Canadian Salad

This episode of The Culture of Divorce is thoughtful, eye-opening, and deeply human. I loved how the hosts took listeners on a global cultural tour—from Western ideas of personal freedom to South and Southeast Asia’s religious influences, East Asia’s emphasis on harmony, the Middle East and North Africa’s gender expectations, and the community-based approaches of sub-Saharan Africa. The way they connected these perspectives highlighted how complex and emotional divorce can be, no matter where you’re from. As a divorced woman myself, I felt especially seen listening to this episode. I’ve navigated my own stigmas and shame shaped by my upbringing and the culture around me, and so many of the themes they discussed resonated deeply. Hearing their honest reflections—and the shared experiences across different regions—made me feel less alone in my own journey. What stood out most was the hosts’ vulnerability when sharing their family stories. Their openness underscored how culture and religion influence the way we understand (and judge) divorce, even when those influences come from very different parts of the world. This episode beautifully captures how patriarchy impacts women’s experiences globally, while still making space for the pain, healing, and hope that can accompany separation. A powerful, compassionate listen for anyone interested in relationships, culture, or the ways divorce shapes—and reshapes—our lives.