In this episode of C-Suite Mentor, Theresa Cantley chats with Rhonda Noordyk, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst. Rhonda is also the host of the top-rated podcast Disrupting Divorce: Conversations for Women. Together, Theresa and Rhonda tackled a topic that’s often left unspoken in the workplace: how divorce affects both individuals and organizations… and what leaders can do to help.
Meet Rhonda Noordyk
Rhonda Noordyk has dedicated her life to improving women’s financial confidence. With 20+ years of experience and a mission to bridge the gap between divorce and bold new beginnings, she’s helped countless women reclaim their financial power.
As the Founder & CEO of Women’s Financial Wellness Center and the host of the podcast, Disrupting Divorce: Conversations for Women, she’s poured her heart and soul into empowering women with the financial tools and knowledge they need to thrive post-divorce.
Rhonda’s Story
Before founding her center 11 years ago, Rhonda spent years in the financial industry running a successful investment advisory firm while also teaching as adjunct faculty. But after some time, she noticed a pattern: women coming to her overwhelmed, distracted, and financially stressed because of divorce.
One woman had spent 25 years in the same house, same job, and same marriage until divorce forced her to moonlight at a second job just to pay legal fees. Another worried she couldn’t stay in her job because of mounting bills. Those stories planted a seed for Rhonda: there had to be a better way.
That seed became the Women’s Financial Wellness Center, dedicated to helping women navigate divorce with financial clarity and confidence.
Why Divorce Is a Workplace Issue
While divorce is a personal matter, its ripple effects show up at work. Rhonda shared a powerful case study:
- Employee impact: Divorce often causes a 50–70% drop in productivity for the person going through it.
- Colleague impact: Co-workers experience a 5–7% dip as they pick up slack or manage frustrations.
- Leadership impact: Even leaders feel a 2% productivity loss.
When multiplied across organizations, the costs are staggering. Yet, leaders are often the last to see the full impact.
The Real Impact of Divorce in the Workplace
Rhonda recalled a client whose job performance dipped under the weight of a high-conflict divorce. Instead of offering support, her employer let her go just six months in. Not only did this devastate the employee, it also left the organization vulnerable… and ultimately cost them far more than simply supporting her would have.
On the flip side, Rhonda shared another story where an employer chose differently. One woman needed just a $2/hour raise to stay financially stable post-divorce. Her employer listened, granted the raise, and retained a loyal, confident, and more engaged employee.
What Leaders Can Do
Many leaders hesitate, unsure of what to say or fearing overstepping boundaries. Here’s Rhonda’s advice for what to do:
- Acknowledge the human being: Sometimes a “How are you today?” can make all the difference.
- Provide structure: Allow employees dedicated time and space to address personal challenges without hiding in cubicles or taking secret calls.
- Recognize the long-term value: Supporting employees through tough times builds trust, retention, and loyalty that money can’t buy.
Confidence can’t be taught. It comes from what people overcome – and leaders have the chance to create environments where those breakthroughs are possible.
Why Supportive Workplace Cultures Matter
When you’re navigating something like divorce, the workplace can either be an additional stressor or a safe, supportive environment. Leaders who lean into tough conversations and create spaces for empathy can make a profound difference in their employees’ lives.
Remember, being “an ambassador for the well-being of others” is a powerful form of leadership. Regardless of your title – whether you’re a CEO or a team manager – you have the opportunity to model care, compassion, and support.
Three Tips for Individuals Navigating Divorce
Rhonda offered practical advice for individuals facing divorce, especially when finances feel overwhelming:
1. Educate Yourself
Rhonda’s podcast, Disrupting Divorce: Conversations for Women, offers over 200 episodes filled with guidance on finances, empowerment, and navigating the divorce process.
2. Get organized financially
Start tracking expenses, gather important documents, and if needed, request IRS transcripts if you don’t have access to tax returns. These steps can help you prepare before involving attorneys.
3. Find a confidant
Whether it’s a trusted advisor, a supportive friend, or a financial advocate, having someone to walk alongside you ensures you don’t feel alone in the process.
Three Tips for Leaders Supporting Employees
Leaders play a key role in creating cultures of care. Rhonda shared three ways leaders can show up for employees:
1. Be aware: Notice changes in attitude, behavior, or performance. Simple check-ins like “How are you today?” can open the door for meaningful conversations.
2. Create safe spaces: Encourage employees to share challenges without fear of judgment or penalty. Sometimes, simply listening is the best support.
3. Offer resources: Point employees toward tools like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or great programs like Rhonda’s “Bridge by Bridge” initiative, which helps women navigate divorce with step-by-step guidance.
Resources Mentioned
Connect with Rhonda Noordyk on her website and Instagram
Join me on LinkedIn each week for live chats
Book a C-Suite Snapshot with Theresa
Related Episodes
5 Tips to Be an Effective Listener and Build Deeper Connections in a Fast-Paced World
How to Navigate Business Challenges with the SACK Framework
What Makes a Good Leader?: 9 Leadership Traits That Matter Most
