🔗 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!

Growing Your Tribe: How Single Mums Can Build Connection and Community

Being a single mum doesn’t mean doing it alone! In this episode, we chat with Sarah McLaughlin from Liberty about the power of community and how single mums can build strong, supportive networks. We explore the rise of ‘mommunes’—a growing trend where single mums share living spaces to ease financial pressures, offer mutual support, and create a village-like environment for their children.

Sarah shares expert insights on:

✔️ The benefits of co-living for single mums ✔️ How to find (and create) your own community ✔️ Overcoming fears and challenges of shared living ✔️ Practical tips for making it work

Whether you're looking for deeper friendships, shared parenting support, or considering co-living, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice.

🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

• 💰 Liberty Financial – Learn more about flexible lending options for co-buying a home.

• ⚖️ Australian Property Laws on Co-Ownership – Understand the legalities of joint homeownership in Australia.

• 👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 Join The Single Mum Vine – A supportive online space for single mums to share experiences and find like-minded mums.

• 💻 Visit our website - Information, encouragement & support by single mums for single mums.

🎧 Tune in now and start growing your tribe!