Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Divorce with Sam and Leah

Mandatory phone calls are often framed as “good co-parenting.” But in high-conflict divorce and custody situations, they can do more harm than good.

In this episode of Divorce with Sam & Leah, we break down why mandatory phone calls don’t belong in high-conflict parenting plans—and why so many moms feel more anxious, powerless, and dysregulated because of them.

We cover:

• How phone calls turn into investigative tools instead of connection
  

• Why mandatory calls often become a harassment or control mechanism
  

• The emotional impact on children before and after high-conflict calls
  

• Why you’re unlikely to get honest answers—and why that keeps you stuck
  

• The hard but necessary truth about accepting limits after divorce
  

If you’re co-parenting with a high-conflict ex and trying to reduce chaos, protect your child’s emotional well-being, and reclaim your peace, this conversation is for you.

💙 Want deeper support, tools, and strategy? Inside The Next Chapter, we help divorced moms heal, set boundaries, and navigate high-conflict co-parenting with clarity and confidence—without burning out or constantly second-guessing themselves.

👉 Join The Next Chapter: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Divorce isn’t just emotionally painful — it can be deeply traumatic.

In this episode, we’re talking about the real trauma that comes with divorce and why so many women feel stuck, triggered, exhausted, or like they “should be further along by now.”

If you’ve ever wondered:

• Why am I still so reactive?
  

• Why does one text from my ex send me into a spiral?
  

• Why does healing feel so slow and messy?
  

This conversation is for you.

We break down how divorce impacts your nervous system, why betrayal and high-conflict co-parenting can keep wounds open, and how losing your marriage can create an identity rupture that no one prepares you for. We also talk about the secondary trauma women experience — judgment, shame, and pressure to “move on” before their body feels safe.

This episode isn’t about pushing through or pretending you’re fine. It’s about understanding what’s actually happening in your body and brain — and why healing requires more than willpower.

✨ Inside this episode, we cover:

• How divorce dysregulates the nervous system
  

• Why betrayal trauma cuts so deep
  

• The identity loss no one warns you about
  

• Why high-conflict co-parenting can feel re-traumatizing
  

• How shame and isolation slow healing
  

If this conversation resonates, this is exactly why we created The Next Chapter — our membership for divorced moms who want real tools, support, and relief.

Inside The Next Chapter, you’ll find trauma-informed workshops that help you:

• Regulate your nervous system during triggers
  

• Release stored emotional trauma
  

• Understand why you react the way you do
  

• Heal without spiritual bypassing or toxic positivity
  

• Feel grounded and emotionally safe again
  

You don’t have to white-knuckle your way through healing. You don’t have to do this alone.

👉 Join The Next Chapter today and access our trauma workshops, live support, replays, and a community of women who get it: https://www.samandleah.com/services

💙 Your healing matters. Your nervous system matters. And support changes everything.

Divorce can feel isolating, overwhelming, and emotionally exhausting—especially for moms navigating healing, co-parenting, boundaries, and high-conflict dynamics. In this episode of Divorce with Sam & Leah, we pull back the curtain on The Next Chapter, our private membership created specifically for divorced and divorcing moms who are ready to stop surviving and start rebuilding.

We break down what The Next Chapter actually is, who it’s for, and why traditional support systems often fall short for women going through divorce. From live weekly workshops and expert-led trainings to real-life tools for emotional regulation, boundary setting, and confident co-parenting, this episode gives you a clear picture of how healing can feel supported instead of lonely.

You’ll hear about the specialists and experts we’ve brought inside the membership—including family law attorneys, trauma-informed therapists, financial professionals, nervous system educators, and co-parenting strategists—and how these conversations help moms feel more empowered, informed, and regulated during one of the hardest seasons of their lives.

If you’re a divorced mom feeling stuck in survival mode, constantly second-guessing yourself, or exhausted by high-conflict co-parenting, this episode is for you. You don’t need to do this alone—and you don’t need to figure it out the hard way.

✨ The Next Chapter is where healing becomes actionable, boundaries become confident, and support becomes consistent.

👉 Ready to stop doing divorce alone? Check out The Next Chapter membership and join a community of moms who are healing, rebuilding their confidence, and creating calmer, more grounded lives after divorce: https://www.samandleah.com/services

#DivorceRecovery #DivorcedMoms #HealingAfterDivorce #HighConflictCoparenting #SingleMomSupport #DivorceSupport #CoParentingHelp #LifeAfterDivorce #EmotionalHealing #WomenSupportingWomen #BoundariesAfterDivorce #DivorcePodcast #TheNextChapter #DivorceWithSamAndLeah

If you’re facing a high-conflict divorce or co-parenting situation and wondering how to do things smarter, not harder, this episode is for you.

In this powerful conversation, Sam breaks down the top 5 things she would do differently if she were divorcing a high-conflict person in 2026—with today’s realities in mind: narcissistic behavior, manipulation, custody conflict, legal overwhelm, emotional burnout, and the long game of protecting your peace and your kids.

This isn’t theory. These are real-world, hard-earned strategies for women divorcing a high-conflict or narcissistic ex who want to stop reacting, start planning, and avoid the most common (and costly) mistakes.

If you’re divorcing, recently divorced, or stuck co-parenting with a high-conflict ex, this episode will help you feel more grounded, empowered, and clear on your next steps.

✨ Want ongoing support, tools, and real guidance from women who get it? Check out The Next Chapter membership—a private community for divorced moms navigating high-conflict divorce and co-parenting. Inside, you’ll find weekly workshops, expert guidance, live support, and practical tools to help you heal, rebuild confidence, and move forward without losing yourself.

👉 Learn more and join us inside The Next Chapter https://www.samandleah.com/services

Disney didn’t just entertain us — it conditioned us.

From princess stories to cultural messaging, many women were taught at a young age what to expect, tolerate, and sacrifice in the name of “love.” Self-abandonment was romanticized. Emotional labor was normalized. Endurance was praised. And choosing yourself? Rarely modeled.

In this episode, we unpack how early conditioning—from Disney movies, family dynamics, religion, and society—shapes the partners we choose and the unhealthy beliefs we carry into adult relationships.

We explore:

• Why so many women confuse self-sacrifice with love

• How trauma, attachment styles, and nervous system dysregulation affect attraction

• Why intensity gets mistaken for chemistry

• How being “chosen” became a measure of worth

• Why staying too long is often praised more than leaving when something is no longer healthy
  

  This conversation is especially for divorced or divorcing women who are realizing: “I didn’t choose wrong because I was broken — I chose based on what I was taught.”

If you’ve ever wondered why you tolerated less than you deserved, why safe love felt boring, or why leaving felt harder than staying — this episode will help you connect the dots and start rewriting your relationship blueprint.

✨ Healing starts with unlearning. And you don’t have to do it alone.

If this episode resonates, check out The Next Chapter membership — a supportive space for divorced moms who are ready to heal, rebuild confidence, set boundaries, and stop repeating the same relationship patterns. 👉 https://www.samandleah.com/services

You’re smart. You’re self-aware. You’ve done the work. So why does dating after divorce still feel so hard?

In this episode, we unpack the top 5 reasons smart, emotionally aware women still settle in dating after divorce — even when they know better.

This isn’t about low standards or bad choices. It’s about subconscious patterns, nervous system wiring, and the quiet ways fear and self-protection influence who we choose.

We explore:

• Why loneliness gets mistaken for compatibility

• How trauma bonds masquerade as chemistry

• The fear of starting over again — and how it drives compromise

• Over-intellectualizing emotions instead of trusting intuition

• Why lowering standards often comes from fear, not lack of self-worth

If you’ve ever thought, “I’ve done the work… so why does this keep happening?” — this conversation will feel deeply validating.

To go deeper, we’re hosting a powerful workshop inside The Next Chapter with relationship coach and certified hypnotherapist Mina Yang: High Standards, Soft Heart: The New Rules for Empowered Dating.

This workshop isn’t about dating tactics. It’s about healing the subconscious patterns that drive attraction and attachment — so you can stay open to love without shrinking, settling, or losing yourself.

👉 Join The Next Chapter to access the workshop and ongoing support: https://www.samandleah.com/services

#DatingAfterDivorce #DivorceRecovery #EmpoweredDating #HighStandardsSoftHeart #HealingAfterDivorce #WomenHealing #SelfWorth #DivorcedWomen #TheNextChapter #DivorcePodcast #EmotionalHealing

High-conflict co-parenting has a way of slowly draining your power—especially when you don’t yet have the tools, boundaries, or support.

In this episode, Sam opens up about her personal story and shares the top 5 ways she unknowingly gave her power away while co-parenting with a high-conflict ex. These are the patterns so many moms fall into when they’re just trying to keep the peace, protect their kids, and survive the chaos.

If you’re exhausted, second-guessing yourself, or feeling like co-parenting is running your life, this episode will help you feel seen—and show you what’s possible on the other side of survival mode.

💙 Ready to stop giving your power away? Join The Next Chapter, our monthly membership for divorced moms navigating high-conflict co-parenting. Inside, you’ll get practical tools, weekly support, expert guidance, and a community that truly understands what you’re dealing with—so you can respond with confidence instead of reacting from fear.

👉 Join here: https://www.samandleah.com/services

#HighConflictCoparenting #DivorceSupport #CoparentingWithANarcissist #DivorcedMoms #DivorceRecovery #SingleMomSupport #BoundariesAfterDivorce #HealingAfterDivorce

Divorce is hard, and parenting through it while you’re still healing can feel overwhelming, especially in high-conflict or narcissistic co-parenting situations.

In this episode, we talk about what actually helps kids thrive after divorce — without asking moms to suppress their emotions, fake happiness, or be “perfect” for everyone else’s comfort.

You’ll learn:

• Why emotional honesty matters more than pretending everything is fine

• How to support your kids while you’re still processing your own grief and anger

• What builds true emotional resilience in children — especially during high-conflict divorce

• How to model healthy coping skills without oversharing or emotional dumping

• Why supporting yourself is one of the most powerful things you can do for your kids

If you’re navigating divorce or co-parenting with a narcissist and feel like you’re constantly walking on eggshells, this episode will help you shift from survival mode into grounded, confident parenting — for both you and your kids.

💙 Ready for real support? Inside The Next Chapter, you’ll find tools, coaching, and a community of moms who understand high-conflict divorce and narcissistic co-parenting — and who are committed to healing, setting boundaries, and moving forward with confidence.

👉 Join The Next Chapter: https://www.samandleah.com/services

No one prepares you for what the first year after divorce really feels like.

The paperwork might be done, but the emotional aftermath is just beginning — the grief that comes in waves, the unexpected loneliness, the identity loss, the guilt that follows relief, and the quiet moments where you wonder if what you’re feeling is normal.

In this episode, we’re talking about the 10 things no one warns you about in the first year after divorce — and why struggling during this time doesn’t mean you’re failing… it means you’re healing.

We cover:

• Why grief can hit even when the divorce was your choice

• The identity shift that leaves many women feeling lost

• The loneliness that surprises even strong, independent moms

• Why relief can come with guilt — and how to release it

• How your nervous system stays in survival mode long after the divorce is final

• What real healing actually looks like (and why it’s quieter than you expect)

If you’re in year one and wondering “Why is this still so hard?” — this episode will help you feel seen, validated, and less alone.

✨ Ready for more support? If you’re navigating divorce, healing after a high-conflict relationship, or trying to rebuild your confidence as a mom, The Next Chapter was created for you.

Inside the membership, you’ll find:

• Weekly live workshops and coaching

• A private, supportive community of divorced moms

• Practical tools for emotional regulation, boundaries, and co-parenting

• Replays you can access anytime — even on the hard days

👉 Click the link below to join The Next Chapter and get the support you don’t have to carry alone: https://www.samandleah.com/services

If you’re facing a high-conflict divorce or co-parenting situation and wondering how to do things smarter, not harder, this episode is for you.

In this powerful conversation, Sam breaks down the top 5 things she would do differently if she were divorcing a high-conflict person in 2026—with today’s realities in mind: narcissistic behavior, manipulation, custody conflict, legal overwhelm, emotional burnout, and the long game of protecting your peace and your kids.

This isn’t theory. These are real-world, hard-earned strategies for women divorcing a high-conflict or narcissistic ex who want to stop reacting, start planning, and avoid the most common (and costly) mistakes.

If you’re divorcing, recently divorced, or stuck co-parenting with a high-conflict ex, this episode will help you feel more grounded, empowered, and clear on your next steps.

✨ Want ongoing support, tools, and real guidance from women who get it? Check out The Next Chapter membership—a private community for divorced moms navigating high-conflict divorce and co-parenting. Inside, you’ll find weekly workshops, expert guidance, live support, and practical tools to help you heal, rebuild confidence, and move forward without losing yourself.

👉 Learn more and join us inside The Next Chapter https://www.samandleah.com/services

#HighConflictDivorce #NarcissisticEx #DivorcePodcast #DivorceSupport #CoParentingWithANarcissist #DivorcedMoms #DivorceRecovery #CustodyBattle #DivorceAdviceForWomen #HealingAfterDivorce #TheNextChapter 

Going through a high-conflict divorce and watching the legal fees pile up can feel terrifying — especially when you’re also trying to protect your kids, your sanity, and your future. In today’s episode, we’re breaking down the top five proven ways to cut costs during a high-conflict divorce without sacrificing your boundaries, your rights, or your peace.

You’ll learn how to communicate in a way that reduces attorney involvement, how to stay organized so you’re not billed for unnecessary back-and-forth, which battles are worth fighting, and how to leverage support systems that are far more cost-effective than relying on your lawyer for everything. These strategies are practical, mom-friendly, and designed to help you stay grounded in one of the most overwhelming chapters of your life.

If you’re ready for more support, tools, community, and coaching to help you navigate divorce and high-conflict co-parenting with confidence, click the link below to join The Next Chapter. You don’t have to do this alone: https://www.samandleah.com/services

If you’ve been struggling with the guilt of wanting a divorce — especially from someone who isn’t abusive, toxic, or “the bad guy” — this episode is going to feel like a breath of fresh air.

Today, we’re talking about the truth so many women are afraid to say out loud: It’s okay to get divorced even when no one did anything “terrible.” You don’t need a villain. You don’t need a dramatic storyline. You don’t need to justify your unhappiness.

In this episode, we break down 10 completely valid reasons marriages end — emotional disconnect, growing apart, feeling lonely inside the relationship, lack of intimacy, misaligned values, and more. These are the quiet, honest, deeply human reasons women leave… and they deserve to be acknowledged without shame.

If you’ve been questioning your marriage, doubting yourself, or feeling guilty for wanting more, this conversation will validate you, ground you, and remind you that your truth matters. You’re allowed to choose yourself. You’re allowed to want joy, connection, peace, and fulfillment.

And you’re not alone on this journey.

✨ Click the link below to join The Next Chapter, our support community for divorced and divorcing moms who want healing, confidence, and clarity in their next season: https://www.samandleah.com/services

If you’re ready to walk into the new year feeling grounded, nourished, and inspired, this episode is the cozy little reset your heart needs. We’re sharing our favorite self-care products, wellness rituals, mindset shifts, and simple everyday habits that are helping us prepare for a stronger, softer, more intentional year ahead.

From the things that make life easier… to the things that make you feel good again… to the practices that help you show up as the woman you’re becoming— we’re talking about all of it.

Whether you’re rebuilding after divorce, navigating co-parenting, or simply trying to take better care of yourself, you’ll walk away with practical ideas you can start using today to feel more supported, more energized, and more like you again.

✨ If you’re craving deeper healing, confidence, and community, join us inside The Next Chapter — our monthly membership for divorced moms who want real tools, real support, and a fresh start. Join here: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Custody exchanges can bring out every trigger in your body—tight chest, racing thoughts, shaky hands, and that familiar “walking on eggshells” feeling. In this episode, Sam and Leah break down the top 5 ways to regulate your nervous system before and during custody exchanges, so you can stay grounded, calm, and in control even when your high-conflict ex is doing the most.

You’ll learn simple, science-backed tools you can use in the car, during the drop-off, and right after the exchange… without needing a therapist, a full meditation session, or perfect circumstances. These are the strategies that help you protect your peace, parent with confidence, and stop letting your ex hijack your emotions.

If you’re co-parenting with someone who drains you, triggers you, or constantly tries to create chaos—you’re going to feel so seen in this episode.

✨ Ready for deeper support, weekly coaching, and tools that actually work? Join The Next Chapter, my membership for divorced moms navigating high-conflict co-parenting. Get instant access to workshops, replays, community support, and a toolkit that makes this whole journey lighter. ➡️ Click the link to join: https://www.samandleah.com/services

If you’re co-parenting with a high-conflict ex, you already know…the holidays aren’t always “the most wonderful time of the year.” Winter break, Christmas, and New Year’s can turn into a battlefield of last-minute schedule changes, guilt trips, manipulation, and chaos your kids don’t deserve.

In this episode, Leah and Sam break down the 10 most common ways a high-conflict ex will sabotage winter break, why they do it, and—most importantly—how to protect your peace and keep the holidays joyful for your kids.

We’re talking: • holiday manipulation • schedule sabotage • emotional guilt-tripping • control games • boundary violations • co-parenting drama • and how to stay grounded when he’s determined to create chaos

You’ll walk away with practical strategies and clear reminders so you can stop reacting to his behavior and start leading your family with confidence, stability, and calm.

✨ Ready for real support? Join The Next Chapter Membership—your go-to space for healing after divorce, rebuilding your confidence, and learning how to co-parent with a high-conflict ex without losing yourself. 👉 Click the link to join: https://www.samandleah.com/services

If you’re co-parenting with someone who thrives on chaos, manipulation, or control, this episode is going to feel like a deep exhale. We’re breaking down the five non-negotiables your parenting plan must include when you’re dealing with a narcissistic or high-conflict ex—so you can protect your peace, stay organized, and keep your kids out of the middle.

We walk you through the exact boundaries, communication rules, scheduling details, and decision-making structures that help moms stop reacting and start leading with clarity and confidence. If you’ve ever felt confused, overwhelmed, or gaslit in the process, this episode will make everything click.

And if you want ongoing guidance, tools, and a supportive community of moms who get it, you’re invited to join The Next Chapter, our monthly membership designed to help you heal, gain clarity, and co-parent with confidence: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Today, Leah and Sam are joined by the incredible Olivia Howell — nationally recognized divorce educator, clinical hypnotherapist, and CEO & co-founder of Fresh Starts Registry, the world’s first divorce registry and expert-led support network dedicated to helping people rebuild their lives with dignity, confidence, and trauma-informed care.

In this conversation, we unpack what it really looks like to create your fresh start after divorce — emotionally, financially, and logistically. Olivia shares the first steps women should take when they’re starting over, the hidden roadblocks that keep so many moms stuck, and why support systems (including divorce registries!) can be life-changing during this chapter.

We also dive into the power of reclaiming your identity, accepting help without guilt, and building a foundation that feels safe, stable, and truly yours.

Whether you’re newly divorced, deep in the chaos of co-parenting, or finally finding your way back to yourself, this episode is full of clarity, warmth, and grounded guidance.

✨ Check out the Fresh Starts Registry and all of Olivia’s resources here: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/

✨ Ready for deeper support? Join The Next Chapter — our monthly membership for divorced moms who want to heal, rebuild confidence, and co-parent with clarity: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Hashtags

#DivorceSupport #FreshStartAfterDivorce #DivorcedMoms #CoParentingHelp #DivorceRecovery #HighConflictCoParenting #TraumaInformedDivorce #DivorceHealing #StartingOverAfterDivorce #EmpoweredWomen #NextChapterMembership #SingleMomLife #FreshStartsRegistry

Dating after divorce can feel exciting… and absolutely terrifying at the same time. How do you know when you’re ready? What boundaries should you set? And how do you avoid repeating the same mistakes from your last relationship?

In this episode, Sam and Leah break down the biggest do’s and don’ts of dating after divorce so you can protect your peace, spot red flags early, and stay grounded in your worth. Whether you’re newly divorced or just thinking about putting yourself back out there, this conversation will help you date smarter, not harder.

We’re talking: ✨ How to know you’re ready to date again ✨ Avoiding trauma bonds and unhealthy patterns ✨ Why consistency > chemistry ✨ Red flags divorced moms should never ignore ✨ Keeping your identity and boundaries strong ✨ When (and if) to introduce someone to your kids

You deserve a love that feels safe, steady, and aligned with the woman you’ve become.

💛 If you’re ready for support, community, and guidance while rebuilding your confidence after divorce, join The Next Chapter membership — weekly workshops, expert guests, and a private community supporting divorced moms just like you. 👉 Click the link to learn more: https://www.samandleah.com/services

The holidays can feel especially heavy after divorce. Everywhere you look, it seems like everyone else has the perfect family, perfect photos, and perfect plans — while you’re just trying to hold it together.

In this honest and heart-to-heart episode, Sam and Leah open up about why the holidays hit so hard after divorce — the loneliness, the “what-ifs,” the temptation to numb with alcohol, and the stories that play on repeat in your head. Together, they unpack what’s really behind those feelings and how to shift your perspective so you can experience peace, presence, and self-connection this season — even if you’re spending it alone.

You’ll learn how to: ✨ Handle loneliness without numbing or spiraling ✨ Reframe old traditions and create new ones that fit this chapter ✨ Recognize and challenge the negative thoughts that steal your peace ✨ Set healthy boundaries around alcohol, spending, and people-pleasing ✨ Redefine what joy and connection look like now

This conversation is raw, relatable, and full of reminders that you’re not broken — you’re rebuilding. The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be peaceful.

💛 Join The Next Chapter — our membership community for divorced moms who are ready to heal, rebuild confidence, and co-parent with clarity and strength. Access live weekly workshops, expert guests, and a private support group to help you feel grounded and supported every step of the way.

👉 Join The Next Chapter: https://www.samandleah.com/services

The holidays can be one of the hardest times after divorce—especially when it’s not your year to have the kids. In this honest and heart-to-heart conversation, Sam and Leah talk about what it’s really like to go to holiday events alone: handling questions like “Where are the kids?”, managing emotions, avoiding overdrinking, and finding peace in the middle of it all.

You’ll learn practical, empowering ways to: ✔️ Cope with loneliness and missing your kids ✔️ Navigate social events and family gatherings with confidence ✔️ Set emotional boundaries and protect your peace ✔️ Reframe the holidays and create new traditions for yourself

Whether you’re freshly divorced or years into co-parenting, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone—and that this season can still be meaningful, even if it looks different.

💫 Ready to heal, rebuild, and co-parent with confidence? Join The Next Chapter—our supportive membership for divorced moms—where you’ll get access to weekly live workshops, a private community, expert guidance, and replays that help you move forward with clarity and calm. 👉 Join here: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Custody evaluations can feel terrifying — especially when you don’t fully understand why they happen or what they mean for your parenting rights.

In this episode, Sam and Leah break down the top 10 most common reasons custody evaluations are ordered, from high-conflict co-parenting and mental-health concerns to relocation requests and parental-alienation claims. You’ll hear how the process works, what the court is really looking for, and how to protect your peace through it all.

Whether you’re facing an evaluation now or want to be prepared for anything down the road, this conversation will help you feel more informed, grounded, and confident.

👉 Want to go deeper? Inside The Next Chapter membership, custody expert Renee Rodriguez is teaching an exclusive workshop — Custody Evaluations 101 — where she walks you through what evaluators are really looking for, how to prepare without overthinking, and how to advocate for yourself with calm, grounded confidence.

Join today for instant access to this workshop and dozens more designed to help divorced moms navigate co-parenting, rebuild confidence, and move forward with strength — not fear.

🎟️ Join The Next Chapter now: https://www.samandleah.com/services

If you’re co-parenting with a high-conflict ex, this episode is a must-listen. Leah and Sam break down the top 10 things you should be documenting during divorce and co-parenting — from missed pickups and schedule changes to boundary violations, emotional manipulation, and expense tracking.

Documentation isn’t about control — it’s about protection, clarity, and peace of mind. When you keep detailed, factual records, you stay grounded, credible, and ready for whatever comes your way.

Because when you’re organized, you’re not just protecting yourself — you’re modeling calm and stability for your kids, too. 💛

✨ Want to go deeper? Join The Next Chapter membership for instant access to our exclusive workshop with Mary Clare Hayashi, founder of SplitAF, where she walks you step-by-step through setting up your own custody and visitation tracker. You’ll also get access to live trainings, expert workshops, and a private support community built just for divorced moms navigating high-conflict co-parenting.

Use the following coupon code to get 10% off of Mary Clare’s documentation resources!  https://splitaf.etsy.com?coupon=NEXTCHAPTER 

👉 Join The Next Chapter Here: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Not every divorce comes from chaos. Sometimes you leave because you feel unseen, lonely, or like roommates. 💔 In this episode, Leah and Sam unpack why women leave “good men” — and what healing, self-rediscovery, and freedom can look like after. You’re not broken. You’re becoming. ✨

Join The Next Chapter membership for divorced moms ready to heal and rebuild: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Not every divorce comes from chaos. Sometimes you leave because you feel unseen, lonely, or like roommates. 💔 In this episode, Leah and Sam unpack why women leave “good men” — and what healing, self-rediscovery, and freedom can look like after. You’re not broken. You’re becoming. ✨

Join The Next Chapter membership for divorced moms ready to heal and rebuild: https://www.samandleah.com/services

What happens when the person you’re divorcing is still living under the same roof? In this episode, we’re talking about one of the hardest and most emotionally draining parts of divorce — sharing a home with your ex while trying to move on.

You’ll learn the top 10 reasons why so many divorced moms end up stuck in this situation and how to navigate it with less stress, fewer arguments, and more peace. If you’re living with a high-conflict ex and trying to keep your sanity — this episode is for you.

✨ Ready for more support? Join us inside The Next Chapter Membership for our exclusive workshop, “Divorcing but Still Roommates,” where we’ll teach you step-by-step how to navigate this dynamic, protect your peace, and start creating the freedom you deserve.

👉 Join The Next Chapter here: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Whether your kids are toddlers or teenagers, divorce affects them all — just in different ways. In this episode, Sam & Leah break down how children of different ages experience divorce and what parents can do to help them feel secure, seen, and supported.

You’ll learn: 💛 How younger kids process divorce emotionally (and what helps them adjust) 💬 What older kids and teens need most when co-parenting gets hard 🧠 How to communicate in age-appropriate ways that build trust 🏡 Tips to create stability between two homes 💖 Simple ways to help your kids feel safe, even in the middle of major change

No matter your child’s age, your calm, consistent presence matters more than anything else.

👉 Ready for more support? Join The Next Chapter — our private membership for divorced moms where you’ll get access to weekly workshops, expert guest speakers, live Q&As, and a private community that gets it. Gain instant access here: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Halloween should be all about candy, costumes, and fun — not chaos, guilt trips, and last-minute plan changes. But when you’re co-parenting with a high-conflict ex, even one night of trick-or-treating can turn into an emotional battlefield.

In this episode, Sam and Leah break down the top five ways a high-conflict co-parent will try to ruin Halloween — and how to protect your peace, stay grounded, and keep the focus on your kids (where it belongs).

You’ll learn how to: 🧾 Set firm, drama-proof boundaries that stop the chaos before it starts 🕵️‍♀️ Recognize manipulation tactics and respond with calm confidence 💬 Communicate effectively without feeding the conflict 💖 Help your kids feel secure and happy, even when your ex is trying to stir things up 💆‍♀️ Protect your own peace so you can actually enjoy the holiday

Because your kids don’t need a perfect Halloween — they just need you calm, present, and grounded.

✨ Ready to make every holiday peaceful and empowering — no matter what your ex does? Join The Next Chapter, our private membership for divorced moms navigating high-conflict co-parenting. Inside, you’ll get access to the full High-Conflict Halloween workshop, plus weekly coaching, expert trainings, and a supportive community of women who get it.

👉 Join today at https://www.samandleah.com/services and start transforming your co-parenting journey from chaotic to confident.

Even with 50/50 custody, one parent almost always carries the heavier load—and it’s usually mom. In this episode, we’re breaking down the truth about the “default parent” role after divorce: the one organizing school projects, handling sick days, managing communication with teachers and coaches, and carrying the invisible mental load that no one talks about.

We’ll unpack why this imbalance happens, how to protect your energy, and what boundaries you can start setting today to make co-parenting more manageable and fair.

If you’re ready to stop carrying it all alone and start getting the tools, support, and confidence to thrive after divorce, join The Next Chapter—our monthly membership for divorced moms who are ready to heal, rebuild, and co-parent with confidence.

👉 Learn more and join here: https://www.samandleah.com/services

#DivorcedMoms #CoParentingTips #DefaultParent #50_50Custody #DivorceSupport #MomLife #HighConflictCoParenting #DivorceRecovery #DivorcePodcast #TheNextChapter #HealingAfterDivorce #SingleMomSupport

Divorce can drain you — emotionally, mentally, and physically. That’s why self-care during divorce isn’t optional, it’s essential. In this episode, Sam & Leah share the most practical, realistic ways to take care of yourself while navigating one of life’s hardest transitions.

From getting better sleep and moving your body to setting boundaries around your ex and your energy, these simple daily habits will help you feel stronger, calmer, and more in control. You’ll learn how to protect your peace, support your nervous system, and start rebuilding the version of you that feels grounded and confident again.

Because when you take care of you, everyone — especially your kids — benefits.

✨ Join The Next Chapter Membership ✨ If you’re ready to heal, rebuild your confidence, and co-parent with more peace, join our private community for divorced moms: The Next Chapter. Inside, you’ll get live weekly workshops, expert guest speakers, a supportive community of moms who get it, and tools to help you move forward with confidence. 👉 Join here: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Renowned forensic psychologist and Bad People Bible author Dr. Peter J. Favaro joins Sam and Leah to uncover the hidden signs of manipulation in relationships and co-parenting. With insights from over 40 years and 6,000 high-conflict divorce and custody cases, Dr. Favaro shares how to spot red flags early, and rebuild trust in yourself after emotional manipulation.

✨ If you’re ready for deeper support as you heal and co-parent with confidence, join our private membership The Next Chapter for live workshops, expert coaching, and a safe community of moms who get it: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Learn more about Dr. Favaro and his book Bad People Bible at: https://centerihr.teachable.com/

Are you replaying fears like “I’m ruining my kids,” “I’ll be alone forever,” or “My ex’s lies will destroy me”? You’re not alone—and none of it is true.

In this episode, we unpack the 10 most common lies, limiting beliefs, and fears moms tell themselves during divorce and shares empowering truths to break free. You’ll hear how to:

• Separate fact from fear so you can breathe again

• Rebuild confidence and trust in yourself

• Model resilience and healthy boundaries for your kids

It’s time to replace shame and worry with clarity and hope.

✨ Ready for your next chapter? Join The Next Chapter membership for weekly workshops, a private support group, and real-life coaching designed to help divorced moms heal and thrive. Click here to join now and start creating the life you deserve: https://www.samandleah.com/services

In this episode, we’re sharing a real moment from inside The Next Chapter—one of our members opened up about something so many single moms feel but rarely say out loud:

“I get to the end of the day completely fried, and I still feel like there’s so much to do. I have to choose between sleep, finishing tasks, or getting a moment to myself—and no matter what I pick, I feel like I’m making the wrong decision.”

If that hits home for you too, this episode is for you.

We’ll talk about what to do when you're overwhelmed, exhausted, and trying to juggle everything—work, kids, court prep, and just surviving the day. We’ll give you actionable tips that are realistic, not overwhelming. You’ll leave this episode with quick tools to reset your day, protect your energy, and stop feeling like you’re always behind.

✨ Because you’re not lazy. You’re overloaded. And you’re doing way better than you think.

Mentioned in this episode: 💛 The Next Chapter membership — your support system for healing after divorce and navigating high-conflict co-parenting. 👉 Join us here: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Right of First Refusal sounds great on paper—more time with your kids and shared flexibility. But in a high-conflict co-parenting relationship, especially with a narcissistic ex, it can turn into a nightmare.

In this episode, Sam & Leah break down the five biggest reasons ROFR often backfires: from constant last-minute texts and power plays to the emotional toll on the kids and the stress of documenting every missed notification.

Whether you’re negotiating a parenting plan or revisiting your agreement, you’ll learn how to protect your peace, prioritize stability for your children, and set boundaries that actually work.

✨ Ready to heal and co-parent with confidence? Join The Next Chapter membership for live weekly workshops, expert advice, and a supportive community of divorced moms who get it. Learn more here: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Thinking about divorce but worried about how your narcissistic partner will react? In this episode, Sam & Leah share five manipulative tactics narcissists use to stop you from leaving—from love-bombing and false promises to guilt trips, gaslighting, financial manipulation, and intimidation.

You’ll learn how to recognize these behaviors, stay grounded in your truth, and protect your emotional well-being while moving toward the freedom you deserve.

💡 Join The Next Chapter Membership for weekly workshops, expert guest sessions, and a private support community designed to help divorced moms heal and co-parent with confidence. 👉 https://www.samandleah.com/services

Divorcing a narcissist comes with challenges that most people can’t even imagine—especially when kids are involved. In this episode, we’re breaking down the top 10 things to look out for when you’re co-parenting with a narcissistic ex. From triangulation and manipulation, to undermining rules, spoiling, and gaslighting, we’ll walk you through the subtle (and not-so-subtle) tactics narcissists use to pull kids into the middle. You’ll learn how to recognize the red flags, protect your children from emotional harm, and stay grounded in your role as the safe, consistent parent.

If you’re ready for deeper support, tools, and a community of moms who truly understand, join us inside The Next Chapter—our membership designed to help you heal after divorce and co-parent with confidence. You don’t have to go through this alone, and you don’t have to keep second-guessing yourself.

Click here to learn more and join us today: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Let’s get real—sleeping with the person you’re divorcing is way more common than people admit. In this episode, we break down the top 5 pros and top 5 cons of ex-sex so you can see the full picture. From the comfort and familiarity it brings to the regret, guilt, and confusion it often leaves behind, we’re going there.

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s helping you heal or keeping you stuck, this conversation will give you the clarity you need.

✨ You deserve intimacy, connection, and love that doesn’t come with strings attached to your past.

👉 If you’re ready to let go of old patterns and create your next chapter with confidence, join us inside The Next Chapter Membership, where you’ll get weekly coaching, tools, and support from women who get it: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Starting over after divorce can feel overwhelming—but it’s also a chance to rebuild your life in a way that feels aligned, supportive, and empowering. In this episode, we’re sharing the top 10 must-haves for your divorce registry—the essentials every mom deserves as she steps into her new beginning. From creating a cozy home space to investing in self-care, financial tools, and community, this list will inspire you to prioritize yourself and make the most of your fresh start. If you’ve ever wondered what you really need to feel grounded, confident, and ready for the next chapter, this episode is for you.

#divorcerecovery #startingoverafterdivorce #divorcesupport #divorcedmoms #lifeafterdivorce #divorcetips #healingafterdivorce #divorcereset #coparenting

✨ Ready for more support as you heal and rebuild? Join us inside The Next Chapter Membership, where divorced moms come together for weekly workshops, expert coaching, and a private community that understands what you’re going through. Your new chapter is waiting—click here to join us today: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Co-parenting with a high-conflict ex can feel like walking through a minefield. The smallest interaction can spiral into chaos—and the emotional toll is exhausting.

In this episode, we’re breaking down the 10 most common scenarios that can quickly escalate into fights or triggering conversations when you’re co-parenting with someone who thrives on conflict. From holiday schedules to new partners, money disputes to manipulative communication, we’ll uncover the hotspots you need to watch for and share how to approach them with clarity and boundaries.

If you’ve ever felt like every conversation with your ex is a battle, this episode will help you anticipate conflict before it happens, protect your peace, and refocus on what matters most—your kids and your healing.

✨ Ready for more support, strategies, and a community that gets it? Join us inside The Next Chapter Membership, where divorced moms learn to co-parent with confidence, heal deeply, and build a life they love. Click here to join today: https://www.samandleah.com/services

How do you really know when you’re ready to start dating again after divorce? In this episode, we’re sharing the top 10 signs that show you’ve healed enough to open your heart again—without rushing, settling, or repeating old patterns. We’ll talk about why confidence, boundaries, and self-love matter more than apps or timelines, and how to approach dating with clarity and excitement instead of fear or pressure.

If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time to put yourself back out there, this conversation will give you the insight and reassurance you need.

✨ Ready to keep healing and rebuilding your confidence after divorce? Join us inside The Next Chapter, our private membership community for moms navigating divorce and co-parenting with confidence. You’ll get access to weekly workshops, a supportive group of women who truly get it, and tools to help you thrive in your next chapter. Click here to learn more and join us today: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Divorce guilt runs deep — especially for moms. You may feel guilty for breaking up the family, for putting your kids through pain, for wanting more for yourself, or for not “trying harder.” That guilt can leave you feeling stuck, second-guessing your decisions, and carrying the weight of everyone’s emotions.

In this episode, we’re breaking down the top reasons moms feel guilty during and after divorce and giving you actionable steps to start releasing it. You’ll learn how to acknowledge guilt without letting it control you, reframe “selfishness” into self-awareness, and anchor into your deeper “why” so you can move forward with peace and confidence.

It’s time to stop carrying guilt as proof of your love — and start showing your kids what healing, strength, and self-compassion really look like.

Ready to release guilt, rebuild your confidence, and co-parent with more peace? Join The Next Chapter — our private membership for divorced moms. Inside you’ll find weekly workshops, expert guidance, and a supportive community of women who truly get it. Start your next chapter today → https://www.samandleah.com/services

#DivorceRecovery #DivorceGuilt #MomLifeAfterDivorce #HealingAfterDivorce #SingleMomSupport #LifeAfterDivorce #DivorcedMoms #DivorceHealing #DivorceHelpForMoms #CoParentingTips #DivorceJourney #DivorceSupport

*Pin a comment on the video with a call-to-action: 

✨ Divorce guilt is SO heavy, but you don’t have to carry it alone. Which type of guilt hits you the hardest — guilt for your kids, guilt for wanting more, or guilt for choosing yourself? Share in the comments so we can support each other. 💙

And if you’re ready to release the guilt and step into healing, join us inside The Next Chapter — a supportive membership community for divorced moms with weekly workshops, coaching, and resources to help you move forward with confidence. 👉https://www.samandleah.com/services

Joint decision-making sounds fair in theory—two parents sharing responsibility for major decisions like school, medical care, and more. But in practice, it only works if both parties can actually function like a team.

In this episode, we’re breaking down 5 essential things that must be in place for joint legal custody to work—plus what happens when you’re co-parenting with a high-conflict ex who can’t meet those standards. If your co-parent refuses to compromise, constantly creates chaos, or uses communication as a weapon, this is for you.

You’ll walk away with clarity, validation, and a better understanding of what’s realistic—and what’s not—when it comes to making big decisions together after divorce.

🎧 Press play and take notes—this episode could save you a ton of stress (and legal fees).

👉 Ready for more tools, support, and strategies for high-conflict co-parenting? Join The Next Chapter membership and get access to weekly workshops, expert guests, and a private community of moms who get it. Join here: https://www.samandleah.com/services

#coparenting #divorcesupport #highconflictparenting #jointcustody #singlemomlife #thenextchapter #divorcecoach #custodytips #coparentingwithanarcissist #mindfullyready

Do you really have to be friends with your ex to co-parent successfully? The short answer is no—especially if you’re dealing with someone high-conflict.

In this episode, we’re breaking down the truth about co-parenting without forced friendship. You’ll hear 10 reminders, tips, and mindset shifts that will help you:

• Protect your peace and sanity

• Set and maintain strong boundaries

• Communicate effectively without getting sucked into chaos

• Model healthy relationships for your kids

• Stop feeling guilty when outsiders tell you to “just take the high road”

Your kids don’t need you to be buddies with your ex—they need you to be calm, grounded, and focused on them. This episode will encourage you to let go of the pressure to perform or fake a friendship and instead step into a healthier, more strategic approach to co-parenting.

✨ Ready for more tools and support? Join The Next Chapter Membership—a safe, empowering space for divorced moms to heal, rebuild confidence, and co-parent with clarity: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Missing your kids after divorce can be one of the hardest parts of shared custody. In this episode, we’re sharing 10 actionable tips for moms to cope with time apart, navigate the emotional ups and downs, and start finding peace when the kids are away.

Whether you’re in the early days of your custody schedule or still struggling years later, these strategies will help you shift your mindset, create healthy routines, and make the most of the time you have to recharge.

💬 In this episode:

• How to handle the first nights without your kids

• Tips for coping with shared custody and missing your kids

• Healthy ways to fill your time and ease the loneliness

• Why taking care of yourself benefits your kids, too
  

✨ If you’re ready for more tools, strategies, and support to protect your peace and co-parent with confidence, join The Next Chapter Membership: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Making the decision to leave your marriage is never easy—and knowing what to expect once you do can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Divorce Coach, Lawyer, and Mediator Karen Covy shares how to tell if you’re truly ready to go, what steps to take before filing, and how to prepare for the legal process ahead. We talk about common fears that keep people stuck, the documents you’ll want to gather early, and how to set realistic expectations for what divorce might look like. Whether you’re still on the fence or already preparing to file, this conversation will give you the clarity, confidence, and practical tools to move forward with less conflict, expense, and drama.

To connect with Karen, visit https://karencovy.com/

💬 Ready for more support and tools to navigate divorce and co-parenting with confidence? Join The Next Chapter—our private membership for divorced moms—where you’ll get weekly workshops, expert guest sessions, and a supportive community of women who get it. Learn more and join here: https://www.samandleah.com/services

What happens when the financial picture in your divorce is way messier than you expected?

In this powerful episode of Divorce with Sam and Leah, we’re joined by Certified Financial Planner and Divorce Financial Analyst, Morgan Murray, who walks us through real-life divorce finance horror stories—and the critical lessons that came out of them. From hidden accounts to unmanageable debt to last-minute retirement plan saves, this episode is packed with red flags to watch for and smart steps to take.

Whether you’re still in the process or already divorced, this episode will open your eyes to what really happens when the money gets messy—and how to protect yourself.

We cover:

• What to do if your ex controls all the finances
  

• How “weaponized incompetence” delays the legal process
  

• Why that house might not be the asset you think it is
  

• How to untangle financial messes with the right professionals
  

• Why speed, communication, and transparency matter more than ever
  

Real stories. Real strategies. Real empowerment. Don’t miss this one.

Connect with Morgan: https://abri.io/

💡 Ready to protect your peace, rebuild your confidence, and co-parent with confidence after divorce? Join The Next Chapter membership for weekly workshops, expert guest trainings, and a supportive community of women who get it. Your fresh start starts here 👉https://www.samandleah.com/services

If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking, “I should’ve known better,” or “I’m failing my kids,”—this episode is for you.

Negative self-talk after a toxic relationship or divorce is so common, and yet, nobody really talks about how damaging it can be. The guilt, the shame, the feelings of failure… We’ve felt it all. And for a long time, we believed every harsh thing we said to ourselves.

But learning how to shift that inner voice? It changed everything—how we showed up as moms, the decisions we made for our future, and the way we saw ourselves.

In this episode, we’re sharing:

• The sneaky ways negative self-talk shows up

• Why your inner critic isn't actually your voice

• 10 powerful tools to stop the spiral and start rebuilding confidence

• How to start talking to yourself like someone you love

Because you’re not broken—you’re rebuilding. And you deserve to feel safe, seen, and whole in your own mind.

Let’s quiet the mean girl in your head and help you reconnect with your truth.

👉 Ready to keep healing and reconnect with who you are outside of the pain? The Next Chapter is my monthly membership for moms ready to rebuild their confidence, set boundaries, and co-parent with strength and clarity. You don’t have to do this alone.

Join us here: https://www.samandleah.com/services

If you're constantly putting your toxic or abusive ex’s feelings above your own—this episode is for you.

So many divorced moms stay stuck in fear, walking on eggshells and avoiding things they want to do because they’re terrified of their ex’s reaction. Whether it's setting a boundary, taking a vacation, or even just showing up happy—if you're still shrinking yourself to avoid his triggers, this conversation will help you shift that mindset.

We’re breaking down:

• Why his reactions are not your responsibility

• How fear keeps you stuck in old patterns

• 5 empowering reminders to help you stop prioritizing him over yourself

• What it really means to choose you (and show your kids how to do the same)

It’s time to stop managing him and start reclaiming your peace. 💥

✨ If this episode hit home and you’re ready to feel more confident, supported, and emotionally free—join us inside The Next Chapter. It's our monthly membership designed for moms healing from divorce and navigating high-conflict co-parenting. You don’t have to do this alone.

👉 Join here: https://www.samandleah.com/services

In this powerful episode, we’re sharing the raw, honest truth straight from teens who lived through their parents’ divorces. These aren’t expert opinions or textbook strategies — they’re real insights from kids who know firsthand what helped, what hurt, and what they wish their parents had done differently.

From the value of therapy and structure, to the emotional damage of oversharing and being stuck in the middle, this episode breaks down seven impactful lessons every divorced parent needs to hear.

Whether you're in the thick of it or already years out, this conversation will help you show up for your kids in ways that actually matter.

Because healing isn’t about perfection — it’s about presence, consistency, and choosing love over drama every single time.

Your kids might not say it out loud, but these are the things they need you to hear.

✨ Want more support as you navigate divorce and co-parenting?

Join The Next Chapter — our private membership for moms ready to heal, rebuild, and co-parent with confidence. Inside, you’ll get weekly workshops, expert guidance, and a community that truly gets it.

👉 https://www.samandleah.com/services

Not all attorneys are created equal—especially when you're navigating divorce or a high-conflict custody battle. In this episode, we’re calling out the red flags you need to know when it comes to working with a divorce lawyer.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is my attorney really fighting for me—or just running up the bill?”… this one’s for you.

We’re breaking down the top 10 signs your attorney is stirring the pot for profit instead of supporting your best interest. From unnecessary court filings to shady communication patterns, we’re pulling back the curtain and giving you the insight you deserve.

Whether you’re already working with an attorney or still searching for the right one, this episode will help you protect your peace, your wallet, and your future.

If you’re a divorced or divorcing mom ready to heal, rebuild, and take your power back—come join us inside The Next Chapter Membership. We’ve got the tools, support, and sisterhood to help you thrive: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Ever wonder why you keep getting triggered by the same things—no matter how much healing work you’ve already done?

In this episode, Sam and Leah break down the top 5 reasons emotional triggers keep showing up (especially after divorce), and what you can start doing right now to finally shift the pattern. From unhealed wounds to subconscious hooks, this conversation is a must-listen if you’re tired of feeling stuck, reactive, or emotionally drained.

Plus, we share a powerful invitation to go deeper with us inside The Next Chapter membership, where we’re bringing in artist and creative healing facilitator Lisa Brown for a special live workshop. She’ll teach you how to gently access your emotions, uncover what’s keeping you stuck, and reconnect with your true self—no art experience required.

🎧 Tune in to learn:

• Why some emotional triggers never fully go away

• What’s underneath the anger, sadness, or shutdown

• How creativity can unlock healing in a totally different way

• A sneak peek at our upcoming Art as Therapy workshop

You’re not broken—you’re just carrying too much. Let’s change that.

✨ Join the membership to catch the live workshop or watch the replay anytime: https://www.samandleah.com/services