The Post-Separation Abuse Podcast

You're not alone on the path toward reclaiming your life after separation—countless courageous women have walked this journey, and their stories of transformation are nothing short of heroic. This episode is an ode to their strength, as we explore the transformative power of setting boundaries and the neurological rewiring that accompanies this act of self-care.  This episode celebrates the i...

Whether you're navigating the rough waters of separation, enduring the aftermath of divorce, or co-parenting with an ex-partner who exerts control, this episode promises insights that will support you on your journey.  In this episode I discuss  the issue of rejection—exploring the whirlwind of emotions it can trigger and how past traumas might influence our perception of 'no.'  Tun...

The hidden gambit of abusers to weaponize mental health allegations in post-separation parenting disputes is both cruel and cunning.  As mentioned in the title of this episode, I also wax lyrical about the way in which I despise the way in which entitled abusers can so relentlessly seek equal shared care (or "50/50" parenting time).  With the anticipated legislative reforms that will rem...

I've felt the sting of disbelief and the accusations of "liar!" from 'flying monkeys' first-hand.  In this episode I continue to peel back the layers of post-separation abuse and the deeply entrenched sexism that allows it to thrive in families, communities and society as a whole.  I invite you to a space where we confront the skewed societal narratives that let men shirk...

Have you ever witnessed a friend or family member supporting someone you know is harmful? In the latest episode, I pull back the curtain on the role of 'flying monkeys'—those who, perhaps unwittingly, become the enablers of abusers.  Join me, Danielle Black, as we delve into the heart of internalised misogyny and post-separation abuse dynamics, uncovering why some women might side with a...

Discover the insidious ways enablers, allies, and advocates of abusers can deepen the wounds of post-separation abuse.  I'm your host, Australian specialist separation and divorce coach Danielle Black, and this episode peels back the curtain on the concept of 'flying monkeys'—individuals who, knowingly or not, become tools in an abusive ex-partner’s arsenal, perpetuating a cycle of...

 I'm Danielle Black, your Specialist Separation, Divorce, and Co-Parenting Coach, here to guide Australian women through the stormy waters of separation, divorce, court preparation and effective co-parenting.  This bonus episode of the Post-Separation Abuse Podcast is part of the 'Safe-Guarding' series, where I unpack the different ways in which you can safe-guard yourself from accu...

The conversation in this episode branches out to the often-shadowed corners of complex PTSD, where symptoms can masquerade as other disorders, leading to alarming rates of misdiagnosis.    It's a frank discussion with Australian Separation & Divorce Coach Danielle Black on the implications that such misinterpretations can have within the courtroom, and the importance of receiving appropri...

In this episode I emphasise the importance of consistent written communication as a safeguard against false accusations.  Whether it's setting up a new email address or using secure platforms like Our Family Wizard, these strategies can help you to maintain  your credibility and shield your children from as much conflict as possible. It's about more than just avoiding phone calls or resp...

As a mother who's trudged through the murky waters of post-separation abuse, I understand the tightrope walk of safeguarding children while facing the possibility of false accusations of things like 'withholding', 'gatekeeping' and 'alienation'. This episode shines a light on the credibility battles many women face when family violence surfaces in legal disputes....

As a parent who might be battling to shield your children from an abusive ex, the fear of being slapped with accusations of 'alienation' is all too real.  Embarking on the family law journey as a protective parent requires a delicate strategy, and in this episode I discuss how to utilise supervised visitation to your advantage. Steering clear of alienation accusations, while ensuring you...

Unraveling the complexities of 'alienation' in family law, this episode dissects the controversial concept of the debunked 'parental alienation syndrome',  and reveals the deep-seated biases that imperil protective mothers and their children in the Australian legal system.  You're invited to join a critical conversation that questions the societal and legal insistence on p...

Struggling to navigate through the stormy seas of separation or co-parenting with a controlling person?  Inside this episode, I share the importance of carefully curating your inner circle and how to balance what you disclose to the outer circles that include work colleagues and neighbors. As a strategic separation and divorce specialist coach, I provide you with the tools to keep your ship steady...

Navigating the labyrinth of family court post-separation can feel like a descent into the unknown, but I'm no stranger to this daunting path.  I've lived through the turmoil myself and now I hope to shed some light on the key differences between Australian and American family law systems.  This episode is a candid exploration of the fears and misconceptions that haunt many women facing p...

Navigating the stormy seas of separation becomes even more challenging when you're tethered to a high-conflict ex-partner, doesn't it?   In this episode, I don't shy away from my trademark honesty as I tell it like it is when you share one or more children with a controlling person. As your guide, I bring to light the often hidden realities of parallel parenting, laying bare the tru...

When you're caught in the throes of divorce and tasked with co-parenting, emotions can run high—especially when communication with an ex feels like navigating a minefield. This episode is a heartfelt guide to managing those complex feelings and finding peace amidst chaos.  I open up about my own struggles and breakthroughs, sharing the strategies that have helped me maintain emotional balance...

Emerging from the fog of separation, I found myself anchored by an unexpected philosophy: radical acceptance.  This episode peels back the layers of this transformative practice, revealing how acknowledging our painful realities can liberate us from the energy spent on the impossible task of changing others—especially a former partner.  As we navigate through Marsha Linehan's ten steps of rad...

The latest episode peels back the curtain on the raw and heartfelt journey to reclaim autonomy and safety for those entangled in a web of control and broken promises.  In this episode I confront the painful truth that abusers rarely change without significant self-work.   As a survivor and advocate, I understand all to well what you are dealing with when you are trying to decide whether to stay or...

Facing the aftermath of a separation can feel like navigating a storm without a compass. In this latest episode, I unpack  tools and techniques that can help you to manage the stress and anxiety during these trying times.  You'll learn how to identify and shift the behaviours developed in past relationships that no longer serve you, and the importance of setting boundaries to protect your pea...

Curious about how the simple act of a better sleep routine can be the cornerstone of reclaiming your life, especially after the trials of an abusive relationship?  Let's unpack this together! This episode is your invitation to a healthier you, starting with understanding the profound influence quality sleep has on our well-being.  In addition to quality sleep, maintaining a balanced diet and...

Navigating the choppy waters of post-separation parenting isn't just about splitting time; it's about knitting together a plan that holds your children's well-being at heart. That's exactly what we're unpacking today—how to build parenting arrangements that serve the best interests of your little ones. In this episode I discuss the vital role of primary caregivers, dissect...

Imagine having to navigate the stormy seas of separation while holding your child’s hand—how do you break the news without capsizing their world?  The latest podcast episode highlights the necessity of a child-focused conversation, along with exploring the emotional complexities for both parents and children. You'll gain insights into scripting this delicate dialogue and ensuring that your ch...

As I draw from the depths of my own journey through family violence, post-separation abuse, and enduring the court system, I share a beacon of hope in this episode for those facing the daunting challenges of high-conflict separations.  My experience has taught me the profound impact of mindset on the path to resilience and well-being, and I'm here to guide you through recognising the power yo...

Ever been struck by the sinking feeling that your ex’s lawyer-spun accusations of control and alienation might actually hold water in court?  Today, I'm shattering the illusion that a fierce legal narrative is synonymous with success in the family law arena. With a dash of humor and a dose of reality, I unpack how aggressive legal letters don't always equate to a strong case, and why it’...

Have you ever considered the hidden struggles within same-sex relationships, particularly when it comes to the often overlooked post-separation abuse among lesbian couples?  Through intimate conversations with clients over the years, I have uncovered the persistent challenges they face, from complex control dynamics to emotional manipulation that doesn't cease with the relationship's end...