Meet Ilyssa

Trailblazing Divorce Journalist | Host of 'The Divorce Hour' & 'Ways Thru Divorce' | 30+ Years in Media, Empowering You Through Divorce

"I built a solid platform that provides you with a free education, so you won’t feel vulnerable during the divorce process. Let me empower and teach you to focus on building back stronger than ever!"

Trailblazer in Divorce Journalism

Ilyssa Panitz is a pioneer by becoming the first Reporter to create divorce journalism. With over 30 years of experience as an Entertainment/Celebrity Correspondent, Producer, and Editor, Ilyssa shifted her focus while navigating her own divorce and discovering there wasn’t a “divorce beat” in the media that devoted significant coverage to this one subject. From her dining room table during the Covid pandemic, Ilyssa began putting her concept into motion. Today Ilyssa’s idea has grown it into multiple columns, a syndicated and live-streamed weekend radio show, a popular podcast, and highly viewed TV series.

A Survivor's Perspective

Having gone through her own difficult marriage and divorce, Ilyssa brings a deeply personal understanding to her work. As a survivor of domestic violence, she knows firsthand the emotional, financial, and social challenges that divorce can create. This experience has fueled her passion to help others navigate their own journey with empathy and practical advice, ensuring they don’t feel alone in their struggles.

A Survivor’s Perspective

The Divorce Hour: Expert Insights

Her personal experience and in-depth research led Ilyssa to become a prominent voice in the divorce space. She produces and hosts The Divorce Hour with Ilyssa Panitz, a nationally syndicated & live-streamed radio show that airs on CRN Digital Talk Radio and broadcasts across more than 14 Podcast platforms, offering expert insights on topics like co-parenting, mental health, asset division, legal issues, real estate, dating after divorce, rebuilding from a divorce and so much more.

Ways Thru Divorce: A New Era

In 2024, Ilyssa launched Ways Thru Divorce, a streaming TV series on Your Home TV, an on-demand platform that is available on Roku and in over 100 countries. The show addresses the multifaceted issues of divorce, and interviews with top experts from around the world.

A Career Built on Credibility

Ilyssa began her career at 1010-WINS Radio, later contributing to WCBS-AM, NY-1 News, US News & World Report, Closer Weekly—where she served as the magazine’s first Celebrity Executive Director—and major publications like First for Women, Parents.com, More.com, Star Magazine, New York Family Magazine, Pet Lifestyles Magazine, New York Lifestyles Magazine and Woman’s World. Her entertainment connections have led to interviews with A-listers such as Tom Hanks, Jane Fonda, Sylvester Stallone, Donny & Marie Osmond, Martin Sheen, Olivia Newton-John, Dolly Parton, Will Smith and hundreds more. A seasoned producer and talent booker, Ilyssa has credits with CNN and MSNBC.

Commitment to Advocacy

Ilyssa is dedicated to supporting individuals and professionals within the divorce community. As a former Board Member of The New York Press Club and a member of the National Association of Divorce Professionals and The Divorce Coalition, she actively advocates for better resources, support, and education surrounding divorce. Her commitment extends beyond media work—through her consulting, public speaking, and expert guidance, Ilyssa strives to ensure that people going through divorce have access to the tools and knowledge they need to navigate the process with confidence.

Commitment to Advocacy

Personal Life & Interests

Outside of her professional work, Ilyssa enjoys a fulfilling personal life. She is an avid hiker, loves staying active through regular workouts, and finds relaxation in binge-watching her favorite shows like Criminal Minds, Modern Family, and The Big Bang Theory. As a mother of two, she values family time and strives to balance her career with a fulfilling home life. Ilyssa’s well-rounded lifestyle reflects her belief in finding strength and joy in all aspects of life, even during challenging times.

Stay Connected with Ilyssa

Follow Ilyssa on social media for real-time updates, expert insights, and behind-the-scenes content.

Stay up to date with Ilyssa’s latest projects, advice, and personal stories by following her on Instagram and TikTok @ilyssapanitz. Get exclusive content from The Divorce Hour and Ways Thru Divorce on their Instagram accounts @thedivorcehour and @waysthrudivorce. Join the conversation and connect with a supportive community!

Stay Connected with Ilyssa

Follow Ilyssa on social media for real-time updates, expert insights, and behind-the-scenes content.

testimonials

What Others Say About Ilyssa

“Having worked with Ilyssa for over 20 years, I can honestly say she is one of the best in the business. Ilyssa’s stories have always been impactful, great to read and drive the point home. But when she started writing about divorce and trying to help people get through what is one of the most difficult times in one’s life, Ilyssa took her skill-set to a new level. Impactful, dynamic and thought-provoking are the only words that I can think of to describe this incredible journalist.”

Sean-Patrick M. Hillman Editor-in-Chief and Co-Publisher, New York Lifestyles Magazine & Pet Lifestyles Magazine

"Ilyssa Panitz provides a much-needed voice for people navigating their way through divorce. Her weekly show The Divorce Hour gives people information on various issues that can arise and introduces them to professionals they can turn to for assistance. As a frequent contributor to the show and someone who has worked in the divorce arena for over 20 years, I truly appreciate the work that Ilyssa is doing to continue to make people knowledgeable during a very stressful time in their lives.”