What really happens inside the Family Court system — and how does it impact fathers, mothers, and children? In this powerful episode of the Family Court Voice Podcast, Mark sits down with Jason Appleyard, founder of the Alienated Dads Network and an experienced McKenzie Friend, to talk candidly about family court, parental alienation, institutional bias, and the psychological realities parents face when navigating the system. Jason shares his deeply personal journey through family court, how it led him to support other parents, and why he believes the system operates more like theatre than justice. From litigating in person to challenging false allegations, managing fear in court, protecting children’s wellbeing, and maintaining mental health — this conversation pulls no punches. ⚠️ Content Warning: This episode discusses family court, parental conflict, emotional abuse, mental health, and child welfare. 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode: Alienated Dads Network (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@alienateddadsnetworkMcKenzie Friend Near Me website: https://mckenziefriendnearme.uk/💬 If you’re a parent navigating family court, or supporting someone who is, this conversation may help you feel less alone. 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe to support the podcast and help raise awareness. ⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – “It’s all just theatre” – Jason’s opening view of Family Court00:47 – Three words to describe the Family Court system01:01 – Introduction to the Family Court Voice Podcast02:17 – Jason’s background & why he began raising awareness03:15 – Fathers for Justice, protest culture & early mistakes05:40 – Learning the system & “playing the game”07:40 – Court outcomes, difficult decisions & prioritising his daughter10:15 – Letting go of anger, accountability & personal growth12:09 – Relationships, self-awareness & emotional maturity15:59 – Why solicitors escalate conflict18:50 – Jason’s relationship with his daughter today20:17 – Helping others through Family Court21:19 – Family Court psychology & “professional gaslighting”24:08 – Institutional bias & how fathers are treated25:12 – Alienated Dads Network: YouTube & messaging28:29 – Protecting children & reducing conflict32:05 – Becoming a McKenzie Friend & supporting litigants in person35:48 – New McKenzie Friend DME website & AI tools38:40 – Solicitors vs McKenzie Friends: pros & cons40:27 – Law changes, contact centres & financial incentives43:49 – False allegations & why safe parents lose contact46:51 – Enforcement bias & double standards in court49:00 – Bigger picture: systemic issues & long-term impact Family Court UK, Parental Alienation, McKenzie Friend, Alienated Dads, Family Court Bias, Fathers Rights UK, Litigant in Person, Child Contact Orders, CAFCASS, Domestic Abuse Allegations, Family Law Podcast