What if leaving was the bravest thing you could do—even when you were the one who broke the vow? In this raw and tender episode, Erica sits down with Rachel, who vulnerably shares her story—not as the betrayed, but as the one who had the affair.

With honesty and deep reflection, Rachel opens up about what it’s like to be the partner who chooses to end the marriage, even when the door to reconciliation is still open. Together, they explore the complex emotional terrain of guilt, grief, and the often invisible work of self-forgiveness.

This episode is a powerful reminder that sometimes, walking away isn’t about giving up—it’s about choosing truth, healing, and a more honest life for everyone involved. If you’ve ever struggled with shame over your own choices—or felt like your story didn’t fit the “right” narrative—this one’s for you.

You are still worthy. You are still whole. And you are not alone.

🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways:

• The Infidelity Perspective – What really leads someone to cheat—and why shame isn’t the full story.

• The Ego vs. The Whisper – How to discern the fearful mind from soul-level truth when deciding to stay or go.

• Navigating Guilt & Shame – Why guilt can guide and shame can paralyze—and how to move through both with grace.

• Self-Forgiveness After Divorce – Rachael’s journey to forgiving herself and facing the heartbreak she caused (and felt).

• Post-Affair Co-Parenting – How to build a respectful, connected relationship with your ex—and model emotional growth for your kids.

• Gratitude After Grief – The surprising power of appreciation when you’re rebuilding your life from rock bottom.

  
  

💌 P.S. Got a story that flips the script on divorce? Erica wants to hear from you. Submit your experience at thecrazyexwivesclub.com and you could be featured on an upcoming episode. Healing loves company—and your truth might be someone else’s lifeline.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Introduction 

• 01:24 Rachael's Perspective on Infidelity

• 04:13 The Emotional Struggle and Decision to Leave

• 07:15 Navigating Guilt and Shame

• 14:11 Healing and Co-Parenting

• 18:36 Understanding Emotional Triggers

• 19:38 Parenting Through Divorce

• 21:52 Blending Families and New Dynamics

• 23:32 Navigating Emotional Reactions

• 28:51 The Power of Gratitude

• 32:09 Embracing Change and Moving Forward

• 36:16 Support and Community

  
  

The Club: A Divorce Community to Help you Get Clear, Get Grounded and Move Forward. 

Psst… Have you heard? There is a new online space for you to get the support and guidance you need on your divorce journey. The Club is your space to heal, grow and get clear on what you want - whether you are unhappily married or taking those first steps through divorce. The Club offers on-demand programs, monthly live connection calls and a quarterly curated healing kit. Everything The Club offers helps you get clear and get confident on what you want in your next chapter. 

Grab your spot NOW: https://www.thecrazyexwivesclub.com/theclub

Looking for More Support? Let’s Connect

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/thecrazyexwivesclub 

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecrazyexwivesclub

• Website: https://thecrazyexwivesclub.com 

• Contact: [email protected]

• Free 15 Minute Consult: https://calendly.com/ericabennett/15min