Divorce with Sam and Leah

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 holidayBecause 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/servicesLearn 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 againRebuild confidence and trust in yourselfModel resilience and healthy boundaries for your kidsIt’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

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 sanitySet and maintain strong boundariesCommunicate effectively without getting sucked into chaosModel healthy relationships for your kidsStop 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

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

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 kidsTips for coping with shared custody and missing your kidsHealthy ways to fill your time and ease the lonelinessWhy 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 financesHow “weaponized incompetence” delays the legal processWhy that house might not be the asset you think it isHow to untangle financial messes with the right professionalsWhy speed, communication, and transparency matter more than everReal 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 upWhy your inner critic isn't actually your voice10 powerful tools to stop the spiral and start rebuilding confidenceHow to start talking to yourself like someone you loveBecause 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