Navigating Family Court Without an Attorney: Pro Se Coach Ben Schooley Explains

Can you successfully navigate the family court system without dropping tens of thousands of dollars on an attorney? On this episode of the Dad to Dads Podcast, host Robert sits down with Ben Schooley, a nationwide Pro Se Coach who helps fathers and mothers navigate divorce, custody battles, and modifications on their own terms.After enduring a high-conflict 5-year divorce involving over 90 court hearings and $400,000 in legal bills, Ben Schooley realized the family law system is deeply flawed—and often financially devastating. Now, as a Pro Se Coach, Ben equips parents with the templates, strategies, and confidence needed to represent themselves in court like a seasoned professional, without paying $500 an hour for legal counsel.Key Discussion Points:What is a Pro Se Coach? How coaching differs from legal advice and why self-representation is simpler than most people think.The Reality of Family Law: Why 92% of family court cases settle before trial and how to use legal strategy as leverage for better negotiations.Demystifying the Process: How to handle intimidating paperwork, discovery requests, and bogus motions without losing your composure.The Fight for 50/50 Custody: Exploring systemic bias in family court, state financial incentives, and the movement toward equal parenting rights.Avoiding Systemic Traps: Why third-party professionals like Guardian ad Litems aren't always working in your child's best interest.The Biggest Mistake Parents Make: Why lack of preparation and emotional exhaustion hurt cases more than anything else.How to find Ben Schooley www.prosecoachtx.comConnect with Dad to Dads:https://www.instagram.com/dadtodads/Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and feel free to leave us a COMMENT#DadToDadsPodcast #FamilyLaw #DivorceAdvice #ProSe #CustodyBattle #Fatherhood #CoParenting #DivorceCourt  #FamilyCourtReform #EqualParenting #familycourt Send us Fan Mail

In this deeply emotional and raw episode of the Dad to Dads podcast, Robert sits down with Matt and Monica Spellicy for a conversation that explores the unimaginable journey of losing two children in a tragic accident.When Matt and Monica’s lives were shattered in July 2025 by a devastating tractor-trailer collision that claimed the lives of Matt’s oldest son, Tyler, and his daughter, Kylie, they were forced to navigate a depth of grief that no parent should ever have to face. Yet, in the wake of this heartbreak, they have chosen to stand firm in their faith and purpose.In this episode, we discuss:Surviving the Unthinkable: How Matt and Monica have navigated the immediate aftermath of losing Tyler and Kylie, and the role their faith has played in keeping them upright.The Power of Memory: Matt shares tender, authentic stories about Tyler’s growth and Kylie’s spirit, explaining why he chooses to lean into the pain rather than hide from it.Parenting After Tragedy: A profound look at how they continue to parent their youngest son, Bradley, and why they are committed to showing him and others that you can find happiness again after loss.The Choice to Be Better: Why Matt believes that even in the darkest moments, we have a choice: to be broken by our adversity or to use it to become stronger for ourselves and our families.This conversation is not just about grief; it is a masterclass in courage, intentional parenting, and the healing power of vulnerability. If you have experienced a profound loss, or if you simply need a reminder to cherish the time you have with your children, this episode is for you.Connect with Matt & Monica:Website: thematamonicapodcast.comFind them on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.Connect with Dad to Dads:https://www.instagram.com/dadtodads/Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and feel free to leave us a COMMENT#GriefAndHealing #ParentingThroughAdversity #FaithInHardTimes #Resilience #InspiringStories #OvercomingLoss #MentalHealthAwareness #FamilyFirst #MovingForward #parenting #faith #loss #fatherhood #griefSend us Fan Mail

What happens when the life you planned suddenly vanishes?In this episode of the Dad to Dads Podcast, Robert sits down with Stephen Cooper - Navy veteran, author of Beneath the Surface, and a father who has walked through the highest stakes imaginable. Stephen shares the raw reality of becoming a single, widowed father to two young children almost overnight.We dive deep into the "survival circle" of early grief, the internal battle between military pride and the necessity of asking for help, and the unique challenges of being a widowed black father in America today. Stephen also opens up about the intentionality required to blend families, the importance of men’s fellowship, and why "showing up" is the most important job a father has.In this episode, you’ll learn:How the discipline of the military can (and can’t) prepare you for a life tragedy.The danger of the "Lone Wolf" mentality and why men must learn to swallow their pride.Strategies for blending families with intentionality and protecting your children’s emotional boundaries.How to honor a late spouse’s legacy while moving forward with a new partner.The truth about the rising statistics of active Black fathers and dismantling societal stereotypes.Grab Stephen’s book, Beneath the Surface, on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.Instagram: @stephendcooper04The Dad to Dads Podcast is focused on helping fathers become more present, intentional, and impactful in their children’s lives.Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and feel free to leave us a COMMENT#Fatherhood #DadToDads #GriefJourney #SingleDad #NavyVeteran #BlackFatherhood #MenMentalHealth #BlendedFamily #ParentingAdvice #widow #Resilience #Widower #DadLife #MorehouseSend us Fan Mail

How do you balance being the "fun" weekend dad with being the parent who instills lasting values?In this episode of the Dad to Dads Podcast, Robert sits down with Eric Brockman, author of Soft Eyes, Strong Spine. Eric shares his "Eric 2.0" journey—moving from a rigid, hyper-vigilant parenting style to one defined by "presence without urgency."Whether you are navigating shared custody, dealing with the "texting trap," or struggling with the constant "self-auditing" that comes with divorced parenting, this episode offers a new operating system for fatherhood.In this interview, we discuss:The Soft Eyes, Strong Spine Framework: How to be a safe space for your kids while maintaining firm boundaries.The "Texting Trap": Why dads leak energy through digital communication and how to stop overthinking the "send" button.Presence vs. Agenda: Learning to let your kids "just breathe" when they arrive at your home.The Side-by-Side Connection: Why men and boys connect differently and how to use that to your advantage.Overcoming the "Disneyland Dad" Phase: Moving past the fear of losing your relationship with your children after divorce.About Eric Brockman: Eric is a father of four and the author of Soft Eyes, Strong Spine. After 35 years in aerospace sales and navigating two divorces, he now helps men deconstruct the "fakery zone" and build more authentic, emotionally available relationships with their children.Links & Resources:Website: https://www.softeyesstrongspine.com/Instagram: @softeyesstrongspineThe Dad to Dads Podcast is focused on helping fathers become more present, intentional, and impactful in their children’s lives.Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and feel free to leave us a COMMENT#DivorcedDads #CoParenting #Fatherhood #ParentingAdvice #DadLife    #PositiveParenting  #DivorcedDad  #SingleDad  #ParentingTips #ModernDad  #DadPodcast #ParentingPodcast #divorceSend us Fan Mail

If you’re a divorced parent dealing with constant co-parenting conflict, this episode could change everything.In this episode of the Dad to Dads Podcast, Sol Kennedy, founder of the Best Interest app, talks about how AI is being used to reduce — and in some cases eliminate — co-parenting conflict.We dive into:How AI filters toxic messages from your exWhy co-parenting communication triggers stress and anxietyThe difference between Best Interest and apps like OurFamilyWizardHow to respond without reacting (even in high-conflict situations)Why this can dramatically improve your mental health AND your relationship with your kidsIf you’ve ever felt triggered by a message from your co-parent, struggled to control your responses, or just want a healthier way to communicate — this conversation is for you.💡 The goal isn’t just less conflict… it’s protecting your peace and showing up better for your kids.👇 Learn more about the Best Interest app:Website: https://bestinterestapp.comAvailable on iOS & AndroidInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestinterest.app/—🎙 About the Podcast:The Dad to Dads Podcast is focused on helping fathers become more present, intentional, and impactful in their children’s lives.—👍 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and COMMENT with your thoughts or experiences with co-parenting.#coparenting #divorcedads #parentingtips #mentalhealth #ai #relationships #fatherhood #divorce #singleparent #singlefather #singledadSend us Fan Mail

"Love your kid more than you hate your ex."In this comprehensive, deep-dive interview, Robert sits down with 30-year family law veteran and divorce coach Erin Schaden to pull back the curtain on the "wasteland" of family court. This isn't just a conversation about law—it's a survival guide for parents dealing with high-conflict personalities, narcissistic exes, and a legal system that often feels irretrievably broken.What we cover in this full session:The High-Conflict Playground: Why the courtroom is a "magnet" for narcissists and how they use litigation to stay connected to you through chaos.The 80/20 Attorney Rule: Why 20% of lawyers thrive on conflict, and how high-conflict people "find their own" in the legal pool.The Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) Crisis: The danger of under-trained "neutrals" and the "Great Delay" that keeps families in limbo.The "Kitten & Blanket" Analogy: A powerful look at how childhood trauma creates adults who are addicted to conflict.Radical Solutions: Erin’s proposal for a pilot program to bypass traditional evidence rules and give judges the power to be "Deciders."The "Dads in the Middle" Debate: A raw discussion on judicial bias,  and why men often suffer in silence during divorce.The Success Roadmap: Erin’s "Awareness, Acceptance, Action" framework for finding stillness before filing.Connect with Erin Schaden:Website: ErinSchaden.comInstagram: @DivorceCoachErinFree Resource: Message "GUIDE" to Erin on social media for the Divorce Survival Guide.#divorce #highconflictdivorce #narcissisticabuse #familycourt #childcustody #divorcinganarcissist #coparenting #custodybattle #familylaw #divorceadvice #singleparent #parentingafterdivorce #toxicrelationships #DivorceStrategy #fatherhoodSend us Fan Mail

In this episode of the Dad to Dads Podcast, country music hit songwriter and artist Drew Parker opens up about fatherhood, faith, and the life-changing moment that led him to transition into Christian music after years of success in the country music industry.Drew Parker has written chart-topping hits for artists like Luke Combs, Blake Shelton, Jake Owen, and Zac Brown—including the Grammy-nominated song “Doing This” and the 5x Platinum hit “Forever After All.” He’s toured stadiums across the country and performed at the legendary Grand Ole Opry.But at the height of his career—touring with Luke Combs and playing sold-out stadiums—Drew felt something wasn’t right.After praying for direction, his non-believing manager called him days later with a dream that would ultimately change the course of his life and music career forever.In this powerful conversation, Drew shares:The moment he knew he was called to something moreHis transition from country music to Christian musicHow success impacted his identityWhat it means to be a “Girl Dad”The struggles of balancing work and familyWhy obedience changed everythingThe story behind his new song “Blame Jesus”This is a must-watch episode for dads navigating purpose, faith, career pressure, and what it really means to lead your family well.🎧 Subscribe for more conversations on fatherhood, faith, and personal growth.Drew Parker https://www.drewparkermusic.com/Drew Parker on Instagram @drewparkerplaysSend us Fan Mail

Divorce doesn’t end parenting — it changes it.In this episode of the Dad to Dads Podcast, family lawyer and author Gabriella Pomare shares powerful insights on collaborative co-parenting, high conflict divorce, healthy communication, and protecting your children after separation.If you’re struggling with:Co-parenting with a difficult exHigh conflict custody situationsParallel parenting vs collaborative parentingCommunication breakdown after divorceSetting boundaries with your exBlended family dynamicsHelping kids cope with divorce…this episode is for you.Gabriella explains the 4 pillars of effective co-parent communication:ListenPauseReflectRespondShe also shares:What most divorced parents get wrongHow kids internalize conflict (even when you think they don’t)What to do when the other parent won’t cooperateHow to model maturity for your childrenWhy some adult children cut off their parents later in lifeHow to navigate holidays and blended family stressThis conversation is practical, honest, and deeply important for any parent navigating separation or divorce.Remember: It’s not about winning. It’s about your children.🎙 Guest: Gabriella Pomare 📘 Author of The Collaborative Co-Parent 🌎 Website: https://www.thecollaborativeco-parent.com 📱 Instagram: @thegabriellapomareSubscribe for more conversations about fatherhood, divorce, parenting, and becoming the dad your kids need.Send us Fan Mail

What if one week away could transform your relationship with your child—and your relationship with God?In this episode of the Dad to Dads Podcast, host Robert sits down with Rob Hinkle, Guest Engagement & Generosity Advisor at JH Ranch, to unpack what makes this legendary Christian guest ranch one of the most life-changing experiences for fathers, families, and men.From its humble beginnings in Northern California to its global impact, Rob shares the powerful story behind JH Ranch, a faith-based guest ranch focused on restoring hearts, strengthening families, and creating generational transformation. This conversation dives deep into father-child relationships, biblical leadership, men’s spiritual growth, and why intentional, distraction-free environments matter more than ever.You’ll hear about:The mission and history of JH RanchWhy they say “We’re not a camp—we’re a guest ranch”Father-son and father-daughter experiences that change livesMen’s retreats focused on healing, purpose, and masculinityFaith, vulnerability, and community among menTeen anxiety, technology, and why unplugging mattersHow every activity—from zip lines to wilderness solos—has purposeGlobal impact through JH Outback and leadership programs worldwideWhether you’re a dad, husband, or man searching for deeper purpose, this episode will challenge and inspire you to invest intentionally in your faith, your family, and the legacy you’re building.🔗 Learn more about JH Ranch: jhranch.comDad to Dads Podcast on IG www.instagram.com/dadtodads🎧 Subscribe for more conversations on fatherhood, faith, leadership, and personal growth.Send us Fan Mail

What happens when the one thing you’ve built your entire life around—your identity as an athlete—disappears overnight?The Summary: In this episode, Robert Poirier sits down with TJ Void: author, TEDx speaker, and basketball coach. TJ shares his raw and honest journey from being a standout player in Texas to the heartbreaking moment he walked away from Division 1 basketball, leading to a period of depression and a complete loss of self.TJ opens up about the "superpower" of his competitive nature, the "Rudy" comment that broke him, and the terrifying night that changed his life forever. Whether you are a parent, an athlete, or someone currently navigating a massive life transition, TJ’s insights on "humanizing yourself" and finding value outside of your achievements are essential listening.How to Find TJ Voidhttps://tjvoid.net/on IG https://www.instagram.com/tjvoid/Dad to Dads Podcast on IG www.instagram.com/dadtodadsSend us Fan Mail