The Parenting Mistake That Hurts More Than You Think
In this powerful episode, Leah and Sam break down the long-term impact that a lack of boundaries can have on your children—and why this is one of the most important parts of healing after divorce. From emotional instability to toxic relationship patterns, your kids are absorbing everything. But here’s the good news: you have the power to model something different. Something healthier.We’re diving deep into what your kids learn when boundaries are weak or non-existent, and how you can start shifting the dynamic today—not just for yourself, but for them. Whether you’ve struggled with over-explaining, giving in, or walking on eggshells, this conversation is your reminder that setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s essential.
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21:15
Your Kids Are Watching: The Boundary Mistakes That Keep You Stuck
Think being the calm, accommodating parent makes you look good in court? Think again. In this episode, we’re calling out the 5 boundary mistakes moms make when trying to survive a high-conflict co-parent—and how those choices are quietly impacting your kids.From letting your ex call the shots to parenting out of guilt, these missteps might feel like the “right” thing in the moment, but they’re sending powerful messages to your child about power, self-worth, and relationships.Tune in to learn:Why over-explaining your decisions backfiresHow letting guilt lead your parenting affects long-term accountabilityThe hidden damage of always responding to conflictAnd the one mistake even strong moms don’t realize they’re makingThis isn’t about shame—it’s about awareness. Because your kids are watching, and what you model matters.
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21:56
You’re Not Failing, You’re Surviving: Why Missing an Event Doesn’t Make You a Bad Parent
As a divorced parent — especially in high-conflict situations — it’s easy to spiral into guilt when you can’t attend every game, recital, or school function. But missing a moment doesn’t make you a bad parent. It means you’re human. It means you're surviving.In this compassionate and empowering episode, we unpack the most common false beliefs divorced parents tell themselves — and reveal the truth that brings peace, clarity, and perspective. From the fear that your child will think you don’t love them, to the pressure of overcompensating for a high-conflict ex, we’re dismantling the guilt and reminding you: your worth is not measured by your presence at every event.You’ll walk away with:Practical language to use with your child when you can’t attend somethingReassurance that your love is built on daily presence, not performanceTools to resist the toxic pressure to prove yourselfA reminder that self-care, work, and survival are not failures — they’re part of responsible parentingIf you’ve ever beat yourself up for not doing “enough,” this episode is here to remind you that you already are.
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27:29
Less Than: The Silent Shift That Ends Marriages
In this raw and eye-opening episode, we unpack the subtle but deeply damaging patterns that quietly unravel marriages from the inside out — often long before the word “divorce” is ever spoken.From dismissive communication and financial control to parenting criticism and emotional neglect, these silent shifts don’t always scream abuse, but they slowly chip away at connection, confidence, and self-worth. If you’ve ever felt “less than” in your relationship — less heard, less valued, less respected — this episode will hit home.We cover:The power of micro-invalidations and how they breed resentmentWhy financial control isn’t just about money — it’s about dominanceThe emotional fallout of being undermined as a parentHow intellectual superiority becomes a subtle form of abuseWhat happens when praise, affection, and appreciation disappearWhether you’re healing after divorce or starting to recognize red flags in your relationship, this conversation will help you put words to what you've felt, trust your instincts, and remember what you deserve.www.samandleah.com
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30:17
The Custody Closet Controversy
In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most unexpectedly heated topics in co-parenting: clothes. Sam’s TikTok video on this went viral and the comment section? Whew—let’s just say people had feelings.We’re unpacking the strong opinions around whether or not parents should send clothes back and forth between homes, reading some of the wildest (and most relatable) comments, and sharing our own thoughts and experiences.At the end of the day, it’s not really about the socks or the sweatshirt—it’s about control, communication, and what’s truly best for the kids. So let’s talk about it.
Welcome to our podcast, a heartfelt and insightful series hosted by two certified divorce coaches who have personally experienced the complexities of divorce. Our podcast is a blend of personal insights and professional expertise, focusing on topics like rebuilding self-esteem, mastering the art of co-parenting with a high-conflict ex, and fostering resilience in both yourself and your kids. Our goal is to offer you a sanctuary of healing, tools, and practical advice. Join us in transforming your divorce experience into a journey of personal growth and empowerment.
Ireland