Mediation or Manipulation: How to Handle Divorce Mediation When Settlement Isn’t their Goal
Release Date: 11/26/2024
Super Split Myths: Why Equalising Isn’t Always Fair in Divorce
The Divorce Course Podcast
🎧 Listen to This Episode If You: 💼 You're negotiating your super split after divorce in Australia 🧐 You've been told “let’s just equalise super — it’s fair” 😵💫 You’re confused about what super is worth vs. cash 💸 You’re worried about being left worse off long-term 🧾 You’ve made non-financial contributions (like parenting or homemaking) ⚖️ You want to make sure your property settlement is legally fair 👀 You suspect you’re being pressured into a bad deal Are you about to deal with your superannuation in your divorce or separation? Before you sign...
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Divorce Deals 101: What to Know Before You Make or Accept a Deal With Your Ex
The Divorce Course Podcast
One of the most underestimated parts of separation are— settlement offers. Whether you’re negotiating parenting arrangements, property division, or both, knowing how and when to make (or respond to) an offer can save you stress, time, and serious money. We break down how settlement offers work, when to consider using Calderbank letters, how Section 117C of the Family Law Act affects legal costs, and the emotional traps that can trip you up during negotiation. We also talk about avoiding lowball traps, the risks of ignoring offers, and what to do if you’re dealing with an avoidant or...
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What the 2025 Family Law Divorce Reforms Might Mean for You
The Divorce Course Podcast
Major Changes Are Coming to Family Law in Australia – Here’s What You’ll want to Know In this episode, I sit down with my mum Lyn, our favourite straight-talking family lawyer—to unpack the biggest Family Law changes coming into effect on June 10, 2025. We dive into how these legal reforms will impact property settlements, family violence considerations, companion animals (yes, pets!), financial disclosure rules, and more. Whether you’re currently separating, in court, or supporting someone going through it, these new laws could change the game for you. We also break down why...
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Beyond 50/50: Creative & Legal Ways to Settle Property in Divorce in Australia
The Divorce Course Podcast
Are you trying to figure out how to divide the property after your separation or divorce? In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with my mum, but also an experienced family lawyer — and we walk you through the eight most common ways people settle property in Australia. Whether you’re hoping to keep the house, want a clean break, or are totally confused by super splitting, we’re breaking it all down for you. From simple percentage splits to creative asset swaps — and even the risks of doing absolutely nothing — this episode is your go-to guide for understanding your options. If...
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Child Custody In Divorce: The 10 Most Common Questions
The Divorce Course Podcast
In this eye-opening and practical episode,a seasoned family lawyer helps to unpack the 10 most frequently asked questions about child custody in Australia. Whether you're fresh out of a breakup, preparing for court, or trying to figure out what your rights are, this episode is packed with general education and emotional clarity every separated parent needs. From understanding how courts decide who gets custody, to navigating situations involving domestic violence, high-conflict co-parents, and parenting plans this episode helps you gain a better understanding of what's what in child custody...
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What your Lawyer Might Forget to Tell You: Unlocking Funds Before Divorce PROPERTY SETTLEMENT is Final
The Divorce Course Podcast
Feeling trapped in limbo while waiting for your property settlement to go through? You’re not alone — and there may be a way out. In this episode, I’m joined again by my mum, Lynette Galvin — a family lawyer with over 35 years of experience — and we’re talking about a powerful but underused legal option called early distribution of funds. This is a game-changer for anyone financially stuck during separation. Whether you’re separated under one roof, struggling to pay rent, or locked out of joint funds, this episode is full of practical ideas to help you understand some options....
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Are You a Victim of FINANCIAL Abuse? Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore & What the New Laws Might Mean for You
The Divorce Course Podcast
Are you? Learn about the signs of economic or financial abuse, hear some real-life examples of how economic abuse manifests in relationships and practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your financial future. Find out how it is legally recognized under the Australian Family Law Amendment Act 2024, and why it’s considered a form of coercive control. Also find out about the new laws effective from June 2025 and how they impact property settlements and financial disputes. 🚨 Trigger Warning: This episode discusses economic abuse and coercive control, which may be distressing...
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Divorce Myths That Could Cost You – Debunked!
The Divorce Course Podcast
Think you know what divorce looks like in Australia? Think again. In this episode, we're busting some of the most common myths that trip people up emotionally, financially, and legally during separation and divorce. Whether you’re at the start of your journey or knee-deep in negotiations, these misunderstandings could be holding you back or costing you big. Join Laura and her mum, Lynette Galvin — a family lawyer with 35+ years of experience — as they unpack 13 myths they hear all the time, including ones that cause fear, confusion, and prevent people from getting what they’re entitled...
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Is Your Ex Hiding Assets? How to Uncover the Truth in Divorce Disclosure
The Divorce Course Podcast
💰 Is your ex hiding assets? Are they draining joint accounts, concealing super, or transferring money to family and friends? You're not alone, and there are legal ways to uncover what's yours. Learn about the most common ways people try to hide assets in divorce, including trust funds, cash jobs, disappearing assets, and hidden overseas accounts. Find out how the Australian Family Court courts handle these cases, what legal tools you can use to track down missing assets, and what to consider doing before mediation or family court. If you’re frustrated by a lack of financial disclosure or...
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Is It Emotional Abuse? How to Identify & Protect Yourself in Divorce
The Divorce Course Podcast
Explore the tactics abusive partners use to maintain control, how emotional abuse can impact divorce and custody proceedings, and—most importantly—how to protect yourself, rebuild your confidence, and move forward with clarity. When emotional abuse in your relationship or divorce, it becomes confusing, isolating, and overwhelming. Many people don’t realize that abuse isn’t always physical—disrespect, manipulation, and control can be just as damaging, especially during separation. In this episode, we’re joined by Krasi Kirova, a clinical psychologist specializing in complex trauma,...
info_outlineMediation is meant to be a pathway to resolution, but what happens when one party has no intention of settling? In this episode we explore the troubles and solutions of mediation, offering practical tips on how to navigate manipulative tactics and protect your mental health.
Whether it’s property or parenting arrangements, this is an informative guide on what you can potentially expect before, during, and after mediation to stay one step ahead.
If you’ve ever worried about being stuck in a mediation that feels like a game rather than a genuine effort to resolve issues, this episode is for you.
Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general legal education for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice. Every situation is unique, so seek personalised legal advice tailored to your circumstances.
Listen to This Episode If You:
🌟 Want to prepare for an upcoming mediation session.
❓ Are unsure how to handle a manipulative ex during mediation.
💡 Need strategies to make mediation as productive as possible.
🛡 Are concerned about wasting time and money in mediation.
📚 Want tips to protect your legal and emotional boundaries.
Key Ideas Discussed in This Episode:
The Purpose of Mediation:
Understanding its role in the divorce process and when it works best.
Manipulative Tactics to Watch For:
Recognising red flags during mediation. Preparation Tips: How to gather evidence and set boundaries before mediation.
Strategies During Mediation:
Getting small wins, staying focused, and not falling into traps.
Post-Mediation Steps:
Following up with offers and using mediation outcomes in court, even if no agreement is reached.
Common Pitfalls:
“Don’t be surprised if” scenarios, including last-minute walkouts and wild demands.
Emotional Management:
How to stay calm and avoid frustration when things don’t go as planned.
Links & Resources Mentioned:
Course Enrolment: Join our Divorce Blueprint Course www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/enrol before the deadline to get personalised guidance, legal education, and emotional support from Laura and Lynette. Platinum spots are limited—sign up now to secure your place.
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Christmas Appeal
https://4voiceschristmasappeal.raiselysite.com/
Episodes Mentioned in this
8 Ways to Protect yourself from DARVO and your Narcissistic Ex during Family Court https://youtu.be/pRMOfozwBKs?si=tDmJwHO3ch-uYhTg
Mediation and negotiation tips for divorcing an ex with narcissistic behaviors / Ep. 99 https://youtu.be/JYqqDyWa5ns?si=k7G6OfpMwPP1Hqgg
Costs, Family Court and Calderbank Offers / Ep. 65 https://youtu.be/0OKhDB8s3As?si=54omWq46LHn_Eb6R
Do I really need a lawyer for divorce mediation or family dispute resolution? https://youtu.be/GB2lJftxdh4?si=BgdkYJrQTeokTlSK
Master Your Divorce Negotiations: The Iron Fist Within the Velvet Glove Technique / Ep. 109 https://youtu.be/JSYc-yun-jM?si=VCefzLZb-ie-f1m9
Emergency Contacts:
WOMEN'S SHELTER SERVICE LEGAL AID Lifeline: 13 11 14 Mensline Australia: 1300 789 978 Kids Help Line: 1800 551 800 Aboriginal Family Domestic Violence Hotline: 1800 019 123 Relationships Australia Police: 000 DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811 DV Connect Mensline: 1800 600 636 National DV line: 1800 737 732 (1800 RESPECT)
Thank you for tuning in to this episode. We hope these strategies empower you to handle mediation with confidence and clarity. If you found this episode helpful, please rate, review, and subscribe. Every share helps others find support during difficult times. Stay strong—you’ve got this.
Disclaimer: This podcast episode provides general legal education for Australians and is not a substitute for legal advice. Every situation is unique, so seek personalized legal advice tailored to your circumstances.
00:00 Introduction and Overview
01:06 The Importance of Mediation in Divorce
02:23 Recognising Manipulative Tactics during divorce
03:53 Pre-Mediation Strategies for mediating with a narcissist or manipulative type
06:23 During Mediation: What to Expect
10:08 What can you do Post-Mediation
20:23 Making the Most of a Failed Mediation
25:41 What about Unrealistic Demands in Mediation
26:34 Preparing for Mediation Roadblocks
28:51 Handling Unexpected Settlement Outcomes
30:23 How to Deal with Manipulative Tactics
36:55 The Importance of Legal Representation
38:56 Lowering Expectations and Emotional Preparation for Mediation
43:41 Final Thoughts and Additional Resources
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