A Late-Life Journey of Reinvention, Resilience, and Financial Awakening
Starting Over at 60:
My Divorce, Financial Awakening, and Purpose-Driven Work
Divorce is never easy, no matter your age. But divorcing at 60, when many are beginning to think about retirement, was a life-altering experience that shook me to my core—especially financially.
When my marriage ended, I was suddenly faced with a reality I hadn’t fully anticipated. Like many families, we hadn’t truly grasped the importance of building lasting wealth or planning for long-term financial sustainability. The truth was, our financial situation was fragile. And when my former spouse made the decision to divorce, he didn’t fully understand the long-term financial ripple effects—not just for himself, but for both of us.
I had to start over. Completely.
Rebuilding my financial future required me to dig deep, educate myself, and make courageous decisions. It wasn’t just about staying afloat—it was about laying the foundation for an entirely new financial life. There were moments of fear, grief, and overwhelming uncertainty. But in time, those emotions gave way to clarity, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose.
That journey led me to where I am today—as a Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP®). I now work closely with divorcing clients and their divorce teams—attorneys, financial planners, and real estate agents—to help strategize for their future. My goal is simple but powerful: to ensure that my clients emerge from divorce not just emotionally whole, but financially prepared.
Whether it’s navigating the complexities of the marital home, restructuring debt, qualifying for a new mortgage, or simply understanding what’s financially sustainable post-divorce—I help people make informed, empowered decisions. I’ve walked this path myself, so I understand just how essential it is to have knowledgeable, compassionate professionals by your side during one of life’s hardest transitions.
Divorce may have pushed me to start over at 60—but it also led me to a deeper purpose. If you or someone you care about is facing divorce and needs support with mortgage planning or financial clarity, I’m here to help. There is life—real, meaningful, even abundant life—on the other side of divorce.
With strength and hope,
Charisse Excell