Life After +1: Changing the Game for Single Parents
Life After +1" is the podcast that challenges everything you thought you knew about single parenthood. Hosted by Leanne Hutchinson, each episode dives into the real, raw, and often controversial aspects of being a single parent. From co-parenting struggles to navigating life after a breakup, this show offers unfiltered advice, personal stories, and actionable tips to help you rebuild, grow, and create the life you deserve. Whether you're navigating solo parenting, co-parenting, or re-entering the dating world, this podcast is here to support you through every step of your journey.
114. Rebuilding Confidence as a Single Parent

Itâs common for your confidence to take a hit after becoming a single parent, whether itâs from the breakup, the overwhelm, or the self-doubt that creeps in.
In todayâs episode, we talk about how to rebuild that confidence, how to start believing in yourself again, and why your self-worth matters more than ever. Youâve got this, letâs get that spark back.
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If this episode speaks to you, share it with a friend or tag me on Instagram. And if youâre in one of those âIs this it?â moments ri...
113. 11 Ways to Get the Most Out of Online Dating.

Is it really the dating apps⊠or is it how you're using them?
Are you someone who keeps giving up, deleting the apps, then reinstalling them, hoping this time might be different? Are you swiping every night but still feeling frustrated with the lack of real results?
In this episode, weâre diving into 11 ways to shift your approach and bring a fresh mindset to the online dating world. Itâs not about blaming the apps or yourself â itâs about looking at how youâre showing up and whether your current approach is really working for...
112. Dealing With Heartbreak After Divorce

Breaking up after divorce can hit even harder than the divorce itself â and if youâve been through it, you know exactly what I mean. In this episode, weâre unpacking why it feels so heavy and what to do when it feels like life just knocked you back down⊠again.
We cover:
Why it feels like an even bigger fallWhen you put the new relationship on a pedestal and it doesnât work outThe grief of losing the one you thought would be your âfresh startâThat âI canât believe I have to start over againâ feelin...111: Is This It, Is This Really My Life?

Letâs be honestâŠ
This is not how it was supposed to go.
You didnât plan to be raising kids on your own, scrolling social media on the couch at night, wondering why everyone else seems to have their sh*t together while youâre just trying to keep the house quiet long enough to finish your thoughts.
In this episode, Iâm getting real about those moments where life feels like a giant âWTFâ â the ones where you look around and think:
âIs this seriously my life now? Is this...
110: Is It Really a Red Flag?

Not everything that feels uncomfortable is a red flag, sometimes itâs just new, unfamiliar, or a sign of needing better communication. In this episode, we unpack the difference between real red flags and fear-based reactions, especially for single parents navigating the dating world.
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109. When It Feels Like Your Kids Favor the Other Parent When Coparenting

Itâs a tough pill to swallow, feeling like your kids prefer their other parent.
Whether itâs because they have more fun there, fewer rules, or just a different dynamic, it can stir up a mix of emotions, hurt, frustration, even resentment.
In this episode, weâre unpacking why this happens, what it really means (hint: itâs not always personal), and how to handle it without letting it affect your self-worth or your relationship with your kids.
This episode is your reminder: That yes, you are enough and no, you're not failing...
108. When the Kids Donât Want to Go To The other Parernts

What do you do when your child says they donât want to go to the other parentâs house? It's a situation many single parents face, and it can stir up guilt, anger, and confusion. In this episode, we talk about how to handle it with empathy, respect, and boundaries, while keeping your child's wellbeing at the centre.
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107: You Donât Owe Anyone an Explanation

Its time to let go of Comparison, Judgment & The Need to Justify Everything.
If youâre a single parent who feels like youâre constantly defending your choices, explaining your situation, or measuring yourself against someone elseâs life⊠this episode is for you. Iâm not here to sugarcoat it, the pressure is real. But the need to prove your worth or play catch-up ends today.
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106. The Legal Questions We All Want the Answers For

This week Iâm joined by the incredible Krystal from Ryan & Ryan Lawyers, not only is she a family and divorce attorney, but sheâs also a single mum who gets just how overwhelming, emotional, and downright messy separation can be.
Weâre diving into all the big, heavy, tricky questions that so many single parents face, but donât always know where to turn for answers.
This episode is real, raw, and packed with insight for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure what their next step looks like.
Get in contact with Krystal...
105: Choosing Change (Even When Itâs Uncomfortable)

I get it, booking a session, reaching out, even just saying âI need helpâ can feel huge. Because choosing to make that step means facing truths. Sitting in discomfort. Owning whatâs not working.
And thatâs not easy, especially when youâre a single parent just trying to get through the week.
But hereâs the thing:
No one can do the work for you.
No one can drag you out of where youâre stuck.
You have to say, âIâm ready.â
And when you do? Thatâs when real...
104: How to Deal with a High-Conflict Ex

Letâs be realâdealing with an ex is one thing⊠but dealing with a high-conflict ex? Thatâs a whole other level of emotional gymnastics.
In this episode, Iâm talking all about how to stay grounded, protect your peace, and not let your ex rent space in your head (or your schedule). Whether theyâre constantly trying to push your buttons, dragging you into drama, or just refusing to co-parent like an adultâthis oneâs for you.
Weâll cover:
âš What not to do when theyâre looking for a reaction...
103: Planning the Custody Without the Breakup Baggage

In the middle of heartbreak, itâs easy to let anger, grief or fear drive the decisions you make around custody â but those reactions can come back to bite.
In this episode, weâre talking about how to mentally prepare for the custody process, whether youâre going through mediation, mutual agreement, or the court system. Youâll learn how to separate your emotions from your strategy, protect your kids' best interests, and show up as your best self â not your most reactive one.
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102: Letting Go of the Single Parent Guilt

Single parent guilt⊠oooff, it hits hard, doesnât it?
This week on the podcast weâre diving into that all-too-familiar feeling of guilt so many single parents carry, guilt over not being able to give your kids everything, guilt over time, guilt over the ex.... the list goes on.
Being a single parent is hard enough without dragging guilt around like extra baggage you didnât sign up for. So letâs chat it out together.
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101. Traveling as a Single Parent with Richelle from Social Travel Connections

Traveling solo with kidsâexciting or overwhelming? If youâve ever wanted to take your kids on an adventure but feel held back by the logistics, cost, or the thought of managing it all alone, this episode is for you.
This week, Iâm joined by Richelle from Social Travel Connections, and weâre diving into everything travel as a single parent. Whether youâre planning your first trip or looking for ways to make traveling easier, Richelle has the insights you need.
What We Cover in This Episode:
How to plan a trip without th...100. Top 100 Game-Changing Lessons from 100 Episodes

We made it to 100 episodes!
Over the last 99 episodes, weâve covered everything from breakups to boundaries, dating to co-parenting, self-worth to starting over, and everything in between. In this special milestone episode, weâre looking back at the BEST tips, biggest âahaâ moments, and the most game-changing advice from the past 100 episodes.
Whether youâre new here or have been listening from day one, this episode is packed with golden nuggets to help you navigate single parent life with confidence, clarity, and maybe even a few laughs along the way.
Thank you for being...
99. Dealing with the Mental Clutter

Juggling everything from work to school lunches to self-care can feel like an Olympic sport.
In this episode, Iâm diving into:
â Why mental clutter feels heavier as a single parent
â The real impact of decision fatigue and emotional overload
â Simple mindset shifts to create more mental space
â Practical strategies to declutter your thoughts and feel more in control
â How to stop carrying everything alone and start asking for help
âš Itâs time to free up mental space so you can focus on what truly mattersâyou and...
98. Where Did My Friends Go? Navigating Friendships as a Single Parent

One of the hardest parts of becoming a single parent is realizing that some of your friendships start to fade. Whether itâs because of different priorities, lack of time, or just growing apart, it can feel isolating.
In this episode, weâre talking about why friendships shift after a breakup, how to handle the loneliness that comes with it, and ways to rebuild your social circle with people who truly get you. If youâve ever asked yourself, âWhere did my friends go?â, this one is for you.
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97. Communicating About Real Issues as a Single Parent

As single parents, itâs easy to avoid tough conversations, whether itâs with our kids, our ex, or even a new partner. But ignoring real issues doesnât make them go away.
In this episode, weâre diving into why open, honest communication is crucial for a healthy relationship. Letâs break the cycle of avoidance and start having the conversations that truly matter.
Tune in and letâs talk
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96. Why is it so hard to ask for help?

As a single parent, itâs easy to fall into the trap of thinking you have to do everything alone. Whether itâs out of pride, fear of judgment, or just being so used to handling things on your own, asking for help can feel uncomfortableâeven impossible. But hereâs the truth: you donât have to do it all.
In this episode, weâre diving into:
- Why so many single parents struggle with asking for help.
- The guilt and fear that comes with needing supportâand how to let it go.
...
95. Setting Boundaries In a Healthy Way

Ever tried setting boundaries but ended up feeling like the bad guy? Or maybe you get defensive, and it turns into a bigger issue than it needs to be. The truth is, boundaries arenât about being harsh, theyâre about protecting your peace while still showing up as your best self.
In this episode, weâre breaking down:
How to set firm boundaries without coming across as rude or coldThe difference between healthy boundaries and walls built from past hurtPractical ways to communicate boundaries in co-parenting, dating, and friendships, without the dramaIf youâve...
94. How do you "heal" after a breakup?

Healing isnât just about âgetting over itâ or pretending the past didnât happenâitâs about truly processing, understanding, and releasing what no longer serves you. In this episode, weâre diving into what healing actually looks like, why itâs not a straight path, and how to start moving forward in a way that feels right for you.
We'll talk about:
đĄ The misconceptions about healing (spoiler: itâs not about time alone!)
đ Practical steps to start your healing journey
đŹ How to stop carrying the weight of the past into your future
đ Wh...
93. Letting go! Is it Your Ex that's holding you back or Is it Something more?

Think you canât move on because of your ex? It might not be that simple. In this episode, we dig into whatâs really keeping you stuck and stopping you from letting go and moving on.
Is it the relationship itself, or something deeper? Letâs break it down and figure out whatâs truly holding you back so you can finally move forward.
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92. 10 Signs That You're Settling In Your Relationships

Are you truly happy in your relationship, or are you just settling? In this episode, weâre diving into the 10 signs that might mean youâre staying in a relationship out of comfort, fear, or habit rather than genuine love and fulfillment.
From ignoring red flags to making excuses for why things arenât improving, weâll explore the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways you might be settlingâand how to break free. If youâve ever questioned whether you deserve more, this oneâs for you
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91. Managing Your Emotions During Your Single Parent Court Case Battles

Going through a court case as a single parent can feel like one of the hardest things youâll ever face. The emotions are intenseâfear, anger, sadness, and even hopelessness can creep in as you fight for what matters most. Balancing these overwhelming feelings while trying to stay strong for your kids and keep life moving is no easy task.
In this episode of Life After +1, weâre diving deep into the emotional challenges of navigating the courtroom as a single parent. Weâll talk about the difficulty of managing those raw, heavy emotions when everything feels li...
90. Iâm Sick of the Drama with My Ex

In this episode of Life After +1, Iâm tackling the never-ending drama with exes and how it impacts life as a single parent.
If youâre exhausted from the constant arguments, misunderstandings, or emotional baggage that co-parenting with an ex can bring, this episode is for you. Iâll share practical strategies, personal insights, and mindset shifts to help you rise above the chaos, set boundaries, and protect your peace.
Tune in to discover how to let go of the drama and focus on what truly matters, your happiness and your kids.
đ...
89. My Personal Dating Experience

In this episode of Life After +1, Iâm diving into the details of a recent date I went on as a single parent. This experience taught me so much about growth, self-reflection, and what I truly want in a partner.
Dating as a single parent comes with its own unique challenges, but with the right mindset, it can also be an opportunity for personal growth and clarity. Join me as I share this story to inspire and support other single parents navigating the dating world.
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88. When Your Ex Gets Nasty

When your ex gets nasty, itâs easy to feel hurt, frustrated, or even angryâbut what if you could look at it from a different perspective?
In this episode, weâll explore how to shift your mindset and see their behavior for what it really is, without letting it derail your peace. Learn how to approach these situations with curiosity, not conflict, and focus on what you can control.
By changing the way you view their actions, you can reclaim your power and keep moving forward with clarity and confidence
đđ» D...
87. What Do You Want This Year?

What do you want?
As we ring in the New Year, itâs time to get crystal clear on what you truly desire for 2025ânot just as a single parent, but for you.
No more floating through life, just hoping for the bestâitâs time to get intentional about what you want to achieve in life and in 2025.
In this NYE episode, weâll dive into the power of knowing what you want, and creating a vision for your life that excites you. Whether itâs more balance, love, or personal...
86. 10 Steps to Get You Through Christmas as A Single Parent

Just because youâre a single parent doesnât mean you need to feel sad and lonely at Christmas!
In this episode, Iâm sharing 10 practical and empowering tips to help you embrace the holiday season with joy and confidence. From creating new traditions and managing expectations to budgeting tips and self-care strategies, this guide will help you make Christmas magical for both you and your kids.
Letâs turn this season into one of love, and new memories and not one of loneliness and constant sadness about what was.
85. Let's Get You Dating Ready For 2025

Letâs make 2025 the year we stop settling and start dating with purpose. No more staying in situations because weâre scared of being single, no more ignoring red flags, and absolutely no more wasting energy on the wrong people for all the wrong reasons.
Itâs time to date with confidence, clarity, and a deep understanding of what we truly deserve. This is your year to set boundaries, honor your worth, and attract the love that aligns with the incredible life youâre building."
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84. Should I include my Ex in Our Christmas Celebrations?

Deciding whether to invite your ex over for Christmas can be tricky, especially when kids are involved. Will having them there will create a positive, peaceful environment for everyone or will it lead to tension.
Ultimately, the focus needs to be on whatâs best for you, your family and your well-being this holiday season.
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83. The Importance of Keeping Track of Your to Do List

In this episode, weâre diving into the power of tackling your to-do list as a single parent. Itâs easy to feel overwhelmed and let things pile up, but neglecting your responsibilities can lead to a spiral of stress and negativity.
Completing even the smallest tasks gives you a sense of accomplishment and control, which is so important for maintaining a positive mindset. Tune in for practical tips and a motivational boost to help you stay on top of things and keep moving forward with confidence.
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82. When the Ex Gets a New Partner

Loneliness as a single parent can hit hard, especially when you're juggling everything alone. But here's the truth: loneliness doesnât have to define your journey. In this quick pep talk, weâll explore how to shift your mindset and make the most of your solo time.
Learn how to embrace your independence, and remind yourself that this season of life is just one chapterânot the whole story. Tune in for a little boost to help you see the silver linings in your single parenthood
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81. Your Loneliness Pep Talk

Loneliness as a single parent can be tough, but itâs important to remember that you have a choice. You can choose to dwell on feeling lonely, or you can flip the script and use your alone time to recharge, reflect, and grow.
In todayâs episode, Iâm giving you a quick pep talk on how to make the most of those quiet momentsâTune in for a reminder that being alone doesnât have to mean feeling lonely!
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80. Handling the Roller Coaster of Emotions

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY TO LIFE AFTER + 1
On this 1st birthday episode, I have decided to talk about the most challenging part of single parenting, our emptions!
Dealing with the roller coaster of emotions after a breakup can be overwhelming. One day you might feel empowered and ready to move on, and the next, you're grappling with sadness, anger, or confusion.
In today's episode I discuss how important it is to acknowledge and process these feelings instead of suppressing them. and remember that emotional ups and downs are part of the healing journey. With...
79. Its Time To get Your Confidence Back

As a single parent, itâs easy to lose sight of your confidence while juggling the many demands of life. But rebuilding that self-assurance is not only possibleâit's empowering.
In this episode, weâre diving into practical ways to regain your confidence, from embracing your independence to setting boundaries and rediscovering your strengths. Whether itâs stepping out of your comfort zone, setting new personal goals, or finding joy in your accomplishments, this journey is about realizing that you're more than capable of thriving as a single parent.
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78. Why Did they Leave Me When I Did Everything For Them?

Overcompensating in a relationshipâdoing everything for the other person while neglecting your own needsâcan create an unhealthy dynamic. When you constantly give and sacrifice without balance, you may start feeling resentful or drained.
Eventually, you might wonder why the relationship didn't last, but the truth is, a one-sided effort can lead to emotional burnout and lack of mutual respect. Relationships thrive on balance, where both people contribute equally to the connection.
Tune in as I discuss this topic further to help you understand if you're overcompensation in a relationship.
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77. First Date Tips & Tricks

First date etiquette is all about making a genuine connection while putting in a bit of effort, showing respect and consideration for the other person. Not to mention communicating with the other person what you're looking for and letting them know if it's the right vibe for you or not
Tune in to todayâs episode as we dive deeper into this topic, offering more tips to help you nail that first date!
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76. How to Stop Carrying Past Hurt Into New Relationships

Letting go of past relationship hurt and anger is essential for your emotional well-being and future happiness. Holding onto unresolved pain only causes you to carry that baggage into new relationships, potentially harming those who had nothing to do with your past.
When you refuse to deal with these emotions, they can manifest as anger or mistrust towards the wrong person, preventing you from fully healing and moving forward which only holds a negative impact on new and future romantic relationships.
Tune in to todays episode as I talk about confronting these feelings to allow...
75. Getting out of Toxic Situations

One of the best ways to avoid getting into toxic situations is by listening to your gut from the start. If something feels off, don't ignore those red flags.
Set boundaries early and stick to them, even if it feels awkward. Remember, it's okay to walk away from anything or anyone that drains your energy or brings negativity.
Tune in to today's episode so you can gain a better understanding of how to avoid being in toxic situations.
Protect your peace!!
Episode 23: Seeking Revenge on Your Ex
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