Dating after divorce when you're over 40 feels impossible — but what if it's actually EASIER than when you were 22? 😳

In this episode of Don't Pick the Scab Podcast, David sits down with Jared Laurence — a dating coach with 20 years of experience, author of "The Psychology of Modern Flirting" and "How to Meet Your Dream Girl Tonight," who has helped over 7,000 men (and counting 479 marriages 💍) get back on their feet and back in the game after divorce.

Jared works almost exclusively with men over 40 who are starting over — and in this no-fluff conversation, he breaks down EXACTLY what divorced guys get wrong about dating, confidence, and putting yourself back out there.

🔥 IN THIS EPISODE:

✅ Why "just be okay being single" is terrible advice (and what to do instead)

✅ The dating funnel: how to meet women the RIGHT way after divorce

✅ How his clients get 10-20 matches a week and 1-2 dates a week on the apps 📱

✅ Why your Instagram is your "landing page for your life" — and why a picture of cheese is costing you dates 🧀

✅ The first 10-30 seconds: what to say and how to lower her guard

✅ Why real confidence comes from COMPETENCE, not journaling and meditation (Navy SEALs panic at the bar too! 💪)

✅ The "Fish Love" parable that tells you when to end a relationship you know isn't right 🐟

✅ Dating with kids: when to mention them and when to introduce them 👶

✅ First date mistakes: trauma dumping, overspending, and the "Netflix and chill" trap ❌

✅ Why first dates should be fun (barcades, axe throwing, mini golf) — NOT heavy coffee conversations ☕

✅ The 3 ingredients for dating success: practice, experiment, and a mentor

Whether you're freshly divorced, stuck in the red pill rabbit hole 🚩, or just lonely on an empty custody week wondering what the hell to do with yourself — this episode hands you the practical playbook. No theory. No platitudes. No pitching. Just real-world guidance from a guy who's guided thousands of men through the exact season you're in.

🎙️ Subscribe for new episodes helping men heal, rebuild, and thrive after divorce — healing loud, healing proud, and NOT picking the scab.

📲 CONNECT WITH JARED LAURENCE: 🌐 Website: www.themodernsuccess.com 📘 Facebook: Modern Success Dating Advice 📸 Instagram: @thejaredlawrence / @thejaredlawrencecoach

💬 LET'S TALK IN THE COMMENTS: What's the BIGGEST thing holding you back from getting back out there after your divorce? Drop it below — I read every single comment and your question might become a future episode! 👇🔥

👍 Like this video if it gave you at least one "wait, THAT'S the secret?" moment 🔔 Subscribe & hit the bell so you never miss an episode 📤 Share this with a buddy who needs to hear "it's easier now than it was at 22"

And, when a famous dating coach quotes a TOP GUN line on you, you’re riding high the rest of the day? Thanks Jared!

#DivorceRecovery #DatingAfterDivorce #DatingOver40 #MensDivorceRecovery #DontPickTheScab #DivorceSupport #DatingCoach #MenOver40 #StartingOver #HealingAfterDivorce

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What happens when a dad can't afford an attorney — so he becomes his own? 💪⚖️

Ben Schooley never wanted a law degree. But when his second marriage imploded after the birth of his third child, false allegations started flying, and attorneys wanted a $10,000 retainer he didn't have — he had no choice but to learn family law from the inside out. 📚🔥

Four years. Dozens of hearings. Countless motions. And one judge who refused to follow the law... who is now PLAYING GOLF instead of sitting on the bench, because Ben made every one of his rulings public. 🏌️‍♂️👋

Today, Ben is the CEO and founder of the Pro Se Coach, helping men over 40 fight for their parental rights WITHOUT going bankrupt or losing their minds. In this episode, he pulls back the curtain on a system most dads don't understand until it's too late. 🎭

🔥 IN THIS EPISODE:

▶️ What "pro se" actually means — and why family law is "kindergarten" compared to what attorneys want you to believe 🧠

▶️ The shocking Title IV funding scheme: how states earn $11 for every $1 of child support ordered (and why that kills 50/50 custody laws) 💰

▶️ Why 92% of Texas divorce cases end with mom as primary custodian — is it bias or something worse? 📊

▶️ The "best interest of the child" standard that has NO legal definition (yes, really) 🤯

▶️ What to do in the first 48 hours after false allegations hit ⏰

▶️ Why dads lose BEFORE they ever walk into the courtroom — and how to stop it 🛑

▶️ The mistake of settling out of exhaustion that costs fathers YEARS with their kids 😞

▶️ Why 50/50 custody actually REDUCES conflict with a high-conflict ex 🧘

▶️ The attorney who told Ben he'd lose after 15 minutes of consultation... he fired him and won 50/50 with zero child support 🏆

Ben's message to every dad out there: Your kids love you. They need you. You're not just a paycheck, and you're not a weekend visitor. 💙

Don't roll over. Don't accept "every other weekend" as your fate. And whatever you do — don't pick the scab. 🎙️

📍 CONNECT WITH BEN: 🌐 Website: www.prosecoachtx.com 📖 Book: Available on Amazon — everything he knows, step by step 🎓 Pro Se University: Long-form video courses on enforcements, modifications, divorce & more 📱 New app launching this week on iPhone & Android!

📍 CONNECT WITH DAVID: 🎙️ Don't Pick the Scab Podcast — new episodes weekly for men healing from divorce 💬 Topics: healing, forgiveness, co-parenting, confidence, and starting your next chapter

👇 SOUND OFF IN THE COMMENTS: Have you fought (or thought about fighting) for custody WITHOUT an attorney? What's the biggest family court myth you've heard? Drop it below! 🔥⬇️

👍 SMASH that like button if this episode opened your eyes 🔔 SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an episode 📲 SHARE this with a dad who needs to hear it

REACH OUT TO BEN!

#DivorceRecovery #FathersRights #CustodyBattle #ProSe #FamilyCourt #MensMentalHealth #DivorceSupport #CoParenting #DadsMatter #DontPickTheScab

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Divorced dads — what do you do during the week your kids are GONE? 🤔 That empty house, that silence, that overwhelming feeling of "now what?" If you're a man over 40 going through divorce, this episode might be the most important 30 minutes of your recovery.

My guest today is Bill Porter, a divorced dad from San Mateo, California, and the founder of Halftime Dad — a membership community and weekly letter for fathers co-parenting after separation. Bill's entire philosophy is built around one powerful idea: the week you don't have your kids is where you either rebuild your life or fall apart. 💪

Bill also coined a term that will hit home for way too many of us: Jack-in-the-Box Dad Syndrome — those dads who only come alive when their kids are in the room, then coast through the rest of the week like a shell of themselves. 😴 Bill opens up about his own lowest moments — hiding at the office, ordering takeout, watching reruns, and going comatose during his off weeks — and exactly how he turned it around.

In this raw and honest conversation, we cover:

✅ Why your kid-free week is the make-or-break moment of your divorce recovery

✅ The warning signs that you're stuck in Jack-in-the-Box Dad Syndrome

✅ How to keep adult conflict, lawyers, and arguments AWAY from your kids

✅ Why using your kids as messengers to your ex is destroying your family

✅ The "24-hour rule" — why kids need time to decompress when they come back to your house

✅ How to handle tense custody handoffs without emotion (think Switzerland 🇨🇭)

✅ Boundaries and consequences when the rules are different at each house

✅ Why your kids are WAY more resilient (and way smarter) than you think

✅ The oxygen mask rule: why self-care isn't selfish — it's survival ✈️

✅ How to rebuild your "village" when you feel completely isolated

Bill also shares the most common breakthroughs he hears from dads inside the Halftime Dad community, plus a special offer for listeners — a free founding membership and discount code in the show notes. 🎁

If you're sitting in an empty house right now wondering how you're going to make it through the week, this episode is your sign: you're not alone, and you don't have to figure this out by yourself. 🙏

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast for new episodes every week helping men over 40 recover from divorce, rebuild their confidence, and become the dad their kids deserve.

💬 JOIN THE CONVERSATION: What does YOUR off week look like right now? Are you rebuilding... or falling apart? Drop a comment below and tell me ONE thing you're going to do this week for yourself. I read and reply to every single comment! 👇

👍 If this episode helped you, SMASH that like button and share it with a dad who needs to hear it.

📲 Connect with Bill

#DivorcedDad #MenOver40 #DivorceRecovery #CoParenting #DadsOfYouTube #HalftimeDad #DontPickTheScab #Fatherhood #DivorceSupport #SingleDad

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He lost his parents within 15 months, went through three hip surgeries, helped his wife through cancer while raising two boys and finishing nursing school — and then his marriage ended. 💔

Most men would stay down. Robert Gonnerman got to work.

In this powerful episode of the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast, host David sits down with Robert Gonnerman — psychiatric nurse, coach, and founder of the Align Man Project — who lost over 140 pounds and rebuilt himself physically, mentally, and spiritually after his divorce. Today, he co-parents his boys more than half the time and helps men over 40 come back stronger than ever. 💪

In this episode, you'll learn:

🔥 Why "recovering" from divorce is keeping you stuck — and why REBUILDING is the mindset shift that changes everything

🧠 The #1 pillar men neglect (hint: it's not the gym) and why successful men — lawyers, doctors, nurses — are secretly breaking down

⚠️ Why jumping into dating right after divorce will crush you (Rob shares his own painful lesson)

📦 How to survive the "Jack-in-the-Box Dad" emptiness when your kids leave for their week with their ex

🙏 What it really means to become "selfish to become selfless" — and why putting your mask on first saves your kids too

❤️ How Rob helped his ex-wife through cancer while raising two young boys and finishing nursing school — and how it shaped the father he is today

🤝 Why every divorced man needs a network of guys who can "pull your head out of your ass"

Whether you're freshly divorced, deep in the co-parenting trenches, or just feeling lost at 40+, this conversation will hit you right where you live. Rob doesn't sugarcoat it — and that's exactly what men in this season of life need to hear. 🎯

Connect with Robert Gonnerman: 🌐 Website: alignmanproject.com — grab a FREE 15-minute call 📸 Instagram: @alignwithrob ▶️ YouTube: Align Man Project

Connect with David & the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast: 🔊 New episodes every week for men navigating divorce, co-parenting, and rebuilding life after 40 💬 Subscribe so you never miss an episode!

👇 JOIN THE CONVERSATION: What's the ONE thing you're rebuilding right now — your body, your mind, or your spirit? Drop it in the comments below. David reads every single one, and your story might be exactly what another brother in this community needs to hear today. 👇

👍 If this episode hit home, SMASH that like button, SHARE it with a friend who's going through it, and SUBSCRIBE for more real talk on divorce recovery for men over 40.

Remember: Don't pick the scab — rebuild the man. 💪🔥

#DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #DivorcedDads #CoParenting #MensMentalHealth #RebuildYourself #DontPickTheScabPodcast #MensSelfCare #LifeAfterDivorce

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⚠️ Most men walk into family court completely UNPREPARED — and it costs them their kids, their money, and their peace. Not anymore.

In this episode of the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast, host David sits down with Rannard Crawley — certified family mediator, family court strategist, father of four, and founder of Crawley Mediation Services — to break down EXACTLY what divorced and divorcing men over 40 need to know before stepping into family court or mediation. ⚖️

Rannard isn't just talking theory. He's lived it. He went through a contested divorce, spent thousands on attorneys, represented himself successfully, and came out the other side a stronger father. Now he's helping men avoid the same expensive mistakes. 💪

🔥 IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN:

✅ Why attorneys can't guarantee you a win — but preparation CAN guarantee you're ready ✅ The #1 mistake men make walking into family court (it's not what you think) ✅ How to respond when the judge is watching your every move 👀 ✅ Why arguing with your ex in court hands the win to HER ✅ The "best interest of the child" factors that decide your custody case ✅ The mediation secret most men have NEVER heard: you can reach an agreement without ever being in the same room as your high-conflict ex 🤫 ✅ How growing up between two homes shaped Rannard's mission as a "girl dad" of four ✅ Why travel, journaling, and alone time are secret weapons for rebuilding after divorce ✈️ ✅ The mindset shift that saved David in his own high-conflict co-parenting journey: "I love my kids more than I hated my ex." ❤️

💬 This episode is for YOU if: • You're a man over 40 facing divorce, separation, or custody battle • You're tired of attorneys draining your bank account 💸 • You're co-parenting with a high-conflict ex • You believe fathers DESERVE time with their kids • You're ready to stop picking the scab and start rebuilding 🛠️

🔗 CONNECT WITH RANNARD CRAWLEY:

• YouTube

• Instagram

• TikTok

• LinkedIn

• Facebook

• Snapchat

• X

• Website

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast for real conversations about divorce recovery, co-parenting, and rebuilding life after 40 — new episodes every week!

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🔥 Thinking about divorce — or already in the middle of one? STOP and watch this first.

In this episode of the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast, host David sits down with Paula Waterman, founder of Castle Rock Mediation, to break down how divorce mediation can save men over 40 thousands of dollars, months of heartache, and years of court battles.

Paula knows this world from the inside out. After 24 years of marriage, she was blindsided when her husband — a pilot living a double life — served her divorce papers while she was working at a church. Her painful, high-conflict divorce inspired her to become a mediator so others could navigate divorce with dignity instead of devastation. There are definitely pearls to consider with this podcast even if you are in a post-divorce phase.

⚖️ What you'll learn in this episode:

✅ What divorce mediation actually is — and why Colorado courts require it BEFORE you can see a judge ✅ The real cost: how an amicable mediation can cost UNDER $1,000 vs. $10,000+ in attorney fees ✅ Why "equitable distribution" almost always means 50/50 — and why demanding 70% will backfire in court ✅ The #1 mistake emotionally "dialed up" men make in mediation (Paula mediated SIX times because of it) ✅ How to prepare for mediation so you don't get steamrolled ✅ Why 50/50 parenting is the new normal — and what that means for Dads ✅ The common law marriage trap that could wreck men who never said "I do" ✅ Why prenups are "putting the teeth back" into divorce ✅ Should you stay together "for the kids"? Paula and David go head-to-head on this one

💬 Whether you're contemplating divorce, in the thick of it, or picking up the pieces — this conversation could save you a year and a half of litigation (like David's was) and a small fortune.

📌 Connect with Paula Waterman: 🌐 CastleRockMediation.com — Castle Rock, Colorado

🎧 New episodes of the Don't Pick the Scab Podcast drop weekly — real conversations about divorce recovery, healing, and rebuilding your life after 40. No pity parties. No picking the scab. Just forward motion.

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🌟 Welcome to the ‘Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast,’ where we help men over 40 rebuild their lives with hope, resilience, and purpose after divorce! Hosted by David, this episode features an extraordinary guest, Seth Pickens, a man whose transformational journey from heartbreak to healing will leave you inspired. 💡

🔑 In This Episode:

Seth shares his personal story of navigating divorce, losing loved ones, and finding himself at a crossroads in life. As a former pastor and behavioral psychology expert, Seth brings a unique perspective on emotional resilience, identity rebuilding, and the power of faith and mindset shifts. He dives into:

• How meditation and writing sparked his spiritual breakthrough 🧘‍♂️✍️
• The importance of humor in overcoming life’s darkest moments 😂
• Breaking free from invisible patterns of thinking that keep men stuck 🚪
• How to transform your crisis into a personal growth opportunity 🌱
• The life-changing power of gratitude 🙏

💬 Seth also opens up about his journey from working as a senior pastor to navigating job loss, raising two kids through divorce, and rediscovering his true self. His story will resonate with any man feeling stuck, lost, or unsure of how to move forward after a marriage ends. You can tell that Seth is really passionate about his beliefs and calling. His energy was amazing! Thanks, Seth!

🧠 Why Watch This Episode?

If you're a man over 40 struggling with divorce, identity, or co-parenting challenges, this episode is packed with insights to help you shift your perspective and take actionable steps toward healing. Seth’s humor, wisdom, and practical advice will empower you to rebuild your life with confidence and authenticity. 💪

🔥 Key Takeaways:

• Emotions Are Not Weakness: Learn the difference between suppressing emotions and building true emotional resilience.
• Co-Parenting Done Right: Seth explains how to prioritize your kids’ well-being while navigating a less-than-ideal relationship with your ex.
• Start with Gratitude: How focusing on the small wins can create massive shifts in your mindset over time.
• It’s NOT Too Late: Discover how to reclaim your purpose and identity no matter your age or stage in life.

🚀 Call to Action:

💬 We want to hear from YOU! What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced after a divorce? What strategies have helped you rebuild your life? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and let’s create a supportive community for men navigating life after 40. 🙌 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear this!

🎧 Follow Seth Pickens:

📸 Instagram: @DrSethGuidance

📺 YouTube: Guidance Church of Religious Science

🔗 Discover more about Seth’s incredible work in homelessness policy and his upcoming book, Unadulterated, by searching his name + USC.

https://hpri.usc.edu/staff/seth-watson-pickens/

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Welcome to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast, hosted by David, where we focus on helping men over 40 navigate the challenges of divorce and find strength, purpose, and happiness in their new lives. In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Michael Foglietta—author, motivational speaker, and coach—who has overcome incredible life hurdles to help others thrive after trauma and divorce.

Michael’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and hope. After surviving a ruptured AVM in 2003 that left him with severe physical limitations, PTSD, and memory loss, Michael rebuilt his life through his Accept, Adapt, Rebuild, and Live framework. This same framework applies not only to overcoming disabilities but also to navigating the emotional and practical challenges of divorce. Michael did struggle a few times but his completion of the podcast is a testament to his resilience I so respect that. !

In this episode, Michael shares:

✅ How to Accept Your New Reality—Why acknowledging your emotions is the first step to healing.

✅ Adaptation Strategies for Men—How to adjust to life’s new challenges and find new passions.

✅ Rebuilding After Divorce—Practical tips to redefine your goals, identity, and daily habits.

✅ The Power of Resilience—Why life after divorce can be better than ever if you embrace change.

Michael also opens up about caregiver burnout, redefining success, and how men can find their new identity after divorce. His raw, actionable advice is perfect for men looking to regain control of their lives, reconnect with their children, and rediscover their purpose.

🎙️ Michael's Key Takeaway: Divorce is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength. When one chapter ends, it’s an opportunity to write a brand-new one.

💬 What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced after divorce? Let us know in the comments!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mike.foglietta/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-foglietta/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MFoglietta1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mfoglietta1/

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