On a recent episode of the Co-Parenting Academy Podcast, host Ron Gore welcomed Sol Kennedy, founder of the BestInterest app, to discuss a game-changing approach to improving co-parenting communication. The conversation delved into how this innovative app uses artificial intelligence to reduce conflict, promote effective communication, and help parents focus on their children rather than getting caught up in the turmoil of dealing with a high-conflict coparent.

Solving the Communication Puzzle in High-Conflict Coparenting

Kennedy shared his personal journey as a co-parent, explaining how communication struggles led to the inception of the Best Interest coparenting app. Reflecting on the emotional toll of prolonged conflict, he described how traditional methods of communication often perpetuate cycles of blame and defensiveness. His solution: leverage AI to filter out inflammatory content in messages, leaving only the essential details needed for effective co-parenting.

“(With BestInterest), I wanted to create something that would allow co-parents to find peace, maybe for the first time, by stepping out of those exhausting cycles,” Kennedy said.

How BestInterest Works

The app uses advanced AI to process and filter messages. For example, if a co-parent sends a message such as, “I’ll pick up the kids at 8—maybe you could try being on time for once,” the app would remove the inflammatory remark and present the recipient with only the actionable detail: “I’ll pick up the kids at 8.” Users can choose to revisit the original message later when they feel more emotionally equipped or want to address specific concerns with a therapist or supportive friend.

Whether you are in a high-conflict coparenting dynamic or you mostly get along, Kennedy went on to explain that the app’s coach is:

“like having an angel on your shoulder or your higher self stepping in to help.”

Unique Features of the App

Unlike many co-parenting platforms that require both parents to agree to use the app, Best Interest allows a single parent to benefit without the other parent’s participation. By providing a new phone number for communication, messages are filtered seamlessly, ensuring the other parent need not even know the app is being used. BestInterest also works when both parents are on board with improving their relationship.

The app also offers real-time coaching to help users craft responses that remain calm, child-focused, and court-appropriate. Kennedy highlighted how the app promotes healthy communication practices, protecting users from being triggered into sending reactive messages that could be used against them in court.

Beyond the “High-Conflict” Label

A significant portion of the conversation tackled the common use of labels like “narcissist” to describe difficult co-parents. Kennedy emphasized the importance of not focusing on these labels but instead focusing on the behaviors and their impact. “It doesn’t matter if your co-parent is officially a narcissist. What matters is how they communicate with you and how you respond,” he noted.

When it comes to high-conflict coparenting, it only takes one antagonistic coparent to make things difficult for everyone.

Listen to the Episode

Parents interested in trying out BestInterest can download the app from the App Store or Play Store. With a free introductory offer available, Kennedy encourages parents to explore how the app can transform their co-parenting experience.

To learn more about the app and hear the full conversation, tune into the Co-Parenting Academy Podcast. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating high-conflict coparenting dynamics, offering practical tools and insights to create a more peaceful environment for both parents and children.