GREENFIELD, M.A. (Franklin County Now) — Part 2 of this special conversation with Dr. Frances Rahaim, The Money Doctor, takes us deeper into the real-life money dynamics that families face during separation or divorce. This episode pulls back the curtain on what child-support calculators can—and can’t—capture, why “equal” doesn’t always mean “fair,” and how the numbers on a form rarely tell the whole story of someone’s financial reality. It’s an encouraging, plain-spoken look at how to advocate for yourself, understand the system, and know when a financial professional can help the court see the full picture.
When money and family changes collide, it’s easy to feel like the system should be clearer—or kinder—than it sometimes is. In this episode, Dr. Frances Rahaim gently unpacks the mechanics behind child-support decisions and why the standard forms don’t always capture what real families are living through. She talks about the gap between “equal” and “equitable,” and why telling your full financial story matters just as much as the numbers themselves.
Dr. Fran also explains when it might make sense to bring in a financial professional, not to overcomplicate things, but to make sure the court understands the context—your debts, housing needs, resources, and responsibilities. It’s all about helping people advocate for themselves with clarity and confidence, especially during moments that already feel overwhelming.
Whether you’re navigating this process now or supporting someone who is, this episode offers steady, hopeful guidance on making sure the money side of things reflects real life—not just what fits on a form.