Grown Girl Divorce Podcast

Mediation Basics 101:Everything you need to know to succeed

You've heard about "mediation" but you don't REALLY know what it is, right?  Or, you aren't sure if mediation is right for you? We got you! In this episode, our host, Kimberly A. Cook, gives you the information you need to make an informed decision about mediation including:
1.  Defining divorce mediation
2. The benefits of mediation;
3. The Mediator's role;
4. Initiating mediation;
5. What to look for in a Mediator;
6. Mediation session topics;
7. Challenges, myths, and misconceptions about mediation; and more!
If you are considering mediation, or not sure if mediation is a good fit for you, then this is the episode to listen to!
 
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website, www.growngirldivorce.com, for resources, information, free downloads, and more.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.

How to navigate divorce setbacks and defeat

There is nothing worse than feeling defeated or experiencing a setback - especially during a divorce.  However, all is not lost and things can (and will) get better!  In this episode, our host, Kimberly A. Cook, discussing how to navigate divorce process setbacks, moving beyond feeling defeated, and push forward to reach your goals!
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website, www.growngirldivorce.com, for resources, information, free downloads, and more.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.

New Year, New You: Divorce Do’s and Don’ts

Are you ready for the new year? If you're considering or going through a divorce, then this is the perfect opportunity to start things off on the right foot or to reset how you're proceeding in the current divorce process. In this episode, our host, Kimberly A Cook, Esq., discusses the "do's and don'ts" of the divorce process to start your year, or process, in the best way possible. 
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website, www.growngirldivorce.com, for resources, information, free downloads, and more.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.

Q&A Episode: Holiday Edition

The holidays can be an especially trying time when dealing with a divorce or parenting matters. However, it can be "the most wonderful time of the year" with a bit of planning, preparation, and a lot of patience! Happy Holidays!
In this episode, our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., answers podcast listeners questions related to the holidays including:
- Should we tell the children about the divorce during the holidays?
- My child wrote Santa about having everyone together for Christmas. What should I do?
- How do explain to extended family why the children aren't with you this year?
- Do you have to buy a gift for your Ex and their significant other?
- My divorce is not finalized. How should we navigate the holidays with the kids and finances?
- My Ex bought the kids presents and wants to be reimbursed.
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website for resources, information, free downloads, and more.  Follow us on social media and listen to our Spotify playlists.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.
 

Legal Separation or Divorce? Knowing the difference matters.

Are you legally separated or divorced? Is there a difference? If so, does it really matter?  In this episode, our host, Kimberly A. Cook, shares:
- Why you should know the legal difference between legal separation and divorce;
- The benefits of legal separation;
- The benefits of divorce;
- Impact on your family and finances depending on your marital status; and
- The most important thing to do when considering a legal separation or a divorce.
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website, www.growngirldivorce.com, for resources, information, free downloads, and more.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.

8 Gift Ideas For Kids During Their Parents Divorce

Need a gift idea for a special child? Giving a gift brings so much joy to both the giver and receiver especially during a challenging or transitional time such as a divorce.  In this episode, Grown Girl Divorce podcast host, Kimberly A. Cook, shares 8 gift ideas to give to children of all ages and for all budgets during their parents divorce. 
 
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website, www.growngirldivorce.com, for resources, information, free downloads, and more.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.

The reason Black couples should mediate their divorce

Mediation is a great option for families to resolve divorce, custody, alimony, child support matters, and more.  In this episode, our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq. shares why Black families in particular should choose mediation for divorce and family matters.
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website, www.growngirldivorce.com, for resources, information, free downloads, and more.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.

Things to be thankful for when going through a divorce

Being "thankful" for the good things in our lives can be hard to do when we are going through a difficult time. In this episode, Grown Girl Divorce podcast host, Kimberly A. Cook, shares things to be thankful for even in the midst of divorce.
 
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website for resources, information, free downloads, and more.  Follow us on social media and listen to our Spotify playlists.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.

Q&A: Supporting A Friend Through Divorce

Do you have a friend going through a divorce and don't know how to support her? In this episode, Grown Girl Divorce podcast host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., answers the following questions from listeners:
1. How can I support a friend going through a divorce?
2. Should I agree to testify as a witness in my friend's custody trial?
3. What boundaries should I put in place while supporting my friend through her divorce?
4. My friend wants me to attend her meetings with her lawyer.  Should I?
5. Any recommendations for gifts for a friend going through a divorce?
Going through a divorce can be a tough time but having a friend to support you can make all the difference. Thank you for being that friend!
 
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website for resources, information, free downloads, and more.  Follow us on social media and listen to our Spotify playlists.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.

Avoiding the common ”shopping” mistakes Black women make during divorce

Going through a divorce is an emotional experience and many women use shopping as an emotional release. However, allowing your emotions to drive the process can have significant financial and legal implications which can be more costly than most women bargain for.  In this episode, Kimberly shares:
- The importance of shopping around to find the right lawyer, Mediator, and other professionals;
- Being realistic about what you can and cannot afford during the divorce process;
- The true value of "quality" over "quantity in both parenting and financial matters; and
- Recognizing the financial dangers of "Keeping Up With The Joneses" during divorce.
Put the credit card down and listen to this episode before you spend another dollar! 
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website for resources, information, free downloads, and more.  Follow us on social media and listen to our Spotify playlists.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.

Keke Palmer: Safety over celebrity

The recent Order of Protection obtained by actress, Keke Palmer, against her ex-boyfriend sent shock waves through the community. Unfortunately, being in an abusive relationship is the reality for many of our sisters.  According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, more than 40% of Black women have experienced intimate partner physical violence, sexual violence, and/or stalking in their lifetimes. While domestic violence disproportionately affects Black women, we know that domestic violence does not discriminate and impacts every race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, and education level.  In this bonus episode, Kimberly shares:
1. The importance of putting your public persona aside for your personal safety;
2.  The main types of Orders of Protections;
3.  Tips for collecting and preserving evidence; and
4.  Considerations when helping a friend navigate an abusive situation. 
If you, or someone you know, are in an abusive relationship, please know that help is available 24/7 by contacting the National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233 (or text START to 88788).  For additional resources and information, please go to our website www.growngirldivorce.com
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website for resources, information, free downloads, and more.  Follow us on social media and listen to our Spotify playlists.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.
 
 

Phoenix’s Story: Girl, I’ve Been There Too Series

A Phoenix is a mythical bird who regenerates and rises from the ashes from which it burned. Our guest today, Phoenix, shares her personal journey on:
- Why it can be hard to leave a relationship even when it's not safe to stay;
- The fallacy of success and perfection in life and love;
- How faith can shape your divorce journey;
- The strength that comes from surrounding yourself with good people; and
- Rising from the ashes with the hope of a better life.
The Girl, I've Been There Too Series profiles Black women who have been through divorce and are sharing their stories to provide lessons learned, real talk on navigating the process, and coming out ahead post-divorce. Please be sure to catch all our episodes by subscribing to the podcast!
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of Color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
 
For more information and resources, be sure to follow us on social media (@growngirldivorce) and visit the website https://www.growngirldivorce.com

Co-Parenting Questions & Answers Vol. II

You've asked and we are ready to answer!  Join podcast host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq. as she answers questions from our listeners. In this episode, Kimberly answers:
1. What's the biggest mistake parents make in mediation?
2. When should I return to Court to address issues with my co-parent?
3. Do we have to share the holidays?
4. My co-parent's new spouse is making decisions about my child.  What can I do?
5. What is a Guardian Ad Litem or Child Representative? Why are they being appointed in my case?
Going through a divorce is hard but not getting answers to your questions makes it even harder. If you have questions, then let's get you some answers so that you are educated and empowered while navigating your divorce.  Please visit the Grown Girl Divorce website to submit questions and we will answer them on a future podcast episode. 
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website for events, resources, services, and more!  Follow us on social media and listen to our Spotify playlists.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.

CoParenting Through The Holidays: Tips for Multi-Race, Multi-Cultural, and Multi-Belief Families

The holiday season is upon us! For divorced parents, especially parents in multi-race, multi-cultural, or multi-belief families, this time of year can bring more conflict than celebration but it doesn't have to be that way! In this episode, Kimberly explores how to make the holiday season a joyous time for everyone:
-  The importance of Acknowledgement of Different Beliefs and Traditions;
- Why having a written plan is better than verbal agreements - especially during the holiday season;
- How creating new traditions, while incorporating old ones, can bring joy to both parents and children;
- The number one thing co-parents in multi-race, multi-cultural, and multi-belief families must do; and more.
This episode will surely help you navigate the holiday season so that you can focus on the festive and not the fight!
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website for resources, information, free downloads, and more.  Follow us on social media and listen to our Spotify playlists.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.

Ignore Jada Pinkett Smith: Don’t stay in an unhappy marriage for the sake of staying married

 We have all been inundated with details about Jada & Will Smith's marriage despite not asking for it. There are more than enough "think pieces," comedy monologues, and gossip column headlines to last a lifetime.  Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., had no interest or plans to speak on any of it but felt compelled to do so after hearing Jada's statement about divorce.  In this episode, Kimberly shares:
- Why you should ignore anyone who makes you question your decision to get divorced;
- The misguided notion that staying in an unhappy marriage is better than getting a divorce;
- An understanding why being "separated" was historically done by Black women; and
- Why Jada's statements are problematic.
 
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website for support groups, financial resources, free downloads, and more.  Follow us on social media and listen to our Spotify playlists.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.
 

You Deserve An Apology

In this episode, Kimberly admits that she has been the very friend that she warned you about (i.e., the friend with limited capacity) and why you deserve better.  
 
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website for support groups, financial resources, free downloads, and more.  Follow us on social media and listen to our Spotify playlists.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.

Q&A Parenting Topics

You've got questions?! Well, our podcast host, Kimberly A. Cook, is ready to answer them.  If we are truly a community of support, then answering the questions that are keeping many of our sisters up at night is what needs to happen! In this episode, Kimberly answers:
1. I am breast feeding. Will the other parent still get parenting time?
2. My Ex wants a 50/50 parenting schedule but I believe it's only because they don't want to pay me child support.  What can I do about this?
3. How to change a parenting schedule?
4.  My kids want a "say" in the parenting schedule.  Should they? 
If you have questions, then let's get you some answers so that you are educated and empowered while navigating your divorce.  Please visit the Grown Girl Divorce website to submit questions and we will answer them on a future podcast episode. 
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website for support groups, financial resources, free downloads, and more.  Follow us on social media and listen to our Spotify playlists.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.

What Not To Worry About During Divorce and in Life

A self-care episode to help you channel your "worries" during divorce.  In this episode, our host, Kimberly A. Cook, shares:
1. Setting boundaries on "worry,"
2. Understanding what you can and cannot control during a divorce,
3. How focusing on the big picture can make a difference, and
4. The daily reminder to tell yourself when you feel overwhelmed with worry.
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of Color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website, https://www.growngirldivorce.com for resources, information, and more.  Follow us on social media and listen to our Spotify playlists.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.

Safiri’s Story: Girl, I’ve Been There Too Series

Safiri means "journey" in Swahili.  Our guest today, Safiri, shares her story about divorce and co-parenting:
- how divorce played a role in her self-discovery,
- why setting and maintaining boundaries is important during and after divorce,
- the personal and professional benefits of a parenting schedule, and
- the impact long separations can have on moving forward.
The Girl, I've Been There Too Series profiles Black women who have been through divorce and are sharing their stories to provide lessons learned, real talk on navigating the process, and coming out ahead post-divorce. Please be sure to catch all our episodes by subscribing to Grown Girl Divorce podcast.
For more resources and support, visit our website https://www.growngirldivorce.com
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of Color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
 

Q&A Episode with Kimberly A. Cook, Host, Grown Girl Divorce

You've got questions?! Well, our podcast host, Kimberly A. Cook, is ready to answer them.  If we are truly a community of support, then answering the questions that are keeping many of our sisters up at night is what needs to happen! In this episode, Kimberly answers:
1. My spouse says I don't need my own lawyer in our divorce. Do I?
2. Should I meet with a divorce lawyer even if I'm just considering a divorce?
3. My Ex won't agree to anything. Is mediation even an option for us?
4.  Will I have to pay spousal support if I make more money than my spouse right now?
If you have questions, then let's get you some answers so that you are educated and empowered while navigating your divorce.  Please visit the Grown Girl Divorce website to submit questions and we will answer them on a future podcast episode. 
Grown Girl Divorce podcast is a space of relatability for Black women considering and going through a divorce. These are girlfriend conversations to educate and empower you through the process. Our host, Kimberly A. Cook, Esq., is a highly acclaimed divorce attorney and mediator breaking down divorce misinformation, dismantling stereotypes on Black families, and shining the light on the importance of diverse representation in family law. Grown Girl Divorce podcast guests are primarily women of color providing expert information or personal stories as a way to give voice to and support Black women going through divorce. 
Be sure to check out our website for support groups, financial resources, free downloads, and more.  Follow us on social media and listen to our Spotify playlists.  We believe sharing is caring so please share our resources and information with your girlfriends, colleagues, and family, because you never know who needs the support.