For generations, the gender roles of fathers as breadwinners and mothers as caregivers shaped how society viewed family dynamics when a couple divorces. Outcomes of divorce from a sexist court system have forced women in particular into these patriarchal ‘ideals’ – the martyr mother or the stay-at-home mom. Not only has this caused women to press pause on their lives and careers, but it has forced them into financial dependency on the ex-spouse for child support and alimony. And, just like any discussion related to money, it can get messy, stressful, and chaotic. However, as times have changed, the research and science have evolved to counter these outdated beliefs.
In this episode of Divorce, Healthy! attorney and author Ashley-Nicole Russell, of ANR Law, talks to Emma Johnson, writer of Wealthy Single Mommy. During this in-depth discussion, Emma and Ashley-Nicole explore how to adopt and internalize a new narrative as you go navigate separation and divorce. Emma addresses equally shared parenting and gender equality, leading a revolution that empowers women to move forward in their lives in a better, more positive way. She wants women to understand that they have power to influence how the outcome of their divorce looks, including what time spent with the other parent looks like and the power to choose whether or not to receive child support and alimony.
Emma also encourages single mothers to reframe the role of money in their lives, moving away from the idea of institutionalized dependency. You can be financially independent and not have your financial worth attached to your ex-spouse. This also becomes a great opportunity to teach your children resilience and grit. Instead of spending precious time bickering over child support, put that energy into something that can improve your life.
You can be a mother and co-parent to your children and still live your best life, achieving any goals that you may have otherwise considered putting on hold. For Emma, the idea of moving past conflict and being better afterward isn’t just a possibility – it’s a reality that many women are choosing.
For more information, you can reach out to Emma Johnson on her website, Wealthy Single Mommy. And, for those Mommies that could use a boost, check out Emma’s Single Mom Stimulus Grant, where she gives away $500 a week to help struggling single moms.
Links mentioned in the episode
Wealthy Single Mommy by Emma Johnson
To inquire about speaking engagements, purchase your copy of Ashley-Nicole’s book “The Cure for Divorce Culture,” or to schedule your private orientation meeting, head to www.anrlaw.com. You can also find us on social media @ANRLaw. Find a better way forward, right here, on Divorce, Healthy!