The Divorce Course Podcast

Laura & Lyn
  • 4.7 (28)
  • HOW TO
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Divorce Course Podcast is hosted by mother–daughter duo Laura Furiosi and family law specialist Lyn Galvin. Together, they break down the complex world of separation and divorce into clear, practical, and empowering conversations. From property settlements and parenting arrangements to dealing with difficult exes, finances, and family court, the podcast gives listeners the knowledge, tools, and confidence to navigate divorce without feeling lost or alone.

  1. 3D AGO

    When It's Not Just Conflict: How Coercive Control Shows Up in Divorce

    🎧 Listen to this episode if: You're unsure whether what you experienced was abuse You've heard the term "coercive control" but don't fully understand it You feel confused, guilty or constantly off balance in your relationship Negotiations during separation feel manipulative rather than constructive You're worried about how coercive control affects children You want clarity and validation around your experience This episode discusses family violence and may be triggering for some listeners. If you need support, please reach out to 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or Lifeline (13 11 14). This discussion is general education only and not psychological or legal advice. ⏱️ Episode Timeline: When It's Not Just Conflict: How Coercive Control Shows Up in Divorce [00:00] – Is This Normal Conflict or Something More? [01:45] – Safety Disclaimer & Family Violence Support Services [02:35] – Why Naming Coercive Control Matters [03:35] – What Coercive Control Actually Is (Simple Definition) [04:32] – Patterns, Not Incidents: Why Abuse Isn't Always Obvious  Why domestic violence is no longer viewed as isolated incidents but as ongoing patterns of behaviour that create harm over time. [05:35] – No Bruises, Still Harm: Emotional & Psychological Abuse Explained  How gaslighting, micromanagement, silent treatment and financial control cause real psychological damage without visible injuries. [07:13] – How Do You Explain Coercive Control to Others? [10:03] – The Three D's: Disrespect, Disempowerment & Distortion  A practical framework to identify coercive control behaviours in relationships and divorce negotiations. [11:09] – Disempowerment: Fear, Micromanagement & Loss of Autonomy  How controlling partners create dependency, intimidation and fear of consequences — even without physical violence. [12:11] – Post-Separation Control: When Abuse Continues After Divorce  Why coercive control often escalates during separation, mediation and family court proceedings. [13:59] – Disrespect & Double Standards in Abusive Relationships [16:27] – Distortion & Gaslighting: Rewriting Reality [18:48] – Narcissism vs Coercive Control: What's the Difference?  Understanding the overlap between narcissistic traits and coercive control in emotionally abusive relationships. [20:09] – Seeing the Whole Pattern (Not Just One Argument)  Why focusing on single incidents hides the broader pattern of domination and manipulation. [21:56] – How Coercive Control Impacts Children  Why children are not just witnesses but victims in coercively controlled households — including hypervigilance and emotional harm. [24:22] – Protecting Children in Family Court  How concerns about coercive control can be reframed as "alienation" — and why understanding legal narratives matters. [25:34] – One Safe Parent: The Protective Buffer for Kids [26:15] – Why It's So Hard to Leave an Abusive Relationship  Financial dependence, fear, threats, trauma bonding and loss of autonomy explained. [27:56] – The Power Myth: Why Abusers Seem So Smart and Untouchable [28:54] – Trauma Bonding Explained  The cycle of highs and lows that keeps people emotionally attached in abusive dynamics. [30:01] – Court Fears & Post-Separation Abuse  Why people fear family court when coercive control continues through legal processes. [31:03] – Negotiation vs Control: The Simple Test  How to tell the difference between genuine divorce negotiation and manipulation disguised as cooperation. [33:05] – The Three D's in Legal Tactics [34:15] – Legal Examples: Silent Treatment, Rigid Demands & Pressure Tactics  Recognising micromanagement, unreasonable timelines, and threats dressed up as "legal process." [38:04] – Using Children to Maintain Control After Separation  Excessive updates, micromanaging parenting decisions, and control disguised as "concern." [44:25] – Hold Onto Clarity: Documenting Patterns of Abuse  Why writing things down helps counter gaslighting and protects your psychological stability during divorce. [46:37] – Legal Narratives & Gatekeeping in Court  How coercive control can be minimised or reframed in legal settings — and why showing patterns matters. [48:12] – Hope, Support & Life After Coercive Control  side. [49:06] – Workshop Resources & Next Steps 🔗 Resources Mentioned 1800 RESPECT – 1800 737 732 Lifeline – 13 11 14 https://kirovapsychology.com.au/ (Melbourne workshops & resources) Previous episodes on: Mediation vs Manipulation https://youtu.be/cmcFWXD2EBs?si=LOOTB_BwYJIQSmn9 Legal Abuse: https://youtu.be/h2Pu2MmbDxw?si=-HiUdJAfdvoMK8fL Alienation Allegations: https://youtu.be/g8ofj-Sp3n4?si=_0tX3XSweEMzYp6o Safety Planning https://youtu.be/R4M8Hr9cbh0?si=0XyklWL2VMwx_cmN

    51 min

  2. FEB 24

    When In-Laws Interfere in Your Divorce (What You Have to Respond To)

    🎧 Listen to this episode if… ● Your ex's parents or extended family are texting, pressuring or negotiating on their behalf ● Grandparents are demanding time with your children ● You're being accused of owing money that was supposedly a "gift" ● You're dealing with coercive control through third parties ● You feel like you're negotiating with an entire extended family ● You're unsure what you legally have to respond to ● Your mediation agreements change after your ex speaks to their family ● You want clear boundaries and practical guidance during separation If you are going through separation or divorce and suddenly your ex's family has become involved, this episode will help you understand what your responsibility actually is  and where it ends. In this conversation, Mum and I unpack what you legally have to respond to, what you can ignore, and how to protect your peace when outside pressure starts escalating conflict. We talk about grandparents family members negotiating property settlement, so-called "loans" during property disputes, mediation interference, coercive control via in-laws, and how to set boundaries without damaging your credibility. If you're feeling overwhelmed, ganged up on, or unsure how to manage extended family pressure  this episode is your permission slip to protect yourself. Legal Disclaimer:This episode contains general educational discussion only and is not legal advice. We are based in Australia and laws differ between countries. Always seek independent legal advice tailored to your personal circumstances before making decisions.  Family Violence & Safety Trigger Warning Disclaimer This episode includes discussion of family violence, coercive control and high-conflict dynamics.If you are experiencing family violence, intimidation, harassment or feel unsafe at any time, please seek support immediately. ⏱️ Episode Timeline for When In-Laws Interfere in Your Divorce (What You Have to Respond To) 00:00 – Introduction: When Your Ex's Family Gets Involved What happens when parents, siblings or extended family step into your separation? 02:05 – How Family Dynamics Shift After Separation Why "blood is thicker than water" can suddenly feel very real. 05:35 – Do You Have to Respond to In-Laws Negotiating on Your Ex's Behalf? What you can ignore, what to document, and how to protect yourself. 08:10 – Grandparents' Rights Explained (Australia) When grandparents can see children and what your responsibility actually is. 14:15 – Gifts vs Loans in Property Settlement When a $100,000 "gift" suddenly becomes a claimed debt. 19:50 – Can Grandparents Demand Time If Your Ex Isn't Seeing the Kids? Understanding the best interests of the children and practical considerations. 24:20 – Family Members Pressuring or Manipulating Children How courts view this behaviour and what you can do. 27:10 – Divorce Mediation Agreements Changing After Family Influence Why outside pressure can derail settlements and how to manage it. 30:30 – Boundaries With Your Own Family During Divorce How to handle well-meaning but unhelpful advice and pressure. 31:45 – What You Can Control vs What You Can't Practical mindset shifts to protect your peace. 35:45 – "It's Not About Them" Why your focus must remain on you, your children, and your divorce case.   🔗 Links & Resources ● DIY Divorce Blueprint – Courses & Support www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/enrol ● 1800 RESPECT – 1800 737 732 ● Lifeline – 13 11 14 Related Episodes: ● Trash Talking – What To Do When Your Ex Badmouths You ● 10 Boundaries for a Healthy Divorce ● How to Create a Safety Plan ● Dealing With Narc Lies in Court ● When Your Ex Lies in Court Closing Reminder Divorce is hard enough without feeling like you're negotiating with an entire extended family.If this episode helped you feel clearer, calmer or more confident about setting boundaries during separation, please follow, rate and review the podcast. Your support helps more women find grounded, practical information when they need it most.And remember you are not responsible for managing everyone else's emotions.This is not about them.

    39 min

  3. FEB 18

    How Long Does Divorce or DeFacto Separation Really Take? Your Complete Process Walkthrough

    🎧 Listen to this episode if… You feel overwhelmed and don't know what the steps of the divorce process are You're separated (or thinking about separating) and want clarity on what happens next You're stuck in negotiations or dealing with a stonewalling, avoidant or controlling ex You want to understand mediation, arbitration, court filings, interim hearings and trials You're self-represented and need a clear, realistic roadmap of the family law process You want to feel calmer, in control, and informed about the journey ahead You're already in the court system and want to know what the upcoming stages really mean You want to avoid panic, surprises and fear of the unknown If you're going through separation, divorce or a parenting/property dispute in Australia, this episode will walk you through every major step in the family law process  from the moment of separation all the way to a final hearing. No jargon. No fear. No overwhelm. Just a clear explanation of what you may face and how long things typically take. We break down how to negotiate, when mediation works (and why it fails), what arbitration actually is, how to use deadlines and case law to manage a difficult ex, when court becomes necessary, what happens at each court stage, and how to avoid getting stuck for months or years. Whether you're at the very beginning or already halfway through, this roadmap will help you feel grounded and prepared. 📌 LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This episode is general education only — not legal advice. Always seek independent legal advice for your specific situation. ⏱️ Episode Timeline 00:00 – Divorce Roadmap Overview: What to Expect From Separation to Trial A complete explanation of the stages ahead and why understanding the process matters. 00:38 – Meet the Hosts + Education-Only Disclaimer Why we give information, not advice — and how to use the episode wisely. 01:59 – Why Your Separation Date Matters (Especially Under One Roof) How timelines, contributions, and financial outcomes are affected. 03:45 – DIY Negotiations: Why a 'Signed Paper' Isn't Enough The trap so many people fall into — and how it can cost you later. 05:28 – Consent Orders & Financial Agreements Explained What makes an agreement legally binding and what the court checks for. 06:59 – Parenting vs Property Mediation: How They Work & How to Prepare Why combining both in one day often backfires. 10:55 – After Mediation Fails: Arbitration, Offers & Partial Agreements How to keep momentum instead of getting stuck. 13:28 – Stonewalling & Delay Tactics: Deadlines, Notice to File & Case Law Strategies to shift an avoidant or controlling ex. 19:03 – Filing in Court: What Documents You Need & What They Mean Affidavits, financial statements, notices of risk and more. 20:47 – Should You File Parenting & Property Together? The advantages and pitfalls. 22:03 – Using Court Filings as Negotiation Leverage Why an initiating application often triggers settlement. 23:11 – First Court Event Explained (It's Not a Trial!) What registrars do, what decisions they can make, and what they can't. 23:43 – PPP500 & Evatt List: What These Court Pathways Mean for You Faster lists for smaller pools and family violence matters. 25:52 – Interim Hearings: Urgent Parenting & Property Issues When the court steps in early. 28:02 – Court-Ordered Mediation: Reality Checks & Settlement Pressure The moment many cases resolve. 31:35 – Readiness Hearing: Preparing for Trial Final directions, valuations, and evidence. 33:11 – Final Trial: What Actually Happens in the Courtroom Cross-examination, timelines, outcomes and appeals. 36:37 – Big Picture Strategy: Stay Focused on Your Stage Why thinking too far ahead causes overwhelm. 40:09 – Costs Orders & Legal Abuse The consequences for bad behaviour in litigation. 41:58 – Wrap-Up: Tell It to the Judge + Course Info & Outro 🔗 Links & Resources ✨The Course: https://www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/enrol ✨ Courses & Free Support Resources: www.thedivorcecourse.com.au 💛 Support Services 1800 RESPECT – 1800 737 732 Lifeline – 13 11 14

    43 min

  4. FEB 11

    Separated… but Stuck? The Chicken & Egg Problem Keeping You in Divorce Limbo

    🎧 Listen to this episode if… You feel stuck and unable to move forward after separating You're separated under one roof and nothing is changing Your stuck deciding whether to go to court next or just give up You're overwhelmed by the emotional load and decision fatigue You don't know whether to start with the house, the money, the kids or the legal steps You're waiting for the "right time" but it never seems to come You want clarity about why you feel frozen and what to do next You're scared of making a mistake or starting conflict You want a practical, compassionate explanation of why early separation feels like quicksand You need reassurance that you're not failing you're human PLEASE note Lyn's audio file at the end of the episode was lost so we have cobbled together what we had to finish the episode as we know so many of you listen each week so, sorry no embroidered cushion this week. Hopefully the tech will behave itself next week for you all.  Trigger warning there are discussions of Family Violence & Coercive Control.  Legal Warning: this is not legal advice 📝 Episode Summary: Separated… but Stuck? The Chicken & Egg Problem Keeping You in Divorce Limbo If you've ever felt like you're separated but… nothing is moving, you're not alone. In this powerful episode, Laura and Lyn unpack the "Chicken & Egg Problem" of early divorce — that confusing, exhausting stage where every decision feels dependent on another decision, and you don't know which one you're meant to make first. Should you move out? Should you get legal help? Should you talk to the bank? Should you wait for your ex? Should you apply for parenting arrangements? Should you start disclosure? Should you sell the house? Should you stay for the kids? Everything feels tangled, and you feel frozen. We break down why this paralysis happens, why it's normal, and how small, strategic steps can help you get out of emotional and practical limbo. You'll hear examples from real separations, insights about overwhelm and avoidance, and the surprising reasons so many women stay "stuck" for months — or even years. This episode is your permission slip to take one small step, feel less afraid, and finally understand why your nervous system is doing exactly what it was designed to do. This episode contains general separation discussion, not legal advice.     ⏱️ Episode Timeline 00:00 — Why Early Separation Feels Impossible: The Chicken & Egg Problem 01:05 — What Keeps Women Stuck in Divorce Limbo 02:28 — Emotional Overload, Fear & Decision Paralysis 04:50 — Separated Under One Roof: Why Nothing Changes 07:14 — "Where Do I Start?" Understanding the Overwhelm 10:40 — The Pressure to Have a Full Plan Before Taking Action 12:33 — Money Fear, Housing Fear & Losing Stability 15:55 — Why Conflict Avoidance Keeps You Frozen 17:48 — Waiting for the Perfect Moment (And Why It Won't Come) 20:22 — How to Take One Small Step Without Starting a War 23:15 — Using Information to Reduce Fear and Panic 26:44 — What You Can Control vs What You Can't 29:30 — Making Progress Even When You're Not Ready 32:01 — Reassurance for Anyone Feeling Stuck 35:14 — Final Encouragement: You Don't Have to Solve Everything Today     🔗 Links & Resources ✨ Download the FREE Divorce Personality Quiz Printable 👉 www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/quiz ✨ Join the Newsletter for Bonus Divorce Strategy Tools (We only send practical, supportive content — no fluff.) www.thedivorcecourse.com.au ✨ Safety & Support Resources 1800 RESPECT – 1800 737 732 Lifeline – 13 11 14   If this episode helped you feel seen, understood, or just a little less stuck, please follow, rate, and review the podcast. Sharing this episode might give another woman the clarity she desperately needs.

    38 min

  5. FEB 5

    Take the Divorce Personality Quiz: & Learn Why Your Strategy MUST Match Your Ex's Behaviour

    🎧 Listen to this episode if… You're confused about why your divorce feels so hard You're not sure how to communicate or negotiate with your ex You suspect you're dealing with avoidance, conflict, or control or you are a people pleaser. You're tired of being blindsided and want clarity You want a divorce strategy that matches the actual dynamic you're in You want a downloadable, printable version of the quiz You love practical tools that help you feel calm, informed, and back in control You want to take the quiz and finally understand your ex's divorce behaviour Trigger warning there are discussions of Family Violence & Coercive Control.  Legal Warning: this is not legal advice 📝 Episode Summary In this episode, Laura and Lyn guide you through the 20-question Divorce Personality Quiz, designed to help you identify the divorce pattern you're dealing with Your divorce type affects: your communication strategy your negotiation style whether mediation will work how to set boundaries what evidence you need how to emotionally protect yourself whether safety planning is appropriate You'll take the quiz with us live inside the episode and learn what each answer (A, B, C, or D) reveals about your ex's behaviour. This insight can transform your divorce experience by helping you understand what's really happening and why your current approach may or may not be working. And if you want the free downloadable PDF of the quiz, a printable results sheet, and access to our bonus email guide "How to Strategise Based on Your Divorce Type", head to: 👉 www.thedivorcecourse.com.au (Join the newsletter and we'll send the printable straight to your inbox.) This episode includes general behavioural discussion, not legal advice. ⏱️ Episode Timeline 00:00 Introduction: What Divorce Type Are You Dealing With? 00:36 Why Identifying Your Divorce Type Matters for Your Strategy 00:58 Overview of the Four Divorce Types: Amicable, Avoidant, High-Conflict & Controlling 01:14 How to Take the Divorce Personality Quiz 01:39 Meet Your Hosts and Episode Overview 02:11 Understanding Divorce Personality Types & Behaviour Patterns 03:15 Divorce Quiz Part 1: Decision-Making, Conflict & Communication 05:51 What Your Answers Mean: Interpreting the First Quiz Results 09:40 Divorce Quiz Part 2: Boundaries, Money Issues & Emotional Safety 19:05 Divorce Quiz Part 3: Rules, Power Imbalances & Information Control 25:23 Final Divorce Quiz Questions + Strategy Insights 30:08 Recognising Manipulative or Controlling Divorce Dynamics 31:41 How to Identify Your Divorce Type From Your Quiz Results 32:30 Amicable Divorce: Strengths, Risks & When It Fails 35:14 Avoidant Ex Partners: Why Progress Feels Impossible 38:23 High-Conflict Divorce Explained: Escalation, Triggers & Survival Strategies 41:16 Controlling or Coercive Ex Partners: Red Flags & Safety Considerations 44:40 How to Create a Safety Plan During Divorce 48:20 Helpful Resources, Support Services & Next Steps 52:49 Final Thoughts: Matching Your Strategy to Your Ex's Behaviour 🔗 Links & Resources ✨ Download the FREE Divorce Personality Quiz Printable 👉 www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/quiz ✨ Join the Newsletter for Bonus Divorce Strategy Tools (We only send practical, supportive content ) ✨ Safety & Support Resources 1800 RESPECT – 1800 737 732 Lifeline – 13 11 14 Episodes Mentioned 10 Boundaries You Should Set Up Before Divorce https://open.spotify.com/episode/0ecDTxw4rTc3zXBkcjuYpA?si=Eb_uqTJnSbS2Vtyz80tBmQ   The Purple Book Episode (Coercive Control & Abuse Patterns) https://open.spotify.com/episode/1ccm01eMpJ3TMZa2uMaUMN?si=WJ7wQy9mTmKYhd2sTPiO0g   The Original "Divorce Personality Types" Episode https://open.spotify.com/episode/1X89h1IBOUa0QFxiICIuwo?si=neoemW5URuubT8VYaGjlPw If this episode helped you finally understand the behaviour you've been dealing with, please follow, rate and review the podcast. And don't forget to grab your FREE quiz download  it's one of the most powerful tools to help you navigate your divorce with clarity and confidence.

    54 min

  6. JAN 27

    10 Things That Quietly Destroy Your Family Court Case (Sometimes before you've even gone to court)

    🎧 Listen to this episode if… You're worried your custody or property case might end up eventually in court.  You are preparing for Family Court or worried your case might escalate You want to avoid mistakes that judges hate seeing in parenting or property matters You're dealing with a high-conflict ex or coercive control You're self-represented and want to understand what the court looks for You want to protect your credibility and stay child-focused You feel overwhelmed and want to understand how to present better in court You want to understand how Family Court judges make decisions If you're going through separation, divorce, or a parenting dispute in Australia, this episode will help you avoid the most common mistakes people make in the Family Court. These insights can make or break your credibility, influence parenting outcomes, and help you stay calm and strategic throughout the legal process. In this episode, we unpack 10 behaviours that can ruin your case — the things that damage cases, frustrate judges, increase legal costs, and affect how your evidence is viewed. Whether you're self-represented, considering mediation, managing a high-conflict ex, or worried about how your actions may be interpreted, this conversation will give you clarity on what the court expects from parents. Learn how to stay child-focused, how to avoid actions that look like parental alienation, how to communicate effectively, how to avoid sabotaging your own case, and why honesty, disclosure, and consistency matter so much. If you're feeling overwhelmed, emotional, or stuck in conflict, this episode offers guidance to help you stay grounded and organised. LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This episode contains general discussion only this is  not legal advice please always get independent legal advice as each situation is different.  Trigger Warning: This episode has some discussions of family violence.     ⏱️ Episode Timeline 00:00 – Introduction: How to Avoid Mistakes That Hurt Your Family Court Case Overview of the most common behaviours that weaken parenting and property cases. 02:07 – Why Judges Prioritise Child-Focused Parenting in Family Court Understanding how child welfare drives decisions and how to demonstrate it clearly. 06:36 – Keeping Emotions Out of Family Court: What Judges Look For Why emotional reactions, venting and accusations can damage your credibility. 13:26 – Presenting Evidence Properly: What Counts in Family Court How to gather, organise and present evidence that the court will actually rely on. 16:59 – The Serious Consequences of Lying or Exaggerating in Court How dishonesty can destroy your case and impact parenting or property outcomes. 21:27 – Disclosure Rules in Property Settlement: What You MUST Provide Explaining financial disclosure obligations and what happens if you don't comply. 25:26 – Following Court Orders and Deadlines: Why Timing Matters How delays, missed tasks or ignoring directions reflect poorly on your case. 25:58 – Understanding Family Court Practice Directions (CPD Requirements) What the Central Practice Direction means for your behaviour and preparation. 28:40 – Narrowing the Issues Before Court: What Judges Expect You to Do Why bringing every problem to court backfires and how to refine your case. 33:19 – Avoiding Behaviour That Looks Like Parental Alienation How to protect your children and yourself without appearing to obstruct the other parent. 39:43 – Acting Reasonably in Family Court: How It Influences Outcomes Examples of unreasonable behaviour and why judges pay close attention to it. 42:03 – Courtroom Etiquette, Presentation and Final Takeaways How to conduct yourself, communicate effectively, and stay credible throughout your case.     🔗 Links & Resources Free Webinar https://www.thedivorcecourse.com.au/divorcewebinarregistration The Divorce Course Website – Courses & Support www.thedivorcecourse.com.au 1800 RESPECT – 1800 737 732 Lifeline – 13 11 14 Dealing with Narc Lies in court https://open.spotify.com/episode/5SdkXhj3vC2tfO3gDdkM6y?si=P-fwZYVSQxO7JnVs5yYJdw When your ex lies in court https://open.spotify.com/episode/2OpAGxXfx78iAO81TMPPxJ?si=wcN-tRFdSaSjGLU51fmV7w Overcoming disclosure delays  https://open.spotify.com/episode/0uOO8dKYV4NWlCfyu8FZEh?si=PI-J7YtGTb6pFRKGa7KjdA Disclosure Deadlocks https://open.spotify.com/episode/2yrShRhq4jcGVuVDN6Jq6C?si=ZFmAHXmAT1-JS0neHjsDHQ Is your ex hiding assets  https://open.spotify.com/episode/4KbgLRFXB9r2rCz3vycZ98?si=nKf11LeYS_66Uzn003Ydug Central Practice Directions https://www.fcfcoa.gov.au/fl/pd/fam-cpd False Accusations of Parental Alienation https://open.spotify.com/episode/0l9L5SDovV515EU4H5gpIf?si=jNYKY5cBTCatIXZpEHXisQ Handover Hell https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Pskjns3vZkLyv9FCefvxm?si=UrHDcaRBTwuKpnVmWty-qA Family Reports https://open.spotify.com/episode/4k2Z4glD8WpY4dsqz6vn5Y?si=MMj_I2N5RlaT_5flBfZjMQ Court Etiquette  https://open.spotify.com/episode/0JOwxZOGxT182UOp8iqd8z?si=8ib6y9qLRvuD5n8AO4y46w 💛 Closing Reminder If this episode helped you feel more prepared or confident, please follow, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps more women find clear, supportive information during their divorce or separation.

    50 min

  7. JAN 21

    Finding Hope Again: The Charity Giving Women a Voice during DV, Coercive Control & Divorce

    🎧 Listen to this episode if… You're going through DV, coercive control, divorce or separation You've survived DV and want to help other women going through it You feel alone, isolated, or unsure where to turn You want to hear about real support available for women in crisis You've lost hope and need to know good people still exist You want to understand what homelessness really looks like for women You want to connect with a service that listens without judgment You've wondered where to get help if you don't know where to start   📝 Episode Summary If you've ever felt invisible, silenced, or completely alone while living through domestic violence, coercive control, separation, or divorce this episode is for you. Today, Laura sits down with Jo West, the founder of 4 Voices, a remarkable charity supporting women experiencing domestic violence, financial abuse, homelessness, social isolation, and coercive control. This episode is different from our usual legal conversations it's a conversation about hope, humanity, and the power of connection when someone is going through hell and doesn't know where to turn. Jo shares the reality of what women face when they're living in fear, why so many are afraid to reach out, and how simple acts of kindness like someone showing up, listening, and seeing you can genuinely change the course of a woman's life. If you're struggling right now, this episode will remind you of something important: There are helpers. You are not alone. And there is support waiting for you. TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains general discussion about domestic violence and support, not legal information. Finding Hope Again: The Charity Giving Women a Voice during DV, Coercive Control & Divorce ⏱️ Episode Timeline [00:00] Meet Four Voices: A Support Service for Women Facing DV & Crisis [01:00] Why Women Experiencing Coercive Control Often Feel Too Afraid to Reach Out [02:06] Hidden Homelessness: The Reality for Women Leaving Unsafe Homes [03:41] How Four Voices Uses Human Connection to Support Isolated Women [07:00] What Happens on a Four Voices Support Van Shift [09:04] A Story of Strength: One Woman Starting Over After 25 Years of Abuse [12:33] Financial Abuse, Survival Mode & Why Leaving Is So Hard [14:00] Why Some Women Get Turned Away From Services [16:57] A Phone-Based Support System Designed for Women Who Are Scared to Talk [18:55] Check-Ins, Consistency & Why They Matter for Recovery [20:40] How You Can Help: Volunteering, Corporate Support & Raising Awareness [23:50] Understanding the Hidden Crisis of Female Homelessness [27:23] Misconceptions About DV, Leaving, and Life After Abuse [30:41] Hope Stories: Courage, Connection & What Keeps Jo Going [33:30] Final Message for Anyone Feeling Alone or Hopeless   🔗 Links & Resources Four Voices Charity: https://www.4voices.org.au Instagram: @4voicesau 1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732 Lifeline – 13 11 14 If in danger, call 000 immediately in Australia   🚨 Support Services (Australia) 1800 RESPECT – 1800 737 732 Lifeline – 13 11 14 Safe Beds for Pets (RSPCA)   💛 Closing Reminder If this conversation brought you comfort or hope, please follow, rate, and review the podcast. Sharing this episode could help another woman find the support she desperately needs.

    35 min

  8. JAN 14

    Divorce, Renovations & the Family Home: What the Family Court Really Cares About

    🎧 Listen to this episode if… You're selling the family home during divorce or de facto separation A real estate agent has told you to renovate or stage before selling Your ex wants to delay settlement until renovations are finished You're stuck with a half-renovated or unfinished house You've already spent money on renovations and want to know if it "counts" Your ex is demanding reimbursement for renovations Parents or in-laws contributed money to renovations You're deciding whether to keep the house, sell it, or buy your ex out Renovations feel emotionally or financially overwhelming right now 📌 Legal Disclaimer: This episode is for education only and not legal advice. Please seek your own independent legal, financial, and real estate advice for your situation. 📌 Trigger Warning: This episode discusses family violence and property damage. Support services are listed below.   📝 Episode Summary Should you renovate or stage the house when you're going through divorce or is it a costly mistake that keeps you stuck longer than you need to be? In this episode, Mum and I break down renovations, staging, and selling the family home during separation, and what actually matters in property settlements. We talk honestly about when spending money might make sense, when it won't, and how renovations are often used intentionally or not as a delay tactic or control mechanism. We cover staging versus maintenance, half-finished renovations, DIY disasters, family contributions, damage to property, and how the court really views all of it. Most importantly, we talk about how to decide whether renovations are worth the financial and emotional cost, and how to avoid getting trapped in a house  or a settlement that never seems to move forward. 📌 Trigger Warning: This episode discusses family violence and property damage. Support services are listed below.   ⏱️ Episode Timeline 00:00 Should You Renovate Before Selling During Divorce? 00:40 Renovations During Divorce: Common Questions Answered 01:09 Legal and Financial Rules Around Renovations 02:03 Staging vs Renovations: What Actually Adds Value? 05:52 Renovation Traps: Delays, Control and Emotional Attachment 08:41 Half-Finished Renovations and Unsellable Homes 13:32 Renovations as Non-Financial Contributions Explained 16:49 Family Loans, Gifts and Renovation Contributions 23:14 Property Damage, Wastage and How Courts Value Homes 23:47 Keep, Sell or Buy Out the Family Home? 24:51 Renovation Reimbursements: Do You Have to Pay Them Back? 26:34 Renovating During Separation: What to Do and What to Avoid 28:51 How Family Law Courts Determine Property Value 30:02 Renovations and Consent Orders: What Courts Will and Won't Enforce 35:22 Property Valuations in Divorce: What Courts Accept 40:04 Final Thoughts: Avoiding Renovation Mistakes in Divorce   🔗 Links & Resources Support Services (Australia) 1800 RESPECT – 1800 737 732 Lifeline – 13 11 14 Related Episodes Selling Your House During Divorce https://open.spotify.com/episode/6YUc34CVu6aCmunjQT1Sp6?si=Aks8s1YMTguzG-wyYO33Xw Property Settlement Explained https://open.spotify.com/episode/5WcJwbOkw7UcCdla48EpXj?si=JRrkI8pZRdu6EUn0h8gncw Financial Abuse After Separation https://open.spotify.com/episode/4wxVtk6TOSCgqCJikfk6LD?si=Uxr0alr8TeKwX-WvzKx6Cg   🚨 Support Services (Australia) 1800 RESPECT – 1800 737 732 Lifeline – 13 11 14   📌 Legal Disclaimer This episode is for education only and not legal advice. Please seek your own independent legal, financial, and real estate advice for your situation.   🎧 Don't forget to follow, rate & review! If this episode helped you, please share it you never know who might be stuck in a renovation trap right now.

    45 min
See All (241)

4.7
out of 5
28 Ratings

About

The Divorce Course Podcast is hosted by mother–daughter duo Laura Furiosi and family law specialist Lyn Galvin. Together, they break down the complex world of separation and divorce into clear, practical, and empowering conversations. From property settlements and parenting arrangements to dealing with difficult exes, finances, and family court, the podcast gives listeners the knowledge, tools, and confidence to navigate divorce without feeling lost or alone.

Information

  • Creator
    Laura & Lyn
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    241
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 The Divorce Online Course & Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Divorce Course Podcast

You Might Also Like