Family Feuds: Is estrangement the new normal?

Family Feuds: Is estrangement the new normal?

From Ladies, We Need To Talk by ABC Australia

April 6, 2026 · 26 min

About this episode

This episode explores the complexities of family estrangement and offers insights on healing and navigating broken relationships.

The Beckhams know about it. Hilary Duff's been through it. Harry and Meghan could write a handbook. Family estrangement is brutal, but when there's a rift, can it be repaired? Beyond the celebrity headlines, the "no contact" movement has been gaining traction online as children cut themselves off from their parents, parents find themselves out in the cold and rigid boundaries strain what's left of family bonds. In this episode, Yumi Stynes talks to women who've been through the pain of family estrangement. She finds out what led to the rift and how letting go can be a form of healing. You'll also hear from clinical psychologist Dr Kayla Steele with tips on navigating family break ups – from learning how to move on or figuring out how to mend a broken relationship. This episode will answer questions like: Why does estrangement happen? What should I do if I've been cut off? Is it ok to go "no contact" with a family member? How can I talk to a family member who's estranged? How can I move forward? What to listen to next: Where's my village? Esther Perel on how to build community Emotional labour with Rose Hackman — ABC listen Embracing imperfection was the key to Astrid's success —…

People in this episode

Host: Yumi Stynes

Guest: Dr Kayla Steele

Topics covered

  • family estrangement
  • relationships
  • mental health
  • healing
  • boundaries

Keywords

  • estrangement
  • family rift
  • no contact
  • healing
  • boundaries
  • mental health
  • relationships

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Beckhams, ABC Australia

More episodes of Ladies, We Need To Talk

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Ladies, We Need To Talk podcast page.