Transform your divorce experience for long-term success. Learn how to manage conflict, elevate relationship dynamics, and enhance financial savvy. Visit www.youtreecoaching.com now, or schedule a free consultation to determine what services might benefit you.

Ep 132 Common Divorce Patterns I've Noticed Over the Years

I help people transition through divorce in a more healthy fashion.  I blend coaching with financial planning expertise to help my client navigate the points that hold their progress back.

Ep 123 Parent Alienation Interview w/ Michele Locke - Full Episode

Steven Schleupner, Divorce Transition Specialist

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