PODCAST · kids
Single Parent Reset
by Orla Donoghue
Single Parent Reset is here to help single parents reclaim balance and prioritise themselves. I'm Orla and as a single parent I know the unique challenges single parents face—burnout, guilt, loneliness and trying to do it all. In each episode, I’ll share practical steps to reset your mindset, find more calm and take back control of your life. If you’ve ever felt like no one gets what you’re going through as a single parent, this podcast is here to remind you that you’re not alone. Tune in every Monday for short, empowering episodes that help you thrive on your single parenting journey.
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Co-Parenting After Separation with Noel Crabbe
In this episode of Single Parent Reset, I’m joined by Noel Crabbe, founder of ParenThing, to talk about the journey of becoming a co-parent and how life can change when you go from parenting together to parenting across two homes. Noel shares his own experience of becoming a co-parent, what he learned along the way and some of the challenges that can come with navigating communication, routines and the everyday logistics of raising children after separation.We also talk ParenThing, a co-parenting app created by Noel designed to make the practical side of parenting across two homes a little easier, from messages and shared calendars to expenses and keeping important information in one place. Whether you’re newly co-parenting, have been doing it for years or are still figuring out what works for your family, this is an honest conversation about the realities of co-parenting and finding ways to make life a little calmer for everyone.Find Out More - ParenThing:Website: https://parenthing.ie/Connect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Why September Feels So Hard as a Single Parent
September can bring a lot of pressure for single parents new routines, school demands, work expectations and the feeling that you should somehow have everything back under control. In this episode, we’re looking at the pressure we put on ourselves and how to recognise the difference between what genuinely matters to you and the expectations you can let go of.This episode is for any single parent who is feeling overwhelmed, behind or like they should be doing more this September. We’ll explore how to challenge the “shoulds”, step away from comparison and think about how you actually want to feel this month so you can create a September that works for you and your family, rather than trying to live up to someone else’s version of it.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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SUMMER REPLAY | Co-Parenting Reset: Start Fresh This September
Summer Replay Series: Throughout the summer, I'm revisiting some of the most impactful conversations from the Single Parent Reset podcast. Whether you're listening for the first time or coming back to it, I hope this episode gives you the support, reassurance and practical tools you need today.September isn’t just back-to-school season, it’s the perfect time for your own Co-Parenting New Year. In this episode of Single Parent Reset, we’ll walk through a simple four-step check-in to help you reflect, reset, and get your co-parenting running more smoothly for the months ahead.We’ll cover the key areas to review, logistics, communication, boundaries, and your own wellbeing, so you can spot what’s working, fix what’s not, and head into autumn feeling more in control and less overwhelmed.This isn’t about changing your co-parent, it’s about focusing on what’s in your control, creating clarity, and protecting your time, energy, and headspace. Whether you have a cooperative co-parent or a challenging one, this September reset will help you make small, practical shifts that can have a big impact.Set aside some time this week for your own Co-Parenting New Year check-in, and start the new school year feeling stronger, calmer, and more prepared.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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SUMMER REPLAY | Single Parent Loneliness: You’re Not Alone
Summer Replay Series: Throughout the summer, I'm revisiting some of the most impactful conversations from the Single Parent Reset podcast. Whether you're listening for the first time or coming back to it, I hope this episode gives you the support, reassurance and practical tools you need today.Loneliness can hit single parents in unexpected ways, at social gatherings, during quiet weekends or even in moments of joy. In this episode of Single Parent Reset, we explore how loneliness shows up and why it’s not just about being physically alone.I’ll share personal experiences, insights and actionable steps to help you feel more connected, supported and empowered. Whether it’s finding community, challenging assumptions or making small changes, you’ll discover ways to overcome isolation and embrace connection. Because no matter how it feels, you are not alone.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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SUMMER REPLAY | How to Create a Work Life That Supports Single Parenthood
Summer Replay Series: Throughout the summer, I'm revisiting some of the most impactful conversations from the Single Parent Reset podcast. Whether you're listening for the first time or coming back to it, I hope this episode gives you the support, reassurance and practical tools you need today.Feeling overwhelmed juggling work, parenting, and household responsibilities? You're not alone. In this episode of Single Parent Reset, we dive into practical strategies to help single parents find clarity in their careers and achieve a sustainable work-life balance. Learn how to identify your values, reassess your job situation, and take actionable steps to create a work-life routine that aligns with your family’s needs. Whether you're struggling with job dissatisfaction, financial stress, or the guilt of not spending enough time with your kids, this episode offers insights and real-life solutions to help you take back control. Tune in for expert advice and relatable experiences to help you build a career and life you love as a single parent.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/ Email: [email protected]
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SUMMER REPLAY | Breaking Stereotypes: A Conversation with Roisin O’Donnell, Author of Nesting
Summer Replay Series: Throughout the summer, I'm revisiting some of the most impactful conversations from the Single Parent Reset podcast. Whether you're listening for the first time or coming back to it, I hope this episode gives you the support, reassurance and practical tools you need today.This episode features author Roisin O’Donnell, who shares the inspiration behind her acclaimed novel, Nesting. Roisin talks about what motivated her to write the book, how she balanced the demands of writing with single parenthood and a full-time job, and her commitment to portraying the true realities faced by single parents especially those navigating coercive control and temporary accommodation.The conversation also explores single parenthood more broadly, challenging outdated stereotypes, addressing the everyday logistics and emotional complexities, and highlighting the connections that can form between single parents. Roisin also discusses the strength and joy children bring, the importance of finding time for you, and ways to seek support. This episode offers honest insights and encouragement for anyone interested in authentic and hopeful storytelling about single parenthood.Support Organisations IrelandAlways Here: https://www.alwayshere.ie/One Family Ireland: https://onefamily.ie/Support Organisations UKMums In Need: https://www.mumsinneed.com/Refuge: https://refuge.org.uk/Gingerbread: https://www.gingerbread.org.uk/Solas Coaching DetailsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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SUMMER REPLAY | Managing Anger as a Single Parent: Practical Steps to Regain Control
Summer Replay Series: Throughout the summer, I'm revisiting some of the most impactful conversations from the Single Parent Reset podcast. Whether you're listening for the first time or coming back to it, I hope this episode gives you the support, reassurance and practical tools you need today.Anger and rage can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating the many demands of single parenthood. From running a household to managing co-parenting challenges and financial stress, it’s easy to feel like emotions are spiralling out of control. But anger isn’t just an outburst, it’s a signal that something in your life needs attention.In this episode of Single Parent Reset, we’ll uncover the hidden messages behind anger and explore how unmet needs and crossed boundaries can fuel these emotions. You’ll learn practical strategies to recognise your triggers, set boundaries, and regain control of your emotions with curiosity and compassion.Whether you’re juggling the chaos of daily life or struggling to find time for yourself, this episode offers actionable advice to help you feel calmer, more balanced, and confident in your single parenting journey.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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SUMMER REPLAY | Transform Your Money Mindset as a Single Parent
Summer Replay Series: Throughout the summer, I'm revisiting some of the most impactful conversations from the Single Parent Reset podcast. Whether you're listening for the first time or coming back to it, I hope this episode gives you the support, reassurance and practical tools you need today.Money can be one of the most stressful aspects of single parenting, especially when you're managing it all on a single income. In this episode of Single Parent Reset, I dive into the emotional and practical side of finances, explaining the power that shifting your money mindset can have.We’ll explore how to understand your money story, recognise spending patterns, and reframe your thoughts around money. Whether you’re struggling with overspending, guilt, or simply wanting to feel more in charge of your financial situation, this episode is for you. Let’s take back control and make money work for you, not the other way around.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/ Email: [email protected]
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SUMMER REPLAY | Dating Advice for Single Parents with Eimear Draper
Summer Replay Series: Throughout the summer, I'm revisiting some of the most impactful conversations from the Single Parent Reset podcast. Whether you're listening for the first time or coming back to it, I hope this episode gives you the support, reassurance and practical tools you need today.The prospect of dating as a single parent can feel overwhelming and daunting. Or maybe you’ve been dating for a while and feel like you're getting nowhere. In this episode, straight-talking dating coach Eimear Draper from Kindling Dating joins us to share real, practical advice for single parents ready to start dating again or reset their approach. We break down how to build confidence, navigate dating apps, talk to your kids about dating, and avoid the most common mistakes. Whether you're newly single or deep in the dating game and feeling stuck, this conversation offers the support, strategy, and mindset shift you need to date with clarity and confidence.Check out Kindling Dating and take the Dating Blockers Quiz here: https://kindlingdating.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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SUMMER REPLAY | Summer Survival Guide for Single Parents
Summer Replay Series: Throughout the summer, I'm revisiting some of the most impactful conversations from the Single Parent Reset podcast. Whether you're listening for the first time or coming back to it, I hope this episode gives you the support, reassurance and practical tools you need today.Do you ever find yourself dreading the summer holidays more than you’d like to admit?In this episode of Single Parent Reset, we talk about why summer feels so heavy, what you can do to make it more manageable, and the mindset shifts that can help you stop overcompensating and start enjoying the moments that matter. Whether your summer is packed to the brim or feels too quiet, this conversation is your permission slip to let go of pressure, lower the bar, and make space for calm.Listen now and discover how to move through this summer with less guilt, more presence, and support that actually works for your life.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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How to Stop Letting Uncertainty Hold You Back
For many single parents, uncertainty can become a constant part of life whether it's navigating divorce, co-parenting, finances, work or figuring out what the next chapter looks like. But often, it isn't just the uncertainty itself that feels overwhelming. It's the way it can leave us feeling stuck, questioning our decisions and waiting for life to feel more settled before we move forward. In this episode, we explore how uncertainty can impact the way we think, the decisions we make and the confidence we have in ourselves. The episode covers practical tools to help you separate facts from fear, recognise what is still within your control, stop letting uncertainty make decisions for you, and start building self-trust so you can keep moving forward even when you don't have all the answers.Connect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Why Rest Feels So Hard as a Single Parent
As a single parent, finding time for yourself can feel impossible. But even when those precious pockets of downtime do appear, many of us struggle to actually use them in ways that help us rest, recharge and reconnect with ourselves. Instead, we find ourselves stuck in guilt, overwhelmed by the never-ending to-do list, or unsure what we even want to do with the time.The episodes explores why so many single parents find it difficult to embrace downtime and sharing practical strategies to help you reclaim those moments, no matter how small. We'll look at the thoughts, emotions and beliefs that can get in the way, how to overcome them, and simple ways to make sure your downtime leaves you feeling replenished rather than even more depleted. If you've ever found yourself finally getting a break only to waste it scrolling, doing life admin or feeling guilty for stopping, this episode is for you.Connect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Letting Go of Comparison as a Single Parent
This episode looks at how comparison quietly shows up in the lives of single parents and the impact it has on confidence, mood, and how we see ourselves. From social media scrolling to conversations with friends and other families, we explore why these moments can suddenly leave you feeling like you’re not doing enough, even when you’re already carrying so much. In this episode, we look at why these comparisons hit so hard as a single parent and how you can start to step out of that cycle so you can feel more grounded in your own reality and what actually matters to you.This episode is for you if you’ve ever found yourself feeling like you’re falling behind after scrolling on social media, questioning whether you’re doing enough as a parent, or comparing your situation to other families and coming away feeling worse. Connect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Is This What’s Keeping You Stuck as a Single Parent?
This episode explores how blame can quietly keeping you stuck as single parent without even realising it. Whether it’s blaming a co-parent, the system or even yourself, blame can often feel like the most natural and justified response when life feels unfair or overwhelming. But while it can help make sense of what’s happened, it can also keep you anchored in the past and disconnected from what you can actually influence now.This episode is for single parents who find themselves replaying situations, feeling frustrated, stuck, or overwhelmed, and wanting a different way forward that doesn’t involve self-blame or resentment. There are practical strategies to help you notice when blame is showing up, gently step out of it, and start focusing your energy on what is within your control so you can move forward with more clarity, choice, and self-trust.Connect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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When Will This Get Easier?
In this episode, we’re talking about the part of single parenthood that doesn’t get spoken about enough, what happens after the dust has settled, life has been rebuilt, yet it still feels hard. When the support has faded, life has moved on for everyone else, and you’re left wondering “why don’t I feel better yet?” This episode explores that gap between how you thought you’d feel by now and the reality of still finding it overwhelming.You’ll gain a deeper understanding of why this experience is so common (and so rarely acknowledged), along with practical ways to support yourself through it from self-compassion and managing comparison, to letting go of blame and asking for help. This episode is for any single parent who feels like they should have it together by now, but doesn’t and needs the reminder that nothing about what they’re experiencing means they’ve failed.Connect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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The Co-Parenting Method with Marcie Shaoul
If you’re navigating co-parenting and finding it harder than you expected, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Marcie Scholl, founder of The Co-Parent Way and author of The Co-Parenting Method, to talk about what it really takes to raise happy, secure children after separation. We get into the mindset shifts that make the biggest difference, including why you don’t need to like your co-parent to co-parent well, and how taking a long-term view can completely change how you show up.We also dive into the real-life challenges that come with co-parenting, from handovers and communication styles to navigating conflict, new partners, and different rules across households. Marcie shares practical tools you can use straight away, along with honest reassurance for those moments where it all feels overwhelming. If you’re looking for a calmer, more grounded way to approach co-parenting, this episode will leave you feeling supported and more in control.Find Out More - Marcie Shaoul:Website: https://thecoparentingmethod.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecoparentway/Book: 'The Co-Parenting Method'Connect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Facing Big Change and Coming Back Stronger with Helen Thorn
In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Helen Thorn, one half of the comedy duo Scummy Mummies and author of Get Divorced, Be Happy and How to Face Big Change and Come Back Stronger.In this conversation, Helen shares what her single parent journey has really looked like from the highs to the lows and everything in between. We talk about divorce, navigating big life changes, and what it means to rebuild and come back stronger as a single parent.If you’re looking for a podcast episode on divorce, single parenting, and finding strength through change with plenty of honesty and humour along the way, then this is definitely the episode for you. Expect something that will lift your spirits and leave you with a few nuggets of wisdom to take with you.Find Out More - Helen Thorn:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsmehelenthorn/Books: 'Get Divorced, Be Happy' and 'How to Face Big Change and Come Back Stronger'Connect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Single Parents in the Workplace: What Needs to Change
One year on from publishing “Unlocking Potential: Building a Workplace That Works for Single Parents”, this special episode of Single Parent Reset takes a slightly different format. I’m using the anniversary of the report as an opportunity to share the four key findings from my research, alongside the key recommendations for employers on what needs to change to better support single parents at work.If you’re a single parent feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or stuck in your career, this episode is designed to help you feel more informed and less alone. I walk through the reality behind the stats, what they reveal about the experience of working single parents, and how this knowledge can help you feel more confident advocating for yourself and your needs in the workplace.Link to Report: 'Unlocked Potential: Building a Workplace That Works for Single Parents' - https://www.solascoaching.com/single-parent-workplace-reportConnect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Growth Mindset with Becca from Noisy Book Club
In this week’s guest episode, Becca from Noisy Book Club explores how understanding a growth mindset in parenting can completely transform the way we show up for not just our children but also ourselves, especially as single parents. Drawing on her experience as a teacher and working closely with families, she breaks down the difference between a fixed and growth mindset, and how many of us were unintentionally shaped by limiting beliefs about parenting, capability, and success. This conversation is especially relevant for single parents navigating the emotional and practical load of raising children alone or co-parenting, and looking for more self-compassion along the way.Listen in to learn how to spot your own fixed mindset patterns and gently shift them, plus simple, realistic tools to reframe self-talk and bring more confidence and calm into everyday parenting. Becca shares practical strategies to help children build resilience, emotional regulation, and a genuine love of learning while also supporting parents to feel less stuck, less overwhelmed, and more grounded. This episode is for single parents and co-parents who sometimes feel like they’re getting it “wrong,” and want a a more compassionate way.The Book we refer to in this Episode is 'Mindset: The New Psychology of Success' by Carol S. DweckFind Out More - Noisy Book Club:Website: https://www.noisybookclub.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noisybookclubConnect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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When It All Feels Too Much as a Single Parent
In this episode, we talk about what it really feels like when everything becomes too much as a single parent, those hidden moments behind closed doors where overwhelm, exhaustion, and self-doubt can all hit at once. From the outside, it can look like you’re holding it all together, but inside it can feel very different. We explore why these moments happen, what’s often driving them underneath the surface, and why so many single parents experience this cycle of pressure, guilt, and emotional overload without speaking about it.This is for you if you’ve ever felt like you’re barely keeping your head above water, snapping, shutting down, or struggling to cope and then wondering how to move through it. We look at simple, practical ways to pause, understand what’s really going on, and take small steps to regain perspective and support yourself. If you’re a single parent who often feels like you have to cope alone, this episode is here to remind you that you’re not, and to help you navigate those moments with more ease and self-compassion.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Single Parent Homes Are Not “Broken Homes”
In this episode, we challenge the outdated idea of the “broken home” and explore how this narrative can quietly shape the way single parents see themselves and their family. We walk through the different stages of acceptance, uncover the beliefs that may be holding you back, and begin to reframe what family really means on your terms, not society’s.This episode is for single parents who want to move beyond guilt, comparison, or feeling “less than,” and step into a place of confidence and pride in their family setup. If you’ve ever questioned whether your family is enough, this will help you see it in a completely different light.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Navigating the System with Sabina Challenger
In this guest episode, I’m joined by Sabina Challenger, a mental health social worker and founder of It’s My Family, who specialises in supporting parents navigating high-conflict co-parenting, safeguarding concerns, and the emotional impact of separation. Sabina shares her own journey into single parenthood, including the challenges of navigating identity, stigma, and moments of deep loneliness, alongside the powerful shift that helped her begin to see strength and “superpowers” within parenting alone.We also dive into the reality of navigating systems like mediation and court, especially when you feel unheard or dismissed as a parent. Sabina shares practical guidance on how to communicate concerns effectively, document safeguarding issues in a way that centres the child, and manage the emotional toll of high-conflict situations. This episode is for any parent who feels overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to advocate for their child while also looking after themselves.Find Out More Sabina Challenger:Website: https://www.its-myfamily.com/Connect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Overcoming Negative Self-Talk as a Single Parent
This episode is for single parents who find themselves struggling with self-criticism, overwhelm, or difficult inner dialogue in the quieter, harder moments of the day. It speaks to those times when you’re holding everything together on the outside, but internally feel like you’re questioning yourself, second-guessing your decisions, or carrying more emotional weight than anyone can see.We explore how to begin shifting that inner experience by building a more supportive relationship with yourself. You’ll learn a simple, practical approach to noticing unhelpful thought patterns, creating more perspective in the moment, and responding to yourself in a way that feels steadier and more constructive. The aim is not perfection but learning how to feel more grounded and less alone in how you speak to yourself when things get tough.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Dealing with the High Moments That Feel Hard as a Single Parent
Even the good moments in life can feel complicated when you’re a single parent. This episode explores why high points from holidays and milestones to personal achievements can bring up loneliness, guilt, or overwhelm, and why it’s normal to feel both joy and heaviness at the same time.It offers practical strategies to help you acknowledge your emotions, reframe your perspective, and create space for joy. Listen to this episode for simple, actionable tools to honor your feelings, embrace life’s highs, and truly savor the moments that matter most.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Understanding Parental Burnout with Gemma Dean
This week’s episode, I’m joined by Gemma Dean, as we unpack parental burnout, what it really is, how to recognise the signs and what you can do to begin moving through it.We talk honestly about the reality of parenting when you’re stretched too thin, constantly “on,” and running on empty. Gemma helps bring clarity to what parental burnout can look and feel like, and why so many parents find themselves in this place.We also dive into Gemma’s personal journey as a single parent what she’s learned along the way, what’s helped her navigate life and parenting alone, and the perspective she’s gained through her own experience.Listen to this episode if you’re ready to start reclaiming some energy and space for yourself as a parent. Gemma shares insights and stories that can help you recognise burnout early and take the first steps toward feeling more like yourself again.Find Out More Gemma Dean:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/resetwithgemma/Website: https://www.gemmadeanlifecoaching.com/Connect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Is This The One Thing Holding You Back?
The stories we tell ourselves shape how we experience single parenthood. In this episode, we explore how your internal narrative influences confidence, decisions, and what opportunities you notice and how the meaning you attach to challenges can either keep you stuck or help you move forward.You’ll learn simple strategies to identify unhelpful stories, challenge old beliefs, and rewrite your personal narrative in ways that empower you. With practical exercises and insights, this episode helps single parents move from surviving to creating the next chapter of their lives with clarity, confidence, and hope.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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How to Deal with Emotional Triggers When Parenting Alone
Being a single parent means juggling work, parenting, household responsibilities and the emotional load of doing it all on your own. In this episode, we explore emotional triggers those moments when a small comment, stressful email, or everyday situation suddenly feels overwhelming. If you’ve ever wondered why certain situations hit harder than expected, this episode explains what’s happening in your brain and nervous system, and why triggers are a normal response when you’re carrying a lot.You’ll also learn simple, practical tools to help you identify your triggers, understand the thoughts behind them, and respond more calmly in the moment. With supportive insight and real-life examples relevant to single parents, solo parents and co-parents, this episode will help you build emotional awareness, reduce overwhelm, and feel more in control when challenging moments arise.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Rebuilding Your Life as a Single Parent with Francesca Amber
In this episode of Single Parent Reset, I’m joined by Francesca Amber for an honest and uplifting conversation about rebuilding your life as a single parent. Francesca shares her single parent journey and how during one of the most challenging periods of her life she chose to actively apply manifestation to her circumstances rather than feel defined by them. We talk about what manifestation really looks like in real life especially when you’re exhausted, time-poor and simply trying to hold everything together and how intentionally shifting your focus can begin to change the direction of your days.Francesca also opens up about the loneliness that can come with single parenthood, learning to create your own support system, travelling alone with children and why she has chosen not to date during this season of her life. If you’re in the middle of a difficult transition or feeling stuck between the life you planned and the one you’re living, this episode is a reminder that rebuilding can start now and that it’s possible to create something meaningful and empowering from even the hardest chapters.Find Out More Francesca Amber:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/francescaamber/Website: https://francescaamber.com/Connect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Gratitude for Overwhelmed Single Parents
In this episode of Single Parent Reset, the focus is on making gratitude a real, grounding practice for single parents. Many hear “be grateful” and feel pressure to ignore the hard stuff like guilt, overwhelm, loneliness, or financial stress but this episode explores what gratitude actually looks like in everyday life. It helps you understand that gratitude isn’t about pretending things are perfect, but about widening the lens to notice what is steady, meaningful and working well alongside the challenges.The epsiode covers simple, realistic approaches to bring gratitude into daily life from naming specific things with real meaning to noticing where it feels hardest without adding pressure or unrealistic expectations. This episode supports single parents in resetting their mindset and finding small but powerful ways to feel more grounded and balanced.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Embracing Single Parent Life with Nicola Rae
In this episode of Single Parent Reset, I’m joined by fellow single parent Nicola Rae for an honest conversation about navigating the practical and emotional reality of single parenting, especially when you’re in a long, drawn-out transition and just trying to get through the days. We talk about why it’s important not to put your life on hold while you wait for everything to be resolved, and how creating a “new normal” can start sooner than you think.Nicola shares what’s helped her most on her single parent journey, clearer boundaries, routines that make day-to-day life easier, building in small pockets of peace and getting more comfortable asking for support. If you’re feeling like you’re still in survival mode, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to have it all figured out to start again. There can be hope, freedom, and lightness alongside the hard parts and your reset can begin in small, everyday ways.Find Out More Nicola Rae:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsnicolarae/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolarae/Connect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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How to Co-Parent Without Losing Yourself
In this episode of Single Parent Reset, the focus is on why co-parenting can feel so draining even when there’s no obvious conflict. It explores the emotional and mental load many single parents carry and why co-parenting can leave you feeling tense, exhausted or constantly on edge without always knowing why.Rather than focusing on the other parent, this episode brings the attention back to you. It looks at how to protect your energy, recognise what’s quietly depleting you,and begin making co-parenting feel more manageable and sustainable. The emphasis is on realistic shifts that support your wellbeing, helping you move forward feeling calmer, clearer and more grounded without guilt.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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Dating With Intention as a Single Parent
Dating as a single parent can feel exhausting, overwhelming, and full of dead-end dates. In this episode of Single Parent Reset, we explore how to break the cycle of dating burnout by dating with intention. Whether you’re just stepping back into the dating world or have been navigating apps and first dates for a while, this episode will help you get clear on what you truly want from dating, align your actions with your goals, and stop wasting time on experiences that don’t serve you. Learn practical strategies to approach dating with confidence, clarity, and purpose as a single parent.We’ll cover how to identify your ideal outcome, overcome the mental blocks holding you back, and take actionable steps to make your dating life more intentional and fulfilling. If you’re a single parent struggling with dating, feeling frustrated by apps, ghosting, or just unsure where to start, this episode is your reset guide to navigating dating with focus and self-awareness. Tune in to discover how small mindset shifts and intentional action can transform your dating experience and help you create meaningful connections while balancing the demands of single parenthood.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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62
Making Career Moves That Actually Work as a Single Parent
In this week’s episode of Single Parent Reset, we look at what to do and what not to do when you’re thinking about progressing in your career as a single parent. If you know you want change at work but feel unsure how to move forward without burning out, this episode offers a grounded, realistic approach. We explore why pushing harder, ignoring your limits, or making rushed decisions often backfires, and why career progression needs to look different when you’re carrying the full weight of parenting alone.I share practical guidance on how to make career moves that genuinely support your life, including getting clear on your day-to-day realities, understanding the true financial impact of change, building the right support around you, and advocating for yourself without overexplaining or self-doubt. This episode is about helping you progress in a way that’s sustainable, strategic, and aligned with your reality so your career can grow alongside your life, not stagnate at the expense of it.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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61
Navigating Parenting Solo with Jenny Beckford
In this week’s episode of Single Parent Reset, Jenny Beckford joins me to share her honest and uplifting journey as a single parent to twin daughters. Jenny opens up about the challenges of transitioning to parenting alone, the moments of self-doubt, and how she navigated the tough decision of when and how to talk to her children about separation.Jenny also shares practical advice for single parents who feel overwhelmed or disconnected, from finding small moments of self-care to building open communication with children. She explains how reconnecting with yourself isn’t selfish, but essential, and offers gentle encouragement for anyone feeling stuck in survival mode. Whether you’re just starting out as a single parent or have been on this path for years, Jenny’s story is a reminder that you’re not alone and that there’s real hope and growth on the other side of the hardest days.Find Out More About Jenny Beckford:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennybeckford1/Connect With Orla Donoghue:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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60
New Year Intentions for Single Parents
In this week’s episode, we take the pressure off setting big, unrealistic goals for 2026 and instead explore the power of intentions that genuinely support single parents. Rather than striving for perfection, this conversation focuses on self-compassion, realistic expectations and choosing what actually matters in the season of life you’re in.We also reflect on how small, intentional shifts can make a meaningful difference over time from how you speak to yourself, to the boundaries you hold and the support you allow in. This episode is a gentle invitation to begin the year feeling steadier, clearer and more supported, without the weight of needing to get everything “right” from day one.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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59
Navigating the Festive Season as a Single Parent (Part 4): Your Holiday Pause
In this final episode of the four-part series Navigating the Festive Season as a Single Parent, we explore reflection, gratitude, looking back on what you are proud of this year, and gently looking ahead to the year to come, focusing on what is within your control.This episode is a reminder that it is okay to feel sadness and joy at the same time, that there is no right or wrong way to feel at Christmas, and that you are not alone. The episode shares calming affirmations to help you find a sense of steadiness and self-compassion during what can be a full-on time.If you are navigating Christmas as a single parent and need reassurance, grounding and a reminder of your strength, this episode is for you. You are showing up every day, and that takes incredible courage.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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58
Navigating the Festive Season as a Single Parent (Part 3): Keeping Calm and Grounded
The festive season can be one of the most emotionally demanding times of the year for single parents. Between family events, school activities, financial pressure and the expectation to be endlessly festive, it is completely normal to feel overwhelmed.In this episode of Single Parent Reset, we look at how you can prepare for the moments you are least looking forward to, set boundaries that protect your energy, and stay regulated when stressful situations catch you off guard. You will learn practical steps to help you plan ahead with intention, choose how you want to feel, and take small actions that support your wellbeing.We also dive into why boundaries matter more than ever during the holidays and how to hold them without guilt. Plus, you will hear simple in-the-moment strategies for managing emotional overwhelm, grounding your nervous system and responding to challenges with more calm and clarity.And because none of us are perfect, we finish by exploring what to do after a tough moment when you feel like you have lost your cool. With gentle self-reflection, simple repair steps and a reminder that you are human, you can move forward with confidence and compassion.If you are a single parent wanting practical, supportive tools to help you navigate Christmas with less stress, more intention and a bit more peace, this episode is for you.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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57
Navigating the Festive Season as a Single Parent (Part 2): Handling Difficult Emotions
In part 2 of this 4-part series on navigating Christmas as a single parent, this episode of Single Parent Reset explores the emotional side of the festive season. It’s a real look at the mix of feelings that can surface, loneliness, overwhelm, guilt, or missing how things used to be, and why these emotions are so common at this time of year.Tune in for thoughtful insights and practical ideas to help you move through the holidays with more ease and self-compassion. The episode is here to offer reassurance, a sense of connection, and simple ways to make Christmas feel a little lighter, no matter what your family looks like this year. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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56
Navigating the Festive Season as a Single Parent (Part 1): Redefining Christmas
Christmas as a single parent can feel full-on. Childcare over the school holidays, travel plans, co‑parenting arrangements, money worries and a mix of emotions like sadness, guilt, frustration and loneliness can all pile up at once. On top of that, there’s often pressure to create a “perfect Christmas” that leaves you exhausted and burnt out, based more on other people’s expectations than on what actually works for you and your family.This episode is the first in a four-part series on navigating the festive season as a single parent. It is about stepping back and getting honest about what Christmas really means to you as a single parent. It focuses on noticing the version of Christmas you’ve been trying to live up to, where it came from and whether it still fits your life now. You’re invited to define what genuinely matters to you and your children, and to shape a Christmas that is simpler, more realistic and easier to manage, one that reduces pressure, lets go of what doesn’t help and reflects what feels right for your family.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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55
Instant Mood Boosters for Single Parents
Some days in single parent life just feel heavy, the mental load, the loneliness, the constant doing, or simply waking up not feeling like yourself. And when you don’t have another adult in the house to tag in or talk things through with, those low days can hit even harder.In this episode of Single Parent Reset, we’re talking about the small, simple things you can do to lift your mood when everything feels too much. From grounding your nervous system and moving your body, to ways to feel more connected, these are practical mood-boosters you can use any time you need a quick reset.These aren’t big transformations they’re tiny, achievable steps that help you feel steadier, lighter, and more able to get through the day.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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54
Embracing Single Parenting with Thea from Theas Mum Club
Thea from the fantastic Instagram account @theasmumclub shares her honest story of moving from a traumatic relationship into the freedom of solo parenting, and later into a new, non‑traditional family setup. Thea talks about what it was really like to start again with no nearby family support, the mental load of doing it all, and how she slowly rebuilt her confidence and sense of self along the way.In this episode, Thea reflects on finding her tribe through online communities, navigating dating as a single parent, deciding when to introduce a new partner, and managing the guilt and stigma that can come with parenting outside the “traditional” family model. This conversation is for any single or solo parent who feels alone, is in a period of transition, or needs a reminder that they are doing enough and are allowed to shape family life on their own terms.Find Out More About Theas Mum Club:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theasmumclub/Solas Coaching DetailsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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53
Adjusting to Life as the Only Parent at Home
Adjusting from a two-parent household to running the home solo is a huge shift both emotionally and practically. In this episode, we explore the challenges single parents face during this transition and share practical strategies to help manage the day-to-day, reclaim your space, and celebrate small wins. From identifying emotional triggers, creating routines that work, to embedding self-care and connection into your life, this episode gives actionable advice to help you navigate life at home as the only parent with more calm, clarity, and confidence.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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52
One Year of Single Parent Reset: Pausing to Reflect
It’s been one year since Single Parent Reset launched and this week, I’m hitting pause to reflect. In this special episode, we take a moment to look back on your single parent journey: how far you’ve come, where you are now, and what lies ahead.I guide you through a structured reflection, helping you acknowledge the challenges you’ve navigated, celebrate the small wins, and notice the lessons and growth along the way. Whether you’re in the first few weeks of single parenthood or several years in, this episode is your chance to pause, reset, and gain perspective on your journey.Grab a pen and paper, or just listen and reflect. This is an episode you can return to again and again as your journey continues.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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51
Kerry White’s Journey to Solo Motherhood
Kerry White, motherhood clarity coach and TEDx speaker, shares her inspiring path to solo motherhood. She opens up about the emotional and practical challenges of becoming a mother on her own at 49, from facing fears and societal expectations to finding self-acceptance. This episode explores building supportive communities, managing overwhelm, and embracing the freedoms of parenting solo. Kerry offers practical advice for anyone considering a similar journey and reminds listeners that every family’s path is valid. If you’re a single parent, thinking about solo motherhood, or simply need reassurance that you are enough, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, supported, and inspired.Kerry White DetailsWebsite: https://www.kerrywellbeing.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerrywellbeing/TedX Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQNqIxj8Se4&t=1sSolas Coaching DetailsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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50
The Never-Ending List for Single Parents: How to Finally Get It Done (Part 2)
This episode of Single Parent Reset dives into the practical side of tackling the life admin that comes with single parenthood. Once the emotions around tasks are understood, it’s time to take action but where do you start, and how do you keep going when it feels overwhelming?In this second part of the two-part series, the focus is on actionable strategies: how to prioritise tasks, break them into manageable steps, celebrate small wins, and build confidence in decision-making. Listeners will also learn how to seek support without shame, use knowledge to make tasks feel more approachable, and stay kind to themselves when obstacles arise.By the end of this episode, that never-ending list begins to feel achievable, and the stress it once caused can start to turn into progress, control, and a real sense of accomplishment.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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49
The Never-Ending List for Single Parents: Why It Feels So Hard (Part 1)
This episode of Single Parent Reset explores the real reasons life admin can feel overwhelming for single parents. It’s not just about managing paperwork or ticking items off a list, there’s often a lot happening beneath the surface. From updating documents to handling new routines, the admin load can bring up unexpected emotions like frustration, grief, or a sense of loss.In this first part of a two-part series, the focus is on understanding the emotional barriers that make it difficult to get started or keep momentum. Learn how to recognise and work through these feelings, release the pressure to have everything sorted, and find more space for what matters most.Next week, the practical steps for taking action and clearing that list will be covered, one small step at a time.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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48
Turning Pain into Purpose: Sharon Livermore’s Story of Survival and Advocacy
In this powerful episode of Single Parent Reset, I’m joined by Sharon Livermore, a survivor of domestic abuse who has transformed her experience into a mission to help others. Sharon openly shares her story, from the early warning signs in her relationship to the moment she found the strength to leave, and the challenges she faced as a single parent rebuilding her life.We discuss the realities of abuse that often go unseen, how manipulation and isolation can affect anyone, and the practical steps to take if you or someone you know is in a dangerous situation. Sharon also explains why workplaces matter so much for survivors and the work she’s now doing to educate organisations across the UK.Whether you’re a single parent, a friend, or someone looking to understand more about supporting survivors, this episode is filled with honest insights, practical advice, and hope for a brighter future. Tune in to hear Sharon’s inspiring journey and learn how you can help create safer communities for everyone.Support Organisations IrelandAlways Here: https://www.alwayshere.ie/One Family Ireland: https://onefamily.ie/Support Organisations UKWomens Aid: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/Mums In Need: https://www.mumsinneed.com/Refuge: https://refuge.org.uk/Gingerbread: https://www.gingerbread.org.uk/Sharon Livermore DetailsWebsite: https://domesticabuseeducation.co.uk/Email: [email protected] Coaching DetailsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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47
Why Do I Feel So Stuck as a Single Parent?
Feeling stuck as a single parent can feel like life is moving on around you while you’re standing still. In this episode of Single Parent Reset, we’ll uncover where in your life you feel stuck, why recognising the barriers matters, and how to tell the difference between the stories you’re telling yourself and the real, practical obstacles in your way.We’ll explore simple steps to overcome those barriers and choose one small, doable action to start becoming unstuck and moving forward. Listen for grounded guidance and gentle reframes to help you build momentum at your pace.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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46
Your Voice Matters: Keeping Calm When Everyone Has An Opinion
As a single parent, it can feel like everyone has an opinion on how you live, work, or raise your children. Even with the best intentions, advice and judgement from friends, family, or others can leave you second-guessing your choices and doubting yourself.In this episode, we explore practical strategies to stand firm in your decisions, communicate your needs clearly, and trust your own voice , even when others weigh in. You’ll learn how to balance openness with confidence, handle pushback without guilt, and reclaim clarity in your decisions.Your voice matters, and your choices are valid. Even when opinions surround you, there are ways to navigate them with calm, confidence, and control.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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45
Stuck at Home? Reclaim Your Time as a Solo Parent
Spending long hours at home as a solo parent can feel isolating, repetitive and overwhelming. Between meals, playtime, homework and household tasks, it’s easy to lose track of your own needs and feel like there’s no time for yourself.This episode explores practical ways to reclaim time at home, even when the days feel full and never-ending. Listen to discover strategies to create a home environment that supports all the senses, structure the day to carve out moments of calm and personal time, and make the most of evenings or quieter periods in ways that leave you feeling replenished.Even when home feels like a cage, there are simple, intentional ways to turn these hours into moments that truly nourish and energise.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solascoaching/Website: https://www.solascoaching.com/Email: [email protected]
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Single Parent Reset is here to help single parents reclaim balance and prioritise themselves. I'm Orla and as a single parent I know the unique challenges single parents face—burnout, guilt, loneliness and trying to do it all. In each episode, I’ll share practical steps to reset your mindset, find more calm and take back control of your life. If you’ve ever felt like no one gets what you’re going through as a single parent, this podcast is here to remind you that you’re not alone. Tune in every Monday for short, empowering episodes that help you thrive on your single parenting journey.
HOSTED BY
Orla Donoghue
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