In this very personal episode, I’m reflecting on something I didn’t fully understand when my divorce was finalized: just because the divorce is over doesn’t mean the toxicity magically disappears. What happens when you’re 14 months out from a toxic divorce and your ex is still baiting, harassing, manipulating, and trying to control you—especially when you share children?
I’m sharing what I’ve learned over the past five years navigating co-parenting with a high-conflict ex, how I’ve stopped spiraling, and the practical strategies that are finally helping me protect my peace. If you’ve ever struggled with gaslighting, emotional triggers, or feeling like your ex still has power over you—even after the papers are signed—this episode is for you.
Episode Highlights:
[0:02] – Celebrating my 60th episode and thanking you for your support.
[0:21] – What really happens after a toxic divorce is finalized—and why it doesn’t always feel “over.”
[2:34] – Why blocking your ex isn’t realistic when you share minor children—and how I filter what actually deserves a response.
[4:36] – Realizing it’s the same game, the same tactics, year after year—and how predictability becomes power.
[5:41] – The two strategies that truly work for me: ignoring and rising above.
[6:00] – Why I don’t open texts immediately—and how waiting changes everything.
[7:00] – Watching his tone shift from bullying to pleading when I don’t engage.
[7:45] – The “proverbial box” method: mentally containing the chaos and only opening it when it legitimately involves our daughter.
[8:03] – Declaring that no one will ever control me again—and what taking your power back really looks like.
[8:53] – Introducing my new 8-week mentorship program and how it’s different from traditional therapy or coaching.
[9:07] – How to connect with me, leave a message, and join me every Thursday for new episodes.
Links & Resources:
Be sure to follow, share, and leave a comment if this show resonates with you! Send me a message at podpage.com/themusicoflife to share your experiences, or to leave a comment. I'd love to feature it in a future episode. Check me out on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caryn-levitt-8a09263a6/
