The Divorce Podcast

amicable

The Divorce Podcast is a podcast dedicated to looking at divorce from new perspectives and driving reform. Hosted by Kate Daly, each episode invites experts from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines to discuss their own views on divorce, and debate them with the other guests.British Podcast Awards 2025 Finalist.

  1. 1d ago

    In brief: The history of the family court - and why it matters

    Children were once seen as their father's property. So how did we get from there to a family court system that tries – however imperfectly – to put their welfare first? Kate is joined by Lara Feigel, author and professor at King's College London, to draw a comprehensive timeline of the family courts, from a time when children were seen as their father's property right through to today.  We talk about: How the family court developed in England and Wales over the centuries – from a system that treated children as property to one that tries to hear their voice How that compares internationally – and why we so often followed rather than ledWhen the voice of the child started to matter, and how it's heard todayWhy the family court should be the last reort for separating couplesThis episode is for anyone curious about how the family courts came to be, and why – where it's safe to – staying out of court is so often the kinder, calmer path. A note before you listen: this episode touches on the death of a child and domestic abuse. Please take care while listening. If you need support, these organisations can help: Women's Aid – womensaid.org.ukRefuge – refuge.org.ukManKind Initiative – mankind.org.ukMen's Advice Line – mensadviceline.org.ukMind – mind.org.ukSamaritans – dial 116 123 or text SHOUT to 85258If your life is in danger, dial 999A note on the word 'custody' You'll hear the word 'custody' used throughout this episode – both in the historical context Lara explores and in the title of her book. It's also a term many people still use in everyday conversation when talking about their children after separation. But in England and Wales today, 'custody' isn't actually a legal term. It was replaced under the Children Act 1989, which shifted the focus away from one parent 'winning' and the other 'losing', and towards something more constructive: child arrangements. The language courts use now is 'lives with' and 'spends time with' – because the goal is for children to have meaningful, loving relationships with both parents wherever it's safe to do so. At amicable, we use 'child arrangements' rather than 'custody' for exactly this reason. The words we use shape how we think – and 'arrangements' puts children's needs at the centre, rather than parents' rights. About Lara Feigel Lara Feigel is the author of Custody: The Secret History of Mothers – one of the Economist’s best books of 2026. This is a history of child arrangements from 1800 told through the stories of several families. She is a professor at King’s College London and the author of five other books on cultural history and a novel.  You can find Lara’s book Custody: The Secret History of Mothers on Amazon and you can read more of her writing on the Right to Equality website. More divorce resources Need expert help right now? Book a free 15-minute consultation with an amicable expert for guidance on the legal, financial, emotional or co-parenting aspects of separation. Or explore our Separating with Children Service – a 90-minute joint session with a Co-parenting Specialist tailored to your family’s needs. Want ongoing support through separation? Join amicable space for bonus podcast episodes, exclusive webinars and articles on co-parenting and an interactive community where you can share questions and get expert advice from amicable specialists. Start your free trial here. Kate’s book amicable divorce includes dedicated chapters on co-parenting, with practical guidance on supporting your children's wellbeing, talking to them in age-appropriate ways and building a cooperative co-parenting relationship that reduces conflict. Find it on Amazon today. Want to stay organised as co-parents? Download our free Parenting Plan template to help you and your co-parent agree on shared goals, routines and decision-making – with your children at the centre. Try the amicable co-parenting app free for 3 months to share calendars, track expenses and communicate clearly. Open this link on your phone, install the app, create your account, select 'I have a promo code', enter PODCAST and press ‘apply’. Got a question for a future episode? Share your thoughts at hello@amicable.co.uk or through direct messages on Instagram. #Legal

    In brief: The history of the family court - and why it matters
  2. Jul 15

    Widowed and divorced AF: Rosie Moss on finding love after loss

    What happens when you find love again after losing your partner - and that second love story ends too?  Bereavement and divorce are widely cited as the two most stressful life events a person can go through – and Rosie Moss has lived both. Widowed suddenly in her thirties with three young children, Rosie found love again – and then walked through the breakdown of that second marriage. She joins Kate not to talk about how hard it's been, but about what's grown out of it. Rosie is host of the award-winning podcast Widowed AF and author of the bestselling book Widowed As F**k. Together, Kate and Rosie explore love, loss, dating again and learning to like yourself through it all. We talk about: Meeting someone through shared grief - and what happens when a relationship is fast-tracked by lossHelping children make sense of a step-parent leaving their lives Dating again as both a widow and a divorceeProtecting your peace and discovering the strength you didn't know you had This episode is for anyone navigating loss and separation, dating again after divorce or bereavement, or simply trying to make sense of what comes next when life takes a turn you didn't plan for.  Trigger warning: This episode discusses bereavement, mental health and alcohol use. If you're affected by anything discussed, you can call Samaritans free on 116 123, or text SHOUT to 85258. Meet Rosie Moss Rosie Moss is the host of the award-winning podcast Widowed AF and author of the bestselling book Widowed As F**k. Widowed suddenly in her thirties with three young children, she found love again - and now speaks openly about what happens when that second relationship doesn't work out, and how hard it is to protect children while everything is shifting around them. Her work focuses on the overlap between grief, separation and long-term stress, and how these experiences shape decision-making, resilience and recovery - particularly for women balancing it all. Through her podcast and writing, Rosie has built a global community by challenging the clichés around grief and divorce, and focusing on what life actually looks like when you're in the middle of it. Follow Rosie on Instagram to learn more about her journey.  More divorce resources Need expert help right now? Book a free 15-minute consultation with an amicable expert for guidance on the legal, financial, emotional or co-parenting aspects of separation.  Want ongoing support through separation? Join amicable space for bonus podcast episodes, exclusive webinars and articles on co-parenting and an interactive community where you can share questions and get expert advice from amicable specialists. Start your free trial here. Kate’s book amicable divorce includes dedicated chapters on emotional readiness and timing, navigating separation with kindness and rebuilding your identity and moving forward with confidence. Find it on Amazon today. Got a question for a future episode? Share your thoughts at hello@amicable.co.uk or through direct messages on Instagram. #SeparationStory

  3. Jul 8

    In brief: Family court – what to expect and how to prepare with AdviceNow

    Family court is the part of divorce most people hope to avoid – and for good reason. But if it becomes part of your journey, knowing what to expect can change everything. Kate is joined by Beth Kirkland from AdviceNow to talk about what happens when court becomes unavoidable, what it actually feels like to walk into one and how to give yourself the best chance if you're representing yourself. We talk about: How AdviceNow can help if you're going through a divorce or separationThe reasons couples end up in family court – and why it should be a last resortWhat court actually feels like and what the common myths and misconceptions areBeth's practical advice to anyone facing court without legal representationThis episode is for anyone navigating divorce or separation in England and Wales who wants to understand the family court process – whether court feels close, or you simply want to know your options before things escalate. A note before you listen: this episode includes references to domestic abuse and coercive control. If you're affected by anything we discuss, you'll find support organisations listed at the bottom of this description. Support organisations: Women's Aid – womensaid.org.ukRefuge – refuge.org.ukManKind Initiative – mankind.org.ukMen's Advice Line – mensadviceline.org.ukMind – mind.org.ukSamaritans – dial 116 123 or text SHOUT to 85258If your life is in danger, dial 999The statistic Beth references comes from the Everyday Business report, published by the Domestic Abuse Commissioner in October 2025, which found evidence of domestic abuse in 73% of observed family court cases and 87% of case files involving children. Read the full report here.  About AdviceNow AdviceNow is a UK-based not-for-profit organisation and charity that increases access to justice by helping people to deal with life's legal problems. They provide legal support, including information, legal self-help tools, and training to help people use the law. You can access free resources for divorce and separation that Beth mentions in the episode on AdviceNow website, and you can watch a video about the experience of family court with some helpful tips here.  More divorce resources Ready to understand your options? Book a free 15-minute consultation with an amicable expert for guidance on the legal, financial, emotional or co-parenting aspects of separation. Want ongoing support through separation? Join amicable space for bonus podcast episodes, exclusive webinars and articles on the legal side of divorce and an interactive community where you can share questions and get expert advice from amicable specialists. Start your free trial here. Kate’s book amicable divorce includes a clear breakdown of the different ways to separate, from solicitor-led routes to mediation to cooperative services like amicable, so you can choose what fits your situation. Find it on Amazon today. Got a question for a future episode? Share your thoughts at hello@amicable.co.uk or through direct messages on Instagram. #Legal

    In brief: Family court – what to expect and how to prepare with AdviceNow
  4. Jul 1

    You’re doing better than you think: helping children thrive through divorce

    Supporting your children through separation goes so much further than one difficult conversation - but knowing how to keep showing up for them is something many parents struggle with. Kate is joined by Hannah Strong, therapist, separated mum and founder of My Thriving Child, to explore what children really need from their parents during and after a separation. Drawing on science, psychology and her own lived experience, Hannah shares her framework for helping children not just cope - but thrive. We talk about: Why it's not about getting it perfect – and the reassuring research behind thatWhat's really going on in your child's brain when family life changesHow to spot the signs your child might be struggling, even when they seem fineWhy the first conversation about your separation is just the beginningThe small everyday actions that help your children build security and thriveThis episode is for any parent going through separation who wants to do right by their children - whether they're at the very start of the process or years down the line. Meet Hannah Strong Hannah Strong is a therapist, coach and separated mum who specialises in helping parents to support their children in the best way possible through divorce - so their children do not just survive, but genuinely thrive.  You can learn more about how Hannah can help your family on the My Thriving Child website and you can follow her on Instagram for more helpful tips.  More divorce resources Need expert help right now? Book a free 15-minute consultation with an amicable expert for guidance on the legal, financial, emotional or co-parenting aspects of separation. Or explore our Separating with Children Service – a 90-minute joint session with a Co-parenting Specialist tailored to your family’s needs. Want ongoing support through separation? Join amicable space for bonus podcast episodes, exclusive webinars and articles on co-parenting and an interactive community where you can share questions and get expert advice from amicable specialists. Start your free trial here. Kate’s book amicable divorce includes dedicated chapters on co-parenting, with practical guidance on supporting your children's wellbeing, talking to them in age-appropriate ways and building a cooperative co-parenting relationship that reduces conflict. Find it on Amazon today. Want to stay organised as co-parents? Download our free Parenting Plan template to help you and your co-parent agree on shared goals, routines and decision-making – with your children at the centre. Try the amicable co-parenting app free for 3 months to share calendars, track expenses and communicate clearly. Open this link on your phone, install the app, create your account, select 'I have a promo code', enter PODCAST and press ‘apply’. Got a question for a future episode? Share your thoughts at hello@amicable.co.uk or through direct messages on Instagram. Sources referenced in this episode Tronick, E. Z., & Gianino, A. F. (1986). The Transmission of Maternal Disturbance to the Infant. In E. Z. Tronick & T. Field (Eds.), Maternal Depression and Infant Disturbance (New Directions for Child Development, No. 34, pp. 5-11). Jossey-Bass.Amato, P. R., Loomis, L. S., & Booth, A. (1995). Parental Divorce, Marital Conflict, and Offspring Well-Being During Early Adulthood. Social Forces, 73(3), 895-915.Kelly, J. B., & Emery, R. E. (2003). Children's Adjustment Following Divorce: Risk and Resilience Perspectives. Family Relations, 52(4), 352-362.Masten, A. S. (2001). Ordinary Magic: Resilience Processes in Development. American Psychologist, 56(3), 227–238.Luthar, S. S., Cicchetti, D., & Becker, B. (2000). The Construct of Resilience: A Critical Evaluation and Guidelines for Future Work. Child Development, 71(3), 543–562.Rutter, M. (2012). Resilience as a Dynamic Concept. Development and Psychopathology, 24(2), 335–344.Masten, A. S., & Reed, M.-G. J. (2002). Resilience in Development. In C. R. Snyder & S. J. Lopez (Eds.), Handbook of Positive Psychology (pp. 74–88). Oxford University Press.Werner, E. E., & Smith, R. S. (1992). Overcoming the Odds: High Risk Children from Birth to Adulthood. Cornell University Press.Bowlby, J. (1969/1982). Attachment and Loss. Vol. 1: Attachment.Ainsworth, M. D. S., Blehar, M. C., Waters, E., & Wall, S. (1978). Patterns of Attachment.Sroufe, L. A., Egeland, B., Carlson, E., & Collins, W. A. (2005). The Development of the Person: The Minnesota Study of Risk and Adaptation from Birth to Adulthood.van IJzendoorn, M. H., & Sagi-Schwartz, A. (2008). Cross-Cultural Patterns of Attachment: Universal and Contextual Dimensions. In Handbook of Attachment (2nd ed.).#Coparenting

  5. Jun 24

    Best of: 200 episodes of The Divorce Podcast

    200 episodes of honest, hopeful conversations about divorce – here are the moments that stayed with us. To mark our 200th episode, we're looking back at some of the conversations that have meant the most – to us and to you. From day one, The Divorce Podcast has been part of amicable's mission to change the way people separate, making divorce kinder, fairer and a little less lonely. This special episode brings together the honest, funny and moving moments that capture exactly why we do it. In this episode, you'll hear from: Ella Kenion – on co-parenting, and why the thought of an ex meeting someone new can still stingEmma Campbell – on the emotional weight of single parentingEmma Reed Turrell – on the difference between kindness and people pleasingHal Cruttenden – on how hard many men find it to open upJonathan Fitter-Harding – on the day-to-day reality of 'nesting' and co-parenting with kindnessEbele Okobi – on grief, growth and an unexpected reconciliationThis episode is for anyone navigating separation who could use a reminder that they're not alone – and a lovely place to start if you're new to the podcast. So many of you have told us how much the podcast has helped over the years, and that means everything. If someone you know might need it too, please share this episode with them. Trigger warning: This episode touches on themes that some people might find distressing, including serious illness, bereavement and times of low mood. If you're affected by anything discussed, you can call Samaritans free on 116 123, or text SHOUT to 85258. Meet our guests Ella Kenion is an actress with a long and varied career across stage and screen, with highlights including 'The Outlaws', 'The Detectorists' and 'Midsomer Murders'.  Emma Campbell is an author, speaker and podcast host, known to her Instagram followers as Limitless Em.  Emma Reed Turrell is a psychotherapist, clinical supervisor, podcaster and author of Please Yourself: How to Stop People-Pleasing and Transform the Way You Live and What Am I Missing? Discover the Four Blind Spots That are Holding You Back and How to Overcome Them. Hal Cruttenden is a stand-up comedian, actor and podcaster. In his latest show, Hal Cruttenden: Can Dish It Out But Can't Take It, he discussed the devastation of his divorce - after 20 years of marriage his wife left him. Jonathan Fitter-Harding is a proud dad of two, a creative entrepreneur and one of the key people behind Pride Canterbury - the main LGBTQ+ event in the South East. Ebele Okobi is the principal of Revolutionary Projects, an advisor, board member and maker of good trouble with 25 years of experience leading global teams across tech, consumer brands and arts institutions. More divorce resources Need expert help right now? Book a free 15-minute consultation with an amicable expert for guidance on the legal, financial, emotional or co-parenting aspects of separation. Want ongoing support as you rebuild after separation? Join amicable space for bonus podcast episodes, exclusive webinars and articles on emotional wellbeing and an interactive community where you can share questions and get expert advice from amicable specialists. Start your free trial here. We're giving away a copy of Kate’s book amicable divorce. To enter, just email us at hello@amicable.co.uk with the subject 'The Divorce Podcast' by the 30th of June, and we'll pick a winner at random.  Got a question for a future episode? Share your thoughts at hello@amicable.co.uk or through direct messages on Instagram. #SeparationStories

    Best of: 200 episodes of The Divorce Podcast
  6. Jun 17

    Divorcing dads: why separation hits men hard - and how to help

    Divorce can hit men hard – and many dads withdraw just when they need people most. For divorcing dads, that isolation isn't only painful – it can be dangerous. Kate is joined by psychologist Dr Eran Magen, founder of Divorcing Dads, to explore why men are so much more at risk during separation – and the simple things that help them through it. We talk about: Why divorced dads face a much higher suicide riskThe particular challenges separated dads face, and the part society still plays in making them harderHow a strong support network protects men's mental healthA simple way to tell friends and family what's going on - and ask for what you needThis episode is for any dad going through separation – and for anyone who wants to better support the men they care about. Trigger warning: this episode talks about poor mental health and suicide. If you're affected by anything discussed, you can call Samaritans free on 116 123, or text SHOUT to 85258. Meet Eran Magen Dr. Eran Magen earned his M.A. in education and Ph.D. in psychology from Stanford University and completed post-doctoral training in child psychology and population health. He is currently an assistant clinical professor at the Yale School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry. Eran is the founder of Divorcing Dads and Parenting For Humans, both of which support parents in building strong, collaborative and joyful relationships with their children. He is also the founder of EarlyAlert, which provides early suicide prevention support for students and veterans. You can listen to Eran on the Divorcing Dads podcast and get in touch with him on LinkedIn. More divorce resources Need expert help right now? Book a free 15-minute consultation with an amicable expert for guidance on the legal, financial, emotional or co-parenting aspects of separation. Want ongoing support as you rebuild after separation? Join amicable space for bonus podcast episodes, exclusive webinars and articles on emotional wellbeing and an interactive community where you can share questions and get expert advice from amicable specialists. Start your free trial here. Kate’s book amicable divorce includes dedicated chapters on navigating separation with kindness and rebuilding your identity and moving forward with confidence. Find it on Amazon today. Got a question for a future episode? Share your thoughts at hello@amicable.co.uk or through direct messages on Instagram. #EmotionalJourney

  7. Jun 10

    In brief: What to read with your child when your family changes

    Think of every picture book your child has ever loved. How many show a family going through separation? Almost none - so what does that silence tell a child whose reality looks very different?  Kate is joined by Elizabeth Rudnick, whose picture book First Night at Dad's was born from her own experience of separation. Together they explore the gap in children's literature around divorce, why the right story can make a real difference - and how to start the conversations that matter most. We talk about: Elizabeth's personal story of separation and what it taught her about how children process change Why so few children's books reflect the reality of separated families The milestones we forget to mark - why a child's first night at dad's deserves the same acknowledgement as their first steps Why the right book helps both child and parent through a tricky moment together Practical tips for talking to your children about separation in an age-appropriate wayThis episode is for any parent who wants to support their child through separation but isn't sure where to start - and for anyone who works with or cares for children going through family change.  Meet Elizabeth Rudnick Elizabeth Rudnick has worked in publishing for over two decades as a writer, editor, and agent. She has written more than thirty books including the Young Adult novel Tweet Heart, as well as numerous bestselling Disney novelisations such as Cinderella, Frozen, Moana, and Beauty and the Beast. First Night at Dad's is her first original picture-book. Elizabeth lives in North Carolina, with her son and their dog. You can find First Night at Dad's on Amazon, and you can get in touch with Elizabeth on her website or on Instagram. More divorce resources Need expert help right now? Book a free 15-minute consultation with an amicable expert for guidance on the legal, financial, emotional or co-parenting aspects of separation. Or explore our Separating with Children Service - a 90-minute joint session with a Co-parenting Specialist tailored to your family’s needs. Want ongoing support through separation? Join amicable space for bonus podcast episodes, exclusive webinars and articles on co-parenting and an interactive community where you can share questions and get expert advice from amicable specialists. Start your free trial here. Kate’s book amicable divorce includes dedicated chapters on co-parenting, with practical guidance on supporting your children's wellbeing, talking to them in age-appropriate ways and building a cooperative co-parenting relationship that reduces conflict. Find it on Amazon today. Want to stay organised as co-parents? Download our free Parenting Plan template to help you and your co-parent agree on shared goals, routines and decision-making – with your children at the centre. Try the amicable co-parenting app free for 3 months to share calendars, track expenses and communicate clearly. Open this link on your phone, install the app, create your account, select 'I have a promo code', enter PODCAST and press ‘apply’. Got a question for a future episode? Share your thoughts at hello@amicable.co.uk or through direct messages on Instagram. #Coparenting

    In brief: What to read with your child when your family changes
  8. Jun 3

    What stepfamilies really need to thrive, with Stepmum Space

    Becoming a step-mum comes with almost none of the roadmaps, support or community that biological mums get. If you're finding it harder than you expected, this episode will help you understand why - and what you can actually do about it.  Kate is joined by Katie South, transformational coach and founder of Stepmum Space, to explore why stepfamilies struggle - and what it really takes to make them stronger.  We talk about: Why advice like ‘love them as your own’ sets step-mums up to failWhy step-parents often feel powerless - and what to do about it' How to have the important conversations early, before you're already deep in itThe practical building blocks for creating stability and emotional safety at homeThis episode is for anyone who is repartnering or has repartnered after separation, especially those navigating life as a step-parent or supporting a partner through it.  Meet Katie South Katie South is a UK-based transformational coach specialising in stepfamily dynamics and the relationship challenges that come after divorce. She is the founder of Stepmum Space, where she works with stepmums, divorced dads and step-couples navigating co-parenting conflict, boundary breakdown and emotional overload.  Through her coaching and podcast, Stepmum Space, she helps couples move from blame and battle toward long-term stability. You can get in touch with Katie on her website.  More divorce resources Ready to take a practical next step? Book a free 15-minute consultation with an amicable expert for guidance on the legal, financial, emotional or co-parenting aspects of separation. Or explore our Separating with Children Service – a 90-minute joint session with a Co-parenting Specialist tailored to your family’s needs. Want ongoing support through separation? Join amicable space for bonus podcast episodes, exclusive webinars and articles on emotional wellbeing and an interactive community where you can share questions and get expert advice from amicable specialists. Start your free trial here. Kate's book amicable divorce includes dedicated chapters on co-parenting, with practical guidance on supporting your children's wellbeing. Find it on Amazon today. Want to stay organised as co-parents? Download our free Parenting Plan template to help you and your co-parent agree on shared goals, routines and decision-making – with your children at the centre. Try the amicable co-parenting app free for 3 months to share calendars, track expenses and communicate clearly. Open this link on your phone, install the app, create your account, select 'I have a promo code', enter PODCAST and press ‘apply’. Got a question for a future episode? Share your thoughts at hello@amicable.co.uk or through direct messages on Instagram. #Coparenting

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

The Divorce Podcast is a podcast dedicated to looking at divorce from new perspectives and driving reform. Hosted by Kate Daly, each episode invites experts from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines to discuss their own views on divorce, and debate them with the other guests.British Podcast Awards 2025 Finalist.

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