“You’re stronger than you think.” Diane Pappas, CFP, CDFA, & Founder of Solutions for Divorce 

On a recent episode of the Breaking Money Silence® Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Diane Pappas who shared her journey from stay-at-home mom to Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA) – an inspiring story of resilience and empowerment.

When her marriage of 18 years ended, Diane, a stay-at-home mom, suddenly faced the challenge of supporting herself while her oldest daughter started college and her youngest prepared to graduate high school. Despite receiving alimony and child support, Diane knew she wanted financial independence, not reliance. Inspired by the mantra “a man is not a financial plan,” she resolved to take control of her own financial future and began exploring the world of financial planning and investments.

Diane started watching investment shows like “Mad Money” with Jim Cramer and experimenting in the stock market, gradually building her confidence. As her interest grew, Diane navigated the turbulent 2008 economy, managing her investments successfully, which inspired her to formalize her expertise. She became a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA) and further specialized as a divorce mediator and Certified QDRO Specialist, deepening her understanding of divorce finance. Her goal was clear: to educate and empower women to make informed decisions about their finances.

This career wasn’t just about a fresh start; it was about helping other women find their financial footing. In her work, Diane often encountered women who, like her, were unsure of their financial standing post-divorce, overwhelmed by the idea of navigating asset divisions and planning for the future. She understood the emotional weight of financial vulnerability and aimed to shift that narrative. Diane wanted women to reclaim their power, not out of retaliation against an ex-spouse, but to secure their own independence and stability.

Diane’s impact in the field hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2023, her dedication was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Institute of Divorce Financial Analysts. Although she is modest about her success, the award underscores her role in transforming the conversation around financial independence for women post-divorce.

Today, Diane continues her mission by working closely with clients and collaborating on resources like the “Divorce Course for Women,” which equips women with the financial tools they need before, during, and after divorce.

Her story of reinvention is a powerful reminder that even life’s toughest challenges can lead to incredible growth. Diane shows women everywhere that they are stronger than they might believe and that taking control of their financial future is a journey worth embracing!

Check out the Divorce Course for Women and register using the discount code “KBK44” and save $200.