30 - Transforming Co-Parenting: From Combative to Collaborative with Teresa Harlow

Episode 30: Transforming Co-Parenting: From Combative to Collaborative with Teresa Harlow

Episode Summary: Welcome to another episode of High Vibe Divorce with your host, Melissa Wheeler Farag! Today, I’m joined by Teresa Harlow, a co-parenting coach, author, and experienced co-parent. We discuss the challenges and rewards of effective co-parenting, and Teresa shares insights from her book Combative to Collaborative: The Co-Parenting Code.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The importance of adopting a business-like mindset in co-parenting transactions.
• How to maintain focus on the well-being of children and practice the Golden Rule in co-parenting.
• Strategies for managing anger, relinquishing control, and fostering collaboration.
• Practical advice for working with step-parents and navigating custody modifications through coaching and mediation.

Affirmation of the Day: Willingness to create is more vital than trying to create perfection. I choose willingness over perfection. When it comes to co-parenting, having the willingness to try and collaborate is key. While it may not always be easy, committing to taking the high road and working together will benefit your children in the long run.

Episode Highlights:

• [02:15] Introducing Teresa Harlow and her journey into co-parent coaching.
• [06:30] Why treating co-parenting like a business transaction can be beneficial.
• [12:45] The Golden Rule in co-parenting: How to keep interactions civil and productive.
• [18:20] Managing anger, grief, and disappointment in co-parenting relationships.
• [25:00] How to work with step-parents and create a cooperative parenting team.
• [31:45] Modifying custody arrangements: The role of coaching and mediation.
• [38:00] The importance of mindset shifts in fostering better co-parenting relationships.

Key Takeaways:

• Co-parenting is a long-term relationship that requires continuous effort, adjustments, and communication.
• Viewing your ex as a parenting partner rather than an adversary can help reduce conflict and improve outcomes for your child.
• Tools like co-parenting apps (Talking Parents, Our Family Wizard) can be useful in maintaining healthy communication.
• Working with a co-parenting coach can provide guidance and support, particularly when modifying custody arrangements or addressing ongoing conflict.

Connect with Teresa Harlow:

• Website: TeresaHarlow.com (soon to be CoParent-Coach.com)
• Book: Combative to Collaborative: The Co-Parenting Code (Available on Amazon)

Connect with Melissa Wheeler Farag:

• Website: HighVibeMediation.com
• Instagram: @HighVibeDivorce
• Mediation Services: @HighVibeMediation

Support the Podcast: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Sharing this episode with a friend who might need it is also a great way to spread support and positivity. Divorce can be stressful and isolating, so let’s keep the conversation going and support one another.

Until next time, keep the vibes high and the conflict low!