Episode Summary: In this episode, we explore the critical role that asking the right questions plays in mediation. We’ll break down how thoughtful, well-timed questions can shift the dynamics in a Pro Se divorce mediation from a potential lose-lose outcome to one that empowers both parties. By staying curious and engaged, you can clarify misunderstandings, slow down rushed decisions, and craft solutions that work for everyone.
We’ll also walk through a real-life client story where creative questioning led to an unexpected but mutually beneficial solution—helping both parties build a stronger financial future instead of tearing them down.
Key Points Covered:
- Why Asking Questions Matters in Mediation: Learn how questions can give you more control, foster cooperation, and create clarity in your mediation sessions. Courts might share liabilities, but mediation can help create more win-win situations.
- When to Ask Questions: Discover key moments to ask questions, especially when you’re feeling out of control, when a proposal seems unfair or unclear, or when emotions are running high.
- Sample Questions for Different Mediation Scenarios: We provide specific questions for various situations, including:
- When Feeling Out of Control: “Can we clarify the goals for this session?”
- When a Proposal Seems Unreasonable: “Can you explain how this benefits both of us?”
- When Emotions are High: “What can we do to focus on our shared goals right now?”
- The Benefits of Asking Questions: Learn how asking thoughtful questions prevents rushed decisions, builds a foundation for cooperation, and signals engagement to the mediator and the other party.
- How to Prepare Questions in Advance: We share tips on preparing questions before your mediation session and staying flexible to adapt to new issues as they arise.
- Using Questions as Tools, Not Weapons: Understand how to use questions to build understanding, not to trap or undermine the other party.
- Client Story: Hear how one couple avoided a court-driven, lose-lose outcome by using mediation to lift each other up. Through questions like “What are our options?” and “What resources can we leverage?” they found a creative solution—starting a business together—that allowed both parties to benefit financially.
- Conclusion: Recap the importance of staying curious and asking questions throughout the mediation process. These tools empower you to find fair and balanced solutions, keeping control of your future.
Length: 28:27
Size: 66MB
Season: 2024
Episode:07
Series: Pro Se Mediation Boot Camp
Now What?
- Learn More about Family Synergy Mediation here: https://myfamilymediation.com
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- Explore more episodes here: https://myfamilymediation.com/podcasts/pro-se-divorce-podcast/
- On Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/show/48W4evUkM5kqxAT73LrRsY?si=18999b16ef984434
- On Apple Podcasts here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/divorce-mediation-journal/id1763072291