In this insightful episode of the Beanstalk Mums Podcast, we explore the emotional terrain of co-parenting and conflict resolution with the calm and compassionate Thad Hollis, founder of Better Outcomes Coaching & Mediation.

With over 30 years of experience guiding families through separation and beyond, Thad offers practical tools and grounded wisdom to help single mums communicate more clearly, reduce stress, and make decisions that truly centre their children’s wellbeing.

Together, we unpack what healthy conflict actually looks like, how to listen (even when it’s hard), and why mediation can be a powerful resource—not just in crisis, but anytime things start to shift. Thad’s approach is gentle, respectful, and refreshingly human.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in a co-parenting loop, unsure how to move forward, or just want more peace in your parenting partnership, this episode is here to support you. Real tools, real talk, and a quiet reminder: you don’t have to do this alone.

Tune in to feel steady, supported, and ready for better outcomes—whatever stage you’re at.

🌸 Visit Better Outcomes Coaching & Mediation

✨ Learn more about divorce coaching with Thad

👯‍♀️ subscribepage.io/beanstalkmumslifehackgifts — Subscribe to the Beanstalk Mums newsletter for weekly support, podcast updates, and instant access to our life hacks library!

🎙️ https://beanstalkmums.com.au/podcast — Our brand-new widget is live on the Beanstalk Mums website! Drop us a voice message with your thoughts or questions; you might hear them in a future episode.

You’ve got this! Let’s thrive together. And don’t forget to leave us a 5-star review and follow the podcast so you never miss an episode packed with inspiration and practical tips for your journey!

🔗 Read the full podcast blog on Finding Freedom After Separation: Practical Legal Advice for Single Mums: https://beanstalkmums.com.au/podcast/freedom-after-separation-practical-legal-tips-for-mums/

💛 Join our single mum community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SingleMumVine

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Separation can feel like the end of something, but what if it’s also the beginning of something better?

In this episode of the Beanstalk Mums Podcast, I’m joined by family lawyer Ella Hickman to unpack what freedom after separation really looks like—practically, emotionally, and legally. Whether you're just beginning the process or still dealing with the ripple effects, Ella shares expert advice and gentle encouragement every step of the way.

We explore common legal misconceptions, how to create realistic parenting plans, where to begin when separation becomes inevitable, and what kind of legal clarity brings the most peace. Ella’s down-to-earth style makes even the complex feel manageable, helping you take that next step with confidence.

💛 You’ll also hear how to handle a difficult ex, prioritise safety and finances, and why the right support network is crucial—not just for surviving separation, but for rebuilding something better.

00:00 – Welcome + Meet Ella Hickman 01:58 – What “freedom” looks like post-separation 04:21 – The biggest legal misconceptions single mums have 07:45 – First steps to take when separating (legally + emotionally) 11:30 – Creating parenting arrangements that actually work 15:00 – Talking finances: urgent priorities for single mums 18:42 – Dealing with a difficult ex during the legal process 22:10 – How the right legal advice empowers emotional healing 26:33 – Ella’s final message of encouragement for mums

If you’re a mum considering separation or divorce but don’t have the means for a private lawyer, these resources are here to support you.

🆓 Legal Aid Commissions - Each state and territory offers a Legal Aid Commission. They provide free legal advice, assistance with court documents, and representation in family law matters—especially if you’re on a lower income.

🆓 Community Legal Centres (CLCs) - Community legal centres offer free family law guidance, cover separation and domestic violence, and often assist when Legal Aid isn’t suitable. There are nearly 200 across Australia, including specialist services like Redfern and Kingsford Legal Centres in NSW.

🆓 Family Relationship Advice Line -This national helpline (1800 050 321) refers callers to legal, financial, and mediation services. They can help you explore all available free options.

🆓 Women’s Legal Services - Offers free, confidential legal advice and tailored support, especially for mums experiencing separation or domestic violence.

✨ https://hickmanfamilylawyers.com.au — Learn more about Ella Hickman Family Lawyers. Expert guidance and compassionate legal support tailored specifically for single mums navigating separation.

👯‍♀️ https://www.facebook.com/groups/SingleMumVine — Don’t forget to join the Single Mum Vine on Facebook! It’s the perfect spot to connect with fellow single mums for support and advice.

🎙️ https://beanstalkmums.com.au/podcast — Our brand-new widget is live on the Beanstalk Mums website! Drop us a voice message with your thoughts or questions; you might hear them in a future episode.

🎧 Subscribe for more expert chats, practical tips, and heartfelt support.

In this heartfelt episode of the Beanstalk Mums Podcast, we dive into Women’s Health through the real and relatable lens of motherhood. With the ever-inspiring Ashley Sonnenberg from Mommy and Me Fitness, we explore what it truly means to prioritise your wellbeing in a life filled with demands, love, and little people.

Ashley shares her journey from healthcare professional to mama-focused fitness coach, and how she’s helping mums ditch the guilt, perfectionism, and pressure to "do it all." Together, we unpack small, doable shifts that lead to lasting change—because your health isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.

From energy and sleep to mindset and movement, this episode gently reminds you that you are worthy of care. You don’t need a perfect routine—you just need a starting point and perhaps a village around you.

Tune in to feel seen, supported, and inspired to put yourself back on the list—with kindness and without overwhelm.

🌸 https://mommyandmefitness.org/home — Start your Women's Health journey with Ashley here.

✨ https://www.facebook.com/ashley.sonnenberg — Ashley's dedicated FB page to all things fitness and wellness.

📘 https://www.subscribepage.io/beanstalkmumslifehackgifts — Grab your 'Organized Mama Meal Blueprint' and many other single mum resources right here!

👯‍♀️ https://www.facebook.com/groups/SingleMumVine — Don’t forget to join the Single Mum Vine on Facebook! It’s the perfect spot to connect with fellow single mums for support and advice.

🎙️ https://beanstalkmums.com.au/podcast — Our brand-new widget is live on the Beanstalk Mums website! Drop us a voice message with your thoughts or questions; you might hear them in a future episode.

You’ve got this! Let’s thrive together. Remember to like and follow the podcast so you never miss an episode packed with inspiration and practical tips for your journey!