Ep. 59 Turning Conflict Into Clarity: Mediation with Bernadette Willems

In this week's episode, Ang welcomes Bernadette Willems, a mediation specialist, to discuss the vital role of mediation in divorce and conflict resolution. The discussion explores Bernadette's journey from being a solicitor to becoming a mediator, the benefits of mediation over the traditional court process, and how mediation helps in dealing with various conflicts, including business disputes and professional breakdowns.

They delve into the importance of communication, the challenges of co-parenting, and the impact of mediation on creating lasting change. Bernadette shares her insights on the mindfulness approach to mediation, the dynamics of the mediation process, and the advantages of having separate meetings with parties involved. The episode offers valuable advice for anyone contemplating divorce and highlights the importance of considering mediation as a primary step.

(00:00) Introduction and Welcome
(00:23) Meet Bernadette Willems: The Mediation Specialist
(01:59) The Journey to Mediation
(03:19) The Mediation Process Explained
(05:57) Challenges and Misconceptions in Mediation
(11:31) The Importance of Communication in Mediation
(12:21) Personal Experiences and Advice on Mediation
(14:25) The Role of a Mediator
(25:50) The Benefits of Mediation Over Court
(41:14) Final Thoughts and Advice
(43:16) Conclusion and Farewell

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Mediation empowers individuals to resolve disputes themselves, fostering better outcomes than adversarial court battles.

The introduction of mediation in the UK initially faced resistance from solicitors but ultimately became a collaborative process benefiting all parties.

Legal aid for mediation is now limited, which can restrict access for vulnerable individuals who might benefit most from the process.

Mediation is not just about financial settlements—it plays a crucial role in co-parenting arrangements and adapting to children’s changing needs.

The confidentiality and structure of mediation allow both parties to be heard, helping to break down polarization and promote constructive dialogue.

BEST MOMENTS

"In mediation, you are right at the center and can control what's happening."

"Solicitors felt challenged that this new profession might stop their flow of clients."

"Legal aid for mediation is now very limited, which leaves out vulnerable people."

"The real beauty of mediation is that, with children, if parents can communicate, the arrangements are so much better."

"Having the opportunity to be heard and listened to is hugely empowering."

GUEST LINKS

Email : [email protected]

www.GreatermanchesterMediation.com

http://linkedin.com/in/bernadettewillems

EPISODE LINKS

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ABOUT THE PODCAST

Do I Really Hate Men?

Interesting question and one I have asked myself many times. This is not an ‘I hate men’ podcast neither is it just an account of my divorce and the many awful events leading up to and during it. This podcast is a safe space to delve into what happens when relationships end, it provides guidance on how to carry on being a functioning adult and/or Single Mum when you feel broken inside. 

This podcast provides hope sprinkled with humour, at times its emotional at times inspiring and at times sad. I have a message to share with women around the world, come join me and your global sisters for a weekly dose of Superhero Mum inspiration and stories.

My mission - to help women and mothers globally to recover from relationship pain,  lead meaningful happy lives and inspire their children to succeed.

NOTE – I need you to know that I don’t hate men! It’s important that you know there are many great men out there. Many fantastic fathers and single fathers trying hard to do a great job. I know little about the struggles of single fathers; however, I presume they are numerous common issues we share with these amazing men who strive to do the right thing by their children. 

ABOUT THE HOST

Ang is first and foremost a very proud Mum. She is on a mission to share her experiences of both divorce and life as a single Mum. With a 25 year career in the corporate world, she has always been passionate about empowering women and those around her. She is a fully qualified life coach of 20 years and a self confessed self development junkie.

Ang has written her first book called 'Do I Really Hate Men', due to be released later this year which NEEDS to be read by women worldwide. With a high level of emotional intelligence she works tirelessly to improve the lives of womankind through her words, both digitally and at speaking events globally. 

With a six year divorce behind her, Ang represented herself in court a total of 6 times. She has been a single parent of two boys for a total of 14 years. She has lived through the struggles and come out the other side. Her words, honesty and humour captivates her audience.