What mediation clients say about Flannel People Mediation

Hard time for the family *AND* you still made a joint decision, together. That's rarer, braver, and more doable than people think. Nothing magic happened on my end — you both showed up willing to hear the other one's concerns, and then y'all put it in writing. [insert wild applause here] Well done. Ryan McLaughlin | Flannel People Mediation | Virtual divorce mediation across Minnesota + the world

Yep, patience matters (in session, and in process) more than most people (myself included) expect. That's the whole design. A flat fee, individual pre-mediation meetings so nobody walks in cold, and focused prep. Sets up highest chances of success for a full agreement, usually within a week. Thanks for writing this, Leah. And for *your* patience and hard work. If you're reading this wondering whether your situation is too messy for mediation — it usually isn't. Everything's virtual, so where you live in the state doesn't matter. Ryan McLaughlin | Flannel People Mediation | Virtual divorce mediation from Saint Paul, serving all of Minnesota

Thanks so much, Sara! First, the anxiety before the first session is the part almost nobody talks about, and you named it. A huge part of our process is engineering; how do we take this anxiety and channel it productively pre-mediation, and then attend to it functionally during mediation. So, for folks scrolling through these reviews at night, If divorce mediation is on your mind and the nerves/anxiety/Ahhhh!! feeling are the thing stopping you, that's normal. Reach out, let's talk. Ryan McLaughlin | Flannel People Mediation | Divorce mediation in Saint Paul and across Minnesota.

Hey, thanks so much for taking the time to leave a review! “Easy process” is what I study endlessly: how to make these pretty tricky conversations more systematic, and therefore less stressful. 🙏 for trusting me! Ryan McLaughlin | Flannel People Mediation | Divorce mediation in Saint Paul and across Minnesota

Andy, you two did the part that actually matters — you came in willing to talk it through. The rest is just how it's set up/the process: meeting with each of y'all separately first, the written pre-mediation intake, and then (and only then) the group session. Well done! Good luck to you both. Ryan McLaughlin | Flannel People Mediation | Divorce mediation in Saint Paul and across Minnesota

Thanks, Rochelle. First, “emotionally charged” is apt (and honest), given the terrain. And, to be honest, I’d rather someone reading these reviews see that honesty, as opposed to a sanitized version. Second, a huge part of what makes the process “calm”…as you describe… is structure — knowing what gets decided today, what’s coming next, and what mental, emotional, physiological and logistical homework we need to do to arrive. Lastly, the collaborative part was yours. You both kept choosing it on days it would have been easier not to. Ryan McLaughlin | Flannel People Mediation | Virtual divorce mediation from Saint Paul, across Minnesota

Alison, thank you for this — and for doing the prep work with me. The process is built in three parts for exactly this reason: separate conversations with each of you first, then the joint session, then the agreement. Almost nobody walks in cold that way. After many, many mediations, I’ve learned that “amicable” divorce that so many folks hope for isn’t a personality type; it’s a series of micro-choices that stack atop one another and cumulatively move the needle. I’m so glad the process design landed with you 🙏 Ryan McLaughlin | Flannel People Mediation | Virtual divorce mediation across Minnesota

Yes, Bryan. Thanks for this. Staying "on track" is a chunk of the job, for sure — divorce has a way of sprawling, and keeping it from doing that is what lets couples finish in a single session instead of dragging it out over months. Glad the two of you came in ready to work; that's half of it. If anyone reading this is wondering whether their own divorce could get done that cleanly, it more often can than people expect. Thanks for the recommendation. Ryan McLaughlin | Flannel People Mediation | Divorce mediation across Minnesota.

Kari: What stood out in your review is how you described the actual work — navigating the emotions, not just managing logistics. That's the model I build sessions around: real listening, not just paperwork. Research on mediation processes backs that approach — one major study found over 90% of participants said they had a genuine opportunity to be heard, independent of outcome. Means a lot that it came through. Ryan McLaughlin | Flannel People Mediation | Virtual mediation, based in Saint Paul, MN

Jess, thank you for taking the time to share this. I’m especially grateful that you mentioned the preparation process and the importance of being heard without judgment. Mediation works best when people feel safe enough to be honest, understood well enough to make informed decisions, and supported through difficult conversations. My goal is never to push an outcome, but to help co-parents communicate more clearly and (potentially) reach agreements that fit their unique family and circumstances. Thank you again for your trust and for recognizing the role that thoughtful preparation and careful listening can play in creating a more productive mediation experience. I wish you all the best in what comes next.

Reaching an agreement in the time frame you chose — that's exactly how it's supposed to work. When both people come in ready to move forward, the mediation process can feel surprisingly straightforward. That's not luck; it's what good structure and preparation make possible. If you're reading this and wondering whether it could be that simple for you — for many couples, it can be. Ryan McLaughlin | Flannel People Mediation | Virtual divorce mediation across Minnesota.

Kathryn, thank you. In my experience, clarity-driven-conversation/process moves people forward faster than pressure ever will. Glad you felt that.

Bill, thank you! A lot of people arrive at mediation unsure — and that uncertainty is actually a good starting point. The process creates space to think and talk, and you did both. Grateful you trusted the process. 🙏

Thank you for this, Mia! Keeping things calm and moving forward — that's the whole goal. I'm glad the process felt manageable. Wishing you both well!

Thank you for taking the time to share this. You said it perfectly — when both people come in willing to work together, real agreements are possible. That willingness is (part of) what made our work together meaningful. Wishing you well.

Evan, thank you. Multi-state situations add a real layer of complexity—100%... and having a process that holds both the practical and the emotional side matters. Glad we could work through it together. Appreciate the recommendation.

Vince, thank you — I really appreciate you sharing this. And you nailed the distinction. Not everything needs to be "mediation" in the traditional sense. Sometimes what people need is a facilitated conversation — a space to have the hard talk they've been putting off, with someone neutral in the room to keep it productive. Marriage check-ins, business partner disagreements, family tension, co-parenting recalibrations — a lot of the most meaningful work I do lives in that space. Glad it was helpful, and the door's always open.

Hannah, thank you so much for this. That surprise you felt about finishing in one session? I hear that a lot — and honestly, it never gets old. Most people come in bracing for something long and painful, and then they realize it doesn't have to be that way. You and your spouse showed up ready to have real conversations, and that made all the difference. My job was just to bring the structure and keep things moving forward. You two did the work. Wishing you both nothing but clarity and peace as you move into this next chapter. And if anyone in your world is dreading the divorce process and doesn't know where to start — tell them it can actually look like this.

Jessica—thank you so much for sharing this. Hearing that the structure and space made a real difference means so much — I put A LOT of care into studying and refining the mediation process so that every session can hold both the practical and the human side of what people are going through. Going through these transitions is never easy, and it takes real courage to sit down and work toward solutions together. You showed up and did the hard work — I just helped hold the framework. Wishing you nothing but good things ahead. And if anyone you know is looking for a solution-focused mediator in Minnesota, I'm always here 🙋‍♂️

Thank you for taking the time to share this. "Calm, direct, and productive" is exactly what I'm going for—especially when the stakes are high and emotions are real. I'm glad the process felt grounded rather than forced. For anyone reading: this is what mediation is designed to do. Not to push you toward a particular outcome, but to help you have the conversation that's been hard to have on your own. Wishing you both clarity as you move forward.

Thank you so much for sharing this — it really means a lot. Co-parenting after a separation is a tricky salmon stream to navigate, and the fact that you both came in ready to work through that stalemate says a lot about both of you. And....I'm glad the virtual mediation still felt personal and connected — that's something I work hard to create, even through a screen. Divorce and family conflict doesn't have to be cold litigation or anger adversarial. Wishing you both nothing but strength and clarity as you move forward in your co-parenting journey. ✌️

Thanks so much for this feedback! Creating a comfortable space where couples can actually make progress is exactly what I'm aiming for in every session. I'm glad the communication beforehand helped you feel prepared too. Wishing you both all the best moving forward.

Thank you, Diver, for trusting me. These moments—when life rears her head—do invite us to show up, and it's hard to be soft, when things are hard, to be plain. That's how I interpret the work of staying "vulnerable" in the process. As you say, my job as a mediator is to co-create a structure - where both people feel equally heard and can actually listen to each other. This is exactly what mediation should do. I'm honored I could help you both navigate something so challenging. These conversations are never easy, but you did the hard work of showing up and staying engaged even when it was uncomfortable. That takes real courage. If anyone reading this is facing a difficult family conversation or considering divorce mediation, know that the process can give you clarity even in the hardest moments. You don't have to figure it out alone. — Ryan

Thanks so much for this - it really made my day. I’m so glad the divorce mediation process felt manageable instead of overwhelming. That’s exactly what I’m going for. I appreciate you mentioning the consultation too. A lot of people are nervous about whether mediation is right for them, so hearing that it helped you feel confident about moving forward means a lot. Wishing you both nothing but good things as you start this next chapter. Thanks for trusting me with something this important!

This means a lot — thanks, Katie! Mediation asks people to show up during one of the hardest stretches of their life, and the fact that the process felt manageable says more about the work you put in than anything I did. I just tried to keep the path clear. Grateful you trusted me with it.

Hey Melissa, Ryan here—thank you. Seriously. I know this stuff sucks, and hearing I could help even a little makes my day. Appreciate you taking the time to write that, and for recommending me. Means a lot. If anyone you know is going through a divorce and wants to keep it calm, fair, and steer clear of court battles, just send ‘em my way. Happy to help. Thanks again, Ryan Flannel People Mediation – Divorce mediation, done human.

Patrick, I’m 100% with you. And yes, it’s a wee bit of an absurdity… hoping not to see clients again in the future, because it means they’re going through divorce or separation or relationship rockiness! Seriously though - really glad I could help keep things calm and steady through what I know was a tough process. Thanks for trusting me with it. Wishing you both all the best moving forward.

Brian, thanks so much for this. Divorce mediation isn't easy work, and honestly, it means a lot that you felt supported through it. My whole thing is just trying to help people get through a really hard time without making it harder, you know? I'm really glad we could work through everything together. Wishing you both the best as you move forward!

Wow, thank you so much for this review. It really means a lot to hear that our process worked well for you both. You know, helping couples navigate divorce mediation is challenging because everyone's hurting, everyone has valid concerns, and everyone deserves to be heard. I'm genuinely grateful that you felt I could create that balanced space where both of you could work through such a difficult transition. When I started Flannel People Mediation, it was exactly for situations like yours - helping couples find a path forward that works for everyone involved, without the adversarial nightmare that divorce can become. The fact that our online mediation sessions helped both parties feel understood and respected... that's everything to me.

Thank you so much for sharing this — I really appreciate it. I know that deciding whether to hire a divorce mediator or go the traditional lawyer route can feel uncertain at first, so I’m really glad to hear the process felt clear and supportive for you both. At Flannel People Mediation, my goal is to make divorce feel less like a battle and more like a conversation that leads to closure. Mediation gives couples the chance to stay in control, keep things private, and move forward without the stress (or cost) of court battles and expensive legal fees. We do everything virtually — so couples anywhere in Minnesota can work through their divorce quickly, calmly, and on their own terms. I try to make sure every question gets answered and every concern gets addressed, step by step. Your review really highlights what makes divorce mediation such a powerful option — respectful communication, a fair process, and an affordable path forward. Thanks again for trusting me to help guide you through it. — Ryan | Mediator, Flannel People Mediation

Thanks so much for the awesome review, @cryptid farmer! I really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. Glad to hear the process felt smooth, the timeline worked out, and that communication and scheduling were easy. That’s exactly what I aim for—keeping things fair, clear, and as stress-free as possible. If you ever need mediation services again (or know someone who does), feel free to reach out anytime. Wishing you all the best moving forward!

Thanks so much for this, Daune. I really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. It's helpful for me, and doubly helpful for others. Divorce mediation is not easy work—not because it’s contentious (though sometimes it is), but because it asks people to make clear, grounded decisions during one of the most emotionally complex times in life. Even when folks are on the same page, it’s still a big deal. This is hard stuff. I do this work because I believe people deserve support that’s both practical and human. We've talked about this in session. Mediation should feel like a space where you can breathe a little, understand what’s needed, and feel confident that nothing important is getting overlooked. My goal is to create that kind of space for each couple I work with—where you’re not just checking boxes, but also being seen and heard along the way. I’m really glad to hear the process felt focused and useful for you both. Your clarity and preparation made it possible for us to stay on track and get you what you needed without dragging things out. And I always want folks to know they have options—whether they need more support down the line or just want to be done and move forward. Thanks again for choosing Flannel People Mediation. Wishing you both good juju in this next chapter. —Ryan

Thank you so much for this. It honestly means a lot to hear. These conversations aren’t easy—emotionally, logistically, or otherwise—and it takes a lot of strength to show up for them with openness and care the way you did. I don’t take that lightly. I’m really glad the process felt supportive and effective. That’s always the goal—not just to get through it, but to do it in a way that respects everyone involved and leaves a little more clarity and steadiness than before. Appreciate you trusting me with something this personal. Wishing you peace, momentum, and whatever’s next that feels good and right.

Anne, thanks so much for this—I really appreciate hearing it. Mediation isn’t easy, but it doesn't have to suck, either. My mission has always been to keep divorce mediation down-to-earth and human—because real talk, real understanding, and comfort actually get stuff done. Your willingness to show up authentically made a huge difference. Thanks again for trusting Flannel People Mediation with your transition—I’m here anytime you need support.

Such a trifecta of endorsements! Thank you for taking the time to write a review; I very much appreciate it!

Thank you so much, Nicky. I really appreciate you taking the time to write this. I'm glad the structure and communication felt supportive and helpful. These kinds of conversations are never easy, and it means a lot to hear that the process helped make space for what needed to be said.

Thank you, Marty! I very much appreciate the feedback and good words.

That really means a lot—thank you! It was truly a pleasure working with you, and I’m grateful to have been part of your journey. Wishing you all the best moving forward!

Thanks so much for your review! We’re really glad Ryan could keep things both kind and productive—that’s exactly what we aim for. If you ever need us again, we’re here for you! 💛

Thanks so much, Rebekah! I’m really glad I could help make the process easier for you. Mediation can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. For anyone thinking about it, my goal is to keep things straightforward, low-stress, and fair for everyone. Wishing you all the best!

Thank you so much for this incredibly thoughtful and heartfelt review! It truly means the world to hear that our work together helped ease the stress of such a difficult moment in your life. I'm honored you felt safe, supported, and heard during the process—that's exactly what I aim to create in every session. It takes real courage to show in these hard times, and I’m so glad Flannel People could be a place where conversation could unfold with care and clarity. Wishing you good vibes and ✌️ as you move forward. And thank you again for trusting me—it was truly a privilege to work with you.

really appreciate you sharing this. divorce is a lot, and just having a space to talk things through without all the legal noise can make a huge difference. glad we could help make things clearer and a little easier. wishing you the absolute best of the best as you move forward.

Isaiah, you’re awesome—thanks for the kind words! 🙌 Mediation can be tough, but we’re all about making it feel as smooth and manageable as possible. It means the world to hear you felt safe and supported—that’s what we aim for every time. If someone in your circle needs a mediator who’s got patience, kindness, and a knack for keeping things on track, we’re here for it. Wishing you all the best as you move forward. Take care, and thanks again for trusting us! 👊

Thanks for showing up and doing the work, Kallie Jo! Offering a vibe of chill ease and guiding competence during tough times is exactly why I do this. I’m so glad it helped. Thank you for trusting Flannel People Mediation!

Emily, I really appreciate this. Ending a marriage is a big deal, and it takes guts to do it with care instead of chaos. I know how heavy and weird this process can feel, and my job is to help make it suck less—by bringing clarity, structure, and just enough space to let people be human. You two showed up ready to do the hard work, and that makes all the difference. I'm so glad it felt low-stress and thoughtful—that's the kind of feedback that reminds me why I do this. Wishing you both steadiness and good things ahead.

Thank you so much, Rose! It means the world to hear that the process felt fair and constructive—that’s exactly what we aim for. Mediation isn’t easy, but I firmly believe that when both sides feel truly listened to, like you mentioned, the path forward becomes a little clearer (and hopefully a little less stressful). If anyone in your circle is facing something similar and needs a mediator who’s not about the legal jargon but about real talk and problem-solving, send them our way. Wishing you all the best as you navigate this next chapter!

Thank you, Patti, for your kind words! I'm so glad I could help provide clarity as you move forward. Wishing you all the best on this next chapter. If you ever need further support, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear you found our mediation process helpful and positive. That's our goal! Wishing you all the best, and please don't hesitate to reach out if you need support in the future!

'Divorce is really hard, but FP makes it suck a little less.’ Honestly, that might be our new tagline! 😅 Seriously though, we’re so glad we could help make a tough time a little easier. Thanks for letting us be part of your journey!

Hi Carl, Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. I’m grateful to know that my approach helped create a calm and open environment during a challenging time. It’s always my priority to ensure a fair and supportive process, so your words truly mean a lot. Wishing you both peace and the best as you move forward. If you ever have further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Warm regards, Ryan McLaughlin

Thank you so much for your review! I'm glad you had a great experience and appreciated the open communication and quick responses. It means a lot to know you’d recommend us to others. If you ever need anything else or have more questions down the road, we’re always here to help.

Hi Dave: Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm really glad we could guide you through the process and make things easier for you. If you ever have more questions or need further support, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help. Wishing you the best, Ryan McLaughlin Co-Founder, Flannel People Mediation

Hi Cherste, Thank you for your kind words. I’m glad I could be of help during a challenging time. If you ever need further support or have questions down the line, please feel free to reach out.

Thank you for your feedback, Katelyn! We’re so grateful y’all chose and trusted us during this process. Well done and thank you!

Hi Stephanie, Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! I’m really glad to hear that you felt supported and that the flexible scheduling made things easier for you. It’s my goal to be accessible and approachable throughout the process, so knowing you had such a positive experience truly means a lot. If you ever have more questions or need further support, I’m here to help.

Thank you so much, SaraAnn! I'm really grateful for your kind words. It's wonderful to hear that our approach to mediation resonated with you, especially after your experience with the traditional model. At Flannel People Mediation, we’re passionate about offering a peaceful, forward-thinking alternative to divorce—one that focuses on productive communication and coparenting. I’m so glad we could be part of your journey, and I truly appreciate your support! Thanks again for the heartfelt review 🙏.

Thank you, Kelsi! I’m so glad to hear that you found the process accommodating and that we could take the extra time needed to wrap everything up in one session. Flexibility is key, especially when dealing with important matters like mediation. It was a pleasure working with you, and I’m thrilled that we could help bring everything to a positive resolution. Thanks again for the great review!

Thank you for your thoughtful review! I’m so glad to hear that our mediation provided a space for a healthy conversation during such a challenging time. It’s great to know that you found the process valuable as you navigated your next steps. If you or anyone you know needs support in the future, I’m here to help! Thanks again for your recommendation!

Thank you so much, Courtney! I’m truly glad to hear that you felt seen and heard during the process—that’s exactly what we aim for at Flannel People Mediation. It’s important that everyone has a voice and feels understood, especially during such significant moments. Thanks again for sharing your experience and for the 5-star review!

Thank you, Alexandra! I’m so glad to hear that my relaxed approach helped you feel at ease during the mediation process. It’s important to create a comfortable environment so that everyone can focus on moving forward. I’m thrilled that you felt informed and clear after our session! Thanks for the wonderful review!

Thank you so much, Richard! I really appreciate your kind words. Divorce can be a tough journey, but I’m glad I could provide empathy and support to help you navigate the process. It’s great to hear that you found our work together helpful! If you ever need anything in the future, don’t hesitate to reach out. Thanks again for the 5-star review!

Thank you for sharing your experience! I’m glad to hear that I could help keep the mediation focused and on track. It’s so important to reach agreements that feel fair for everyone involved. If you ever need further assistance or have more questions down the line, don’t hesitate to reach out. I appreciate your feedback!

Thank you so much, Emily! I’m thrilled to hear that you found the mediation process helpful and knowledgeable. Your recommendation means a lot to me! If you or anyone you know needs assistance in the future, I’m always here to help. Thanks again for the fantastic review!

Thank you so much, Megan! I’m thrilled to hear that our mediation session helped ease your questions, emotions, and anxiety. It’s all about transforming that weight into clarity and lightness! I’m glad I could guide you through the process and ensure you felt supported every step of the way. Your recommendation means a lot to me! If you ever need anything else, I’m just a message away. Thanks again for the wonderful review!

Thank you so much, Kim! I truly appreciate your recommendation and am glad to hear that my team and I could provide professionalism and prompt support during such a sensitive time. It’s wonderful to know that I could help bring you peace of mind as you navigated the process. If you ever need anything in the future, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Thanks again for your kind words!

Thank you, John! I’m glad to hear that you found the process quick and easy. My goal is to make everything as straightforward as possible, so it’s great to know that I could walk you through it plainly and simply. If you ever need assistance again, don’t hesitate to reach out. Thanks for the fantastic review!

Thank you so much, Otu! I’m truly touched by your kind words. It’s wonderful to hear that you and your family had such a positive experience. I always aim to provide top-notch support, especially when things feel uncertain. Knowing that I could be there for you at just the right moment means a lot to me. Thank you for the high recommendation—I really appreciate it! If you ever need anything in the future, I'm here to help!

Thank you so much, Rebecca! I’m thrilled to hear that my approach helped make the divorce process feel less overwhelming for you. It’s my goal to provide a calming presence and ensure that couples feel informed and confident moving forward. Your recommendation means a lot to me! If you ever need support in the future, I’m here to help. Thanks again for the wonderful review!

Grateful for your participation, BJ. Showing up to the table is not an easy thing in these moments, and you did. I applaud.

Thank YOU, Shaun! That's our vision: bring heart to this work. Bring experience and expertise, and also HEART.

I'm reading (or actually, listening to my wife's summaries and reflections as she reads) "The Four Agreements." I've skimmed the cover flap. One of the agreements is "be impeccable with your speech." This intrigues me. To this effect, a friend recently said, "words are like spells." I agree. And, relating to this review, I'm grateful for your words, Paul. If I'm being honest, everything you described is everything I strive for as a mediator. Calm, competent, casual. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience.

We appreciate the positive feedback, Nate. Thanks so much for taking the time!

Thank you, Brian!

Thanks, Alison! Appreciate your kind words.