Episode 223: High-Conflict Co-Parenting: What Most Experts Miss with Al Huntoon

Episode 223: High-Conflict Co-Parenting: What Most Experts Miss with Al Huntoon

January 16, 2026 · 25 min

About this episode

Rhonda Noordyk and Al Huntoon discuss the complexities of high-conflict co-parenting and the often-overlooked dynamics that drive custody battles.

In this eye-opening conversation, Rhonda sits down with Al Huntoon — a former custody mediator and co-parenting coach — to uncover what most people (and professionals) miss when it comes to high-conflict custody battles. Al shares the blind spot he discovered after working with thousands of families: in many high-conflict custody cases, one parent is driving the conflict , while the other is simply responding to it. This dynamic is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or overlooked entirely — and it's costing families time, money, and peace. Together, Rhonda and Al explore: How to identify asymmetric conflict in custody and co-parenting Why one-size-fits-all solutions like "parallel parenting" can backfire The role of emotional literacy and intentionality in navigating custody conflict Why assertiveness is a learned skill — and critical for collaboration How vague custody agreements create loopholes for high-conflict behavior Tools and tech to help you respond strategically instead of reactively Whether you're in the thick of parenting negotiations or supporting clients through it, this episode offers real tools and refreshing clarity on a deeply personal topic. 👤 Meet Our Guest…

More episodes of Disrupting Divorce: Conversations for Women

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Disrupting Divorce: Conversations for Women podcast page.