Let's Talk Divorce

About Let's Talk Divorce

Let's Talk Divorce is the podcast for anyone navigating separation, divorce or co-parenting. Join Catherine Cooke, Divorce Coach and Family Mediator, for honest conversations, practical advice and expert insights to help you feel more informed, more confident and less alone. With solo episodes and guest interviews, we'll explore the emotional and practical realities of family change, from deciding what to do next to rebuilding life after divorce and creating healthier co-parenting relationships.

Publisher

Catherine Cooke

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

23 Jul 2026

Latest episode

9 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

12 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   9 Oct 2026

   Let's Talk.... Difficult Conversations

   Difficult conversations are almost impossible to avoid during separation and divorce. Money, the house, arrangements for the children, boundaries, holidays. Even conversations that should be fairly straightforward can quickly turn into an argument. In this episode of Let's Talk Divorce, I explore how to approach difficult conversations in a way that gives them the best chance of staying productive. From preparing before you start and keeping the conversation focused, to dealing with personal digs, over-explaining and knowing when it's time to stop engaging. I also look at an important shift that can make these conversations much easier: you don't need your ex to agree with you in order to communicate clearly or put a boundary in place. In this episode: How to prepare for a difficult conversation before you have it Why deciding what you actually need to achieve can stop conversations going off track Choosing the right time, and the right way, to discuss difficult subjects Why trying to make your ex understand your point of view can sometimes make things worse How to avoid being pulled into old arguments and personal accusations Why you don't need to respond to every comment, criticism or accusation How to stop over-explaining and defending your decisions What boundaries around communication actually look like How to recognise when a conversation is no longer productive Dealing with angry, lengthy or provocative messages from your ex What to do when the other person simply won't engage How to keep conversations about your children focused on what they need Why not participating in unnecessary conflict isn't the same as avoiding conflict Whether you're preparing to separate, going through a divorce or trying to co-parent with an ex who can be difficult to communicate with, this episode will give you practical ways to approach difficult conversations, reduce unnecessary conflict and feel more in control of how you respond. For more support and free guides, check out my website: www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk (http://www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk/) Keywords: difficult conversations during divorce, communicating with an ex, divorce communication, high conflict divorce, boundaries with an ex, co-parenting communication, difficult ex, divorce arguments, reducing conflict in divorce, communication after separation, divorce coach, divorce support, separation support, family mediation, co-parenting boundaries, divorce podcast, England and Wales.

2. 

   2 Oct 2026

   Let's Talk.... Child Arrangements and Shared Care (with a solicitor)

   When parents separate, deciding what happens with the children can be one of the hardest parts to work through. Where will they live? How much time will they spend with each parent? And what happens when you simply can't agree? In this episode of Let's Talk Divorce, I’m joined by Rebecca Ranson from Nicholls Solicitors to talk about child arrangements after separation and divorce, and some of the questions parents commonly have about how these decisions are made. We discuss whether the courts assume it should be 50/50, how the courts approach child arrangements and what parental responsibility means in practice. We also look at some of the more difficult situations parents can find themselves dealing with, including working around shifts and what happens when a child says they don't want to go to the other parent's home. In this episode: What parental responsibility means after separation or divorce How child arrangements are decided when parents separate How the courts approach shared care Whether shared care automatically means children spend equal time with each parent Whether a child's wishes and feelings are taken into account How children's ages and circumstances can affect the consideration given to their views Creating workable arrangements when one parent works shifts or irregular hours What happens when parents can't agree on arrangements What to do when your child refuses to go to the other parent's house When parents may need legal advice about child arrangements If you're trying to work out arrangements for your children after separation, this episode will give you a clearer understanding of some of the legal considerations involved and the questions you may need to think about when deciding what happens next. If you would like to talk to Rebecca or one of the other solicitors at Nicholls solicitors, visit: https://nichollssolicitors.com/ For more divorce and separation support and free guides, visit: ⁠www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk⁠ (http://www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk) Important: This episode discusses family law in England and Wales. The information shared is general information only and should not be treated as legal advice. Family law differs in Scotland, Northern Ireland and other jurisdictions. If you need advice about your individual circumstances, speak to a suitably qualified family law professional. Keywords: child arrangements after divorce, child arrangements order, shared care, shared parenting, parental responsibility, children and divorce, child refuses contact, child refuses to see parent, co-parenting after divorce, child custody UK, family court, children's wishes and feelings, divorce with children, separation with children, family law England and Wales, divorce support, divorce podcast.

3. 

   25 Sept 2026

   Let's Talk..... Real Life Divorce Stories (Helen)

   Leaving a relationship you know isn't working isn't always as simple as deciding you've had enough. In this episode of Let's Talk Divorce, I'm joined by Helen, who shares her real-life divorce story and speaks openly about the reality of leaving a toxic relationship with someone she still loved. Helen talks about the rollercoaster of good days and bad days, and why it took her so long to finally make the decision to leave. She shares what it was like setting up a new home with her four children, the difficulties that followed with her ex, and how they have gradually found a more effective way to co-parent. We also talk about where Helen is now, what she's learned from everything she went through and how the experience has shaped the person she is today. In this episode: Loving someone while knowing the relationship isn't healthy The good days and bad days that can make leaving so difficult Why making the decision to leave can take much longer than people realise Starting again and creating a new home with four children Dealing with the difficulties that can continue after separation The reality of navigating a difficult relationship with an ex How Helen and her ex have begun to co-parent more effectively What Helen has learned about herself through divorce How her experience has shaped the life she has today Looking back on a difficult relationship from the other side If you're questioning your own relationship, trying to find the courage to leave, dealing with a difficult separation or wondering whether co-parenting with your ex will ever get easier, Helen's story is an honest reminder that these situations are rarely straightforward. For more support and free guides, visit my website: www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk (http://www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk) If you would like to know more about the work that Helen does visit: https://www.instagram.com/igniteandnurture/ or https://www.facebook.com/helen.colquhoun.75 Keywords: real life divorce story, divorce story, toxic relationship, leaving a toxic relationship, deciding to leave a marriage, leaving someone you love, divorce with children, starting again after divorce, difficult separation, difficult ex, co-parenting after divorce, co-parenting with an ex, life after divorce, divorce support, separation support, divorce coach, divorce podcast, England and Wales.

4. 

   18 Sept 2026

   Let's Talk....About How to Tell Your Spouse You Want a Divorce

   Telling your spouse that you want a divorce can feel like one of the hardest conversations you'll ever have. Even when you've thought about leaving for months, or years. Actually saying the words can feel very different. In this episode of Let's Talk Divorce, I talk about how to prepare for that conversation, how to approach it clearly and respectfully, and what to expect afterwards. I also look at the important difference between a conversation that's going to be emotionally difficult and one where there may be genuine concerns about your safety. In this episode: How to know whether you're ready to have the conversation or still working out what you want Why getting clear on your reasons matters, without feeling you have to prove your case Practical things to think about before telling your spouse How to think about safety if you're worried about your spouse's reaction Choosing the right time and place to have the conversation What you might actually say when you've decided you want to separate Dealing with shock, anger, blame, bargaining and promises to change What to think about before telling your children, family and friends The emotional aftermath — including relief, guilt, grief and second-guessing yourself Which professionals might support you as you work out what happens next Whether you've made the decision to leave or you're approaching the point where you know this conversation needs to happen, this episode will help you think about how to handle it as clearly, respectfully and safely as your circumstances allow. Questioning whether you are ready to leave and support through that process is something I support clients with. For more support and free guides, check out my website: www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk (http://www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk) Keywords: telling your spouse you want a divorce, how to ask for a divorce, leaving a marriage, separation advice, considering divorce, divorce conversation, preparing for separation, divorce coach, family mediation, divorce support, ending a marriage, early stages of divorce, separation support, divorce podcast, England and Wales. Safety Advice: If you are worried about your safety, please get support. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/getting-help-for-domestic-violence/ Disclaimer: This episode provides general information and guidance and is not a substitute for legal or therapeutic advice. If you're concerned that telling your spouse you want to separate could put you or your children at risk, seek specialist domestic abuse support and advice before having the conversation. Every situation is different, and you should seek advice appropriate to your own circumstances.

5. 

   11 Sept 2026

   Let's Talk.... Divorce Guilt

   Divorce guilt can show up at every stage of separation. Before you leave, while you're going through divorce and long after the relationship itself has ended. In this episode of Let's Talk Divorce, I explore the different ways guilt can affect the decisions we make. From feeling guilty about leaving and worrying about the impact on your children, to taking responsibility for your ex's emotions, feeling bad about setting boundaries, and even experiencing guilt when life starts to feel good again. I also look at an important question: does feeling guilty actually mean you've done something wrong? In this episode: The difference between feeling guilty and actually doing something wrong The guilt that can keep you stuck when you're considering leaving Worrying about the impact of separation on your children Guilt when you're the person who chose to end the marriage Blaming yourself when the decision to divorce wasn't yours Why guilt can affect the decisions you make during divorce Feeling guilty for setting boundaries with your ex Co-parenting guilt and taking responsibility for things you can't control Why you might feel guilty when you finally start feeling happy again How to recognise when responsibility is genuinely yours - and when you're carrying something that isn't Whether you're quietly questioning your marriage, going through a divorce or trying to co-parent and rebuild your life afterwards, this episode will help you look at the guilt you're carrying and ask whether it really belongs to you. For more support and free guides, check out my website: www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk (http://www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk/) Keywords: divorce guilt, guilt after separation, leaving a marriage, divorce coach, guilt about children and divorce, co-parenting guilt, difficult divorce, divorce support, separation support, family mediation, divorce emotions, moving on after divorce, divorce podcast, England and Wales. Disclaimer: This episode provides general information and guidance and is not a substitute for legal or therapeutic advice. Every situation is different, and you should seek advice appropriate to your own circumstances.

6. 

   4 Sept 2026

   Let's Talk..... Real Life Divorce Stories ('B')

   Many people assume that if a marriage isn't unhappy, divorce should be straightforward. But leaving is rarely simple, even when it's the right decision. In this episode of Let's Talk Divorce, I talk to 'B', who was married for 13 years in what she describes as a relatively happy relationship. She shares what led her to the decision to leave anyway, what it was like to tell her husband. 'B' talks of some of the challenges she faced during a difficult divorce, including his poor behaviour which was occasionally abusive. She talks honestly about the lessons she learned along the way, and how she and her child now have two happy parents, living separate, settled lives. Making the decision to leave a marriage that started out well Planning to tell your partner it's over Navigating a divorce that didn't go smoothly Protecting your peace and your children when things get difficult The lessons learned along the way Why two happy, separate parents can be better for a child than one unhappy household Rebuilding a life after leaving Whether you're quietly questioning a marriage that looks okay on paper, in the middle of a difficult separation, or trying to rebuild afterwards, this episode is a reminder that it is possible to come out the other side, settled, and happier. For more support and free guides check out my website www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk (https://www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk) Keywords: leaving a happy marriage, divorce coach, difficult divorce, co-parenting after separation, family mediation, child wellbeing, divorce support, family separation, emotional wellbeing, divorce podcast, England and Wales. Disclaimer: This episode provides general information and guidance and is not a substitute for legal or therapeutic advice. Every situation is different, and you should seek advice appropriate to your own circumstances.

7. 

   28 Aug 2026

   Let's Talk... What Children Need During Divorce

   One of the biggest fears parents have when they're questioning their relationship or going through divorce is this: "What will this do to my children?" In this episode of Let's Talk Divorce, I explore what children really need before, during and after separation. Drawing on my experience as a former primary headteacher, qualified family mediator and divorce coach, I share what research tells us about how children experience divorce, along with practical advice to help you support them through family change. You'll hear why it's not divorce itself that has the greatest impact on children, but the conflict surrounding it, and why you don't have to be a perfect parent to help your children thrive. Whether staying together is always best for the children What research tells us about children and divorce Why children often notice more than parents realise The five things children really need during family change How to talk to children about separation in an age-appropriate way Why routines and consistency help children feel secure Supporting your children through co-parenting Why looking after yourself is part of looking after your children Whether you're still questioning your relationship, navigating separation or already co-parenting, this episode will help you focus on what matters most. For more support and free guides check out my website www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk Keywords: children and divorce, helping children through divorce, separation and children, co-parenting, parenting after divorce, talking to children about divorce, family mediation, divorce coach, child wellbeing, divorce support, family separation, child arrangements, emotional wellbeing, difficult co-parenting, divorce podcast, England and Wales. Disclaimer: This episode provides general information and guidance and is not a substitute for legal or therapeutic advice. Every family is different, and if you have concerns about your own circumstances, you should seek advice appropriate to your situation.

8. 

   21 Aug 2026

   Let's Talk....School After Separation; What Co-Parents Need to Know

   Back to school can be a bigger transition for separated families than people expect. New routines, school communications, uniforms, handovers and parents' evenings can all become sources of stress when two households are involved. In this episode of Let's Talk Divorce, I look at how separated parents can make the school year run more smoothly by getting organised early, keeping communication factual and making sure both parents have access to the information they need. I also talk about why schools should know when family circumstances have changed, what to do if communication with your co-parent is difficult, and why raising concerns early can often prevent bigger problems later. In this episode: Why back to school can feel more complicated after separation Why it's important to tell the school when your circumstances change What to actually say to school without oversharing Why both parents with parental responsibility should usually receive school information directly What to do if your co-parent isn't passing school information on Separate parents' evening appointments Practical ways to manage uniforms, school costs and equipment across two homes How to keep on top of school events, trips, forms and dates without relying on your co-parent Why simple systems can reduce unnecessary conflict Whether you've recently separated, you're already co-parenting across two homes, or school routines regularly become a source of conflict, this episode will help you put some structure around the practical side of school so that your child isn't caught in the middle. For more support and free guides, check out my website: www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk (http://www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk/) Keywords: school after divorce, back to school after separation, co-parenting and school, parental responsibility, school information for separated parents, parents evening after divorce, family mediation, difficult co-parenting, child arrangements, school communication after separation, divorce support, family separation, child wellbeing, divorce podcast, England and Wales. Disclaimer: This episode provides general information and guidance and is not a substitute for legal advice. School policies and individual circumstances may vary, and specific legal or safeguarding issues should be discussed with an appropriately qualified professional.

9. 

   14 Aug 2026

   Let's Talk... How to Deal With a Difficult Coparent

   Do you feel like every message from your co-parent turns into an argument? Does seeing their name pop up on your phone instantly make you feel anxious, angry or exhausted? If so, you're not alone. In this episode of Let's Talk Divorce, I explore why difficult co-parenting isn't just about finding the perfect words to say. It's about understanding the patterns that keep you feeling reactive and learning how to take back control of your own peace. I share some of the most common co-parenting patterns I see as a family mediator and divorce coach, along with practical strategies you can start using straight away to help you communicate more calmly and confidently. Why better communication isn't always the answer The 'Roundabout' pattern that keeps parents stuck in repeated conflict A simple Traffic Lights tool to help you decide when to respond and when to pause Why expecting your co-parent to change can leave you feeling powerless How setting healthy boundaries can actually increase conflict before things improve Why your children don't need perfect co-parenting. They need one emotionally steady parent. Practical ways to protect your own peace while supporting your children If you're tired of feeling like your co-parent controls your emotions, this episode is for you. If today's episode resonated with you, my Co-parenting Roadmap is designed to help you move beyond simply surviving difficult co-parenting. Over 12 weeks, I'll help you understand your triggers, communicate more effectively, set healthier boundaries and stop feeling like you're constantly reacting to your co-parent. Find out more here: https://www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk/coparenting-roadmap Keywords: difficult co-parenting, co-parenting after divorce, difficult ex, high-conflict co-parenting, communicating with your ex, child arrangements, separated parents, family mediation, divorce coach, parenting after separation, boundaries with an ex, co-parenting support, emotional triggers, family conflict, divorce podcast, parallel parenting, co-parenting communication, UK divorce,

10. 

    7 Aug 2026

    Let's Talk....About the Family Home in a Divorce

    One of the biggest reasons people stay in unhappy relationships is fear of what will happen to the family home. Will I lose the house in a divorce? Will everything be split 50/50? What if my name isn't on the mortgage? Will my children have to move? In this episode of Let's Talk Divorce, I explore the emotional and practical realities of what can happen to the family home during separation and divorce. I separate common myths from reality and explain some of the key legal principles that many people don't know. This episode covers: Why the family home feels like so much more than bricks and mortar The biggest fears that keep people stuck Whether everything is automatically split 50/50 What happens if your name isn't on the mortgage or title deeds The different options available for the family home after separation Why understanding your options can reduce fear and help you make informed decisions The role family mediation can play in reaching agreements For free guides and support through questioning your relationship, separation or divorce, check out my website. www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast and leave a review. It really helps more people find these conversations when they need them most.Topics covered: family home after separation, what happens to the house in divorce, divorce finances, property settlement, financial settlements, 50/50 myths, title deeds, mortgage, family mediation, separation, divorce support, divorce coach, England and Wales. Please note: This episode provides general information for England and Wales only and is not legal advice. Every family's circumstances are different, so if you're unsure about your own situation, it's important to seek professional advice.

11. 

    31 Jul 2026

    Let's Talk... School Holiday Coparenting

    School holidays can be one of the most challenging times for separated parents. From disagreements over holiday dates and routines to missing your children when they're with the other parent, it's a time when emotions can run high and conflict can easily escalate. In this episode of Let's Talk Divorce, I share practical tips to help you navigate school holiday co-parenting with greater confidence. We talk about planning ahead, communicating more effectively, managing different parenting styles, and the legal position around taking your children abroad, including when you need the other parent's permission. Whether you're newly separated or have been co-parenting for years, this episode will help you focus on what matters most - reducing conflict and supporting your children through the holidays. If difficult co-parenting is becoming exhausting and you feel like you're constantly reacting to your ex, my Co-parenting Roadmap provides step-by-step guidance to help you communicate more effectively, set healthier boundaries and take back control. Find out more at www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk Topics covered: school holiday co-parenting, child arrangements, holidays abroad, parental responsibility, communication after divorce, separated parents, divorce, family mediation, co-parenting support.

12. 

    23 Jul 2026

    Let's Talk....When Summer Doesn't Feel Like Sunshine

    Episode 1: Why Summer Doesn't Feel Like Sunshine Summer is often portrayed as a time of family fun, holidays and making happy memories. But for many people navigating separation, divorce or co-parenting, it can be one of the most emotionally challenging times of the year. In this episode, I explore why the summer holidays can bring extra pressure, from trying to hold a relationship together for the sake of the children to managing holiday arrangements, missing your children when they're with the other parent, and comparing your family life to the picture-perfect moments we see on social media. I'll also share three simple things that can help you focus on what really matters this summer, for both you and your children. Whether you're questioning your relationship, going through a divorce or adjusting to co-parenting, I hope this episode reminds you that you're not alone - and that your children don't need a perfect summer, they need a connected one. If this episode resonates with you, I'd love it if you'd follow the podcast, leave a review and share it with someone who might need to hear it. Download my free guide if you are questioning your relationship. (https://site.rightstepcoaching.co.uk/questioning-relationship ) Check out my website for more information and support. (https://www.rightstepcoaching.co.uk/) Keywords: divorce, separation, co-parenting, family change, school holidays, children's wellbeing.

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