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Sidebar Social®

Sidebar Social® is your friendly neighborhood podcast hosted by two seasoned Dallas area family attorneys! Join Jennifer L. Grinke and Dana J. Stewart, as they delve into the world of family law with a blend of expertise and humor.

Latest episodes

EP25 – The Court’s Switzerland: Inside the Amicus Attorney Role

In this episode of Sidebar Social, we sit down with Jennifer Richardson, a Texas family law attorney who is frequently appointed as an Amicus Attorney, to break down one of the most misunderstood roles in family law cases.  Jennifer explains what an amicus attorney is (and isn’t), who they represent, and how they assist the court in high-conflict custody cases. We also discuss how the amicus role...

EP24 – Sidebar Social: Family Law Mythbusters Edition

Not everything you hear about divorce and custody is true! In this week’s Sidebar Social episode, we’re debunking some of the common questions, and myths, about divorce, custody, and child support in Texas. Join us as we break down what’s true, what’s false, and somewhere in between.

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EP23 – Order in the Court!  A Deep Dive into Protective Orders

Jennifer L. Grinke and Dana J. Stewart sit down with criminal defense attorney Ryne Sandel, a partner at Whalen Law Office, to unpack the world of protective orders — what they are, how they work, and why they’re so often misunderstood. From emergency orders to long-term protections, we explore how these legal tools are issued, enforced, and challenged, and what happens when criminal and family...

EP-22 In the Wake of Divorce: Grief, Growth & the Year of Firsts

Divorce isn’t just a legal process—it’s an emotional upheaval. In this powerful and eye-opening episode of Sidebar Social, licensed therapist Kathleen Schofield returns to help us unpack the hidden grief that often goes unrecognized during and after a family law case. From mourning the loss of identity and routine to navigating “the year of firsts” post-divorce, Kathleen shares valuable...

EP 21 – Keep Calm and Collaborate On: A Collaborative Divorce Conversation

Is there a way to divorce that doesn’t involve court battles, scorched earth tactics, or drained bank accounts? On this episode of Sidebar Social, hosts Jennifer L. Grinke and Dana J. Stewart sit down with Katie Zuverink—licensed counselor and seasoned neutral mental health professional in the collaborative divorce process—to break it all down.  Katie shares what collaborative divorce...

EP 20 – FBI to Family Law: Exposing Tech Abuse in High-Conflict Cases

In this eye-opening episode, we’re joined by Steven Bradley, Cybersecurity & Technology Expert at Our Family Wizard and former FBI agent, to unpack the darker side of tech in family law. From hidden trackers and spoofed messages to spyware and social media manipulation, Steven shares real-world insights into how technology is weaponized in high-conflict cases—and what parents and family law...

EP-19: High-Conflict, High Alert: Staying Safe in Family Law Battles

 In this powerful episode, we’re joined by seasoned martial arts instructor and safety expert, Erik Hicks, to talk about a topic that’s all too common in family law—domestic violence. We unpack the warning signs, explore how abuse patterns tend to escalate over time, and offer practical safety tips for those navigating co-parenting in high-conflict situations. Whether you’re a legal...

EP18-From the Sidelines to the Frontlines: A Stepmom’s Role in Family Law Drama

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, Tori Bradburry opens up about what it’s like being a stepmother in the middle of high-conflict family law litigation. As her husband’s case played out in court, Tori became more than a bystander—she became a source of strength, support, and stability for her blended family. Her story is one of love, frustration, and fierce resilience—perfect for...

EP17-Happiness in the Heartache: Helping Children and Parents Navigate Divorce and Co-Parenting

 In this heartwarming episode, I chat with Amy Tyson, the founder of Happiness In The Heartache, a company dedicated to supporting children and parents through the challenges of divorce. She shares her expert insights on helping kids process their feelings with creative tools like her children’s books and workbooks, and discusses her journey as a certified divorce and co-parenting coach. Tune in...

EP16-Gavel to Mediator: Navigating Family Law with a Former Judge

Ever wondered what goes on behind the bench, or what makes mediation tick? In this episode, we’re joined by Suzanne Wooten, a former District Court Judge turned full-time mediator who’s spilling the tea on everything from courtroom drama to the secrets of successful family law mediation. With insights from both sides of the gavel, she shares pro tips for trial attorneys and folks about to head...

EP 15 – The Investigator’s Eye: Solving Family Law Mysteries with Surveillance & Forensics

In this episode, we sit down with Daryl Parker of Blackfish Intelligence. Tune in as we chat with a seasoned private investigator about the undercover services his firm offers to help crack open family law cases. Whether it's tracking assets, uncovering hidden truths, or just getting the inside scoop, this episode reveals how PI’s are the unsung heroes behind many courtroom victories. Grab your...

EP14 – Financing the Future: Divorce Lending Tips for a Smooth Transition

In this episode, we sit down with Noel Cookman of The Mortgage Institute , a divorce lending specialist with over two decades of experience at the intersection of divorce and mortgage finance. Noel shares his expert insights on how to navigate mortgage financing during a divorce, offering practical advice for both divorce attorneys and clients. By getting involved early in the process, Noel helps...

Ep13 – Title – Keeping the Peace: Supervised Visitation Tips for Family Law Cases

In this episode, we sit down with Rick Willey, owner of Keeping the Peace, LLC, a service dedicated to providing supervised visitations for families in North Texas. As a bailiff for the 417th Judicial District Court of Collin County, Texas, Rick shares his expertise on how supervised visitations can be a vital tool in family law cases. He discusses best practices for ensuring smooth and...

EP12 – Custody Clarity: Expert Insights on Child Custody Evaluation

In this episode, Jennifer and Dana were joined by licensed professional counselor Christy Bradshaw Schmidt, a trusted expert in child custody evaluations. With nearly 600 evaluations under her belt, Christy shares her deep insights into the evaluation process, offering expert advice on navigating high-conflict custody disputes. She discusses common issues like relocation, resist/refuse dynamics...

EP10 –  From Heartbreak to Homeownership: Empowering Women After Divorce

In this empowering episode, Jennifer and Dana sit down with two incredible experts— Lindsay Menz, a loan officer with Town Square Mortgage, and Natalie Andrews with CLEAR Title & Apprasial Co.—who are on a mission to help women rebuild their lives after divorce, starting with securing a home. Both of our guests share their personal experiences navigating divorce and their passion for supporting...

EP7 – Mind Over Matter: Navigating Your Psychological Dashboard

Jennifer and Dana talk with clinical psychologist, Dr. Kevin Gilliland, about the struggles people go through before, during and after their family law case. In this episode, Dr. Gilliland discusses the importance of understanding your psychological dashboard, the struggles people face when dealing with legal issues in the midst of life, and insightful tips how to become the best version of...

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New Episodes Every Week!

Expect a podcast that's informative yet approachable, where complex legal concepts are explained with clarity and a touch of levity. Whether you're dealing with legal issues firsthand or simply curious about the workings of family law, Sidebar Social® promises to be your go-to source for insightful discussions and a few laughs along the way. We'll navigate through the intricate landscape of family law, uncovering the legal insights you need, connecting with experts who can shed light on complex issues, and discussing how the law intersects with everyday life.

So, grab your favorite beverage, pull up a chair, and join the conversation on Sidebar Social® —because legal talk just got a whole lot more interesting!