The EB &amp; Co. Mediation Podcast

Welcome to Episode 6 of the EB &amp; Co. Mediation Podcast, hosted by accredited family mediators Emma Bradford and Charlotte Chambers. In this episode, we tackle a topic that often makes separating parents nervous: Child Inclusive Mediation (CIM).When navigating a separation, your first instinct is naturally to protect your children from the adult conversations. Many parents worry that involving their kids in mediation will place an unfair burden on their shoulders. However, we explore why giving your children a safe, guided opportunity to share their feelings can actually be a profoundly positive and protective step for the whole family.We demystify the CIM process, explaining how a specialist, highly trained mediator provides a relaxed, confidential space for children to talk. Crucially, we clarify that children are never asked to make adult choices, choose between parents, or dictate living schedules. The decision-making power remains entirely with you, the parents.To illustrate the unique perspective of a child, we share the poignant story of the &quot;unseen cartwheel.&quot; It is a powerful reminder that children experience separation differently. Sometimes, the things troubling them the most are entirely missed by parents caught up in the stress of a breakup. By pausing to truly listen, you can often break down communication barriers and pave the way for a healthier, child-focused co-parenting dynamic.Whether you are currently in mediation or just exploring your options, this episode offers vital insights into how you can ensure your children feel seen and heard during a difficult transition.For more information or to book an assessment meeting, visit our website at www.ebandcomediation.com.


A safe space to speak: Demystifying Child Inclusive Mediation - Episode 6

Welcome to Episode 5 of the EB &amp; Co. Mediation Podcast, hosted by accredited family mediators Emma Bradford and Charlotte Chambers. In this episode, we tackle one of the most pressing questions for separating parents: what is going to happen with the children? For many years, the legal language surrounding separation was highly adversarial, using terms like "custody" and "contact". We explain why the focus has shifted to "child arrangements", a neutral term that respects both individuals as equal parents rather than creating an "A parent" and a "B parent" dynamic.We also explore the reality of shared care and the common request for a strict 50/50 split. While the desire for equal time is completely understandable, we discuss why it is crucial to focus on the practical logistics of your family rather than getting hung up on percentages. We look at how factors like the school run, work rotas, and reliance on third-party childcare play a vital role in creating a plan that actually works for your children.Beyond the schedule, the long-term success of your co-parenting arrangement relies heavily on communication. We introduce practical tools, such as the "Three Fs" (Factual, Functional, Friendly) and the BIFF method (Brief, Informative, Factual, Friendly), to help you navigate necessary conversations about health, education, and overseas travel. By treating these interactions as consultations rather than feeling like you are asking for permission, you can build a respectful foundation for the future.Finally, we touch upon the children's voices in this process, setting the stage for our next episode on Child Inclusive Mediation.Whether you are recently separated or looking to improve a co-parenting arrangement that has broken down over time, this episode offers practical, empathetic guidance to help you move forward.For more information or to book an assessment meeting, visit our website at www.ebandcomediation.com.


Moving beyond custody – navigating child arrangements in mediation - Episode 5

In this episode, Emma Bradford and Charlotte Chambers take a closer look at the MIAM – the Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting – which is the first step in the family mediation process. They unpack what the MIAM is really for, why it matters, and how it helps families explore whether mediation is right for them.Emma and Charlotte reflect on the emotional state many people are in when they first attend a MIAM and explain how they gently assess each person’s situation – including any safety concerns or support needs – to ensure mediation is appropriate and safe. They discuss the meaning of “suitability,” the timing of mediation, and why each person’s readiness and understanding matters.This episode also explores common questions like: Do I have to attend a MIAM? What does a mediator need to know? What happens if my ex doesn&#39;t know why we’re mediating? With warmth and honesty, the hosts share how the process is always designed to keep clients safe, supported, and empowered to make decisions that are right for them.Whether you&#39;re considering mediation, supporting someone else, or simply curious about how it all works, this episode offers helpful insights into one of the most important first steps in the journey.


What Is a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) – and Why Does It Matter? Episode 2

In this first episode of the EB &amp; Co. Mediation Podcast, Emma Bradford and Charlotte Chambers introduce themselves and share why they became family mediators. They explore what mediation really is, how it differs from counselling or legal advice, and why it can be such a powerful and supportive process for families navigating separation and divorce.They talk about the challenges couples face at the start of separation, including the myth of an “amicable” split, the emotional differences between the person who has initiated the separation and the person left behind, and the practical complexities of co-parenting and finances.Emma and Charlotte explain how mediation provides a safe, neutral space to work through these issues respectfully, without escalating conflict. They highlight the unique role of mediators in combining a clear understanding of family law with empathy for the human side of separation.Whether you’re at the start of a separation, already navigating co-parenting, or simply curious about how mediation works, this episode offers honest insights, practical guidance, and reassurance that separation does not have to mean conflict.


Welcome to the EB & Co. Mediation Podcast - Episode 1

Emma Bradford and Charlotte Chambers are accredited family mediators and co-founders of EB &amp; Co. Mediation. With warmth, clarity and over two decades of combined experience, they support families through separation with empathy and professionalism. On this podcast, they share practical guidance, insights and expert advice on everything from finances and co-parenting to communication and emotional wellbeing. Their aim is simple: to show that separation doesn’t have to mean conflict.

Emma Bradford and Charlotte Chambers are accredited family mediators and co-founders of EB &amp; Co. Mediation. With warmth, clarity and over two 

The EB &amp; Co. Mediation Podcast

The EB & Co. Mediation Podcast