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.

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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/

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/