When Your Ex’s New Partner Crosses the Line: How to Protect Your Peace with Anna Howerton

Divorce rarely ends at the signing of papers. It lingers in the day-to-day decisions, the cast of new characters who enter the family orbit, and the quiet ways insecurity, judgment, or outside voices can unsettle the fragile ecosystem of co-parenting. In this episode of Divorce Happens, Olivia sits down with relationship coach Anna Howerton, who not only works with clients navigating these moments but has lived them herself. Anna shares the raw, unexpected story of stumbling upon her ex-husband’s new partner speaking publicly about her, a moment that forced her to confront the messy overlap of private life, public perception, and the resilience it takes to rise above.

Anna brings deep credibility to this conversation—not only as a coach who supports individuals in crisis points before, during, and after divorce, but as someone who has walked the road of conscious uncoupling, rebuilding, and dating again. She explains how step-partners often act from a place of insecurity, and why compassion, rather than retaliation, is sometimes the only way forward. Through her story, she illuminates the often invisible labor of divorced moms: to regulate emotions, protect children, and elevate above drama—even when their character is publicly challenged.

Listeners will come away with both clarity and hope. Anna offers practical strategies like resisting the urge to engage in public battles, keeping communication with your ex at the center of co-parenting, and grounding yourself through nervous system resets. At the heart of her message is a reminder that children are on “mom WiFi”—they feel our energy more than they hear our words. Divorce is never simple, but as Anna beautifully says, “Every rainstorm runs out of rain.” Healing is possible, and your steady presence can be the anchor your children need as you build a new beginning.

Learn more about Anna: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/resourceguide/anna-howerton-coaching-llc

🔗 Check out Fresh Starts Registry:

The first & only divorce registry + support platform ➡ https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartsregistry/

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FreshStartsRegistry

🎙 Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/divorcehappenspod/

📬 Newsletter: https://divorceguide.substack.com/