Episode 189 - Support Systems Make Divorce Easier

In this episode, Mardi Winder-Adams has an uplifting conversation with Stephanie McPhail, who is not only a certified crisis counselor but also someone who has been through the highs and lows of divorce. Stephanie shares how, despite looking like she had it all together as an accomplished teacher and professional, she was struggling behind closed doors in a difficult and even abusive marriage. Her story will resonate with anyone who's ever felt isolated, embarrassed, or stuck in the idea that they must keep up appearances while holding things together.

Stephanie talks about how easy it is to get trapped in comparison, whether it's looking at others in equally unhealthy relationships or scrolling through social media and seeing everyone's happy posts while you're feeling lost or overwhelmed. She discusses the pressure, especially on high-achievers, to pretend everything is fine, even when it's not, simply because opening up can feel risky or shameful. Mardi adds from her experience as a divorce coach and advocate, reinforcing how common these feelings are, and they both agree that the secrecy and pressure to handle everything alone can make things so much harder than they need to be.

They also break down some of the traps people fall into during and after divorce, like waiting until things are legally finalized before reaching out for support, or expecting your lawyer to guide you through emotional healing, when you may need someone who understands the whole picture. Stephanie introduces the Divorce Support Network, a practical resource she co-founded that matches people with specifically vetted professionals, from financial advisors and therapists to real estate agents and mechanics. The goal is to make sure nobody has to fumble through the process alone, so you can spend less time worrying about where to turn and more time focusing on your own well-being and future.

Throughout the conversation, there's a reassuring message: however you're feeling right now, you're not alone, and it is possible to create a new, fulfilling chapter after divorce. With the right kind of help and community, the process doesn't have to be isolating or overwhelming.

About the Guest:

Stephanie McPhail is a Love and Life Success Coach and Co-Founder of the largest Divorce Support Network in the United States. She is a certified Crisis Counselor and Coach with a Double Masters Degree in Health and Education and a Bachelors in Psychology. Bringing together people thinking of/going through/on the other side of divorce with trusted professionals to support them through one of the most stressful time of their lives to help ensure they don't make the same mistakes moving forward and instead create a life they love.

To connect with Stephanie:

Website: https://divorcesupportnetwork.com/

All the socials: @divorcesupportnetwork