Online dating after divorce can feel like emotional whiplash. One minute you're connecting, the next—ghosted. In this impromptu episode, Todd Turner shares a paradigm-shifting perspective: what if ghosting isn't about rejection, but about emotional readiness?

Drawing from a recent conversation and his own dating journey post-divorce, Todd introduces the powerful metaphor of the telescope and the microscope. When we’re hopeful, we look through a telescope—dreaming big. But when trauma resurfaces, we retreat to the microscope, focusing on survival and safety.

This episode is packed with real talk, grace-filled insight, and encouragement for anyone navigating the messy reality of healing, dating, and starting over.

Divorce is trauma, not just a legal status—and it reshapes how we see the world.

Ghosting often reflects emotional un-readiness, not cruelty.

We toggle between telescope (hope) and microscope (protection) as we heal.

You’re not broken for backing out of dating—you’re human.

Grace is essential—for yourself and for others still stuck in survival mode.

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UnYoked - The Post Divorce Podcast: Navigating your divorce and recovery with grace.

Divorce and the new single life is hard but it is even more complex when you made a promise to God to "keep your marriage till death do you part." American Christian culture doesn't make navigating the decisions and ripple effects of divorce any easier. Christian marriage and divorce advice runs rampant yet often conflicts with the realities of pain, abuse, loneliness, and the real world.

God has a lot more to say than, “I hate divorce.” God gives a standard and then graciously restores and renews people even when His standard isn't met.

Those of us who are navigating the life changing event of unYoking from a spouse and/or uprooting a family have to journey through some dark, lonely, and confusing places. Our issues aren't frequently tackled from the pulpit and the advice we receive isn't always relevant to our current place.

The UnYoked podcast is just for you. A safe place to wonder, ponder, relate, and consider your steps of navigating a divorce, singleness, and the future. A place where we live in the tension between God's plan and the realities of living in a broken world with broken people and broken relationships. Buckle up... remove the mask.. and let's get real about discussing the ripple effects of divorce and equip ourselves to survive being unYoked as a Christian.

Visit ToddTurner.com/Divorce for more resources.

What happens when the roles you built your life around suddenly disappear? In this raw and real episode, Todd Turner sits down with longtime friend and Texas real estate agent Denise Milliken to talk about life after divorce—from empty nesting to learning how to change toilets solo. Denise opens up about the quiet loneliness, the awkward holiday moments, and the hard work of building a life that feels like you. If you’ve ever wondered who you are without a partner, this episode will resonate.

🔹 Triggers of loneliness no one talks about
🔹 “Boy work,” broken sinks, and building self-worth
🔹 The truth about dating apps and independent women
🔹 Why embracing your new identity is essential

This conversation aligns with Module 7 of the UnYoked Divorce Recovery Course, where we walk through how to release old labels and live fully in the identity God is forming in you.

In this conversation, Todd Turner and Denise Milliken explore the complexities of navigating life after divorce, focusing on the challenges of self-discovery, the impact of loneliness, and the dynamics of dating. They discuss the importance of personal growth and faith in recovery, as well as the expectations that come with modern dating. Through their candid dialogue, they emphasize the need for individuals to find their identity and embrace the journey of healing.

Denise Bio

I'm Denise Milliken, a real estate agent proudly serving the North Dallas area. I'm also a mom to three beautifully smart grown children—so yes, that technically makes me an empty nester... if I’d just get around to changing the locks.

I’m passionate about serving my community, especially when it comes to supporting our unhoused neighbors, who hold a special place in my heart. Outside of work, I love spending time with friends, jet skiing on the lake, and tackling DIY projects around my house—some more successful than others!

Support the show

UnYoked - The Post Divorce Podcast: Navigating your divorce and recovery with grace.

Divorce and the new single life is hard but it is even more complex when you made a promise to God to "keep your marriage till death do you part." American Christian culture doesn't make navigating the decisions and ripple effects of divorce any easier. Christian marriage and divorce advice runs rampant yet often conflicts with the realities of pain, abuse, loneliness, and the real world.

God has a lot more to say than, “I hate divorce.” God gives a standard and then graciously restores and renews people even when His standard isn't met.

Those of us who are navigating the life changing event of unYoking from a spouse and/or uprooting a family have to journey through some dark, lonely, and confusing places. Our issues aren't frequently tackled from the pulpit and the advice we receive isn't always relevant to our current place.

The UnYoked podcast is just for you. A safe place to wonder, ponder, relate, and consider your steps of navigating a divorce, singleness, and the future. A place where we live in the tension between God's plan and the realities of living in a broken world with broken people and broken relationships. Buckle up... remove the mask.. and let's get real about discussing the ripple effects of divorce and equip ourselves to survive being unYoked as a Christian.

Visit ToddTurner.com/Divorce for more resources.

In this episode of the Unyoked Podcast, Todd Turner discusses the journey of recovering from divorce, emphasizing the emotional, spiritual, and practical aspects of healing. He outlines seven key struggles faced by individuals post-divorce, including the loss of friendships, navigating emotional chaos, readiness for dating, co-parenting challenges, rebuilding trust, empowering children, and embracing a new identity. Todd provides insights and tools to help listeners find their footing again and encourages them to seek healing and purpose beyond their divorce.

Takeaways

• Recovering from divorce involves emotional, spiritual, and practical healing.
• Losing friends is a common and painful experience after divorce.
• Understanding and navigating emotional chaos is crucial for recovery.
• Assessing readiness for dating is important before moving on.
• Co-parenting requires effective communication and consistent parenting rhythms.
• Rebuilding trust in oneself and others is essential after betrayal.
• Empowering children during a divorce helps them process the transition.
• Embracing a new identity is vital for moving forward after divorce.
• Divorce does not define you; healing and purpose are possible.
• Seeking professional help and support can aid in the recovery process.

www.toddturner.com

Support the show

UnYoked - The Post Divorce Podcast: Navigating your divorce and recovery with grace.

Divorce and the new single life is hard but it is even more complex when you made a promise to God to "keep your marriage till death do you part." American Christian culture doesn't make navigating the decisions and ripple effects of divorce any easier. Christian marriage and divorce advice runs rampant yet often conflicts with the realities of pain, abuse, loneliness, and the real world.

God has a lot more to say than, “I hate divorce.” God gives a standard and then graciously restores and renews people even when His standard isn't met.

Those of us who are navigating the life changing event of unYoking from a spouse and/or uprooting a family have to journey through some dark, lonely, and confusing places. Our issues aren't frequently tackled from the pulpit and the advice we receive isn't always relevant to our current place.

The UnYoked podcast is just for you. A safe place to wonder, ponder, relate, and consider your steps of navigating a divorce, singleness, and the future. A place where we live in the tension between God's plan and the realities of living in a broken world with broken people and broken relationships. Buckle up... remove the mask.. and let's get real about discussing the ripple effects of divorce and equip ourselves to survive being unYoked as a Christian.

Visit ToddTurner.com/Divorce for more resources.