Fresh Starts After Divorce: From Shame to Empowerment

Divorce can feel like the end of the world, but what if it’s actually the start of a new chapter—one filled with personal growth, authentic connection, and even a little celebration?

On this episode of The Crazy Ex-Wives Club, I sat down with Olivia Howell—podcast producer, author, and co-founder of the Fresh Starts Registry—to talk about building support systems, upgrading your space, and starting fresh without the shame.

Breaking the Shame Cycle

One of the most powerful themes in our conversation was the shame that clings to divorce. We’re told to hide it—but what if we kicked that shame to the curb?

My own divorce rebooted everything: my home, my support systems, my career, even my daily rhythm. And at every turn, I battled that voice whispering, “You failed.”

Here’s the truth: divorce is an act of self-care and self-trust. Olivia shared her own turning point as a single mom—the moment a therapist told her, “Aren’t you already one?” That shift in perspective can be life-changing.

Takeaway:

• Shame thrives in isolation. Community, honesty, and compassion dissolve it.

• Naming your truth—even to yourself—can break the cycle.

Creating Space That Supports Your Healing

After my divorce, I realized I was surrounded by objects that no longer fit my story—wedding dishes, towels, furniture. Olivia felt the same. She turned that pain into purpose by co-founding the Fresh Starts Registry—the world’s first divorce registry.

Why do we celebrate weddings and babies with registries, but expect people to rebuild after divorce in silence and with leftovers? You deserve to fill your space with things that reflect where you’re going—not where you’ve been.

Fresh Starts Registry offers:

• Curated bundles for every budget (new sheets, towels, comforts)

• A way to ask for help without awkwardness

• Scripts for reaching out to friends and family

Takeaway:

• Updating your space helps shift your energy—every new object is a symbol of support and new beginnings.

Downsizing, Moving Home, and Redefining Success

Downsizing. Selling the family home. Moving in with parents. These are big, emotional decisions—and both Olivia and I have made them.

For Olivia, it meant selling her home to invest in her business. For me, it meant moving to a smaller space for less stress and more time with my son.

There’s no “right way.” The only right choice is the one that supports your healing, your children, and your peace of mind.

Takeaway:

• Emotional safety and community matter more than square footage.

• Kids thrive when their parent is healthy, present, and cared for.

The Power of Community and Asking for Help

If there’s one thing I’ll say over and over—it’s you don’t have to do this alone. The Fresh Starts Registry makes asking for help simple, but the bigger gift is acknowledging you’re worthy of it.

That’s exactly why I created The Club—a private community for women navigating divorce. Inside, you’ll find women who get it, expert coaching, and tools to rebuild without the overwhelm. If you’re ready for support that feels like a warm hug and a plan forward, join us.

Takeaway:

• Community heals. Find your people—or join ours.

• Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Embrace the Life You’re Making

Divorce isn’t an ending—it’s a lifelong journey of rediscovering yourself. Whether you’re redecorating with intention, streamlining your space, or asking for help for the first time, every step forward is an act of courage.

What you can do today:

• Replace one old “reminder” with something new that brings joy.

• Ask for support—emotional, practical, or material.

• Join a community that understands what you’re going through.

Learn More About This Week’s Guest: Olivia Howell

Olivia Howell is an award-winning podcast producer, author, and the co-founder and CEO of Fresh Starts Registry—the world’s first divorce registry and leading divorce support platform. A certified life coach, clinical hypnotherapist, and marketing expert, Olivia blends emotional insight with strategic expertise.

She is the producer and co-host of three top-ranked podcasts—A Fresh Story, Divorce Happens, and How Does She Do It All?—and the author of two guidebooks: Your Divorce Support Team and What to Consider When You’re Considering Divorce. Her work has been featured in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post.

Connect with Olivia:
Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | YouTube | What to Consider When You’re Considering Divorce | Your Divorce Support Team

FAQs: Fresh Starts After Divorce

1. How do I rebuild my life after divorce?
Focus on emotional healing, updating your space, and building a supportive community.

2. How do I get rid of the shame around divorce?
Shame dissolves when you share your truth and surround yourself with compassionate people.

3. Why is community important during divorce recovery?
It offers emotional support, practical help, and a reminder that you’re not alone.

Final Thought

Your fresh start isn’t just possible—it’s beautiful. You have permission to let go, rebuild, and accept support along the way. Whether that’s through a new home setup, a mindset shift, or joining The Club, you deserve a future that feels like yours.

With love,
Erica