About this episode
Divorce doesn’t have to be a battlefield.In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Lizzie and Deana sit down with divorce mediator and communication strategist Elizabeth Merrill, founder of Open Space Mediation. Liz shares her personal journey through a high-conflict marriage, emotional abuse, and the moment her children helped her find the courage to leave.Together, they unpack the hidden emotional and financial costs of litigation, how fear and misinformation keep women stuck, and why mediation can sometimes create healthier outcomes for families navigating separation.If you’re facing a toxic relationship, high-conflict divorce, or wondering how to protect your peace while making wise legal decisions — this conversation offers clarity, education, and hope.In this episode, we talk about:-Narcissistic abuse patterns and fear tactics in divorce-Why many women stay longer than they want to-The emotional brain vs logical decision-making during separatin-Mediation vs litigation: cost, conflict, and co-parenting outcomes-Communication tools for calmer, more productive conversations-How education reduces fear in high-conflict situationsWhether you're considering divorce, supporting a friend, or healing after a toxic relationship, this episode brings practical insight and compassionate perspective.You can reach Liz Merrill https://www.openspacemediation.com ?? Stay Connected with Us! ? Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12 ? Follow us on TikTok: @survivingtoxicrel ? Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org Looking to be a guest or host a guest for your podcast? https://www.joinpodmatch.com/deanalizzie ? Our book is available on Amazon: Love With Eyes Wide Open: Teaching Our Daughters to Recognize Red Flags and God's Voice in Relationships Not sure what you’re noticing yet? ? Get your FREE Discernment Checklist ? https://the-matadoras.kit.com/survivingtoxicrelationships Contact us anytime at our email: care@survivingtoxicrelationships.org ? Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships
