Divorce After 50: Navigating the Silver Split

Common Law Marriage in Kentucky: Myths vs. Reality

In this episode of Divorce After 50, Shari Frasure explains what common law marriage really means and how Kentucky treats it. Learn the differences between formal and common law marriages, why Kentucky doesn’t create new common law marriages, how out-of-state common law unions may be recognized, and what that means for property, retirement, and spousal rights—especially after age 50.
Shari offers practical steps to protect yourself financially and legally, resources for older adults, and guidance on where to get help, including attorneys, legal aid, and support services.

Does Kentucky Recognize Common Law Marriage ?

Kentucky common law marriage is one of those topics where what people believe and what the law actually says are two very different things. In this Divorce After 50 episode, real estate transition specialist Shari Frasure breaks down how Kentucky really treats common law marriage so you can protect yourself, your home, and your future.
We’ll cover:
What common law marriage actually means in the states that still recognize it
Why Kentucky does not allow new common law marriages and hasn’t for a very long time
The one narrow exception for out‑of‑state common law marriages (and why those cases get so complicated)
How the lack of a legal marriage can affect divorce options, spousal rights, property, retirement accounts, and shared assets after 50
Practical steps to protect yourself: checking the deed, using written agreements, creating a will or trust, and getting qualified legal advice
This episode is for long‑term partners, later‑life couples, and anyone in Kentucky who has “lived like” they were married and wants clear, plain‑English guidance on what that really means in a courtroom or at the closing table. You’ll also hear where to find legal aid, bar association referrals, and support resources for older adults navigating separation or divorce.
Shari is not an attorney and this podcast is not legal advice, but it will help you ask better questions, understand your risk, and have more informed conversations with your lawyer and financial team.

25 - How Divorce Impacts Your Body and Confidence

Divorce after 50 isn’t just a legal or financial change—it impacts your body, your confidence, and your outlook on love and life. In today’s conversation with Kathleen Yorke, an expert in healing pain and rebuilding confidence, we dove into how emotional stress affects your body, simple ways to start caring for yourself again, and how opening up to new possibilities—even dating—can lead to unexpected joy. Remember, the end of one chapter can be the beginning of your best one yet.

24 - Financial Planning with Jeff Corbett at Merrill Lynch

Navigating divorce after 50 can feel overwhelming, but with the right financial guidance, you can build a confident future. In my conversation with financial expert Jeff Corbett, we explored how setting clear goals, finding trusted advisors, and prioritizing both short-term stability and long-term planning makes all the difference. If you’re facing major life changes, remember: progress starts with education, asking smart questions, and surrounding yourself with the right support. It's never too late to take control and thrive.Contact Jeff at
Phone: 859-231-5240
Email: jeff.corbett@ml.com
Website
LinkedIn

23 - Navigating Depression After Divorce

Divorce after 50 isn’t just about signing papers—it’s a deeply emotional journey. Depression can show up as sadness, exhaustion, and self-doubt, even when you know ending the marriage was right for you. In this episode, I share how giving yourself grace means embracing your feelings without judgment and understanding that healing isn’t a straight line. Whether you’re struggling with grief, hormones, or just feeling stuck, remember it’s normal to need time and support. You deserve compassion and connection as you rebuild. Share this with someone who needs to hear it—you’re never alone in this journey.

22 - Grandmothers and Holidays

Navigating life after divorce isn’t easy, especially when you become a grandmother for the first time. In this episode, I opened up about the unexpected blend of joy and quiet grief—letting go of old family traditions, sharing holidays, and embracing new roles. I talked about how self-care helps you show up for your grandchildren and how connection can be found in simple shared moments. Legacy is built on love and presence, not just memories from the past. If you’re moving through divorce and rebuilding your family traditions, remember: you’re not alone, and the new year holds space for hope and belonging.

21 - Holidays and Divorce

Navigating the holidays after divorce, especially later in life, can feel overwhelming. In this session, I shared that it’s okay to let go of old traditions and embrace new, simpler ones that truly bring comfort. Whether it’s creating experiences with loved ones or finding meaningful ways to connect—even volunteering or joining support groups—there is no right way to celebrate. The quiet moments, the changes, and even the grief, are part of healing. Remember, peace and rest are enough this season, and joy will return, even if quietly. This holiday can be different—and that’s perfectly okay.

20 - Life After 50

In this episode, Shari opens up about the powerful journey of reclaiming your space, reinventing your daily routines, and rediscovering your confidence in social settings — all after the age of 50. Whether you’re navigating an empty marital home, setting up a fresh space that reflects who you are now, learning the art of finding gratitude in your day-to-day, or figuring out how to make new connections, you’ll find encouragement and practical tips here. Join Shari as she shares heartfelt advice and personal stories to remind you: starting over after 50 isn’t the end, it’s the exciting start of your most authentic chapter yet.

19 - How Divorced Parents Can Make Wedding Days Joyful, Not Stressful

Today, we’re diving into a topic that hits close to home for many – what really happens when divorced parents come together to celebrate their child’s wedding. Shari is joined by Sarah Burton, also known as the "wedding whisperer" and owner of Simply Love Studio.
Together, they unpack the emotional highs and lows that can unfold when divorced parents and extended families are asked to share space on one of life’s biggest days. From heartwarming moments of unity and support to awkward standoffs, tears, and power plays, Shari and Sarah share real-life stories and expert advice on how to navigate these complex dynamics gracefully. You'll also hear practical tips on setting boundaries, managing expectations, and ensuring the spotlight shines where it belongs—on the happy couple.
Whether you’re a parent, stepparent, or part of a blended family, this episode will help you show up as your best self for those milestone occasions and turn what could be a breeding ground for conflict into a beautiful demonstration of love and maturity. So if you have a family wedding on the horizon—or just want to reflect on healthier ways to move forward—this conversation is for you.

18 - Forgiveness After Divorce

Debra Clem, counselor, speaker, and writer,  discusses the vital topic of forgiveness after divorce. Debra shares her personal journey through profound losses and a long-term marriage ending, illustrating the critical role forgiveness plays in personal healing. She emphasizes that forgiving an ex-spouse — or anyone who has caused harm — is not about excusing their actions, but about liberating oneself from the weight of resentment. Through heartfelt anecdotes, Debra uncovers how carrying unforgiveness can affect not only the individual but also their loved ones, and explains why it often requires both time and spiritual guidance to truly move forward.
The conversation explores practical steps for reaching forgiveness, including prayer, support from trusted individuals, and honest self-reflection. Debra also touches on the complexities of repeated hurts and the necessity of setting boundaries when harmful behaviors persist. She and Shari address the misconception that forgiveness means staying in a damaging relationship, clarifying that it is possible — and sometimes necessary — to forgive and still walk away. Finally, Debra offers insights into re-entering the dating world later in life and stresses the importance of healing before forming new relationships.