The Rise of Gray Divorce: Why Women Are Leaving and What Comes Next

Today’s guest is Oona Metz, a licensed clinical social worker, certified group psychotherapist, and Fellow of the American Group Psychotherapy Association. With 30+ years of experience supporting women through major life transitions, Una brings deep insight into one of the fastest-growing divorce trends: gray divorce.We explore why divorce rates for couples over 50 have doubled, how identity shifts after decades of marriage, and the hidden losses many women grieve—from retirement dreams to changing family traditions. Una explains why women often carry guilt about “wasted years,” how to reframe long marriages with compassion, and why financial fear is so common in later-life separation.Oona also shares powerful guidance on:Navigating adult children’s reactionsRebuilding confidence and emotional autonomyDating again—or choosing not toCreating new traditions and chosen familyTurning gray divorce into a catalyst for growth and reinventionWe also discuss her new book, Unhitched: The Essential Divorce Guide for Women, which offers emotional tools, financial guidance, and real-life stories to support women at every stage of the divorce journey.If you’re navigating life after divorce—or supporting someone who is—this episode is packed with wisdom, validation, and practical steps for rebuilding your next chapter with clarity and strength.Learn more at oonametz.com.Enjoyed this episode of Bent Not Broken: Life After Divorce with Deborah Griffiths?Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so more people searching for life after divorce, divorce recovery, co-parenting, dating after divorce, and healing from gaslighting can discover this empowering podcast. Every review helps others find hope, inspiration, and practical tools for thriving after divorce.Explore more resources: Visit BrokenToBoldness.com for coaching, workshops, and guidance on divorce recovery and life transitions.Follow Deborah Griffiths for daily empowerment and support:Instagram: @BrokenToBoldnessFacebook: Broken to BoldnessLinkedIn: Broken to BoldnessRemember: divorce may bend you, but it does not break you. You are stronger than you think, and your bold new chapter starts now.  Disclaimer: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal or psychological advice. You should contact an attorney, coach, or therapist in your state to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem.