Send us a text

After a divorce, many of us expect the worst of our emotional struggles to be over. But, as I've come to understand through my own journey and conversations with others, the first relationship after a divorce can bring a heartbreak that’s unexpected and uniquely f*cking painful.

In this episode, I dive into why this post-divorce heartbreak can feel even more intense than the divorce itself. I explore the emotional layers involved, from unresolved trauma to the pressures we put on ourselves to find happiness again. Most importantly, I discuss ways to navigate this pain and use it as a catalyst for healing and growth.

I hope you take something away from the episode, and please, if you do enjoy it, please please please help a gal out and rate and review the episode! Thank you 🥰

And if you’re ready for next level healing and truly turning the divorce plot twist into a magical happily ever after, why not come and join us in the Divorce Book Club….

We start September’s book on 1 September but all back episodes are there for all members to catch up if you need it.

So September’s book is….. (drum roll)

Getting Past your Breakup: How to Turn a Devastating Loss into the Best Thing That Ever Happened to You by Susan J Elliott.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0738213284/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21

The blurb says:

It’s over—and it really hurts. But as unbelievable as it may seem when you are in the throes of heartache, you can move past your breakup. Forget about trying to win your ex back. Forget about losing yourself and trying to make this person love you. Forget it! Starting today, this breakup is the best time to change your life for the better, inside and out.

Getting Past Your Breakup is a proven roadmap for overcoming the painful end of any romantic relationship, even divorce. Through her workshops and popular blog, Susan Elliott has helped thousands of clients and readers transform their love lives. Now, she’ll help you put your energy back where it belongs—on you. Her plan includes:

• The rules of disengagement: how and why to go “no contact” with your ex
• How to work through grief, move past fear, and take back your life
• The secret to breaking the pattern of failed relationships
• What to do when you can’t stop thinking about your ex, texting, calling, checking social networking sites, or driving by the house

Now, THAT sounds like a super build to me! Do let me know if you want any more details about the book club - or indeed about anything divorce/break-up related.

The link to join etc. is also below ⬇️

Until next week then, sending you loads of love,

Sarah x

🌸

THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB

https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclub

FREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorce

https://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/

INSTAGRAM

https://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a text

In this episode of "The Divorce Chapter" podcast, I reflect on the challenges of coping with anniversaries after a divorce. As someone who's been through the utter shitshow of a marriage ending, I know first-hand how difficult these days can be, especially in that first year.

Anniversaries, such as your wedding date or other significant milestones shared with your ex, can bring a FLOOD of emotions—sadness, anger, or even a sense of loss for the future you once planned.

I delve into why these dates are so emotionally charged, and how they can trigger feelings of grief and nostalgia. I also share my own experiences with significant anniversaries, like how I dealt with my first wedding anniversary post-divorce by escaping to Cyprus and then making a decision to change my goddamn life.

Hopefully you’ll be able to get a few ideas too about how to plan ahead to reclaim the date and reclaim gorgeous YOU ❤️

In the episode, I also celebrate a new anniversary - the first one of this podcast. I never ever thought I’d be saying that but here we are and it’s all thanks to you as a wonderful listener.

Thank you thank you thank you 🥰

Here’s to another year of our next chapter 🌸

So much love,

Sarah x

P.S. We’ve also chosen September’s book over in the Divorce Book Club.

Getting Past your Breakup by Susan J Elliott has cropped up on my TBR list for the book club several times so it must be a sign 📚

The blurb says:

It’s over—and it really hurts. But as unbelievable as it may seem when you are in the throes of heartache, you can move past your breakup. Forget about trying to win your ex back. Forget about losing yourself and trying to make this person love you. Forget it! Starting today, this breakup is the best time to change your life for the better, inside and out.

You can check out the book here:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0738213284/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21

I’d love to see you over there 📚

We start 1 September.

Link to join below ⬇️

THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB

https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclub

FREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorce

https://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/

INSTAGRAM

https://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a text

In this episode, I look into the often-overlooked signs of abuse in relationships (after touching on Betrayal Blindness too). Abuse isn't always obvious; it can be subtle, manipulative, and deeply damaging. That’s why I’ve highlighted 15 key indicators that you or someone you know might be in an abusive relationship.

1. Physical Violence

2. Verbal Abuse

3. Emotional Manipulation (plus DARVO explained)

4. Isolation

5. Control

6. Jealousy

7. Blame Shifting

8. Intimidation.

9. Financial Abuse

10. Sexual Abuse

11. Gaslighting

12. Threats

13. Punishing Behaviour

14. Digital/Technology Abuse

15. Unpredictable Behaviour

Each of these signs is a red flag in a relationship and can lead to a destructive cycle of abuse. My aim in this episode is to help recognise the signs and the patterns, whether that’s in your own relationships or in those around you. I really want to empower listeners to identify and break free from these harmful dynamics.

But I do know it’s not easy to get out and I also know that post separation abuse is another added worry…. So please please please do seek the proper support:

Women's Aid: Offers support services and a directory of local domestic abuse services.

https://www.womensaid.org.uk/

Refuge: Provides emergency housing, support, and advocacy for women and children escaping domestic violence.

https://refuge.org.uk/

National Domestic Abuse Helpline: A 24-hour helpline offering confidential support and advice.

https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/contact-us/

These are all UK based ones but please do look out for support services in the country/State you are in.

And also, this month in the Divorce Book Club we are reading It’s Not You: How to Identify and Heal from Narcissistic People by Dr Ramani Durvasula. Dr Ramani is an expert in narcissistic abuse (including non-intimate relationships like a parent or your boss) and this book is also amazing for highlighting abuse in relationships. You can check out the book here:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1785045024/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21

I’d love to see you over there 📚

We started 1 August (but it’s never too late to join as access to all previous books and chapters available to all members)

Link to join below ⬇️

So until next week,

Sending you SO much love and please take care of you

Sarah x

🌸

THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB

https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclub

FREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorce

https://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/

INSTAGRAM

https://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a text

In this episode of "The Divorce Chapter" podcast, we welcome the brilliant Chantelle Dyson, a certified life coach, educator, speaker, and podcast host.

Chantelle, who divorced in her 20s after only a year of marriage, shares her journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

She discusses the societal pressures that often dictate life choices, such as marriage and children, and emphasises the importance of understanding and defining happiness on our own terms.

Chantelle explains how her divorce prompted a deep dive into personal development, leading her to slow down and embrace a more intentional and fulfilling life. She also touches on the challenges of loneliness, particularly the kind that stems from not sharing meaningful experiences with others, and offers insights into how she has navigated these feelings.

Throughout the episode, Chantelle's story is one of resilience and empowerment, encouraging us to take control of our lives and make conscious, fulfilling choices.

The books that Chantelle recommends in the episode:

Lost Connections by Johann Hari

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1408878720/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21

You were not born to suffer Blake D Bauer

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1525246119/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21

And you can find Chantelle here:

www.chantellethecoach.com

And on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/chantellethecoach/

I hope you love hearing Chantelle talk as much as I loved chatting with her 💜

So until next week,

Sending you SO much love

Sarah x

🌸

THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB

https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclub

FREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorce

https://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/

INSTAGRAM

https://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a text

In this episode of The Divorce Chapter podcast, I’ve been a bit inspired by my 52nd birthday tomorrow, and so giving you "52 Things to Do on Your Own."

Following my divorce, I had to really relearn being on my own, and this escalated even more in the Panny-D. Now, I want to inspire you to find your own joy in alone time, whether you're navigating life after a breakup or simply looking to embrace your independence.

In this episode, you'll discover:

- Practical suggestions for enriching your solo time

- Self-care practices that rejuvenate your spirit

- Creative ideas to ignite your passions

- Adventurous activities to push your boundaries

Some ideas are as simple as taking a peaceful walk or reading a book, while others are more adventurous like planning a solo holiday or exploring an art gallery. This list is all about finding what makes you happy and reclaiming your independence.

I used a previous social media post on this so have linked this here for ease (and as I referenced it):

https://www.instagram.com/p/CeT5pyeDEJJ/?img_index=1

So have a listen to get inspired and perhaps add a few new activities to your own list. Whether you're newly single or just looking for ways to enjoy your own company, this episode hopefully offers plenty of ideas to keep you entertained and fulfilled.

Oh, and in the episode I mention a Nutella Cheesecake so sharing this here 🥰

You will need:

1 tub of Nutella

Bag of chocolate digestive biscuits

A little bit of butter

2 tubs of cream cheese

1) Put 250 grams of the biscuits in a bowl - bash them up until crumb like (just think of it as your ex’s head 😂)

2) Melt a spoonful of butter and mix that with the biscuits

3) Put a tablespoon of Nutella in the biscuit mix and mix together

4) Put the biscuit mix in a tin and put it in the fridge whilst you make the cheesy chocolatey bit

5) Put both tubs of cream cheese in a bowl and mix the rest of the Nutella together

6) Once all mixed together and it tastes good, put it on top of the biscuit mix

7) Leave in the fridge overnight and bish bash bosh you are done ❤️

You can put a chocolate orange on top or grate white chocolate on top but whatever you want!!

So, do enjoy that. You can always eat it whilst reading the book for August in the book club too 😜

It’s Not You: How to Identify and Heal from Narcissistic People by Dr Ramani Durvasula. Dr Ramani is an expert in narcissistic abuse (including non-intimate relationships like a parent or your boss!)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1785045024/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21

I’d love to see you over there 📚

We started 1 August (but never too late to join as access to all previous books and chapters available to all members)

Link to join below ⬇️

So until next week,

Sending you SO much love

Sa

THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB

https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclub

FREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorce

https://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/

INSTAGRAM

https://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a text

In this episode of The Divorce Chapter, I look at finding "happily ever after" after divorce, particularly focusing on the potential for new relationships and maybe even saying ‘I do’ again.

Inspired by my goddaughter's wedding today, I reflect on the value of love and commitment, even after the heartbreak of a failed marriage. My marriage broke down because my ex-husband didn’t value marriage as I did, not because marriage itself is screwed as a concept.

In this episode, I share some personal anecdotes, practical advice, and uplifting insights to help you think about navigating the world of new relationships post-divorce.

Here’s a sneak peek of what we cover:

- The importance of taking time to heal

- Rediscovering and loving yourself first

- Setting boundaries and knowing your worth

- The necessity of vulnerability in building new relationships

- Practical steps to move forward with an open heart

“Every relationship is unique, and just because one marriage didn’t work out doesn’t mean the concept of marriage is flawed.”

I honestly believe that our past doesn’t define our future, and there’s always hope for a beautiful new chapter in our lives. Whether you're resolutely single like me or if you do want to venture into marriage 2.0, this episode has something for everyone.

I hope you enjoy it 🌸

(and if you do love it then please please please could you rate and review the episode too 💕)

Sending you SO much love

Sarah x

🌸

P.S. For more on moving on a creating our new chapter, we have chosen August’s book over in the Divorce Book Club;

It’s Not You: How to Identify and Heal from Narcissistic People by Dr Ramani Durvasula. Dr Ramani is an expert in narcissistic abuse (including non-intimate relationships like a parent or your boss!)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1785045024/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21

I’d love to see you over there 📚

We start 1 August

Link to join below ⬇️

THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB

https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclub

FREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorce

https://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/

INSTAGRAM

https://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a text

In this episode, we take a look at hyper-independence, a common but often overlooked issue that many of us face after going through a divorce.

It maybe starts as a new found independence and autonomy after breaking free from a co-dependent toxic relationship…. But soon ends up going to the other extreme where we refuse to ask for help, and become SO self-reliant…. To the point it can just get too overwhelming.

If you’ve ever found yourself feeling like you need to handle EVERYTHING on your own, this episode is for you.

What to Expect in This Episode:

• Understanding Hyper-Independence: What is hyper-independence and how does it differ from healthy self-reliance?
• I share my own journey from codependency to hyper-independence and some of the lessons I’ve learned along the way in getting back to healthy independence.
• Learn actionable strategies to strike a balance of healthy independence.

Divorce can be a challenging journey, but you really don’t have to navigate it alone.

This episode is packed with insights and advice to help you find your path to healthy independence and emotional well-being.

I hope you enjoy it 🌸

(and if you do love it then please please please could you rate and review the episode too 💕)

Sending you SO much love

Sarah x

🌸

P.S. For more on moving on a creating our new chapter, we have chosen August’s book over in the Divorce Book Club;

It’s Not You: How to Identify and Heal from Narcissistic People by Dr Ramani Durvasula. Dr Ramani is an expert in narcissistic abuse (including non-intimate relationships like a parent or your boss!)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1785045024/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21

I’d love to see you over there 📚

We start 1 August

Link to join below ⬇️

THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB

https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclub

FREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorce

https://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/

INSTAGRAM

https://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter

Send us a text

In this week’s episode of The Divorce Chapter podcast, I had a fantastic conversation with Elisa Lindstrom, a decluttering expert and founder of "Dear Loves Just Breathe."

In our discussion, Elisa shares her personal journey, where she began her own decluttering journey amidst a challenging divorce.

Elisa's insights into the emotional and practical aspects of decluttering are invaluable, especially for those navigating a difficult divorce.

Key Highlights:

- The emotional challenges of decluttering during a divorce.

- Practical tips on what to declutter (and what not to).

- Handling emotionally charged items like wedding photos and gifts.

- Creating a peaceful and intentional home environment post-divorce.

- Information on Elisa’s decluttering programs.

Elisa emphasizes the importance of intentionally creating a home that feels safe and full of love, which is essential during and after a divorce. Her advice is not just about organising your space but also about finding peace and reconnecting with yourself.

Don’t forget to check out her website too for more information on her decluttering programmes.

www.dearlovesjustbreathe.com

The book Elisa mentions in the episode too is:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0809225379/ref=nosim?tag=thedivorceb00-21

I hope you enjoy the episode - and if you do, please share it with someone who might benefit from it ❤️

Loads of Love

Sarah x

🌸

THE DIVORCE BOOK CLUB

https://patreon.com/thedivorcebookclub

FREE Guide to the 10 MUST read divorce books after divorce

https://thedivorcebookclub.com/free-resources/

INSTAGRAM

https://www.instagram.com/thedivorcechapter