Divorce with Sam and Leah

Latest Episodes:

Navigating School Events with a High-Conflict Ex—Without the Stress Feb 17, 2025

Show notes

School events, parent-teacher conferences, and sports games should be about your child—but when you’re co-parenting with a difficult ex, they can feel like an emotional minefield. If you’ve ever felt anxious, frustrated, or downright uncomfortable being in the same room as your ex at school functions, this episode is for you.

Today, we’re diving into the real challenges moms face when co-parenting with a high-conflict ex at school events—awkward encounters, passive-aggressive comments, the silent treatment, or even outright tension. I’ll share why avoiding these events isn’t the answer, how your presence impacts your child, and the mindset shifts you need to show up with confidence.

Want the exact strategies to handle these moments with grace, set boundaries without saying a word, and leave the event feeling empowered—not drained? Join us inside The Next Chapter membership for the full School Events Survival Guide workshop, where I break it all down step by step.

The High-Conflict Co-Parent’s Favorite Role: The Victim Feb 12, 2025

Show notes

Co-parenting is already tough—but when your ex constantly plays the victim and paints you as the villain, it can feel impossible. Whether they’re twisting the story to friends, family, teachers, or even your child, the emotional toll is real.

In this episode, we’re diving into:💡 Why high-conflict co-parents play the victim💡 How their manipulation impacts your child and your peace💡 The key mindset shifts to stop falling into their trap💡 Why proving them wrong isn’t the solution—and what actually works

If this dynamic is exhausting you, know this: You are not alone. And you don’t have to navigate it without support. Inside The Next Chapter membership, we go even deeper with a full workshop on how to handle this exact situation—giving you real, actionable strategies to protect your peace and stay in control.

✨ Ready to reclaim your power? Join us inside The Next Chapter for the full workshop replay and a supportive community of moms who get it.

🔗 https://www.samandleah.com/services

Dating After Divorce: Dos, Don'ts, and When to Introduce Your Kids with Laurie Gerber Feb 10, 2025

Show notes

Dating after divorce can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, we’re joined by relationship expert Laurie Gerber to break down the dos and don’ts of dating after divorce, how to know when you're truly ready to date again, and how to avoid repeating past relationship mistakes. We also dive into online dating without the overwhelm, setting healthy boundaries, and the all-important question: when and how should you introduce your kids to a new partner?

If you're a divorced mom looking to navigate dating with confidence and intention, this episode is for you!

📌 Connect with Laurie Gerber: https://lauriegerber.com/📌 Join The Next Chapter Membership: https://www.skool.com/the-next-chapter/about

Empowering Women Through Financial Literacy with Ed Vargo Feb 05, 2025

Show notes

Money can feel overwhelming after divorce, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, we sit down with financial expert Ed Vargo to break down the biggest money myths that hold women back from financial security. We dive into the emotional side of spending, the difference between meaningful vs. meaningless spending, and how divorced moms can shift their mindset to build financial confidence and independence.

Ed shares actionable tips for overcoming money guilt, smart first steps for financial stability, and the #1 mistake divorced women make with their finances (and how to avoid it!). If you’ve ever felt lost when it comes to money or worried about your financial future, this episode is packed with practical advice and empowering insights to help you take control of your finances with confidence.

Get Ed’s free guide “9 Money Myths You Must Bust” here: https://enlightenher.com/

Connect with us:📩 Join The Next Chapter Membership: https://www.samandleah.com/services

Divorce Court 101: Avoiding Common Mistakes and Conquering Fears Jan 30, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most intimidating parts of divorce: going to court. Too many people walk into the courtroom unprepared, only to face costly mistakes that could have been avoided. We’ll break down the biggest mistakes people make, and explain the potential fallout. We’ll also tackle the fears that keep people awake at night—fear of the unknown, fear of being judged, and fear of losing what matters most. Finally, we’ll leave you with some actionable tips to help you feel more confident and prepared for your day in court. Whether you're just starting the divorce process or already have a court date looming, this episode is packed with advice you can’t afford to miss.

The Narcissist Playbook: 10 Things They'll Try in Co-Parenting Jan 25, 2025

Show notes

Co-parenting with a narcissist is no easy task. In this episode, we break down the top 10 tactics narcissists use to manipulate, control, and create chaos in your parenting journey. From gaslighting and boundary-pushing to sabotaging schedules and weaponizing the legal system, we’re covering it all. More importantly, we’re sharing actionable strategies to help you protect your peace, set firm boundaries, and prioritize your kids’ well-being. If you’re dealing with a high-conflict co-parent, this episode is your survival guide. Don’t miss it!

Behind the Echo: Why High-Conflict Parents Use Kids as a Voice Jan 21, 2025

Show notes

Why do kids echo negative statements from a high-conflict co-parent? In this episode, we dive into the motivations behind this behavior, exploring how high-conflict parents use children as a tool and why it’s so impactful. Understanding the root cause is the first step to responding with strength and protecting your kids from emotional harm. Join us for insights that will prepare you to handle these challenging moments with confidence. For the full training, visit The Next Chapter!

www.samandleah.com

Navigating Divorce & Custody Battles with Family Law Expert Sandra Fava Jan 16, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we sit down with Sandra Fava, a seasoned family law attorney and founder of Fava Law, to discuss everything you need to know about navigating high-conflict divorces and custody battles. Sandra shares invaluable insights on how to find the right attorney, the key questions you should be asking, and why being prepared ahead of time can make all the difference.

From understanding the benefits of mediation to managing high-stakes situations like child custody and spousal support, Sandra provides practical advice and expert tips to empower you during one of life’s most challenging transitions. Whether you’re in the early stages of divorce, facing a contentious co-parenting situation, or simply want to be informed, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and encouragement.

Website for show notes: https://www.favalawnj.com/

Understanding Attachment Styles with Bev Mitelman, M.A. Jan 13, 2025

Show notes

In this insightful episode, we’re joined by Bev Mitelman, a Certified Attachment Practitioner, to explore the profound impact of attachment theory on our lives. Bev explains the different attachment styles and how they influence our relationships, parenting, and coping behaviors. We discuss practical steps for fostering secure attachments in children, identifying and understanding your own attachment style, and healing attachment wounds post-divorce to build healthier relationships. Whether you're new to attachment theory or looking for tools to grow and heal, this episode is packed with actionable insights for navigating relationships with confidence.

Bev Mitelman, M.A. - Founder of Securely Loved

Website and free quiz: www.securelyloved.com

Understanding Parental Alienation: Signs, Strategies & Support Jan 01, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we dive into the difficult issue of parental alienation, where one parent tries to undermine the relationship between their child and the other parent. This can be emotionally taxing, especially when you notice sudden shifts in your child’s behavior or feel unjustly blamed.

We’ll explore the signs of parental alienation, including when your child expresses negative feelings toward you without cause or when false claims are made to disrupt your bond. We also discuss the damaging effects of loyalty conflicts, where children are pressured to take sides.

You’ll also learn how to handle these situations with resilience. We cover radical acceptance to cope with the reality of alienation, how to use effective communication by keeping detailed records, and how to maintain a stable environment for your child. Plus, we talk about the importance of seeking professional and legal help to protect your relationship with your child.

✨Join THE NEXT CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP:

https://www.samandleah.com

✨Join Sam’s Parenting Plan Workshop:

https://www.theuglytruthmom.com/divorceproofyourkids354607

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