Love and Money Podcast

Love and money impact every part of a woman’s life, and you deserve to feel confident about both. On the Love and Money Podcast, forensic accountant and financial expert Tracy Coenen brings you real, relatable conversations about relationships, divorce, and all things money. From protecting your finances in love to building wealth on your own, you'll get the tools and advice you need to create lasting financial security at every stage of life.

No Kids, No Problem? The Truth About Childfree Divorce with Dr. Jay Zigmont 04/29/2025

No Kids, No Problem? The Truth About Childfree Divorce with Dr. Jay Zigmont You don’t need kids to experience a complex, emotional, and expensive divorce—just ask anyone who’s been through one. In this eye-opening episode, Tracy talks with Dr. Jay Zigmont, Certified Financial Planner and founder of Childfree Wealth, about what it really means to navigate marriage, money, and divorce without children in the picture. Jay and Tracy dive into the unique challenges (and surprising advantages) that childfree individuals face during and after divorce. From planning for long-term care to rewriting financial expectations and building community, this episode is a must-listen if you’re divorced, divorcing, or simply living life on your own terms—no diaper bags required. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why divorce without kids is not always easier—and what makes it different The major financial planning mistakes childfree people make (especially during divorce) How to build your safety net and support system when there’s no “next of kin” What to do with your powers of attorney, beneficiaries, and estate plans post-divorce How childfree divorcees can avoid common traps and create a confident financial future Tracy and Jay also explore the idea of choosing whether or not to marry—and how legal, financial, and emotional considerations all come into play, especially without the “stay together for the kids” factor. Whether you’re childfree by choice or circumstance, this episode offers powerful, practical advice for owning your future, protecting yourself financially, and designing a life that fits you—not some outdated playbook. Get Dr. Jay's new book The Childfree Guide to Life and Money: Your life. Your money. Your rules. Tune in now and get empowered to build your future—without apology. #ChildfreeDivorce #FinancialPlanning #DivorceSupport #NoKidsNoProblem /episode/index/show/360658da-dba8-4187-b651-c601193a0693/id/36197795

Coercive Control: The Underpinning of Abuse with Dr. Christine Cocchiola 04/22/2025

Coercive Control: The Underpinning of Abuse with Dr. Christine Cocchiola Abuse isn’t always physical. In fact, some of the most damaging abuse leaves no bruises—but it can destroy your confidence, your finances, and even your relationship with your kids. This week, Tracy Coenen sits down with Dr. Christine Cocchiola, trauma-trained therapist, researcher, and creator of the Protective Parenting Program. With over 20 years of experience in social work and domestic abuse advocacy, Christine brings both professional expertise and personal insight to the conversation. She’s here to expose the truth about coercive control—what it looks like, how it damages families, and how women can fight back in the face of this insidious abuse. Tune in to learn the truth about this type of abuse: What coercive control really is—and why it’s the root of all types of abuse How abusers manipulate, gaslight, and isolate their victims without ever laying a hand The devastating impact coercive control has on children—and why the “don’t put kids in the middle” advice can backfire How abusers weaponize the family court system to continue their control Why traditional therapy often fails victims of coercive control—and what actually helps Coercive control can be subtle or overt, but the goal is always the same: to dominate and diminish. Dr. Cocchiola breaks down how this abuse operates—and what you can do to protect yourself and your kids, even when the system feels stacked against you. How to protect yourself and your children from coercive control: Understand that post-separation abuse is real—and often escalates after you leave Learn how to name and validate your children’s experiences without badmouthing the other parent Shift from reacting emotionally to responding strategically—especially in court Know when to let go of the “win” to protect your peace and your children’s safety Drop truth bombs, set boundaries, and disengage—while staying grounded in reality Check out this episode to get the tools, language, and confidence to recognize coercive control, set healthy boundaries, and support your children through the chaos. Resources & Links: Dr. Cocchiola’s book FRAMED: Women in the Family Court Underworld : Visit Dr. Cocchiola's website: /episode/index/show/360658da-dba8-4187-b651-c601193a0693/id/35991105

Becoming the CEO of Your Divorce with Meagan Norris 04/15/2025

Welcome to the Love and Money Podcast 04/13/2025

What Does a Divorce Lawyer Really Do 04/08/2025

What Does a Divorce Lawyer Really Do When you hire a divorce attorney, you expect them to handle the legal side of your case. But what does that actually mean? And just as importantly—what isn’t your lawyer responsible for? This week, Tracy Coenen is joined by Raiford Palmer, a top Chicago family law attorney, managing shareholder of STG Divorce Law, and author of the Amazon bestselling book I Just Want This Done: How Smart Successful People Get Divorced Without Losing Their Kids, Money, and Minds. Raif shares his no-nonsense take on what a divorce lawyer should (and shouldn’t) be doing to help you get the best possible outcome in your case. Inside This Episode: What a divorce lawyer’s job actually includes—and why many attorneys don’t communicate enough with their clients. Common mistakes lawyers make (and how to spot a bad one before you hire them). Why setting realistic expectations matters—and how a good attorney should guide you through potential settlement outcomes. Should your lawyer be the one tracking down hidden money? The answer might surprise you. The importance of strategy in divorce—why just “fighting for everything” is often the worst approach. Hiring a divorce attorney is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your case. But many people go into the process with unrealistic expectations about what their lawyer will do. Raif breaks it all down so you know exactly what to expect—and how to work with your lawyer more effectively. What You Need to Know: Your lawyer is there to guide, not guarantee. Any attorney who “promises” an outcome is one to avoid. The best attorneys prioritize strategy and negotiation. 95% of divorces don’t go to trial, so a lawyer who only focuses on courtroom battles may not be the best fit. You need a team, not just a lawyer. Financial experts, real estate pros, and parenting coaches may all play a role in your divorce strategy. If your attorney isn’t communicating, that’s a problem. You deserve clear, direct guidance on your case—not vague legal jargon. Tune in Now to get Raif’s expert take on what a good divorce lawyer really brings to the table! Resources & Links: Get Raif's book, I Just Want This Done: Learn more about STG Divorce Law: /episode/index/show/360658da-dba8-4187-b651-c601193a0693/id/35369680

Finding the Right Divorce Professionals 04/01/2025

Finding the Right Divorce Professionals When you’re going through a divorce, choosing the right professionals—attorneys, financial experts, and coaches—can make or break your experience. But how do you know who’s truly qualified to help you? This week, Tracy Coenen sits down with Liz Becker, president and founder of the National Association of Divorce Professionals (NADP) and senior trainer for the Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS) program. With nearly 20 years of experience in the divorce industry, Liz has seen firsthand how the right professionals can change the trajectory of a divorce—and how the wrong ones can create even more stress. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What makes a great divorce professional? It’s not just about credentials—it’s about communication, empathy, and a holistic understanding of the process. Red flags to watch for when hiring an attorney, financial expert, or coach. The truth about divorce coaches—why not all are created equal, and what to look for in a good one. How to build the right “divorce team” so you don’t overlook critical financial or legal issues. Why Liz recommends interviewing at least three professionals before making a decision—and how to spot the best fit. It's not easy finding the right professionals to work with, and with something as important as your divorce, you don't want to take chances. That's why organizations like NADP exist.... to help you find quality people who will look out for your interests in your divorce. Key Takeaways: Specialization matters. Hiring professionals who focus on divorce (rather than general practice) can make a huge difference. Beware of “coaches” with no formal training. A personal divorce experience isn’t enough—proper education and certification are key. Don’t just hire the first attorney you meet. Comparing multiple professionals will give you a better sense of expertise, communication style, and fit. Your legal team is more than just your attorney. The right professionals—like real estate experts, forensic accountants, and financial advisors—can prevent costly mistakes. Tune in Now to hear Liz’s expert advice on finding the right professionals for your divorce journey! Resources & Links: Find a vetted divorce professional: Learn about Certified Divorce Specialists (CDS): /episode/index/show/360658da-dba8-4187-b651-c601193a0693/id/35369470

Confidence is Your Superpower 03/25/2025

Confidence is Your Superpower Feeling down and doubting yourself? It’s time to unleash your inner superhero! Life’s challenges, especially something as tough as divorce, can leave you feeling like your confidence has taken a hit. In this episode, Tracy Coenen and top confidence coach Trish Blackwell dive deep into why confidence is the ultimate superpower to help you rise above self-doubt and take control of your narrative. Trish, who works with Olympic athletes, CEOs, and high-achievers, brings her expert advice on how to shift your mindset, embrace self-compassion, and start seeing your life as a story you get to rewrite it during and after divorce. Together, Tracy and Trish unpack practical ways to rebuild confidence when you feel at your lowest. You’ll learn why it’s crucial to reframe your divorce as a completed chapter—not a failure—and how adopting small daily habits, like journaling and practicing gratitude, can spark hope and a sense of empowerment. This episode is full of actionable tips and inspiring insights to help you stop feeling stuck and start building a life you’re excited about again! What You’ll Learn: Why your divorce story doesn’t define you—it’s just one chapter of an extraordinary life. How to shift your mindset and silence the inner critic that tells you, “I’m not enough.” Simple, actionable steps to start building confidence—yes, even in 5 minutes a day! How to advocate for yourself (even when it’s scary) and stand strong in negotiations. The power of journaling and Trish’s 3-3-3 Method—a 3-minute tool to reshape your mindset. Quotes to Boost Your Mood: “Your best years aren’t behind you—they’re ahead of you. Let’s make them extraordinary!” “Confidence starts with believing you’re worthy of the life you want.” Resources for You: Download Trish’s free tool, The 333 Method and start feeling unstoppable in just 3 minutes a day: https://trishblackwell.com/333method Learn more about the College of Confidence—a supportive community where confidence-building becomes second nature: Find Trish on Instagram: @trish_blackwell Whether you’re rebuilding after divorce, chasing a big goal, or just looking for a little inspiration, this episode will leave you feeling ready to take on anything. Tune in now and let’s build that confidence muscle together! /episode/index/show/360658da-dba8-4187-b651-c601193a0693/id/34992245

You're Getting Divorced, But You’re Not Crazy 03/18/2025

You're Getting Divorced, But You’re Not Crazy Feeling a little "crazy" during your divorce? You’re not alone. In this heartfelt episode, Tracy sits down with Erica Bennett—global training guru, coach, and host of The Crazy Ex-Wives Club podcast. Erica shares her inspiring journey from heartbreak to healing and gives us tools to help redefine the word "crazy" into something positive and powerful. This episode dives deep into the emotional rollercoaster of divorce, tackling the labels that often get unfairly thrown around. Erica and Tracy debunk the myths, like the “crazy ex-wife” and “narcissistic ex-husband” tropes, and instead focus on how to process emotions, take responsibility for your role in the relationship, and stop letting old wounds hold you back. With practical tips and relatable stories, they show how the most challenging moments can become stepping stones to a more aligned, fulfilling life. What you'll learn in this episode: Why "you're just crazy" is the go-to insult—and how to reclaim your power The two kinds of crazy: unhealed chaos vs. healthy, confident boldness Erica’s personal divorce story, including the hard lessons that led to unconditional happiness The life-changing practice of owning your emotions (and how to stop letting them own you) How to find clarity if you’re stuck in the “Should I stay or go?” phase Plus: Erica introduces her free quiz, Finding Your Way Forward, which will help you pinpoint where you are in your divorce journey and give you actionable tips to move forward. Whether you’re navigating separation, rediscovering yourself post-divorce, or just need a little boost to feel less "crazy," this episode is packed with wisdom and positivity to help you thrive. Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Erica’s free quiz to help find your way forward during your divorce: https://www.thecrazyexwivesclub.com/quiz-what-phase-are-you Follow Erica on social media @thecrazyexwivesclub Visit Erica’s website: Tune in now and redefine what it means to be “crazy”—on your own terms. #DivorceHealing #Empowerment #PositiveCrazy /episode/index/show/360658da-dba8-4187-b651-c601193a0693/id/34992085

Financial Literacy for Single Moms and Their Kids 03/11/2025

How to Become the CFO of Your Life 03/04/2025

How to Become the CFO of Your Life In this empowering episode, Tracy Coenen is joined by Michelle Smith, a renowned wealth manager and founder of Wife2CFO, to discuss how women can take control of their financial futures during and after divorce. With 30 years of experience in personal finance, Michelle has worked with thousands of women to demystify money management and equip them with the tools to become the CFOs of their lives. Her platform, Wife2CFO, is a judgment-free zone for financial literacy, helping women navigate the complexities of finances with confidence and clarity. Tracy and Michelle dive into the common challenges women face in divorce, including the “money coma,” emotional decision-making around assets, and lack of financial transparency in marriages. They share actionable strategies for preventing financial mistakes, understanding your numbers, and building a secure future—regardless of your starting point. This conversation is a must-listen for women ready to reclaim their financial independence. Whether you’re in the midst of a divorce, thinking about your financial future, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with practical advice and encouragement. Michelle’s blend of empathy, expertise, and empowerment will leave you ready to take the next step in your financial journey. Episode Highlights: The ‘Money Coma’ Defined: Michelle explains the critical moment when many women unknowingly surrender financial control—and how to reclaim it. She shares tips for maintaining transparency and staying involved in financial decisions. Breaking Emotional Attachments to Assets: Learn why keeping the house might not always be the best financial choice and how to approach divorce negotiations with logic and clarity. Trust, But Verify: Tracy and Michelle emphasize the importance of understanding what you’re signing. From tax returns to home equity lines, they provide strategies to pause, ask questions, and seek professional advice without fear. The Two Numbers Every Woman Must Know: Michelle highlights the importance of understanding “the cost of your life” and your “rate of withdrawal” to ensure financial security over the long term. Practical Tools for Financial Empowerment: Get tips on tracking spending, building your financial knowledge, and finding a professional who explains concepts in a way you understand—no math degree required! Financial knowledge is power. Women are often told they aren’t “good at math” or “financially savvy,” but Michelle debunks these myths. Financial management is a skill anyone can learn with the right guidance. Preparation is prevention. Whether it’s taking copies of key financial documents or understanding tax returns, preparation is the first step to protecting yourself from future financial vulnerabilities. Own your financial future and don’t let fear stop you. You must know more about your finances if you want to take control of the money. From dealing with a controlling spouse to feeling overwhelmed by numbers, fear is a common barrier. Michelle and Tracy provide strategies for taking small, actionable steps to overcome it. Resources Mentioned: Wife2CFO: Complimentary Consultation: This episode is a rallying cry for women to take control of their financial destinies. With the right tools, guidance, and mindset, you can move from feeling overwhelmed to becoming the CFO of your life. Start by listening to this engaging and educational conversation with Michelle Smith, and don’t forget to share it with friends who might need a financial confidence boost! Source Financial Advisors is now a part of Savant Wealth Management as of 12/09/2024. Savant is a Registered Investment Advisor. A copy of our current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at savantwealth.com. This content is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized financial advice. Please consult your qualified professional regarding your unique financial situation. Savant is not affiliated with Divorce Money Guide or its creators. This presentation should not be construed as an endorsement of any products, services, or opinions expressed therein. /episode/index/show/360658da-dba8-4187-b651-c601193a0693/id/34630375

Money Made Easy: Budgeting for Financial Success 02/25/2025

Money Made Easy: Budgeting for Financial Success In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into the art of budgeting with the incredible Allison Baggerly, author of Money Made Easy: How to Budget Pay Off Debt, and Save Money. A former teacher turned personal finance guru, Allison shares her inspiring journey of paying off over $111,000 in debt—on two teacher salaries—all while growing her family. Her insights have been featured in major media, and now she’s here to help YOU rewrite your money story. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The Truth About Budgeting: Why most people fear the "B-word" and how to shift your mindset to see it as a tool for freedom, not restriction. Allison's Journey: From unexpected pregnancy to financial overhaul—how she and her husband transformed their financial future in just four and a half years. The Freedom Formula: Allison’s empowering redefinition of financial freedom—it’s not about millions in the bank, but about OPTIONS. Common Budgeting Mistakes: The traps women fall into when managing money and Allison’s practical advice to avoid them. Realistic Budgeting Hacks: Why small, incremental changes (like scaling back restaurant spending) are more effective than all-or-nothing approaches. Key Highlights: Budgeting as a Map: Forget the old-school view of budgets as punishment. Learn how Allison’s “spending map” approach can guide you to financial peace. Overcoming Money Avoidance: Can’t bear to check your bank balance? Allison explains how confronting the numbers is the first step toward empowerment. The Step-Down Approach: A revolutionary way to cut expenses without feeling deprived. Budgeting Tools Made Simple: Allison introduces her Budget My Paycheck Spreadsheet—a game-changer for anyone who wants to take the guesswork out of managing money. Links and Resources Mentioned: Allison’s Budget My Paycheck Spreadsheet: Allison’s Book: Money Made Easy: Follow Allison on Instagram for more tips and inspiration: @AllisonBaggerly Whether you're tackling debt, navigating divorce, or just trying to make smarter financial decisions, this episode is packed with actionable tips and encouragement. Allison’s wisdom and relatable approach will leave you feeling empowered to take control of your money—and your future. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with a friend who needs budgeting inspiration! /episode/index/show/360658da-dba8-4187-b651-c601193a0693/id/34563060

Breaking Free from Money Trauma 02/18/2025

Breaking Free from Money Trauma Are you ready to transform your relationship with money? In this episode, Tracy Coenen is joined by Shannah Game, Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Trauma of Money specialist, and host of the New York Times top-four podcast Everyone's Talkin' Money—a show with over 26 million downloads! Shannah is here to talk about her new book, Unraveling Your Relationship with Money: Discover and Ditch Your Money Trauma So You Can Live an Abundant Life. Together, Tracy and Shannah dive into: What “money trauma” really means—and how it may be secretly influencing your financial decisions. The generational and emotional baggage many women carry about money, from societal expectations to past experiences. Practical advice to identify and address your money traumas (hint: it starts with awareness). Shannah’s personal story of overcoming financial hardship during her divorce and how it shaped her unique approach to money. Her three-step Heal-Plan-Build process for creating a financial plan that works on your terms. Whether you’re navigating divorce, struggling to feel “good enough” with money, or just looking to rewrite your financial future, this episode is packed with actionable insights and empowering advice. Episode Highlights: The Emotional Side of Money: Why 95% of money decisions stem from emotions, not logic. Identifying Trauma: Subtle signs your financial stress could be rooted in trauma—and what to do about it. Shannah’s Bold Take: “It’s not about what to do with money. It’s about why you’re not doing it.” Small Wins Matter: How to start building financial confidence today, one small step at a time. Tune In Now to hear Shannah’s inspiring journey and learn how to take control of your money story! Get Shannah’s Book: Unraveling Your Relationship with Money is available now! Packed with personal stories, reflection questions, and her game-changing Heal-Plan-Build framework, this book will empower you to heal your money trauma and build unapologetic wealth. Grab your copy here: Resources & Links: Listen to Everyone's Talkin' Money Podcast: Follow Shannah on Instagram: @shannahgame /episode/index/show/360658da-dba8-4187-b651-c601193a0693/id/34679200

Money Advice From a Divorce Lawyer 02/11/2025

Bankruptcy and Divorce: Consider Your Options 02/04/2025

Getting Your Act Together in Financial Discovery 01/28/2025

After the Affair: Decisions and Directions 01/21/2025

After the Affair: Decisions and Directions In this episode, we dive deep into the complexities of infidelity with Andrea Giles, a certified life coach who helps women reclaim their lives after betrayal. Andrea shares her personal story of infidelity and divorce, how she navigated a whirlwind of loss, and why it inspired her to help other women rebuild their lives. Andrea explores the challenging decisions that follow infidelity—whether to leave or stay—and provides actionable insights for those facing these crossroads. From addressing emotional and financial betrayal to overcoming the fear of judgment, Andrea’s wisdom offers a path forward for anyone struggling in the aftermath of infidelity. Highlights from the Episode: 1. Andrea’s Personal Journey of Infidelity and Divorce - Andrea recounts her experience as a stay-at-home mom of six, married for 16 years, and how she found herself confronting a web of deception. Her decision to leave her marriage was compounded by the sudden death of her ex-husband just seven months later. Despite the turmoil, Andrea found purpose in helping others navigate their own journeys. 2. Can Marriages Heal After Infidelity? - Andrea believes the answer is a resounding yes, but only if both partners are fully committed to change. She explains the critical elements required to rebuild trust, including empathy, remorse, consistency, transparency, and accountability. When both partners put in the work, marriages can not only survive infidelity but also thrive with newfound honesty and connection. 3. Healing from Financial Infidelity - Financial infidelity, whether through hidden spending, gambling, or secret accounts, demands a similar approach to rebuilding trust. Andrea discusses the importance of complete transparency, accountability, and collaboration in managing finances to move forward as equal partners. 4. Overcoming the Fear of Judgment - One of the biggest hurdles women face after infidelity is the fear of judgment, whether they stay or leave. Andrea offers powerful advice for letting go of others’ opinions and living in alignment with your own values and integrity. 5. Building Confidence to Leave - For women considering leaving a relationship with financial imbalances, Andrea emphasizes the importance of education. Consulting an attorney and understanding your legal and financial rights can empower you to make informed decisions and take the leap toward independence. 6. Transforming Pain into Growth - Andrea’s coaching program, Get Your Life Back After Infidelity, is designed to help women turn betrayal into an opportunity for transformation. Her “Post-Infidelity Growth Method” shifts the focus from surviving infidelity to thriving after it, creating a life filled with authenticity, strength, and purpose. Get Andrea’s free guide on the 3 biggest lies about infidelity: Andrea’s coaching program, Get Your Life Back After Infidelity: /episode/index/show/360658da-dba8-4187-b651-c601193a0693/id/33735017

Finding the Best Resources During Divorce 01/14/2025

Finding the Best Resources During Divorce In this episode, we welcome back Jackie Pilossoph, founder of Divorced Girl Smiling, a trusted platform that connects people navigating divorce with vetted professionals and resources. Jackie shares her personal divorce story and explains how the challenges she faced led her to create a community and resource hub for others. Jackie reveals that during her divorce 17 years ago, the support systems and resources available today simply didn’t exist. From divorce coaches to financial planners, these professionals can make the process smoother and more empowering. She emphasizes that having a strong "divorce team" can drastically improve outcomes—something she wishes she had known during her own journey. Key Takeaways: Facing Money Fears During Divorce - Money is one of the biggest stressors in divorce, regardless of how much or how little you have. Many women in the Divorced Girl Smiling community express fears about budgeting, uncovering hidden assets, and financial survival post-divorce. Jackie shares insights from her own financial experiences and highlights the importance of taking control of your finances early in the process. The Power of a Divorce Team - A good attorney is important, but Jackie stresses the value of building a comprehensive team of professionals, including divorce coaches, financial planners, mediators, and real estate experts. Not only does this approach save money, it also ensures better outcomes and reduces the stress of relying solely on your attorney for everything. Why Friends and Family Aren’t Enough - Well-meaning friends and family often lack the expertise needed to guide you through divorce. Jackie explains why their advice, though heartfelt, can sometimes miss the mark and how professional resources provide the specialized support you truly need. Finding Trusted Professionals - Jackie’s platform, Divorced Girl Smiling, serves as a curated directory of trusted divorce professionals. Unlike other directories, Jackie and her advisory board personally vet each professional to ensure they meet her high standards. She also offers a free consultation to help you find the right match for your needs. Empowering Resources for Every Stage of Divorce - From her free ebook, Divorce: From Day One to the Rest of Your Happy & Authentic Life, to personalized consultations, Jackie provides tools to help people feel more prepared and less alone. Her goal is to empower individuals to navigate their divorce with confidence. Get Jackie’s free ebook, Divorce: From Day One to The Rest of Your Happy & Authentic Life: Jackie offers a free 30 minute consultation to people going through divorce to help them understand the resources and professionals that are available to help them. Schedule yours here: /episode/index/show/360658da-dba8-4187-b651-c601193a0693/id/33734967