The Divorce Chapter

Send us a textAh, Twixtmas. That magical time of year when no one knows what day it is, we’re all living off leftovers, and PJs become acceptable all-day attire. It’s my absolute favourite week…. but it’s also the time I left the ex-husband.December 28th. A day etched in my memory. For me, it was a whirlwind of grief, anger, relief, and uncertainty. For him? I imagine it was completely different. And here’s the thing: that one day, that same event, was experienced completely differently by everyone involved…..me, the ex, and my kids.That’s the thing about divorce…. it’s never one story. It’s a million stories told through different lenses. Your version, your ex’s version, your kids’ version, your family’s version... and none of them will ever be the same.This week on The Divorce Chapter podcast, I’m diving into why we all process divorce differently, how our unique lenses shape our experiences, and why it’s time to stop caring what others think.In this episode, we’re exploring: ✨ Why your version of divorce is different from anyone else’s (and why that’s okay). ✨ How our experiences are shaped by the unique lenses we see life through…. our upbringing, beliefs, and relationships. ✨ Why you don’t need validation from anyone else for how you feel or the choices you’ve made. ✨ How to embrace YOUR story, YOUR way, as you start writing your next chapter.This isn’t about replaying the past…. it’s about owning your narrative and stepping into your power. As we approach 2025, it’s time to give yourself permission to stop caring what anyone else thinks and create a future that’s true to YOU.As we head into a new year, give yourself permission to let go of the pressure to explain, justify, or validate your choices. Your story, your journey, your truth. That’s all that matters.Sending you strength, love, and leftover cheese this Twixtmas,Sarah x🌸P.S. This January in the Divorce Book Club, we’re kicking off the year with Mel Robbins’ The 5 Second Rule. It’s all about taking bold action and creating a life that works for YOU. And using the code JANUARYSALE you get it for only £5 for the first month.... yes only a fiver to change your goddamn life!!!Check it out ⬇️THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclubFREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorcehttps://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/INSTAGRAMhttps://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a textIt’s Santa Season again…. the season of tinsel, turkey, and to-do lists longer than a John Lewis queue on Christmas Eve. And if you’re anything like me, you’re probably feeling the energy drain kicking in already.Because let’s face it… Christmas post-divorce is a lot. There’s the emotional rollercoaster, the endless logistics, the awkward family gatherings, and let’s not forget dodging those mood hoovers who suck the life out of you faster than a hoover plugged into a turbocharger.But here’s the thing, Christmas doesn’t have to leave you feeling like a wrung-out dishcloth. This week on the podcast, I’m diving into how to manage your energy at Christmas… because protecting your peace isn’t just a nice idea, it’s absolutely essential this time of year.🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn: 🎄 How to budget your energy like cash in a bank (some interactions are not worth the withdrawal) 🎄 Hacks to deal with energy vampires/ mood hoovers….whether it’s the nosy aunt or the ex stirring drama. 🎄 Quick ways to recharge when you’re running on empty (no, you don’t need a week-long retreat) 🎄 How to say ‘yes’ and ‘no’ strategically so you’re not spending Christmas stretched thinner than wrapping paper.Plus, I’m sharing practical tips for managing the physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion that can creep in during the holidays. Think of it as your survival guide for keeping the season merry and not mentally exhausting.Whether you’re dealing with chaotic schedules, nosy relatives, or just trying to make it through the holidays without a “menty B” (mental breakdown), I’ve got you covered.Wishing you the best Christmas, whatever it looks like for you, and sending you SO much love,Sarah x🌸P.S. Oh, and because I know you’re putting everyone else first right now (don’t think I don’t see you 👀), a little reminder: this month’s Divorce Book Club pick is The Self-Care Project by Jayne Hardy. Consider it my nudge to you…. this Christmas, you deserve to be at the top of that list. THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclubFREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorcehttps://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/INSTAGRAMhttps://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a textAh, Christmas. A time for joy, tinsel, turkey… and a little extra emotional chaos if you’re navigating the post-divorce version of Santa Season 🎅Let me guess:The Ghost of Christmas Past is haunting you with memories of matching PJs, burnt turkeys, and that one year your ex bought you a hoover (romance is NOT dead, apparently).The Ghost of Christmas Present is waving a to-do list in your face that feels longer than Santa’s nice/naughty list.And the Ghost of Christmas Future? Well, let’s just say it’s got you wondering if your future Christmases will involve eating microwave dinners while binge-watching Love Actually.Sound familiar? Don’t worry… you’re not alone.This week on The Divorce Chapter, I’m channeling the iconic story of A Christmas Carol to help you navigate the ghosts of your own Christmases 👻We’re covering: 🎄 How to deal with the bittersweet (or just downright bitter) memories of holidays past (without getting stuck there). 🎄 Finding joy in the chaos of the present... whether that’s new traditions, bad Christmas jumpers, or eating all the Quality Street yourself. 🎄 Reclaiming your future Christmases and designing them the way you want.... tinsel optional.It’s like Scrooge, but with fewer miserly men and more empowering tips for thriving through the divorce sh*tshow.And because we’re all about self-care over here, don’t forget this month’s Divorce Book Club pick: The Self-Care Project by Jayne Hardy. It’s perfect for anyone who’s tired of being at the bottom of their own priority list—because let’s face it, YOU deserve to be at the top this Christmas. 🎁  Link below ⬇️Sending you love, strength, and maybe an extra mince pie,Sarah x🌸THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclubFREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorcehttps://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/INSTAGRAMhttps://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a textYep, it’s that time of year…. The smell of cinnamon everywhere, matching PJs (even on the dog) and Mariah on f*cking repeat…. but if you’re navigating Christmas post-divorce, it can feel more f*ck f*ck f*ck than ho ho ho. I get it. Whether it’s the thought of solo family get togethers, lonely nights, or new traditions, this season hits different. But here’s the thing…. different doesn’t have to mean bad. In fact, it could be the start of something better.In this episode, I’m spilling all the tea on how to survive…. and even thrive….. This Christmas. We’re talking: 🎄 Setting boundaries with nosy family members (without losing your cool) 🎁 Creating magical moments for your kids (even on a tight schedule or budget) ✨ Tackling loneliness with humour, self-care, and a sprinkle of sass 🍪 Starting quirky new traditions—because you’re now the CEO of your ChristmasIf the thought of decking the halls feels overwhelming, don’t worry….I’ve got you covered. You’ll laugh, you’ll nod, and by the end, you’ll feel ready to tackle the holidays on your terms. Spoiler: It’s totally okay if your Christmas involves pizza, PJs, and a movie marathon.I’d love to hear what you think….. If you find the episode helpful, it would mean the world to me if you left a review or shared it with someone who might need it 💖Until next week please take care of you, and sending you loads of love,Sarah x🌸P.S. Don’t forget to check out December’s Divorce Book Club pick: The Self-Care Project by Jayne Hardy. It’s all about letting go of frazzle and making time for you ... perfect for surviving this Santa season. We started 1 December but it’s never too late to catch up because all the back catalogue is there for all members ⬇️THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclubFREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorcehttps://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/INSTAGRAMhttps://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a textIn the spirit of “Santa Season,” this episode looks at one of the most frustrating, nerve-shredding parts of divorce: trying to communicate with the ex. Yep, the person you once shared years of conversations and traditions with now feels like a complete stranger….or worse, someone who couldn’t give a sh*t about you.And then Christmas comes along, with its extra sprinkling of chaos: holiday schedules, kids’ presents, money issues, and endless logistics. It’s a minefield wrapped in tinsel, isn’t it? But don’t worry….I’ve got you covered.This week, I’m sharing real, practical strategies to help you manage the “new normal” of ex-communication, especially when emotions are running high. We’ll talk about:The car screamFinding healthy outlets for your emotionsWritten communication tipsHandling narcissistic exesUsing tone and humourIf you’ve ever wondered how to get through this holiday season without throwing tinsel (or a tin of Quality Street) at their head, this episode is for you. I’d love to hear what you think….. If you find the episode helpful, it would mean the world to me if you left a review or shared it with someone who might need it 💖Until next week please take care of you, and sending you loads of love,Sarah x🌸P.S. Don’t forget to check out December’s Divorce Book Club pick: The Self-Care Project by Jayne Hardy. It’s all about letting go of frazzle and making time for you ... perfect for surviving this season. AND WE HAVE A BLACK FRIDAY DEAL FOR YOU TO GET THE BOOK CLUB HALF PRICE IN DECEMBER.... YEP ONLY A FIVER TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE!USE CODE BLACKFRIDAY50We start 1 December ⬇️THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclubFREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorcehttps://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/INSTAGRAMhttps://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a textAre you ready to ditch the numbing traps and face the emotional rollercoaster of divorce like an absolute boss? In this episode of The Divorce Chapter, we’re going into the concept of emotional sobriety….aka your new divorce superpower.  ✨ We start with a sprinkle of inspiration from Wicked in honour of the movie coming out in the UK, because, yes, even Elphaba has lessons to teach us about resilience, truth, and rising above the BS (hello, narcissistic wizards 👀). And who doesn’t need a little “Defying Gravity” energy in their life?  Then we get real about the traps we fall into post-divorce….wine o’clock, emotional eating, doom scrolling, and retail therapy, anyone? 🙋‍♀️ But unfortunately numbing out doesn’t heal the pain….it just presses pause. So, how do we stop?  I’m breaking down the practical steps for emotional sobriety that will help you feel ALL the feels, process them, and come out stronger on the other side. PLUS, I’ve got tips to survive Santa season 🎅 a time when emotions can hit harder than a tin of Quality Street to the face.  If you’ve ever turned to wine, TikTok, or Maltesers to numb the pain (no shade, we’ve all been there), this episode is for you. Emotional sobriety isn’t easy, but it’s the ultimate glow-up tool for moving forward after divorce.  Let’s rebuild, one healthy step at a time. You’ve got this, my love. 💛I’d love to hear what you think….. If you find the episode helpful, it would mean the world to me if you left a review or shared it with someone who might need it. 💖Until next week please take care of you, and sending you loads of love,Sarah x🌸P.S. For December in the book club, we’re doing a self-care book. I know that Christmas might feel super f*cking tough…. Especially if it’s your first one after divorce. So this book looks to be a good one…. Especially as its tagline is ‘how to let go of frazzle and make time for you’. Which we all need in Santa Season right?! You can check it out here:  http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1409177580/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21If you have any questions about the book club do let me know, and in the meantime I’ll leave the link here ⬇️THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclubFREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorcehttps://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/INSTAGRAMhttps://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a textDivorce can feel like a battlefield, but nothing cuts deeper than when an ex manipulates your own children to turn them against you.In this follow-up episode of The Divorce Chapter, we’re tackling one of the most painful and complex issues in high-conflict divorces—when your ex uses your own children as weapons. Last week, we talked about exes who manipulate family and friends. This week, we’re diving deep into the heartbreaking reality of parental alienation.Parental alienation is when one parent manipulates the children into rejecting, distrusting, or emotionally distancing themselves from the other parent. This episode breaks down what parental alienation looks like, the emotional damage it causes, and how to navigate the devastating toll it takes on you and your relationship with your kids—whether they’re young children or adults.I share insights on:🚸Recognising subtle and overt manipulation tactics that your ex might use to create loyalty conflicts.🚸How younger children and adult children experience and internalise alienation differently, and how each age group may react.🚸Practical strategies for rebuilding trust with your children, staying consistent in your love, and finding ways to counteract the alienation.If you’re dealing with an ex who’s working to turn your own children against you, this episode is a must have for crucial advice on protecting your relationship with your kids, and most importantly, maintaining your own mental and emotional health. I’d love to hear what you think….. If you find the episode helpful, it would mean the world to me if you left a review or shared it with someone who might need it. 💖Until next week please take care of you, and sending you loads of love,Sarah x🌸P.S. If you want all the deets on the Divorce Book Club and how it can help supercharge your healing from heartbreak, check it out here ⬇️THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclubFREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorcehttps://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/INSTAGRAMhttps://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a textWelcome back to The Divorce Chapter where we rewrite the divorce plot twist ✍️ In this episode, we’re tackling something that can make divorce feel like a never-ending battle….when your ex tries to turn family, friends, and mutual acquaintances against you. Divorce is hard enough, but dealing with an ex who manipulates those around you takes it to a whole new level. This episode is all about understanding these toxic tactics and finding ways to protect yourself.We’ll cover:- Flying Monkeys: Just like in The Wizard of Oz, these are people your ex recruits to spread misinformation, manipulate, or guilt-trip you, often without knowing the full picture.- Triangulation: How your ex might play people off each other, creating sides to keep you isolated and confused.- How to Spot the Tactics: Recognising when family or friends suddenly become distant, share personal details they shouldn’t know, or start relaying your ex’s narrative.- Steps to Protect Yourself: From setting boundaries and documenting everything to emotionally detaching from the drama, I share practical strategies to regain your peace and strength.If you’re facing an ex who’s manipulating the people around you, this episode will help you recognise these tactics, protect your mental health, and take back your power.And next week, we’re diving into Part 2 on managing things when your ex turns the kids against you. Don’t miss it!I hope the episode is useful for you.And whilst we’re talking empowerment we’re a couple of chapters in to November’s book over in the Divorce Book Club.How to Heal a Broken Heart: From Rock Bottom to Reinvention *via ugly crying on the bathroom floor, by Rosie Green 💚You can check out the book here: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08GG7BC79/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21This is the story of Rosie's own divorce shitshow interspersed with advice, book recommendations and sprinkled throughout with humour. ❤️I bloody love it so far!I’d love to have you join us for this one. It’s never too late to join as all the back catalogue of episodes are available to all members 📚Link to join below ⬇️Do let me know if you want any more details about the book club - or indeed about anything divorce/break-up related.Until next week then you absolute QUEEN 👑 sending you loads of love,Sarah x🌸P.S. If you found this episode helpful, please take a moment to rate and review. Your support means so much and helps others find the podcast ❤️THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclubFREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorcehttps://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/INSTAGRAMhttps://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a textHello Queen 👑Have you ever found yourself obsessing over someone? You’re not alone. This week on The Divorce Chapter podcast, I’m diving into a topic that many of us have experienced but may not fully understand: limerence.Limerence is that intense, almost obsessive desire for someone, often built on fantasy rather than reality, and it can seriously mess with your emotional healing after a divorce.In this episode, I break down:- What limerence is and how it differs from love. Spoiler alert: it’s not love; it’s obsession- How limerence shows up after divorce.- Why we get stuck in these patterns.- 9 steps to break free from limerence.If you’re struggling to move on from an ex or find yourself idealising someone new, this episode will help you understand why—and give you the tools to start healing. These are the links to my references in the episodeLove and Limerence by OG Dorothy Tennov:http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0812862864/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21Dr L/ Dr Tom Bellamy’s website and book Living with Limerence:https://livingwithlimerence.com/what-is-limerence/http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B085RN5XGS/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21And whilst we’re talking empowerment through the shitshow, we’ve chosen November’s book over in the Divorce Book Club.How to Heal a Broken Heart: From Rock Bottom to Reinvention *via ugly crying on the bathroom floor, by Rosie Green 💚You can check out the book here: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08GG7BC79/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21This is the story of Rosie's own divorce shitshow interspersed with advice, book recommendations and sprinkled throughout with humour. ❤️I CAN”T WAIT!I’d love to have you join us for this one 📚We start on 1 November 📚Link to join below ⬇️Do let me know if you want any more details about the book club - or indeed about anything divorce/break-up related.Until next week then you absolute QUEEN 👑 sending you loads of love,Sarah x🌸THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclubFREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorcehttps://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/INSTAGRAMhttps://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a textHello and welcome to this week’s episode where I’m super delighted to introduce you to Amanda Bell. Amanda is a divorce lawyer by background, and with her co-founder Victoria, has created an AMAZING, affordable platform designed to help you navigate the entire divorce process with confidence and clarity. Whether you’re facing legal challenges, co-parenting with a high-conflict ex, or trying to get a handle on your finances, Separate Space offers expert guidance every step of the way.You can check out Separate Space website here: https://www.separatespace.co.uk/And their Instagram here:https://www.instagram.com/separatespace/In the episode we go into:- The concept behind Separate Space: an accessible tool designed to empower individuals with the information and resources they need to navigate divorce.- Why divorce impacts every part of your life, not just the legal side, and how the Separate Space platform helps manage both the emotional and practical aspects of the process.- How Separate Space offers a personalised pathway for your unique divorce journey, helping you handle everything from financial planning to co-parenting dynamics, even if you can’t afford one-to-one legal advice right now.- The importance of understanding your financial situation, why pensions matter, and how to protect yourself legally during a separation.- Amanda's advice for anyone facing a sudden or complex divorce: get informed, take control, and don’t rush into decisions without understanding the long-term impact.I honestly can’t recommend this platform enough - I WISH I’d had something like this…. It really is a torch in the divorce shitstorm 🔦Check out the episode to hear all about Separate Space and how this may help you 🩷And whilst we’re talking empowerment through the shitshow, we’ve chosen November’s book over in the Divorce Book Club.How to Heal a Broken Heart: From Rock Bottom to Reinvention *via ugly crying on the bathroom floor, by Rosie Green 💚You can check out the book here: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08GG7BC79/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21This is the story of Rosie's own divorce shitshow interspersed with advice, book recommendations and sprinkled throughout with humour. ❤️I CAN”T WAIT!I’d love to have you join us for this one 📚We start on 1 November 📚Link to join below ⬇️Do let me know if you want any more details about the book club - or indeed about anything divorce/break-up related.Until next week then you absolute QUEEN 👑 sending you loads of love,Sarah x🌸THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclubFREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorcehttps://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/INSTAGRAMhttps://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter