Don't Play Small: Essential Financial and Emotional Support During Divorce with Leslie Thompson and Leah GiaQuinta

The Space In-Between

Life creates many in-between moments, and divorce can feel like tossing all your possessions on a blanket and watching them scatter in the air. In this powerful episode of The Space In-Between, Dinine sits down with Leslie Thompson, co-founder and chief investment officer of Spectrum Wealth Management, and Leah GiaQuinta, founder of Leah GiaQuinta Coaching, to unpack the financial and emotional complexities of divorce.

From gathering essential financial documents to overcoming the emotional hurdles of transition, these experts provide invaluable guidance for women moving through this challenging space. Leslie shares her expertise on understanding financial information and the importance of seeking professional advice, while Leah offers insights on the emotional journey and building support systems during transition.

Together, we address the common pitfalls women face, from playing small in financial negotiations to believing that marital assets aren't shared. Whether you're considering divorce, currently navigating one, or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers practical wisdom for finding stability when everything feels destabilized.

Our discussion doesn't shy away from difficult topics, including financial abuse, the games some ex-spouses play with resources after divorce, and the stigma many feel about the "D word." Leslie reveals insights key to finding hidden assets and ensuring fair settlements, while Leah opens up about her personal journey of embracing the title “divorce coach,” despite her initial hesitation about even having the word “divorce” on her business card.

The conversation wraps up on a thoughtful (and slightly playful) note: would we sign a pre-nup in the future? Leslie, Leah and Dinine each share their honest perspectives — and leave the question with you, my friends; so— would you?

Key Takeaways:

• Collect all financial information before making decisions – tax returns, financial statements, and spending records are essential.
• Don't play small – invest in quality professional advice, both financial and emotional.
• Create a support structure to provide stability during the disorienting transition of divorce.
• Understand that marital assets are shared – even if you've been conditioned to believe otherwise.
• Approach prenuptial agreements as an opportunity for transparency, not as preparation for failure.

Resources:

Dinine’s LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/dinine-sig-917784252/

Dinine's website: dininesig.com/

Dinine's Instagram: @dininesig

Dinine's TikTok: @dinine.sig

Leslie Thompson's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/leslie-d-thompson-cfa®-cpa-cdfa™-020b78b9/

Leah GiaQuinta's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/leahgiaquinta/

Spectrum Wealth Management: spectrum-mgmt.com/

Leah GiaQuinta Coaching: leahgiaquintacoaching.com/