Single Mother Survival Guide

As single mums, it's so easy to start the new year feeling like we need to do more - being more productive, achieving more, earning more... But what if your "best year yet" wasn't about doing more… but feeling more? More joy, more peace, more confidence?... In this episode, we'll take a step back and reflect before we reset. You'll be guided through gentle self-reflection questions to help you understand what's working in your life, what's draining your energy, and what truly matters most to you this year. Because creating your best year starts with clarity. Let's make this the year that feels good, inside and out. Links mentioned in the episode:  To go with this episode, I've created a free Design Your Best Year Yet Reflection Guide - a gentle companion to help you pause, reflect, and set intentions with clarity. Click HERE to download your free guide and begin shaping a year that feels balanced, meaningful, and aligned with the woman you're becoming. Check out Episode 435 - Lessons learned in 2024 and how to apply them in 2025. Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

This week, I'm inviting you to step out of the chaos, away from the never-ending to-do lists, court dates, and laundry piles, and to tune into that deeper part of yourself, the part that dares to want more, even after divorce or loss. In this epsiode, I talk about how to start dreaming again when survival mode has taken over, and why you're worthy of building a vision for the life you truly want. If you've ever felt that dreaming is impossible after a major change, this episode will offer support, hope, guidance, and a reminder: your future can be so much bigger and better than your past. Links mentioned in the episode:  Ready to start dreaming again? Download your free guide HERE. This gentle resource is created to help you rediscover what's possible and start building a vision for brighter days ahead. Give yourself permission to want more, because you deserve it. Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

As we welcome 2026, I want to take a moment to share from the heart what I truly wish for you this year. This isn't about setting resolutions, making lists, or creating strategies, it's simply about the hope I carry for you in the months ahead. This year doesn't need to be perfect. May you give yourself permission to make it your own, to choose yourself, and to step into the new year with gentleness and self-kindness. Here's to a year that's about you - because you deserve it!! Links mentioned in the episode:  Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

As this year comes to a close, I've been reflecting on the lessons it's brought me, and honestly, it's been a big one. A year of growth, surrender, unexpected changes, and a lot of learning. In today's episode, I'm sharing the top ten things this year has taught me - not because I've mastered them, but because there's something powerful in pausing, looking back, and acknowledging how far we've come. These reflections aren't about perfection or ticking boxes; they're about self-awareness, compassion, and recognising the woman you've become through every challenge and every small win. And I'd love for you to do this exercise too. You might be surprised by how much strength, resilience, and quiet transformation this year has held for you. Links mentioned in the episode:  Check out Episode 435 - Lessons learned in 2024 and how to apply them in 2025 To go with this episode, I've created a free Year-End Reflection Guide to help you unpack your own lessons from the past year. It's filled with gentle prompts, journaling questions, and space to explore what you're proud of, what you're releasing, and what you want to carry into the new year. Download your free guide HERE and take a moment to honour your own journey: Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.    

Christmas can look and feel so different for each of us. You might be waking up to squeals of excitement and wrapping paper everywhere, or you might be on your own, missing your children, holding back tears (or letting them flow). You might be somewhere in between. However this season finds you, I just want you to know that you are not alone. In this short episode, I share a gentle Christmas pep talk. This is your reminder that you are seen, you are supported, and you're doing an incredibe job.  Links mentioned in the episode:  Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

The holidays can feel complicated when Christmas is split between two homes. Whether it's your first year sharing custody or your fifth, it's normal for big emotions, tricky logistics, and even guilt to creep in. You might feel torn when you can't be with your children on certain days, and they might feel the same pull between two households. In this episode, I remind you that your best is enough, and share six practical strategies to help your children not just survive, but thrive, through a two-household Christmas.  Links mentioned in the episode:  I've created a free resource guide to accompany this episode, filled with strategies to help you feel more grounded and confident during the festive season. Inside, you'll find gentle reminders, practical tips, and ways to make Christmas a meaningful time for your children, even when it's shared between two homes. Click HERE to get your free copy today. Resources shared in the episode:  Episode 327 - Developing new holiday traditions Episode 242 - Three common co-parenting styles Episode 353 - Four common co-parenting issues and effective strategies to set you up for success! Episode 356 - Ten practical tools for setting boundaries with your ex to nurture a healthy co-parenting relationship Episode 373 - How to handle co-parenting with a narcissistic ex Episode 375 - Five co-parenting challenges to work on for your child's well-being Episode 462 - The top 5 things co-parents argue about and how to manage them Episode 467 - Seeking professional help when dealing with a high-conflict ex Episode 484 - When Christmas Doesn't Feel Merry - Grief, Loss & Letting Go Blog Post: Ten strategies for single mums to navigate Christmas season sadness Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

The holiday season is often seen as a time of warmth and togetherness, but for many single mums, family gatherings can feel overwhelming. From navigating tense dynamics to addressing old conflicts, these moments can bring up anxiety or discomfort. In this episode, we'll share practical tips to help you approach holiday gatherings with grace, confidence, and strategies that prioritise your well-being and your children's happiness. Let's turn family time into an opportunity for connection, not stress. Links mentioned in the episode:  Feeling anxious about upcoming holiday gatherings? Click HERE to download our free resource guide for practical tips on navigating tricky family dynamics with confidence and ease.  Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

The holiday season is a time for giving, but it's easy to get swept up in the hustle and lose sight of its deeper meaning. In this episode, we explore how single mums can foster gratitude and generosity in their children while creating cherished holiday memories. From charity work to community service, learn practical ways to encourage giving back and instilling important values in your family. Let's dive into how to make this season truly meaningful for you and your children. Links mentioned in the episode:  Click HERE to download our free resource guide, filled with tips and ideas to inspire gratitude and giving in your household this festive season. Start spreading the holiday cheer today! Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

Resentment can feel heavy - like carrying around invisible baggage that weighs you down, day after day. Maybe it's anger towards an ex, frustration with family, or disappointment about how life turned out. Whatever form it takes, resentment steals your energy and blocks your joy. In this episode, we're unpacking what resentment really is, why it lingers, and how to begin releasing it - gently and intentionally. I'll guide you through a simple self-assessment to recognise where resentment might be showing up in your body, mind, or relationships, and share practical tools to help you move from frustration to freedom. Links mentioned in the episode:  I've created a free Letting Go of Resentment & Reclaiming Joy Guide - your gentle companion to help you work through old hurts and begin healing. Download your guide HERE and take your first step towards emotional freedom. Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

In this episode, we dig deep into society's idealised image of family. We explore where this cookie-cutter vision comes from, how it's shaped expectations, and why it often leaves single mums and their children feeling like outsiders. And what can we do about it? It's time to shine a light on the diverse, modern families who prove daily that love, resilience, and success aren't limited to one outdated model, and how we can help change the views of society.  Links mentioned in the episode:  Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

When was the last time you truly paused and asked yourself, "How am I really doing?" As single mums, it's easy to get caught in survival mode; you're holding everything together for everyone else, while quietly ignoring how you're actually feeling. But when we suppress emotions, they don't go away - they simply pile up, turning into overwhelm, burnout, or resentment. This episode is your reminder that emotions aren't the enemy - ignoring them is. So, take a moment for you, and let's learn how to tune in, reset, and move forward with more self-awareness and compassion. Links mentioned in the episode:  Alongside this episode, I've created a free Emotional Check-In Resource Guide to help you put everything we talk about into practice. Download your free guide HERE and start your own gentle check-in today Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

In this episode, we dive into the complicated world of social media and its growing influence on our children's lives. We look at both the positives and the pitfalls of kids being online, and share why it's vital for parents to stay involved and aware. You'll get practical ideas for setting healthy boundaries, opening up honest conversations, and helping your children develop the tools they need to use social media wisely. Whether your child is just starting to ask for an account or you're already navigating tricky teen dynamics, this episode offers guidance and reassurance. Links mentioned in the episode:  Get instant access to the free resource guide packed with actionable advice. Download it HERE and give your family a head start on safer, smarter social media use. Listen to Episode 413 - Supporting kids and their mental health, with Wayne Holdsworth Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program. Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE. Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum. Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

As a single mum, keeping a positive mindset can feel like a daily challenge, especially when life throws curveballs. One of the most powerful tools I've found for shifting perspective and creating inner calm is acceptance. In this episode, I share how acceptance can transform your mindset, bring more peace into your emotions, and help you let go of the weight of trying to control what you can't. Acceptance doesn't mean giving up; it means choosing serenity, clarity, and empowerment, even in difficult circumstances. Links mentioned in the episode:  To go with this episode, I've put together a free resource guide as a little extra support for when life feels especially overwhelming. Inside, you'll find gentle reminders and practical strategies to help you practise acceptance day to day, and create more calm and clarity in the middle of life's challenges. Download your free copy HERE and let it walk beside you as you navigate this season. Check out Episode 220 - Mindset tool #3 Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

In this episode, I'm joined by Lindsey from the US, a courageous single mum to a beautiful baby girl. Together, we talk candidly about her journey and the turning points that shaped her path: How Lindsey met her ex-husband, the father of her child How problems in their marriage began to surface Feeling burned out and experiencing resentment in the relationship Putting her dreams on hold to support her husband's ambitions The day her husband asked for a divorce when she was seven months pregnant The signs she'd overlooked that indicated the marriage was not okay Adjusting to life as a new single mum How she found hope despite everything that's happened The importance of surrounding herself with the right people and community Lindsey's story is a true testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the power of community for anyone rebuilding after heartbreak. Links mentioned in the episode:  You can connect with Lindsey on Instagram here.  Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

As a single mum, it's often family, especially grandparents, who step in, providing love, time and support during the tough moments of solo parenting. This episode explores how this network of care can be a true lifeline, making the parenting journey less lonely and much more manageable. Yet, what do you do when helpful hands begin to cross boundaries? We look at when sincere support transforms into overreach, leaving you feeling undermined or second-guessed in your own parenting role. Discover practical strategies for setting boundaries, preserving your confidence and nurturing healthy, respectful family relationships for everyone involved Links mentioned in the episode:  Discover simple, effective ways to set healthy boundaries with family support. Click HERE to get your free guide and feel more confident as a single mum. Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

This week, I'm joined by Chrissy, a resilient single mum of two from Australia. In this episode, Chrissy gets real about her journey through heartbreak, healing, and hope. She opens up about: Meeting her ex-partner and how things began Losing herself in the relationship, especially after a traumatic birth and the impact of her ex's behaviour Navigating postnatal depression, ADHD, and the unique challenges of having her second baby during Covid, feeling completely trapped The brave decision to separate, the realities of co-parenting, and what it took to start again Why supportive community, and knowing you're not alone, makes all the difference Her inspiring perspective on designing the life you truly want, even after the storm Chrissy's story is proof that there's so much strength in starting over. Tune in for practical insights and a reminder that the right support can change everything. Links mentioned in the episode:  You can connect with Chrissy Instagram. Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

Having my son Sebastian this year has brought back so many memories of when my daughter was a baby, and it's been surprisingly triggering at times. By the time she was five months old, I had already split from her dad, moved interstate, and was in the thick of setting up a new life as a single mum. Reflecting on that time in my life now, with the hindsight of experience, has left me wondering: what would I do differently if I were starting my single mum journey again? In this episode, I share five things I would approach in a new way with the hope that my lessons can help you.  Links mentioned in the episode:  Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

In this week's episode, I'm bringing you Part 2 of my conversation with Annie, a single mum who has walked through immense challenges and come out stronger. In this instalment, Annie opens up about life as a single mum and the reinvention of herself, including the surgery that transformed her quality of life and the importance of surrounding herself with the right people. We talk about the struggles and shifts in self-image, and the unexpected gift of growth that single motherhood can bring. Annie also shares the next chapter of her journey - finding new love! Her story is an inspiring reminder that even after deep pain, there is hope, healing, and the possibility of new beginnings. Links mentioned in the episode:  Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

This week, I'm sharing Part 1 of my powerful interview with Annie, a single mum who courageously opens up about her journey. Annie has faced more than her fair share of challenges. Today, she stands as a thriving, empowered woman who has reclaimed her voice and her personal power. In this episode, Annie and I talk about: How she met her ex Navigating difficult times together Coping with his alcoholism Discovering he was gay and the grief that followed Living with the uncertainty around his sexuality His lack of support for their children Facing the ongoing impact of emotional and financial abuse It's a story of strength, survival, and finding yourself again after deep hurt. Stay tuned for Part 2 of Annie's journey, coming next week. **Please note this episode and topic may act as a trigger for some people, and this episode is unsuitable to listen to within earshot of children.** Links mentioned in the episode:  Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.

For many single mums, Father's Day can feel less like a celebration and more like an emotional hurdle. It can bring up feelings of sadness, frustration, or even resentment (whether your children's dad is still in their lives or completely absent). In this episode, I share gentle, practical ways to navigate the day: supporting your children's emotions, caring for your own wellbeing, and finding an approach that works for your unique family situation. This is about allowing yourself to feel what you feel, while showing up in a way that feels aligned for you and your kids. Links mentioned in the episode:  I've created a free resource guide to help single mums navigate Father's Day with confidence and compassion. It's filled with practical tips, thoughtful prompts, and ideas for making the day easier for both you and your children. Click HERE to download your copy and feel more prepared this year. Download the E-book, I'm A Single Mum... Now What? - HERE Click HERE to learn more about the Trauma coaching and support group program.  Join the Thrive Tribe waitlist HERE.  Click HERE to join the free Facebook Group, The Single Mother Survival Guide Support Forum.  Download the E-book – Thirteen single mothers share their struggles, top tips, and their favourite things about being a single mother – HERE. To contact Julia, email: julia@singlemothersurvivalguide.com. Visit us at Single Mother Survival Guide. And join the email list there too. Or connect with Single Mother Survival Guide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.