Who is Kayla Reid? Inside her life and divorce from Ryan Lochte

Kayla Reid is opening up about her difficult divorce from Olympic swimmer Ryan Lochte, revealing details about their financial dispute, custody arrangement and co-parenting relationship.

Reid, 35, spoke to PEOPLE about raising the former couple’s three children — son Caiden and daughters Georgia and Liv — following the end of their nearly decade-long relationship. The divorce was finalized in July after a prolonged legal process that Reid says included disagreements over financial support.

“I was fighting for support,” Reid said, acknowledging that discussing finances publicly can feel “taboo.” The former model, who now works in Florida real estate and co-hosts The Comeback Era podcast, said she covered numerous expenses for the children, including housing, utilities, food, extracurricular activities and medical appointments. She estimated that more than $40,000 in expenses would remain unpaid.

According to court records reviewed by PEOPLE, Lochte will pay Reid $1,000 per month under their divorce settlement, while the former couple will share daycare costs when necessary.

Reid also claimed that Lochte offered her $25,000 in exchange for custody and permission to move their children to Missouri, where he now teaches college swimming. She said she rejected the offer, stating that no amount of money was worth giving up her children.

Under their current arrangement, Reid has primary custody, with the children expected to spend most of their time with her. Lochte will reportedly see them for four days each month, while the former couple will alternate summer months and holidays.

Lochte responded by saying he takes responsibility for past mistakes and is grateful for his children. He declined to address every allegation, saying his focus is on protecting their privacy and being the best father he can be.