The Start Over Smart Experience

The "Start Over Smart" Expo in New York City this past weekend was such an amazing success and I was so thrilled to be a part of it.  Thank you to all who attended, to all the inspirational professionals I met, and to the founders of "Start Over Smart" Expo, Nicole Feuer and Francine Baras.  It was a wonderful gathering of men and women who truly want to improve their lives through the transition of divorce, as well as, professionals who care and want to help individuals in the process of divorce.

The process of divorce can either slam you to the ground sucking all hope from you, or reinvigorate and inspire you to reinvent what "me" means. I was witness to many "light bulb moments" where participants and professionals gained a new perspective on what it means to "start over" after divorce.  It reminded me of why I do this type of work. I love working with a client who I can help understand finances and learn that they can be independent.

"Start Over Smart" was well thought out for a person going through the the transition of divorce - a holistic approach to the divorce process.  The mission of the Expo had four pillars: Build a Community of Support, Managing Finances, Helping Your Children Through the Process of Divorce, and There is Life After Divorce.

Anything and everything you could imagine regarding divorce and the renewal and reinvention of the self was at hand: Makeovers, Fashion, Dating, Sex, Financial, Parenting Children, Men's Issues, Baby Boomers, Extended Family Issues, Career.

Being the financial expert, my focus was money and a financial plan post divorce.  I spoke at three different workshops.  I talked about "Top Ten Things You Need to Know about Getting Divorced," "Divorce for Baby Boomers," and "How to Protect Yourself Financially in Divorce." To get some more information about these topics, call me to set up a consultation or check out articles I have written throughout the years. Go to: www.divorcematters.com

Here are a few of the professionals that really made an impression on me. Check these professionals out:

Jean Chatzky, TODAY show Financial Editor and Financial Advisor - Jean is an exceptional journalist and has received the Clarion Award for magazine columns from the Association of Women in Communications. She has a blog with insightful information for anyone looking for financial tips. www.jeanchatzky.com

Sally Hershberger, Celebrity Hair Stylist - known for her trendsetting vision and extraordinary skill.  It was really cool watching Sally transform participant's looks on stage. Check out Sally's hair care products: www.sallyhershberger.com

Laura Campbell, Divorce Expert and CEO of The D Spot - As a life coach, Laura is dedicated to helping women regroup, renew and reinvent themselves after divorce.  Laura is also the co-author of the book we wrote together, "Ultimate Divorce Organizer: The Complete Interactive Guide to Achieving the Best Legal, Financial and Personal Divorce." Go to her website: www.discoverthedspot.com

Eric Broder, Attorney, Matindale-Hubbell(r), AV(r), Preeminent(r) rated attorney - Eric is an intelligent, energetic, compassionate attorney whom I enjoy working with. www.broderorland.com

Stacy Morrison, Editor in Cheif, BlogHer.com - Stacy was a great person to meet. She is the author of "Falling Apart in One Piece: One Optimist's Journey through the Hell of Divorce." Check out her inspirational blog: http://fallingapartinonepiece.com

You can always contact me, or visit my website at www.divorcematters.com. I cannot wait for the Second Annual "Start Over Smart" Expo and hope to see you there!