S2 E25: Divorce out of Self Love: A Conversation with Author, Rachael Needham

In this candid episode, Rachel Needham, a career woman, single parent, mindset and relationship coach, and author of the book Blueprints for Divorce, shares her story and what led her to become a single parent. She discusses the red flags she noticed in her relationship before having kids and how those issues were already present. Rachel also talks about the expectations of marriage from religious and societal influences and how they can impact relationships. She shares her experience of ending the relationship and the response she received from others, while emphasizing the importance of self-care and self-love during and after divorce. The conversation also touches on personal growth and the concept of free will within the context of religion. Rachael also discusses her book, 'Blueprints for Divorce,' which offers guidance and support for individuals going through a divorce, in a novel way.

Takeaways

Red flags in a relationship should not be ignored, as they can indicate underlying issues that may become more pronounced after having children.

Expectations of marriage from religious and societal influences can put pressure on couples and may not align with the reality of their relationship.

Ending a relationship can be difficult, and the response from others may vary. It's important to prioritize self-care and surround yourself with supportive people.

Self-care and self-love are crucial during and after divorce to heal and rebuild a fulfilling life. Emotional safety and trust are crucial in relationships. It is important to determine how much we are willing to open up emotionally to certain people and establish trust to create a safe space.

Personal growth and the concept of free will can be explored within the context of religion. It is important to find what is right and good for oneself and one's family.

Separation and divorce can be challenging, but choosing love for oneself and one's children is a powerful decision.

The book 'Blueprints for Divorce' offers guidance and support for individuals going through a divorce, providing a choose-your-own-adventure approach to navigating the process. Purchase your copy here:

https://www.amazon.com/Blueprints-Divorce-Love-Sacrifice-Redemption/dp/B0CTYB9H4L/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3N1R4U8PBXTXW&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.vPu1Q8qQjpYhC-mEQmuyWyOL3vgoFko3yLkawc8IOaXWKoOaAVjOiGtzQ96PRsb8JCDtHUkped0hzPV3jN8fUAk9tZKoGasd_BxHMxjqasGLZVkMyye3LR7yaXL9dg5S0fQj-LT9FQ93cAfcgDa1ah0dw49eZh9lnVWJ3d6cy4zyeE4SneamPHupdo6GVRkIyVgBkQ31LGbT52ZeqwexJlSDDjK1zah9g9SMyVNZ2rw.NE3xbK65y878sn6y2I2erNtcIjAkVomKq0DmCDbymGk&dib_tag=se&keywords=blueprints+for+divorce&qid=1710791048&sprefix=blueprints+for+divorce%2Caps%2C297&sr=8-1

About Rachael:

Rachael is a mindset and relationship coach, business owner, single parent, friend, and lover of life and God. Having lived in France to get her master's degree, Rachael now speaks French with her girl-boy twins. The three of them love both exploring the world and living on their Midwest farm with their Goldendoodle, orange cat, and robo-vacuum.

https://rachaelneedham.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:26 Growing Up and Getting Married

03:02 Starting the Healing Process

04:00 Writing the Book

05:27 Expectations vs Reality

05:44 Recognizing Red Flags

07:19 The Influence of Religion

09:28 Deciding to End the Relationship

09:47 Response from Others

10:46 Guilt and Responsibility

12:10 Leaving the Relationship

13:00 Emotional Safety and Trust

17:17 Dating and Relationships

20:06 Dealing with an Unhealthy Marriage

21:11 The Decision to Divorce

22:10 The Response of the Ex-Spouse

24:56 The Act of Love in Divorce

26:44 The Book 'Blueprints for Divorce'