What does single motherhood at 40 really look like? In this raw, hilarious, and deeply real conversation, Michelle Shipley shares the unfiltered truth about becoming a solo parent overnight — with little backup, few breaks, and a whole lot of grit. From rebuilding her identity after divorce to navigating dating as a single mom, she reveals how she learned to survive, then thrive, while raising a child completely on her own.

If you've ever wondered what life looks like when you're the primary parent in the picture — emotionally, financially, and logistically — this episode is full of real-life wisdom, resilience, and laugh-through-the-chaos moments. No toxic positivity. No Pinterest parenting. Just the honest reality of single motherhood at 40 and finding yourself again in midlife.

(01:00) — Becoming a Solo Parent After Divorce 💔👩‍👦
How divorce led to full-time single motherhood with little co-parenting support

(04:00) — When Co-Parenting Plans Change: Starting Over Alone 📦✈️
The move that never happened — and being forced into solo parenting

(07:00) — Survival Mode: Carrying the Parenting Alone 🔥
The emotional and logistical load of being the only parent involved

(09:30) — “I’m Not the CEO — I’m the Janitor”: The Reality of Solo Parenting 🧹
Why the “supermom / CEO mom” narrative doesn't match real single mom life

(12:00) — The Mental Load of Motherhood (When You Have No Support) 🧠
Managing every appointment, emergency, meal, and meltdown alone

(17:00) — Independence vs. Freedom in Single Motherhood 🔓
Being capable… without the luxury of choice or spontaneity

(22:00) — Motherhood in Seasons: No Free Time, No Flexibility ⏳
Accepting the “no spontaneity” season of solo parenting young kids

(27:00) — Reclaiming Identity & Confidence After Divorce at 40 💃
How single moms rediscover independence and womanhood in midlife

(28:00) — Dating as a Single Mom in Midlife 📅❤️
Boundaries, childcare logistics, and dating without sacrificing parenting

(32:00) — Choosing Your Child First: Ending a Relationship that Didn’t Fit 👦💔
Why great guys still may not be right for single moms

(43:30) — Realistic Self-Care for Single Moms ☕🥡
DoorDash, therapy, grocery delivery, and survival systems — not spa days

(52:30) — What She Found at 40: Confidence, Strength & Self-Worth 🌈
How single motherhood shaped her identity, resilience, and joy

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📱 Check out @foundat40podcast on Instagram for extras, outtakes, and mild oversharing

🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Foundat40

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