Episode 210 - How To Find Yourself After Leaving Toxic Marriages

Hey everyone, welcome back to The D Shift: Redefining Divorce And Beyond! In this episode, Mardi Winder is joined by her friend and returning guest, Dr. Alana Sharps—a trauma specialist, high-conflict divorce expert, and now, the author of a brand new book that just dropped today!

You’ll hear Dr. Alana Sharps open up about her personal journey out of a toxic marriage and how journaling led her to write her first book, "Was It My Fault?" That honesty opens the door for so many folks to feel less alone in their own struggles. The conversation covers everything from breaking free of abuse (not just physical, but emotional, verbal, and so much more) to what happens after you finally leave—and how to start picking up the pieces.

If you’re dealing with divorce, co-parenting challenges, or trying to understand high-conflict situations, you’ll get loads of practical tips—from self-care and healing practices to setting boundaries and recognizing signs of distress in your kids. Alana shares why it’s so crucial to create a safe, loving space for yourself and your children—even when you can’t control what happens at the other parent’s house.

Whether you’ve been through it yourself or you’re supporting someone else, this episode is packed with insight, validation, and a whole lot of heart. Don’t forget to check out Dr. Alana Sharps’s new book for more guidance, and stick around for a really honest, thoughtful chat about redefining your life after divorce.

About the Guest:

Dr. Alana Sharps, founder of SurThrive Tribe, is a 2x International Best-Selling Author, Trauma Specialist, and Certified High-Conflict Divorce Consultant. Her expertise is rooted not only in professional credentials but also in profound personal triumph. Having navigated the complexities of a toxic marriage marked by domestic abuse, Alana emerged as a committed advocate for those facing similar trials. Her transformative journey from victim to empowered survivor fuels her dedication to guiding others through the challenging landscape of domestic strife. As an educator in domestic abuse and trauma healing, Alana brings the same passion from her advocacy into her coaching. She connects the dots between psychology, human behavior, and personal experience, offering a unique and insightful perspective. This approach, combined with her unwavering commitment, creates an enriching and supportive environment where her clients can heal and grow.

For Dr. Alana’s gift: https://www.surthrivetribe.com/free-guide

To connect with Alana:

https://bio.site/alanasharps

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC.

To find out more about divorce coaching: www.divorcecoach4women.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Take The Divorce Stress Test

Take This FREE 60-Second Quiz To Find Out YOUR #1 Priority to Cut Through the Fog Of Divorce

  • Know what's important to focus on for you

  • Hire the right attorney

  • Gain clarity in a time of chaos

  • Take control of your future

  • Have the support so you don't feel lost and alone

HEY, I’M MARDI…

... a Certified Divorce Transition Coach. I am also a Board Certified Executive and Leadership Coach working with entrepreneurs and executives. With over a decade of coaching experience, and over 25 years as a credentialed mediator in the United States and Canada, I know how often women's voices are not heard in mediation, negotiation, and in discussions throughout the legal process.

Take The Divorce Stress Test

Take This FREE 60-Second Quiz To Understand Where You Are Experiencing Stress In Your Divorce

  • Know what you need to focus on

  • Work with the right professionals

  • Gain clarity on basic financial concerns

  • Understand how to help your kids

  • Have the support so you don't feel lost and alone

PLUS Get A FREE REPORT Explaining Your Unique Results & What To Do Next...

©2025 Positive Communication Systems, LLC