This Mom Is Working to Help Divorced Women Achieve Financial Independence

By Emma Johnson

Emma Johnson wants divorced moms to be the wealthiest, best versions of themselves.

And as part of that work, she advocates for a solution that goes against some traditional aspects of modern divorce. She is a vocal champion for the assumption of 50/50 parenting, making appearances in the media and state capitols to share her evidence that joint custody can help support financial equality between parents.

In this installment of my monthly column “Closing the Gap,” we’re talking about the financial inequities divorced moms face after marriage. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of 2018, moms lead 80% of single-parent households as primary custodians — and often bear the brunt of financial obligations.