Mending Fences is a podcast about dispute resolution and effective ways to communicate and live across differences. Hosts Patrice Brymner and Jennifer Hawthorne are both family mediators and collaborative law attorneys, but their conversations go well beyond family law. They explore the personal, interpersonal, legal, and cultural impact of conflict. Intro/outro: "North Oakland Extasy," by Squadda B
Divorce transforms relationships, requiring former spouses to reinvent themselves as effective co-parents. In this thoughtful exploration of post-divorce parenting, Patrice Brymner and Jen Hawthorne Kelsey unpack the critical elements of creating sustainable parenting arrangements that truly serve the changing needs of children and parents. What makes a "good enough" parenting plan? Rather than rigid schedules or perfect-on-paper arrangements, successful co-parenting requires adaptability, p...
17 Jan 2025
Embracing Change: Conflict as Transformation
Conflict is more than just a hurdle—it's an opportunity for transformation. Patrice and Jen explore how to harness the inherent the chaos of change toward personal and relational growth. Discover the power of reframing your focus and understanding what truly makes you feel secure amid instability. From discussing the emotional rollercoaster of conflict to offering strategies for open communication and self-care, Jen and Patrice highlight the value of personal growth and self-discovery. ...
21 Jun 2024
GUEST: Attorney William Hickey on Divorce Mediation v. Litigation Myths
Join us on Mending Fences as we talk to Attorney William Hickey, a seasoned family law litigator from Massachusetts. Together, we untangle the often-confusing world of divorce, focusing on the distinctions between mediation and litigation. Bill shares his expert insights on how he evaluates the suitability of mediation for his clients, highlighting crucial factors like the intricacy of the issues and the couple's communication dynamics. We also delve into the significance of fairness and client value when recommending dispute resolution methods.
We break down the essential steps for choosing a qualified mediator, ensuring you’re equipped with the right questions to ask. Learn about the importance of mediators being involved in professional communities and the need to clearly understand the boundaries of the the neutral's role. Because mediators can't give legal advice, having access to independent counsel is vital. Through practical examples, we clarify the mediator’s role and underscore the necessity of grounding mediation in sound legal advice for a more balanced process.
We also discuss the value of a collaborative role for attorneys in mediation. Whether both clients have legal representation or only one does, we discuss how attorneys can bring balance and informed decision-making to the table. We also touch upon critical moments when mediators should refer clients to litigators, acknowledging that some conflicts are best resolved through litigation. Tune in for an insightful discussion on navigating divorce with the right mix of mediation and litigation, tailored to meet your unique needs.
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Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 29 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
34
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
60
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