Episode Details
Back to Episodes
Divorce Mediation No Judges Just Real Talk
Description
Thinking about becoming a divorce mediator? What is it really like helping couples navigate separation, conflict, and emotional conversations without going to court?
In this episode of Time We Discuss, divorce mediator and attorney Mardi Chadwick Balcom shares what it is really like working in divorce mediation. We discuss mediation versus arbitration, the emotional side of divorce work, burnout in family law careers, work life balance, mediator salary expectations, and the skills needed to succeed in conflict resolution careers.
Mardi also explains:
- How divorce mediation actually works
- Whether mediators need law degrees
- Why emotional regulation matters in mediation
- What a typical day looks like as a mediator
- How lawyers transition into mediation careers
- The challenges of working with couples during divorce
- The biggest rewards and hidden perks of the profession
If you are interested in careers in law, psychology, counseling, conflict resolution, family law, or mediation, this episode gives an honest behind the scenes look at the profession.
About Time We Discuss:
Time We Discuss is a podcast and YouTube channel exploring what it is really like working in different careers. Each episode features professionals sharing the realities, challenges, salaries, career paths, and day to day experiences of their jobs.
=================================================================
Timestamp:
0:00 - Intro
0:43 - Arbitration and Mediation, What's the Difference?
2:23 - Typical day for a divorce mediator
4:17 - Do people use mediators alongside lawyers?
5:27 - Personal qualities needed to be a successful mediator
6:45 - Do mediators need to have a law degree?
7:53 - Is your work mostly nights and weekends?
9:13 - How many divorce mediation sessions are needed?
10:35 - Do firms hire divorce mediators?
11:55 - Changing careers from a divorce mediator
13:15 - Mediator certifications
15:17 - Learning how to run a business as a divorce mediator
16:42 - Why a divorce mediator is the best job
17:51 - Why a divorce mediator is the worst job
19:21 - Work life balance for a divorce mediator
20:16 - Hidden barriers to entry
21:26 - Hidden perks for divorce mediators
22:35 - Thank you Jolee Vacchi
22:50 - Talent has the floor
24:07 - Highlights
25:58 - Outro
=================================================================
Guest Information:
Mardi Chadwick-Balcom, Esq.Also Mentioned Directly or Indirectly in This Episode:
- Hypnotist
- Trauma Coach: The Unexpected Healing Career
- Day in the life of a Corporate Lawyer
- Financial Advisor (Misty Lunch): Day in the Life
- What It Is Really Like to Be a Family Law Attorney (Jolee Vacchi)
=================================================================
Time We Discuss Links:
Official Website: Time We Discuss Website
Original Music: Original Music furnished by Dan Swift
YouTube: Time We Discuss on YouTube
Spotify: