Specialist family lawyers Benjamin Bryant and Heather McKinnon and their special guests answer your questions about divorce, separation, children's matters, property settlement and family court. They empower you to make wise decisions for yourself and your family.
Things people do wrong in child custody disputes - BEST OF
When emotions are running high after separation, it's easy to make decisions that feel right in the moment, but can make parenting disputes much harder to resolve. Usually, it's not because the parents don't care about their children, it's because they're navigating one of the most stressful times of their lives. In this episode, Heather McKinnon and I look at some of the most common mistakes parents make during parenting disputes, why those mistakes happen, and what can be done differently to keep the focus where it belongs on the children.
We've chosen to bring this episode back because its message is just as relevant today as it was when we first recorded it.
Our little understanding early on can often prevent unnecessary conflict later. If you're currently navigating parenting arrangements or supporting someone who is, we hope this conversation provides practical guidance and reassurance. Let's revisit the conversation.
27 Aug 2026
Mediation with Alison Osmand: What is it and how to make it work for your family
For many people going through separation, the idea of mediation or family dispute resolution can feel daunting. What actually happens in the room? Will you have to face your former partner? What if they dominate the conversation, refuse to compromise, or you become overwhelmed?
In this episode, Ben and Heather are joined by Alison Osmand from Osmand Family Mediation to explain what mediation is, how it works and what separating couples can expect from the process. Alison brings more than 30 years of experience in family law, including time as a Judicial Registrar and Senior Judicial Registrar in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.
Together, they take some of the mystery out of mediation and family dispute resolution, and discuss how preparation, structure and the right support can help people work towards practical outcomes. Topics covered include:
What mediation and family dispute resolution actually involve.
When mediation may be required during a family law matter.
What happens before and during a mediation session.
How mediators manage difficult dynamics, including conflict, strong emotions and one person dominating the conversation.
Why preparation, legal advice and a clear understanding of your goals can make a significant difference.
What happens if mediation does not result in an agreement, and the options available from there.
30 Jul 2026
Can the Children Decide?
One of the most common, and emotionally loaded, questions people ask during separation is, "Can the children decide?" Can they choose where to live, and who to spend time with, and how much weight should be given to their wishes.
In this episode, Ben and Heather are joined by clinical psychologist Kate Gray to discuss children's wishes in separation. Kate is Director of Family Focus Psychology in Melbourne and works closely with children and families navigating separation.
Kate helps us to understand the psychological side of children's wishes, including how influence, pressure and loyalty conflicts can quietly shape what children say they want. Topics covered include:
The influences at play for children during separation.
How a child's age and stage of development affect their ability to form and express genuine wishes.
Situations where children are influenced without any parent meaning to pressure them
Legally, how children's wishes are treated in family law.
How the law balances listening to a child's views and protecting them for emotional burden.
What helps children feel safe to express their thoughts without feeling they're choosing sides.
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5.0 / 5
5 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 30 / 100
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Quality
47
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YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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