164. Pre Divorce Action Steps For Leaving An Abusive Marriage (And a Personal Story That Inspired a Blockbuster Movie)

164. Pre Divorce Action Steps For Leaving An Abusive Marriage (And a Personal Story That Inspired a Blockbuster Movie)

Released Friday, 8th August 2025
Good episode? Give it some love!
164. Pre Divorce Action Steps For Leaving An Abusive Marriage (And a Personal Story That Inspired a Blockbuster Movie)

164. Pre Divorce Action Steps For Leaving An Abusive Marriage (And a Personal Story That Inspired a Blockbuster Movie)

164. Pre Divorce Action Steps For Leaving An Abusive Marriage (And a Personal Story That Inspired a Blockbuster Movie)

164. Pre Divorce Action Steps For Leaving An Abusive Marriage (And a Personal Story That Inspired a Blockbuster Movie)

Friday, 8th August 2025
Good episode? Give it some love!
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Abuse doesn’t always leave visible scars. If you’re in a marriage where your every move is controlled; whether it’s how you spend money, where you go, or who you see, you may be experiencing abuse without realizing it.

In this episode, we’re giving you the 3 critical steps to take before you leave an abusive marriage, straight from a divorce lawyer’s perspective. Then, you’ll hear a riveting, eye-opening conversation with Dr. Nadine Macaluso—therapist, trauma-bond expert, and former wife of Jordan Belfort, the infamous “Wolf of Wall Street.”

Dr. Nadine shares:

  • How coercive control and trauma bonds keep people trapped
  • The truth about love bombing, cognitive dissonance, and the cycle of abuse
  • What really happened behind the Hollywood portrayal of her marriage
  • How she rebuilt her life, earned her doctorate, and now helps others break free


Whether your situation mirrors hers or not, the insight and strategies in this episode could save you time, money, and possibly your safety.

Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course

Our Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck

Friends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.


Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorce

Follow Andrea: @theandrearappaport

Follow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago

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