About the Guest: 

Ben McEachen is the mornings presenter at Sydney's Hope 103.2 and is actively involved in a community support program known as Divorce Care, which he runs with his wife, Amy. With his life experience of separation and divorce, Ben brings a wealth of personal insight to the course, which is designed to help individuals navigate the emotional terrain of divorce. The initiative aims to offer guidance, support, and a space for healing and reflection for those going through one of life’s most challenging transitions. 

Episode Summary: 

In this earnest episode of “She Wasn’t Born Yesterday,” hosts Amelia and Janet delve into the complex and often misunderstood journey of life after divorce. The conversation features Ben McEachen, whose personal encounter with divorce inspired him to facilitate a program called Divorce Care, aimed at guiding people through the emotional labyrinth that follows the dissolution of a marriage. 

Throughout the discussion, Ben touches on the profound impact of separation and divorce, not just on the individuals directly involved, but on their social circles, children, and community at large. The conversation weaves through the various phases participants experience, from the shock and grief immediate to the separation to the potentially empowering steps towards forgiveness, new beginnings, and self-reflection. This ep promises valuable insights into navigating divorce with compassion and the potential for personal growth. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Divorce can have traumatic effects, ranking as the second most stressful life event after the death of a spouse. 
• Divorce Care is a biblically-based support course providing a platform for those dealing with the ramifications of divorce. 
• The process of divorce touches upon various aspects of life, including the emotional impact, financial implications, and the dynamics of parenting post-separation. 
• Forgiveness is a pivotal theme in the recovery process, acknowledging one’s own role in the dissolution as well as releasing bitterness towards the ex-spouse. 
• The discussion emphasizes the importance of community support, especially within the church, during the often lonely journey of divorce. 

Notable Quotes: 

• “If you imagine ripping [a united marriage] apart, it’s totally understandable that people would be traumatized.” 
• “The ripple effects [of divorce] are just, I think, more wide-reaching than what most people would realize.” 
• “Even if you are 99.9% in the right…what is it that you brought to this relationship?” 

• “Forgiveness is like the key that unlocks the door that can free you from…prison.” 
• “It still seems like…churches don’t quite know what to do with separation and divorce.” 

Resources: 

Divorce Care was highlighted as the primary resource for individuals seeking support through their divorce. To find a local Divorce Care group, individuals can search online and find information regarding sign-ups and meetings. 

Sign up here for the specific Divorce Care program which Ben and Amy hosts in Sydney's Inner West. 

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