Welcome back to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast! 🎙️ In this powerful episode, I’m joined by David E. Feldman—a prolific author, musician, painter, and living testament to the power of transformation. Whether you’re a man over 40 navigating the painful aftermath of divorce or anyone seeking inspiration to rise above life’s darkest moments, you’re in the right place. Who is David E. Feldman? David’s life reads like one of his own mystery novels. He’s the author of 15 books, including the Dora Ellison and Hammer and Sharp series, but his greatest masterpiece is his journey from the brink. After 31 years of sobriety, surviving addiction, cancer, depression, spinal surgeries, and so much more, David has emerged stronger and more creative than ever. Why Should Men Over 40 Listen? Let’s face it—midlife divorce can feel like a knockout punch. The world tells us to ‘man up,’ but what do you do when you’re left with pain, regret, and a broken sense of purpose? David shares not just his survival, but how he turned trauma into triumph. His story proves it’s never too late to rewrite your narrative. Key Takeaways from This Episode: How to Turn Pain Into Power: David’s turning point came when he realized his pain could be transformed into purpose. Discover practical steps to start your own healing journey. The Role of Creativity in Recovery: Whether it’s writing, music, or painting, David explains how channeling pain into creative outlets can be life-changing. Finding Your ‘Why’ After Divorce: Learn why reconnecting with your passions—what you loved as a kid—can be the key to moving forward. The Value of Community: From 12-step recovery groups to simply reaching out, David highlights why support and helping others are essential for men rebuilding after divorce. Coping with Depression and Isolation: David opens up about his battles with depression, offering hope and real strategies for those who feel alone in their struggle. Are You Ready to Rewrite Your Story? No matter how dark things seem, you have the power to rebuild and thrive. David’s resilience is proof that your greatest struggles can become your greatest strengths. Whether you’re facing addiction, depression, or the heartbreak of divorce, you’re not alone—and your best days can still be ahead. 👇 Join the Conversation! 👇 What part of David’s journey resonated most with you? Have you found a creative or community outlet that helped you heal after divorce? Drop your thoughts, questions, or your own recovery story in the comments below! Let’s build a community of men supporting men—because healing is better together. 💬 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 for more real talk and inspiration for men over 40. #DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #DontPickTheScab #Podcast #DavidEFeldman #AddictionRecovery #Inspiration Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to the "Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast" – the safe space where successful men recover, rebuild, and rediscover themselves after divorce. I’m your host, David, and today’s episode is a powerful deep-dive into healing with Nicole Harrington: business owner, animal lover, and outspoken mental health advocate. 🐾 Nicole’s story is proof that you can turn setbacks into the foundation of a new, stronger life. Having faced trauma, daily depression, and the crushing pressure of “starting over,” Nicole brings real-world advice and hope for men navigating the tough emotional aftermath of divorce. In this episode, we explore: Nicole’s 3 Pillars of Transformation: Evidence, Narrative, and Identity—how changing your story and collecting real proof of your progress can transform your life. Why Curiosity Beats Criticism: Learn how staying curious about your emotions, rather than beating yourself up, leads to breakthrough growth. Nutrition & Micronutrients: Discover how what you eat can radically impact your mental health, energy, and resilience—especially for men rebuilding their lives. Breaking Bad Habits: Nicole opens up about her journey quitting unhealthy coping mechanisms and building new routines that actually stick. Finding (and Keeping) Support: Why the right community, support groups, and even your pets can play a huge role in your recovery. 🐱 Nicole shares small, practical steps for men who feel stuck, including: How to use “setbacks” as signals for self-care. The truth about medication, micronutrients, and why depression is NOT a sign of weakness. Real talk about the myths of depression and why vulnerability is a superpower, not a flaw. Whether you’re just starting your post-divorce journey or struggling with old habits and depression, this episode will give you the tools to start rewriting your own story. Nicole’s honest, relatable advice will help you find hope, rebuild your identity, and realize that you are absolutely worthy of happiness and love. Connect with Nicole Harrington: Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and more: @NicoleCoachingG Website: nicolecoachingg.com (http://nicolecoachingg.com) ✨ If you found this episode helpful, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE with a friend who needs some hope. What part of Nicole’s story resonated with you the most? Drop your thoughts and questions in the comments below—I want to hear from you! 👇 Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Are you a successful man struggling to recover after divorce? You’re not alone—and today’s episode of the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast with your host David brings hope, wisdom, and real strategies for moving forward. 🎙️ In this powerful interview, we sit down with Wesley Farnsworth, author of “The Blueprint of Becoming.” Wesley shares his deeply personal journey from living with hidden struggles—addiction, codependency, and the pain of divorce—to building a new, authentic life filled with purpose and freedom. Growing up as a pastor’s kid, Wesley felt intense pressure to fit a mold, leading him to lose touch with his true self. When his marriage hit a breaking point, he was forced to confront his pain head-on. Through faith, counseling, and the support of a recovery community, he discovered how to break free from shame and find healing—and he’s here to share those lessons with you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why isolation is the enemy of recovery (and practical steps to break free from it) 🚶‍♂️🤝 How community, faith, and counseling can transform your divorce recovery The importance of setting goals and creating a vision for your life after divorce 🎯 How to overcome feelings of inadequacy, guilt, and shame Real-life strategies for building resilience and reclaiming your confidence after loss The difference between forgiveness and forgetting—and why forgiveness is crucial for your own peace ✨ How to adjust your “constellation” or “circle of influence” to support your new life Key Quotes: “What’s happened has happened, but it doesn’t define who you are. It’s just a part of your story.” “Isolation breeds depression. Community brings healing.” Wesley’s honest reflections and actionable advice offer a roadmap for men who want to recover, rebuild, and thrive—no matter how tough the road has been. Ready to take the next step? Check out Wesley’s free guide and resources for group recovery at wesleyfarnsworth.com/start (https://wesleyfarnsworth.com/start). 🔔 Subscribe for more real conversations about life after divorce, resilience, and men’s mental health. 👍 Like this episode if you found it helpful—your support helps us reach more men who need hope! 👇 What’s been your biggest challenge after divorce? Drop a comment below—we want to hear your story, and you might help someone else! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Are you a man over 40 facing divorce and worried about your kids, your finances, and your future? You’re in the right place. Welcome to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast—the show for men ready to heal, rebuild, and thrive after divorce. In this episode, your host David sits down with trailblazing family mediator and “Kids First” advocate, Tina Keyes. With more than a decade of experience, Tina has helped hundreds of families avoid courtroom battles and find real solutions—putting children’s wellbeing at the heart of divorce recovery. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How traditional divorce sets parents up as enemies—and what to do instead Why starting with your kids’ needs (not finances) leads to better outcomes The secret mindset shift to move from adversaries to teammates as co-parents Why your relationship with your kids is more important than controlling your ex Common mistakes divorced dads make (and how to avoid them!) How to communicate when your ex isn’t cooperative or high-conflict Why is healing yourself the key to making good decisions for your family Real talk about co-parenting schedules, quality time, and what’s actually best for your kids Why mediation is the future of divorce—and how it’s changing lives Tina shares powerful insights—like her “orange” analogy for compromise and how neutral, positive interactions can transform even the toughest relationships. You’ll also hear real stories about dads who stopped obsessing over their ex and started focusing on building lasting bonds with their children. Whether you’re just starting your divorce journey, stuck in conflict, or trying to be the best dad you can be, this episode is packed with practical advice and hope. 👉 Ready to take the next step? Share your biggest challenge as a divorced dad in the comments below. What’s worked for you? What still feels impossible? Let’s build a community of men supporting men to put their kids first and reclaim their lives after divorce. Tina's Websites: www.floridadivorcemediation.com (http://www.floridadivorcemediation.com) www.kidsfirstmediation.com (http://www.kidsfirstmediation.com) Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with a friend who needs it! #DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #CoParenting #DivorcedDads #Mediation #DontPickTheScabPodcast Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Are you a man over 40 feeling lost after an unexpected divorce? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck. In this eye-opening episode of the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast, host David sits down with certified divorce coach Lori Heller, whose personal story of heartbreak, confusion, and ultimate empowerment will inspire anyone struggling to move forward after the end of a long marriage. Laurie was blindsided by divorce after 25 years as a stay-at-home mom. Facing a future she never planned for, she learned not only how to survive—but to thrive. Today, she guides both men and women through the toughest transitions of their lives, helping them avoid costly mistakes, rebuild confidence, and discover a new sense of purpose. In this episode, you’ll discover: The biggest emotional differences (and surprising similarities!) between men and women during divorce 😱 Why men often bottle up anger—and how to process it in a healthy way The crucial role of self-care for dads and why it’s not selfish to put on your own “oxygen mask” first How to build your tribe and find support when friends and family don’t get it The most common mistakes men make (from trying to control what happens at the ex’s house to rushing into new relationships) Practical strategies for co-parenting—even if things are contentious How to move from just surviving to actually thriving in your new life 🚀 Laurie shares actionable tips for managing finances, rebuilding your sense of self, and letting go of the drama so you can focus on building a better future—for you and your kids. Whether you’re newly separated or still struggling years after divorce, this conversation is packed with hope, wisdom, and real-world advice you can use right now. About the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast: Hosted by David, this show is dedicated to helping men over 40 recover from divorce, reclaim their confidence, and create a life worth living again. Subscribe for weekly conversations with experts, real stories from men who’ve been through it, and practical tools to help you heal. 👇 What’s been your biggest challenge after divorce? Drop your story or question in the comments! Let’s build a supportive community together. If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs it. Lori's Website (https://www.womenanddivorce.com/) #DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #CoParenting #DivorceCoach #DontPickTheScab Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Are you a man over 40 struggling to rebuild after divorce? Have you ever felt stuck in “Nice Guy” patterns—always seeking approval, but feeling unseen and unfulfilled? You’re not alone. Dive into this episode of the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast with me, David, and special guest McKenzie—a men’s coach who’s changed the lives of thousands of men worldwide. 🔓 In This Episode: McKenzie’s raw journey: From a chaotic childhood to hitting rock bottom, and how joining a men’s group in Chicago transformed his life and purpose. What is Nice Guy Syndrome? Learn why so many men fall into people-pleasing patterns, especially after separation or divorce, and how toxic shame keeps you stuck. Why it gets worse after divorce: Discover the hidden traps men face when re-entering the dating world or trying to co-parent, and why external validation doesn’t lead to healing. The Power of Men’s Groups: Hear why support communities are critical for real recovery, and how having just one emotional outlet (your ex or partner) can set you up for more pain. Communication & Curiosity: Practical tools to break out of old beliefs (“I’m bad at feelings,” “I can’t communicate”) and build genuine connection—with yourself and others. The Three Ps: How Power, Purpose, and Possibility can replace shame and self-doubt, leading to real transformation, not just symptom management. Rebuilding Friendships: Why most men lose touch with friends after marriage, and actionable steps to cultivate meaningful relationships, even if you feel isolated. 💡 Key Takeaways: Self-care and emotional availability are essential, not selfish. Healing isn’t about avoiding your “bad habits”—it’s about replacing them with something more valuable. Community is vital: diversify your support network beyond just your partner. Real masculinity isn’t toxic—outdated patterns are. It’s time to embrace the traits that push you (and humanity) forward. McKenzie also shares how his background in marketing helped him create simple, transformative systems for men to heal and thrive—no matter their past. 👇 Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re newly divorced or years out, this conversation will help you see that real recovery is possible. If you want proven tools and authentic support, check outt www.groupsformen.com (http://groupsformen.com) for a free week of coaching and connection. ⭐ Let’s make this a conversation: Have you struggled with Nice Guy Syndrome or finding support after divorce? What’s been your biggest challenge? Drop a comment below—your story could help another man know he’s not alone. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast—your go-to resource for men over 40 navigating the tough road of divorce recovery. I’m David, your host, and today’s episode is a must-watch for anyone feeling the weight of separation both at home and at work. 💔👔 In this powerful episode, I sit down with Vicky Townsend, President of Divorce Right Inc. and a true pioneer in workplace divorce support. Vicky shares her personal journey through divorce (more than once!), and how those experiences led her to create a nationwide network of certified divorce coaches—helping men like you rebuild their lives with dignity, empathy, and practical tools. What You’ll Discover: The Hidden Impact of Divorce on Your Career: Did you know divorce can slash your workplace productivity by up to 40% per year—for FIVE years? Vicky breaks down the numbers and shares why employers are finally paying attention. Why Men Over 40 Struggle More: Learn why men in midlife face unique challenges—like decision fatigue, financial setbacks, and social isolation—that can make divorce recovery even harder. The Power of Support: Find out how working with a specialized divorce coach (not just a lawyer!) can save you money, sanity, and even your health. Real Stories from the Front Lines: Hear jaw-dropping true tales of firefighters, first responders, and everyday guys who faced divorce…and how the right help changed their future. How to Protect Your Kids & Your Finances: Whether you’re dealing with child custody, special needs, or complex settlements, discover strategies to keep your family and bank account intact. Resources You Need NOW: From AI-powered support apps to searchable parenting video libraries, Vicky shares practical tools for every stage of your journey. Men, you are not alone. Divorce is tough, especially after 40—but with the right support and mindset, you can come out stronger, wiser, and ready for what’s next. 🌄 ⭐️ Don’t Miss These Key Takeaways: Why divorce is a “silent killer” of workplace productivity (and how to stop it) The 3 things every man over 40 needs to know before, during, and after divorce How to talk to your employer about getting real support—and why it matters! Ready to reclaim your life after divorce? Watch now, subscribe, and join the Don’t Pick the Scab community for more honest conversations and expert guidance. 👇 What’s been YOUR biggest challenge during or after divorce? Drop a comment below—let’s support each other! 👇 #DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #DivorceSupport #Podcast #DontPickTheScab #LifeAfterDivorce #MensMentalHealth Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast with David! 🎙️ Are you a man over 40 struggling with intense loneliness after divorce? You’re not alone. In today’s episode, we dive deep into the question so many ask: When does the loneliness go away after divorce for men over 40? 💬 Divorce after 40 is a seismic life change. It’s not just the end of a marriage—it’s a complete upheaval of your daily sense of connection, identity, and purpose. Many men in midlife find themselves suddenly navigating a new, unfamiliar world solo. It’s common to long for the companionship you lost, and the grief can feel overwhelming. But healing is possible, and it’s never too late to find your way back to hope and connection! Why Is Post-Divorce Loneliness So Intense Over 40? Loneliness is more than just being alone—it’s a deep longing for lost connection, often mixed with sadness or anxiety. For men over 40, this feeling is magnified by years of shared routines, empty nest syndrome, or shifting social circles. If you’re experiencing this, know that it’s a normal part of the grief process. Healing doesn’t happen on a set schedule. Some men feel better in months, others need more time. Your journey is unique—don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Busting the Myths There’s a harmful myth that you “should” be over your divorce by a certain time. The truth? Emotional healing isn’t linear. It’s okay to struggle, and it’s okay to talk about it. Breaking the stigma around loneliness helps everyone heal, especially men who often feel pressured to “tough it out” alone. Common Triggers for Men Over 40 Empty nest syndrome (kids moving out) Loss of social identity as a couple Shifting friendships and family dynamics Understanding these triggers can help you give yourself grace and compassion as you heal. Practical Steps to Heal and Reconnect Build new routines: Try morning walks, journaling, or mindfulness 🧘‍♂️ Seek support: Therapy or support groups can be life-changing Reconnect with hobbies: Rediscover old passions or learn something new 🎨 Volunteer or join groups: Meet new people and rediscover your sense of belonging Embrace healthy solitude: Time alone can be empowering and transformative When to Seek Help If loneliness starts to feel overwhelming or turns into depression, reach out for professional help. Remember, support is available, and you don’t have to face this alone. There Is Hope! 🌟 The loneliness you feel now does not last forever. Many men over 40 find joy, connection, and even love again after divorce. Take small steps, be patient with yourself, and trust that a brighter chapter is ahead. Have you experienced loneliness after divorce? What helped you get through it? Share your story or advice in the comments below!👇 Let’s support each other on this journey. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Are you a man over 40 struggling to rebuild your confidence after a divorce? You're not alone. In this episode of the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast, host David shares a proven roadmap for men looking to reclaim their identity, self-worth, and sense of purpose after a marriage ends. Divorce is life-altering, especially for men who’ve invested decades in a relationship. The aftermath can leave you questioning who you are and if happiness is possible again. David, a divorce recovery advocate, has guided countless men through this challenging transition—and now, he’s here to help you. 🌟 What you’ll learn in this episode: • Why confidence often takes a hit after divorce, and why it’s normal • How to process emotions like anger, sadness, and grief in healthy ways • Steps to rediscover your identity and reclaim old passions • The power of self-care, exercise, and setting healthy boundaries • Why building a support network is crucial—and where to find one • How to challenge negative self-talk and set new, exciting goals Remember, recovery isn’t overnight, but each step forward builds a stronger, more resilient you. 💬 What’s been your biggest challenge in rebuilding confidence after divorce? Drop a comment below and join the conversation! Don’t forget to subscribe for more real talk and support for men over 40 navigating divorce recovery. #DivorceRecovery #MenOver40 #ConfidenceAfterDivorce #DontPickTheScab #LifeAfterDivorce Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Are you a man over 40 still wrestling with anger after divorce? You’re not alone. Welcome to the Don’t Pick the Scab Podcast—I’m David, your divorce recovery advocate, and today we’re tackling a question so many ask: When does the anger finally go away? Divorce isn’t just the end of a relationship—it’s the loss of shared dreams, routines, and sometimes even your sense of self. For those of us over 40, this anger can feel even heavier, but it’s also a normal part of the healing process. 😤💔 Anger doesn’t always look like shouting—it can be irritability, resentment, or withdrawing from people you care about. The truth? There’s no set timeline for letting go, but you can take action today. Strategies like journaling, talking to a therapist, practicing mindfulness, setting boundaries, and regular exercise can help. 📝🧘‍♂️🏃‍♂️ Remember: Healthy anger can motivate change, but staying stuck can harm your health and relationships. Forgiveness isn’t for your ex—it’s for you. As the anger fades, you’ll rediscover who you are and open up to new opportunities. 💬 Have you struggled with anger after divorce? What helped you move forward? Share your story in the comments below—I’d love to feature your experience in a future episode! If this helped you, please like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs it. Next week, we’ll talk about rebuilding your confidence after divorce. See you then! ✌️ Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.