Podcasts about blended families

In this video hosted by Jenni Wong Clayville, founder and president of Troia Ministries and one of the teaching pastors at Mariners Church, Ines Franklin, shares her insights on how to make blended families work. With her extensive experience in a blended family, Ines discusses the importance of active listening and understanding the unique dynamics involved.Blended family challenges are numerous, and Ines emphasizes that addressing these issues with blended families requires patience and empathy. She highlights how to make blended families work by focusing on communication and the importance of active listening. This approach helps in navigating the complexities that often arise.Ines also touches on the issues with blended families, such as the stigma and misunderstandings they face. She believes that recognizing these challenges is crucial for creating a supportive environment to foster a sense of belonging and understanding among family members.Recognize the unique dynamics of blended families.Emphasize the importance of active listening.Address blended family challenges with empathy.Understand the issues with blended families to provide better support.Discover healing in through faith and in a church community.Practical steps on how to make blended families work include open communication and setting realistic expectations. By acknowledging the issues with blended families, individuals can better navigate the challenges they face. The importance of active listening plays a pivotal role in resolving conflicts and building strong relationships.

→ Prayer CalendarWhat happens when parenting gets complicated by blended families, boundary-crossing relatives, or an unbelieving spouse? In this episode, we answer real listener questions about some of the most tender and complex relationships in a mother's life.With grace, honesty, and scripture as our guide, we walk through what it looks like to present a united parenting front, navigate family members who push against your values, and faithfully raise children when your spouse does not share your faith.Episode Highlights00:00 Parenting on a united front03:40 Navigating blended families08:00 Setting boundaries when family members cross the line12:22 Parenting with an unbelieving spousePlease send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast: themindofachildpodcast@gmail.com The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.

In this episode, we discuss the complexities of blended families, emphasizing the unique challenges stepfamilies face compared to nuclear families. One concept discussed was the pressure for stepfamilies to function like traditional nuclear families, and how letting go of that expectation can relieve stress and improve dynamics. A key theme that emerged was the importance of the "soothing presence", an adult who is emotionally supportive, predictable, and present for children, which fosters trust and security. The discussion explored how children in high-conflict or blended families often take on roles to try to keep the peace or please their parents, sometimes at the expense of their own development. Several points were raised, including the detrimental effects of parent alienation, the psychological impact of inconsistency and divided loyalty, and how step-parents can best support children without overstepping boundaries. Practical strategies were shared for building relationships, encouraging self-esteem, and communicating effectively with both children and biological parents. The conversation also included personal stories, analogies, and an exploration of how life experiences, even with family pets, mirror blended family dynamics. The episode underscored that every family is different, and the most successful step-parenting comes from adaptability, humility, and providing a safe, nonjudgmental space for children to grow and heal. Key Topics Discussed The unrealistic social and personal expectations for stepfamilies to function like nuclear families The concept of "soothing presence" as the basis for trust, security, and emotional development in children Challenges of divided loyalty and parent alienation in blended family situations The negative long-term impact on kids taking on adult responsibilities within the family dynamic Differences between parenting, adulting, and befriending as a step-parent Importance of emotional predictability and consistency for children's well-being Strategies for step-parents to support children without overstepping or causing tension with biological parents Encouraging self-esteem and emotional language in children using relatable terms (e.g., "volcano mad") The value of building a unique, trusting relationship with each child based on their individual personalities Parallels between stepfamily adjustment and integrating new pets into a household Individualized approaches over generic parenting techniques The lifelong process of gaining wisdom and fostering resilience in children through supportive adult relationships

Send us Fan MailThe most important inheritance conversations are about trust, context, and relationships.Emily Bouchard, TEDx speaker, founder of Family Focused Wealth, and host of the Wealth Coherence Podcast joins Tony on the Get Ready Before Life Happens podcast to talk about why families need safe, transparent conversations around money, trust, and inheritance.They explore how trust, communication, and shared values help families build resilience, prepare beneficiaries, and reduce the emotional impact of inheritance and loss.Key Takeaways

Blended families don't become connected overnight—and honestly, nobody hands you a roadmap.In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia sits down with Ashley from The Blended Bond to talk about what actually helps blended families feel more connected. From awkward first family meetings and navigating transitions to chore systems, parenting teenagers, and learning to stop taking everything personally, this conversation is filled with practical strategies and reassuring reminders for stepmoms.Ashley shares how intentional family conversations transformed their blended family dynamic, why asking kids what they need can change everything, and how creating routines and structure helps everyone feel more secure. They also discuss the emotional shift from part-time parenting to full-time parenting, the pressure stepmoms often place on themselves to "get it right," and why your stepchildren's moods and reactions are not always a reflection of you.In this episode, you'll learn:Why family meetings can improve communication and trust in blended familiesHow to help stepchildren feel more comfortable and at homeThe importance of asking kids what they need during family transitionsHow routines and structure create stability for children in two homesWhy teenagers' attitudes aren't always personalHow to stop seeking validation from your stepchildrenWhy perfection isn't required to be a good stepmomThe surprising ways small moments and traditions build connection over timeWhether you're newly blending, parenting teenagers, or simply trying to feel more confident in your role, this episode will remind you that blended families don't need perfection—they need intentional connection, communication, and grace.Connect with Ashley:Website: blendedbond.comInstagram: @blendedbondTikTok: @playblendedbond****Promo code: STEPMOMSIDE20 (for 20% off any BB products)****Support the showWant a specific topic covered? Let me know here.After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.comGet on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

Ashley Noelle joins us in the studio today to talk about her new tool Blended Bond! A game with guided conversation cards designed to help blended and modern families build trust, connection, and emotionally safe communication. Check it out at https://blendedbond.com/

Ashley Noelle joins us in the studio today to talk about her new tool Blended Bond! A game with guided conversation cards designed to help blended and modern families build trust, connection, and emotionally safe communication. Check it out at https://blendedbond.com/

Are you the one tracking the dentist appointments, school forms, birthday gifts, custody schedules, groceries, and all the details everyone else seems to forget? That invisible work has a name: the mental load. In this episode of The Stepmom Diaries, I'm sharing my conversation with Eve Rodsky, New York Times bestselling author of Fair Play and Find Your Unicorn Space. We talk about the mental load in blended families and why so many stepmoms feel exhausted from carrying invisible labor no one else sees. This conversation is honest, validating, and so needed for stepmoms who feel like they are holding everything together behind the scenes. In this episode, we cover: Why stepmoms often carry the invisible labor How the mental load shows up differently in blended families Why boundaries and communication have to come before systems The real antidote to burnout Resources Mentioned Fair Play by Eve Rodsky Find Your Unicorn Space by Eve Rodsky Fair Play Cards Follow Eve on Instagram Get our free Stepmom Scripts Guide with real-life scripts for common stepfamily conversations: https://stepfamilycertification.com/stepmom-scripts Get on the waitlist for The Stepmom Summit happening September 14th-18th, 2026!   Love The Stepmom Diaries? Please rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify. Your support helps us reach more blended families who need honest conversations like this one.

Are you constantly wondering why your blended family doesn't feel like the happy, picture-perfect family you imagined?You're not doing anything wrong.In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia shares why so many stepmoms struggle because they're chasing unrealistic expectations about what blended family life should look like.From instant love and immediate connection to perfectly blended relationships, many of us were sold a version of stepfamily life that simply doesn't exist.In this episode, you'll learn:✔️ Why blended families often feel harder than expected✔️ The unrealistic expectations many stepmoms carry into stepfamily life✔️ How perfectionism creates disappointment and frustration✔️ Why awkwardness, grief, and loyalty conflicts are normal in blended families✔️ What healthy blended family relationships actually look like✔️ How to stop comparing your family to everyone else's✔️ Why peace comes from accepting reality instead of fighting itIf you've ever asked:"When will we finally feel like a family?""Why isn't this easier?""Are we doing something wrong?"This episode is for you.Because success in a blended family isn't about everyone instantly loving each other or acting like they've been family forever. Real success is built through respect, safety, trust, communication, and thousands of small moments that create connection over time.Support the showWant a specific topic covered? Let me know here.After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.comGet on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

I first ran into Scott down in New Orleans at Tales of the Cocktail, but we've since hung out many times, also in Atlanta. His story, about coming up in mixology, especially in Miami in the early years when it wasn't cool, is fascinating. Like a lot of bartenders back then, he made his own bitters, syrups and liqueurs because the industry then hadn't yet caught up to the Second Golden Age of cocktails; unlike a lot of bartenders, he decided to make his experience into a branded range of liqueurs, higher quality than anything out there, yet priced to sell and work in cocktails. We talk about illegal blackcurrants, Benedictine, Fernet, his love of amari generally, and we do a whole deeeeeeeeeep dive into liqueurs, so while this is on the nerdy side, if you read this far - you're very likely to enjoy it. And if you do? Give us a five-star rating, post the episode on your socials, or recommend us to a friend. Enjoy!Email Scott! mailto:scott@blendedfamilyspirits.com Scott on IG: https://www.instagram.com/scottdmayer?igsh=ZzZtZmVobzA5bXFtBlended Family Liqueurs on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blendedfamilyspirits/?hl=en (Get in touch with Duff!Podcast business enquiries:  consulting@liquidsolutions.org (PR friends: we're only interested in having your client on if they can talk for a couple of hours about OTHER things besides their prepared speaking points or their new thing, whatever that is. They need to be able to hang. Oh, plus we don't edit, we won't supply prepared or sample questions, nor listener or “reach” stats, either, and no, you can't sit in on the interview (or lurk on the Zoom.)  And our AI automatically deletes pitch emails that are clearly written using AI. Retain Philip's consulting firm, Liquid Solutions, specialised in on-trade engagement & education, liquor brand creation and repositioning: philip@liquidsolutions.orgPhilip on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philipsduff/ Philip on Facebook: Philip Duff Philip on X/Twitter: Philip Duff (@philipduff) / Twitter Philip on LinkedIn: linkedin.com Old Duff Genever on Instagram: Old Duff Genever (@oldduffgenever) • Instagram photos and videos Old Duff Genever on Faceboo...

In this bonus episode, Brody sits down with Corey and Brittany Pendergrass to talk about the joys and challenges of building a blended family. From step-parenting and discipline to marriage, co-parenting, and earning trust, they share practical, Gospel-centered wisdom for creating a home marked by grace, unity, and stability.In this episode, we discuss: Building a strong marriage in a blended family  Step-parent roles and unified discipline  Loving and leading children with grace  Navigating co-parenting and different household values  Why forgiveness, humility, and consistency matterSend us Fan MailPlease leave a review on Apple or Spotify to help improve No Sanity Required and help others grow in their faith. Click here to get our Colossians Bible study.

We're popping in with a short summer update before taking a brief pause from releasing new episodes throughout July 2026.But don't worry, we're not going anywhere!We're using July to prepare some fun and helpful new things we'll begin sharing August 4th, including new podcast episodes in both audio and video.Before we talk about what's coming, we're also taking a few minutes to reflect on something every blended family experiences: change. Whether it's a shift in schedule, a new family rhythm, a move, or a parenting adjustment, change can stir up more than we expect.That doesn't mean change is wrong. It simply means healthy change needs clarity, patience, communication, collaboration, and room for everyone to adjust.During July, we'd love for you to stay connected by revisiting past episodes, taking or retaking the updated Blended Family Breakthrough Quiz, and checking out our free audio course, The Five-Minute Blended Family Reset, inside the Blended Family Breakthrough app.Then we'll be back August 4th with new episodes, including important conversations about stepparent burnout and the complex question of having an “ours” baby.You'll DiscoverWhy we're taking a short pause from releasing new episodes throughout JulyHow change can impact kids, parents, stepparents, and couples in blended family lifeWhat's coming when the podcast returns in both audio and video on August 4thHow the updated Blended Family Breakthrough Quiz and The Five-Minute Blended Family Reset can help you keep growing during JulyResources MentionedThe updated Blended Family Breakthrough QuizDownload the Blended Family Breakthrough app in the App Store or Google PlayCheck out the Five-Minute Blended Family Reset audio course right inside the app!Subscribe to the Blended Family Breakthrough Podcast on YouTubeOther ResourcesEpisode 89. Feeling Stuck in the Change Process?  Change Isn't the Issue - Transition IsEpisode 18. How to Help Kids Navigate Transition and ChangeEpisode 222. Step-by Step Guide:  Facing Painful Pushback Without Making Things WorseSuggest a Topic or Ask a Question  Would you like us to discuss something specific or answer your question on the show?  Let us know!We've made it easy.  Just click here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/shareReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/free-callYou don't need to navigate blended family life alone.  Join our supportive community where you'll connect directly with us and other couples just like you who are intentionally investing in healthy blending strategies.  Click the link to find out how to join: https://learning.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/blendingtogetherSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

Feeling unsupported by your husband or partner can make blended family life feel incredibly lonely.In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia talks about why partner support is one of the biggest predictors of stepmom satisfaction and blended family success.Many stepmoms don't necessarily need perfection from their partners. They need partnership. They need to feel heard, valued, and like they're part of a team.Key takeaways:✔️ Why partner support matters so much in blended families✔️ Why feeling unsupported creates anxiety, resentment, and loneliness✔️ What emotional safety looks like in a marriage✔️ Common ways partners unintentionally make stepmoms feel alone✔️ How dad guilt and fear of conflict affect blended family dynamics✔️ How to communicate your needs without starting an argument✔️ Why the issue often isn't the kids—it's feeling like you don't have a teammateIf you've ever thought:"My husband never backs me up.""I feel completely alone in this.""I don't know where my partner stands."This episode will help you understand why those feelings run so deep and how to start creating more teamwork in your relationship.You deserve to feel like the two of you are on the same side.Support the showWant a specific topic covered? Let me know here.After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.comGet on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

For more than a century, Melbourne's Abbotsford Convent was occupied by the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, and the "wayward" girls and orphans they took care of. Patricia Sykes was one of those girls.She was dropped off at the orphanage with her three sisters in the early 1950s after their mother died.Their father couldn't afford to take care of four girls at home, but wanted them to stay together, so an orphanage felt like his only option.As a girl, Patricia, a gifted student who loved music and words, desperately wanted to escape the convent.But later in life, after finally finishing school and then university as a mother and mature student, Patricia returned to Abbotsford Convent.As a poet in residence, Patricia went back on her own terms to hear and to tell the stories of dozens of women who passed through its doors, and to interrogate her own understanding of her time with the nuns.Patricia's collection of poetry is called The Abbotsford Mysteries. You can find information about all of Patricia's books online.This episode of Conversations was produced by Meggie Morris. Executive Producer was Eliza Kirsch.It explores religion, Christianity, Catholicism, Australia of yesteryear, modern history, Melbourne, Victoria, nunnery, orphanages, grief, sisterhood, education, women's rights, motherhood, losing a mother, the Queen, writing, books, late life career change.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you'll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

In this heartfelt episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast, Lori Sims welcomes guest Donna Kendrick, who shares her deeply personal story of loss, resilience, and blending families. Raised in Philadelphia, Donna Kendrick describes her journey from being married to a Philadelphia police officer, living abroad as a family, and navigating the aftermath of her husband's tragic taking of his own life after their return to the U.S. She candidly discusses how mental health struggles, grief, and trust issues shaped her decisions as a widow and a mother. Donna Kendrick goes on to recount meeting her current husband, a carpenter who had originally helped with renovations after her first husband's passing, and the slow, organic way their families and children came together. Through life's unexpected twists, including her husband's ex-wife's battle with cancer and the logistical and emotional challenges of moving and merging households, Donna Kendrick highlights the power of empathy, extended family support, and humor in navigating the ups and downs of blended family life. The episode touches on grief, motherhood, the importance of listening to your body, and the ongoing challenges and blessings of raising six children in a truly blended household. Lori and Donna share relatable stories and insights, with promises to bring Donna Kendrick back for future conversations about financial planning. In this episode: Grief and Resilience in Blended Families Navigating Blending After Loss and Divorce Compassion, Empathy, and Extended Support Practical Transitional Decisions Humor and Dark Comedy as Coping Importance of Self-care, Community, and Advocacy Adaptability and Open Communication Listeners will be inspired by themes of hope, community, and the ways that love and laughter can help families heal and grow together.

Send us Fan MailBlending a family is about much more than combining households—it's about building trust, creating stability, and learning to carry life's invisible load together.Deb sits down with Carly for an honest conversation about what has helped her blended family flourish. From partnership and communication to clearly defined roles and mutual support, they explore how putting the relationship first can create a stronger foundation for the entire family.A thoughtful conversation about intentional parenting, teamwork, and redefining what family can look like. Added to that, healthy boundaries, faith, letting go of shame, and dancing around in the kitchen, to help ease some of that Invisible load.Real parents. Real stories. Because it takes a village to raise a child — and a community to raise their parent.WATCH THIS EPISODE on YOUTUBE HERE"I NEED MY SASS BACK"  Music Video YouTubeSpotifyApple Music IG - @sassandsmalls (Main)        @sassandsmalltalkpodcastFB/TIKTOK/WEBSITESUBSCRIBE YOUTUBEListen HERERequests HERERATINGSIf you're a parent/caregiver carrying an invisible load & like what you hear? Please share and rate us 5 Stars  BYE BYE BURNOUTMY GO-TO for Cortisol-balancing, Gut-healing, Stress Resillience:  "HAPPY" DRINK $10 OFF 

Anna Dombkins was 25 years old, when she and her husband happened on a television program about adoption which would completely change their lives. CW: this episode of Conversations discusses adoption.It was a documentary investigating the unimaginable conditions of some orphanages in China.The newly married couple felt compelled to adopt, but because they already had biological children, it was near impossible to adopt in Australia.The newly married couple felt compelled to adopt children who had no other family support, but because they already had biological children, it was near impossible to adopt in Australia.While living in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro for a number of years, Anna saw how many children were coming into local orphanages not because they were unwanted or because their biological parents had died, but because their families simply couldn't afford to take care of them.So, since returning to Australia and becoming a mother to her sixth child, Anna became the founding director of Forever Projects, a charity supporting Tanzanian women in poverty, so they can live independently, care for and keep their babies without having to resort to adoption.Forever Projects has since helped more than 3,000 babies remain with their families.Home Forever: Adoption, hope and the mountains we're all climbing is published by Pepper Press, Fair Play Publishing.This episode of Conversations was produced by Meggie Morris. Executive Producer is Nicola Harrison.It explores families, motherhood, fostering, overseas adoption, fatherhood, siblings, blended families, cultural awareness, Australian adoption policy, faith, religion, Christianity, serving the community, marriage, love, intergenerational, grandparents, grief, cancer, Moshi, Forever Angels Baby Home, five under five, lawyers, legal system.

ResourcesEpisode 240. Energize Family Bonds One Meaningful Conversation at a Time [with Ashley Noelle]Order your Blended Bond Deck here: blendedbond.com (be sure to use Promo code: BREAKTHROUGH20 to receive 20% off your purchase)Episode 136. How to Intentionally Create Positive Family Time  and Reduce Relational TensionSuggest a Topic or Ask a Question  Would you like us to discuss something specific or answer your question on the show?  Let us know!We've made it easy.  Just click here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/shareReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/free-callYou don't need to navigate blended family life alone.  Join our supportive community where you'll connect directly with us and other couples just like you who are intentionally investing in healthy blending strategies.  Click the link to find out how to join: https://learning.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/blendingtogetherSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

Four Steps to Deal with Issues in your Stepfamily Are you struggling with problems in your blended family, such as resentment, lack of co-operation and arguments? In this episode Liam explains the 4 steps you can use to eliminate the problems caused in a stepfamily. Podcasts – Liam Naden

Four Steps to Deal with Issues in your Stepfamily Are you struggling with problems in your blended family, such as resentment, lack of co-operation and arguments? In this episode Liam explains the 4 steps you can use to eliminate the problems caused in a stepfamily. Podcasts – Liam Naden

In blended family life, it's easy for kids, parents, and stepparents to feel unsure, unseen, or disconnected as everyone adjusts to new relationships, new rhythms, and new expectations.We know how hard it can be to want deeper connection, but not know what questions to ask or how to create the kind of safe space where honest conversations can happen.In this episode, we talk with Ashley Noelle, the founder of Blended Bond, a conversation-based tool designed to help blended families, co-parents, and single-parent households build stronger connection through meaningful dialogue. Rooted in her own lived experience within a blended family, Ashley created Blended Bond to support families navigating complex dynamics, transitions, and emotional barriers.With a background in co-parenting coaching and a deep understanding of modern family structures, Ashley now focuses on creating tangible resources that help families communicate, connect, and feel less alone in the process.Together, we explore how intentional questions can help kids feel seen and heard, why “safe zone” conversations matter, and how parents and stepparents can keep showing up with patient persistence, even when kids shut down or resist.Ashley also reminds us that every blended family is unique. You don't have to force your family into someone else's mold. You can build trust, strengthen bonds, and create meaningful connection one honest conversation at a time.You'll Discover:Why open-ended questions can help kids feel seen, heard, and understood How to keep showing up with patience when kids shut down, roll their eyes, or say “I don't know” Why “safe zone” conversations can build trust, honesty, and emotional security How shared activities and fun prompts can create teamwork and help kids feel included Why every blended family gets to build its own unique identity, instead of trying to fit a cookie-cutter modelResources from this Episode:Order your Blended Bond Deck here: blendedbond.comAnd be sure to use Promo code: BREAKTHROUGH20 to receive 20% off your purchaseConnect with Ashley at instagram.com/theblendedbondReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesessionYou don't need to navigate blended family life alone.  Join our supportive community where you'll connect directly with us and other couples just like you who are intentionally investing in healthy blending strategies.  Click the link to find out how to join: https://learning.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/blendingtogetherSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

Feeling like an outsider in your own home as a stepmom? You're not alone. In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia explores why so many stepmoms struggle with belonging in blended families. She shares why outsider syndrome happens, the common traps stepmoms fall into, and practical ways to stop trying to earn your place and start feeling more secure in your role.Key takeaways:Why feeling left out is normal in blended familiesThe hidden cost of overfunctioning and people-pleasingWhy belonging can't be earned through doing moreHow to build meaningful relationships with your partner and stepchildrenSimple ways to create your own place within your familyJoin The Stepmom Side Community:https://aliciakrasko.com/communityExplore Coaching:https://aliciakrasko.com/coachingSupport the showWant a specific topic covered? Let me know here.After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.comGet on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

In this heartfelt and honest conversation, Dr. Scott and Deana Thayer share the journey that brought them together from painful divorces and personal rebuilding to creating a thriving, blended family rooted in faith, grace, and intentionality. They open up about how difficult seasons unexpectedly became part of God's plan for their lives and how blending two families came with both beautiful moments and significant challenges.  The conversation dives deep into the emotional realities of blended families, including the unexpected aspect of grief blending a family includes. Scott and Deana explain why stepfamily dynamics are frequently misunderstood and why healing, patience, and reassurance are essential for building trust and connection.  Listeners will walk away encouraged by the Thayers' vulnerability and equipped with marriage-strengthening strategies to help couples blend their families with compassion, resilience, and purpose. For more about the Thayers, visit their website BlendingWell. Also check Deana's article in the Remarriage & Blended Families Resource List from Focus on the Family. More from Dr. Carol Ministries: In-Person Intensive Weekend - Experience true healing and wholeness as you unpack your personal story around intimacy and relationships in a safe, caring, Christ-filled environment.     Individual Coaching with Dr. Carol provides a one-on-one format to help you navigate your personal journey through practical encouragement and scriptural-based perspective.   Dr. Carol loves to hear from you! Send her a confidential message here. 

Sandra Beck of Coach Talk Radio sits down with relationship expert Duana Welch to talk about one of the most delicate family dynamics—integrating your partner's children into your home. Blending families isn't just about logistics. It's about expectations, boundaries, and emotional undercurrents that can quickly create tension if they're not addressed directly. In this episode, Dr. Welch breaks down how to establish respect without overstepping, how to communicate with your partner as a unified team, and how to create structure that supports everyone in the household. The conversation also tackles common missteps—trying too hard to be liked, avoiding conflict, or failing to define roles early—and how those choices can backfire over time. Instead, you'll get practical strategies to build trust, maintain balance, and navigate the gray areas that come with blended family life. If you're living this reality—or considering it—this episode offers a grounded approach that prioritizes clarity, consistency, and long-term stability. Coach Talk Radio is available on Audible, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Stitcher, Player FM, and Podcast Addict.

In this episode of the Your Money Your Mission podcast, host and SVP Wealth Fiduciary Advisor, Kelly Mould sits down with SVP Director of Wealth Strategy, Joe Maier and SVP Private Client Banking Leader, Jackie Ruppel to unpack what the Great Wealth Transfer actually means. From the fear of raising entitled kids to the power of the family meeting, this episode is a candid, research-backed conversation about what it takes to transfer not just assets but the values and purpose that built them. In this episode:00:00 – 03:45: What is the Great Wealth Transfer?03:46 – 07:45: Transferring Values Between Generations07:46 – 11:05: Defining Wealth and Your Impact11:06 – 20:21: Bridging Communication Gaps with Family Meetings20:22 – 27:42: The Benefits of Family Meetings27:43 – 30:30: Navigating In-Laws and Blended Families in Conversations30:31 – 36:03: How to Start the Conversation and Final Tips Additional resources:The Gift of a Family Meeting: Planning, Legacy & Love | Johnson Financial GroupUnderstanding Estate Planning Tools and Their Purposes | Johnson Financial GroupTransferring Wealth | Johnson Financial Group

Lawrence sits down with family systems therapist Stephanie Sternes, LMFT, LCPC, NCC to explore what happens when parents begin dating again after divorce, estrangement, or parental alienation. Together they examine how new relationships can impact children, family roles, and the emotional balance of an already changing family system.Drawing on family systems principles, attachment, and lived experience, the discussion explores loyalty conflicts, belonging, emotional safety, and the challenges many families face when introducing a new partner. The result is a grounded conversation about creating healthier transitions for both parents and children. Living fully while navigating parental alienation is not giving up, but an act of love and integrity.Key TakeawaysHow dating after divorce affects children and family dynamicsWhy new relationships can trigger loyalty conflictsUnderstanding the hidden challenges of blended familiesHow attachment wounds influence parenting and partnershipWhy timing matters when introducing a new partnerSupporting children through major family transitionsThe importance of emotional healing before dating againHow co-parenting impacts future family relationshipsNavigating insider-outsider dynamics in stepfamiliesCreating stability and connection in a blended familyChapters00:00 - Navigating Dating, Divorce & Family Change 02:44 - Understanding Healthy Co-Parenting Relationships 05:58 - Why Blended Families Can Feel So Challenging 08:40 - The Emotional Work to Do Before Dating Again 11:47 - How Children's Ages Shape Their Reactions 14:57 - When Therapy Can Help Stepfamilies Thrive 17:42 - Insider vs. Outsider Dynamics in Blended Families 20:49 - Loyalty Conflicts, Loss & New Relationships 23:50 - Developmental Stages and Family Transitions 26:54 - Recognizing Attachment Wounds Early 29:48 - Building Trust Through Open Communication 32:38 - Reflections on Growth, Healing & Family ChangeSupport & Community:Parental Alienation Anonymous (PAA): Join our free 12-step support group with 16 online meetings weekly for parents, grandparents, family members, and previously alienated individuals seeking healing and recovery.PA-A.org: Parental Alienation Advocates is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering education, advocacy, and support for individuals grappling with the distressing impact of parental alienation, estrangement, erasure, and family disconnection.All our services are free and sustained by grants and community donations. Your support helps us continue offering these vital resources.Donate here: https://pa-a.mykajabi.com/donations-for-the-12-step-programConnect with Us:Email your questions or insights: familydisappeared@gmail.comLike, share, and comment to help us reach more families in need.If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:  Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)To learn more or connect with Stephanie, you can visit:https://www.stephsternes.comhttps://www.healingstoryranch.comThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email-         familydisappeared@gmail.com

Ron Deal lays out the raw reality of blended family dynamics: like insiders vs. outsiders, why parenting becomes a hotspot, and what actually helps step parents survive and thrive. Ron uses plain stories, tough truths, and biblical reasoning to show why unity can make or break families. And he'll unpack you-got-this tips for bio parents can empower their spouses. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29?v=20251111

Blended families are often portrayed as heartwarming success stories—but what happens when the reality feels far more complicated?In this deeply honest episode, Erica shares the challenges of step-parenting in a blended family.She opens up about the grief, triggers, expectations, and personal growth that come with choosing a life that looks very different than what she originally imagined.Rather than offering a polished "everything works out" narrative, Erica explores what it means to choose love anyway—and how grace, self-awareness, and intentional support can help you navigate the hardest parts of blended family life.Key Themes & TakeawaysWhy blended families are fundamentally different from first familiesThe hidden grief of letting go of what you thought family life would look likeHow step-parenting can trigger unresolved wounds, expectations, and "mama bear" instinctsThe reality of parenting children with complex medical needsWhy love in step-parenting is often a conscious choice, not an automatic feelingThe importance of proactive communication with your partnerHow to stop focusing on what you can't control and start influencing what you canWhy self-care isn't optional in blended family dynamicsThe power of measuring progress instead of perfectionWhat it means to truly choose your partner—and everything that comes with themWhat You'll LearnHow to recognize when you're emotionally bracing for conflict before it even happensWhy resentment grows when expectations go unexaminedThe three questions Erica asks herself before reacting to difficult situationsHow blended families can create meaningful connections even when relationships don't look the way you imaginedPractical ways to support yourself during challenging parenting and co-parenting seasonsResources & LinksJoin The Club for weekly support, coaching, and community with women navigating divorce, co-parenting, blended families, and rebuilding themselves after heartbreak.Read the BlogYou Can't Pick the ConditionsStop hoping and start creating your next chapter with The Wild Woman. Set intentions, regulate your system and clear the ish that is holding you back from the life you want. Connect with Ericahttps://www.thecrazyexwivesclub.comInstagramFacebook

ResourcesClick here to schedule your FREE COACHING CALL239.  Feeling Responsible for Everyone? How Codependency Hinders Family Relationships and How to Heal [with Michelle Farris]To connect with Michelle Farris, CLICK HERE Episode 138. How Relational Dysfunction Plagued our Marriage and How We Finally Broke FreeSuggest a Topic or Ask a Question  Would you like us to discuss something specific or answer your question on the show?  Let us know!We've made it easy.  Just click here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/shareReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/free-callYou don't need to navigate blended family life alone.  Join our supportive community where you'll connect directly with us and other couples just like you who are intentionally investing in healthy blending strategies.  Click the link to find out how to join: https://learning.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/blendingtogetherSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

We want to hear from you! Please, send us a text comment or suggestion. In this final episode of Home Sweet Home, we reflect on the deeper meaning of home—not simply as a place, but as a felt sense of safety, belonging, rest, and connection. Throughout the podcast, we have explored stress, healing, relationships, burnout, boundaries, and the nervous system, and this closing conversation brings those themes together around one central truth: home is often something we build within ourselves and with one another. We talk about how safe relationships shape our sense of belonging, how survival mode can keep us functioning without ever feeling fully at home in ourselves, and how healing often happens through small, quiet moments that reshape us over time.This episode is a gentle reflection on what it means to return to yourself. It is about creating spaces, relationships, and routines where you no longer have to fight so hard to be enough—where your nervous system can soften, your story can exist honestly, and you can rest without guilt. As we close this chapter, the invitation is not toward perfection, but toward continued growth, self-trust, and hope. Because maybe home was never meant to be a perfect place at all. Maybe it was always meant to be a feeling we learn to build.To find out more about Rod McCall and Eryk's Place of Hope check out https://fortheloveoferyk.com/ & https://eryksplaceofhope.com/Find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.

Did you know that 2/3 of all re-marriages involve kids. There's a name for that. […]

Codependency can be tricky to recognize because it often looks like love, generosity, or “just trying to help.” But when our giving turns into fixing, rescuing, controlling, or sacrificing ourselves to earn love and approval, it can quietly create tension in our marriage, parenting, co-parenting, and stepfamily relationships.In this episode, we're joined by therapist Michelle Farris for a practical and hope-filled conversation about how codependency shows up in blended families and how to heal it. Michelle is a psychotherapist, codependency expert, and anger management specialist with a passion for helping people break free from toxic relationships. Her YouTube channel has over 3 million viewers, where she's known for her practical tips and expertise. She's written several ebooks and courses for creating relationships that work. Michelle helps us understand the difference between healthy care and over-functioning, why some parents struggle when their kids are hurting or moving between homes, and how our desire to protect or please can sometimes blur important relational boundaries.We also talk honestly about how codependency can impact the parenting partnership in a blended family. When a bio-parent feels caught between their child and spouse, the pressure can intensify. When a stepparent feels responsible for things they don't have authority over, resentment sets in.  But there is a healthier way forward. Michelle shares how couples can take small steps toward clearer boundaries, stronger self-awareness, and more secure connection without becoming rigid, reactive, or disconnected.If you've ever felt responsible for keeping everyone okay, struggled to set limits with your kids or ex, or wondered why you feel resentful after “helping,” this conversation will give you language, clarity, and hope.You'll Discover:The difference between being kind and being codependent How codependency can show up with your children, with an ex, or inside your marriage How over-functioning, fixing, rescuing, controlling, and people-pleasing can create ongoing resentment and disable others How to identify your non-negotiable boundaries without becoming rigid or reactive Three key areas of codependency and how you can move toward relational health and wellnessResources from this Episode:To connect with Michelle Farris, CLICK HERE Michelle's free guide: 7 Steps to Healing One Sided RelationshipsRelationships That Work with Michelle Farris (YouTube)Episode 138. How Relational Dysfunction Plagued our Marriage and How We Finally Broke FreeReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesessionYou don't need to navigate blended family life alone.  Join our supportive community where you'll connect directly with us and other couples just like you who are intentionally investing in healthy blending strategies.  Click the link to find out how to join: https://learning.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/blendingtogetherSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

What should a stepmom do when her stepkids are disrespectful?Few things trigger a stepmom faster than being ignored, talked back to, rolled eyes at, or treated like she doesn't matter. When you're already questioning your role in the family, disrespect from a stepchild can feel deeply personal—and it can quickly create resentment, frustration, and conflict in your marriage.In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia dives into one of the most common challenges stepmoms face: dealing with disrespectful stepkids. She explains why disrespect from stepkids often hurts more than people realize, how feelings of uncertainty and lack of belonging can amplify those interactions, and what stepmoms can do instead of reacting from anger or hurt.Whether you're dealing with eye rolls, backtalk, being ignored, or feeling completely unsupported, this episode will help you respond with confidence instead of resentment.If you've ever found yourself wondering whether your stepkids respect you—or if you've questioned whether you even belong in your family—this episode is for you.Support the showWant a specific topic covered? Let me know here.After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.comGet on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

Season 2, Episode 1 Adult Kids Moving Back Home: 7 Things We Learned After almost two years away, we're back! In this first episode of Season 2, I'm sharing a life update and discussing something many blended families eventually face: adult children moving back home. Whether they're returning after college, navigating a breakup, saving money, or simply needing a fresh start, bringing adult children back into the home can create unique challenges—especially when step-relationships, multiple households, and changing family dynamics are involved. In this episode, we share 7 lessons we've learned that can help you navigate this season while protecting your marriage, maintaining healthy boundaries, and enjoying the extra time together. In This Episode: ✅ Enjoy the season you're in ✅ Have a plan and an exit strategy ✅ Discuss expectations early ✅ Have the hard conversations ✅ Protect your marriage with intentional date nights ✅ Consider counseling when needed ✅ Learn when to let go and allow your adult children to grow If you're part of a blended family, you know that parenting doesn't end when children become adults. The relationships may change, but the opportunities to love, support, and grow together continue.

We want to hear from you! Please, send us a text comment or suggestion. In this episode of Home Sweet Home, we explore a surprising truth about healthy aging: helping other people may be one of the most powerful things you can do for your own brain. Drawing from long-term research following more than 30,000 adults over nearly two decades, we unpack how consistent acts of helping—whether formal volunteering or everyday support for neighbors, friends, and family—were linked to slower cognitive decline, stronger purpose, and better overall well-being. This conversation highlights why the benefits are not just emotional or social, but deeply practical for memory, resilience, and long-term brain health.We also talk about what makes helping so effective, why informal acts can matter just as much as organized service, and how to build this habit into daily life in ways that are sustainable rather than overwhelming. At its core, this episode is an invitation to see helping others differently—not just as something generous, but as something restorative and protective for your own life too. If you are looking for a meaningful habit that strengthens both community and personal well-being, this episode offers a hopeful and practical perspective. To find out more about Rod McCall and Eryk's Place of Hope check out https://fortheloveoferyk.com/ & https://eryksplaceofhope.com/Find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.

FORGIVE & FORGET: My Dad Skipped My Graduation For His Girlfriend's Kid... full 884 Fri, 29 May 2026 14:50:47 +0000 W07X9I6kf5bnJL4K3UKQ2SBfdGDLTrKT advice,graduation,parent,blended families,blended family,college graduation,forgive and forget,forgive & forget,who is right,who is wrong,dad and daughter,music,society & culture,news Kramer & Jess On Demand Podcast advice,graduation,parent,blended families,blended family,college graduation,forgive and forget,forgive & forget,who is right,who is wrong,dad and daughter,music,society & culture,news FORGIVE & FORGET: My Dad Skipped My Graduation For His Girlfriend's Kid... Highlights from the Kramer & Jess Show. 2024 © 2021 Audacy, Inc. Music Society & Culture News https://player.amper

In this episode of the 2 Be Better Podcast, Chris and Peaches dive deep into a raw, real-life relationship breakdown involving blended families, parenting conflicts, and a lack of structure in the home. This is the continuation from the woman's perspective, now unpacking the man's side of the story, exposing how inconsistent discipline, weak leadership, and poor communication are creating chaos between partners and their children. The conversation tackles hard truths about respect, authority, co-parenting, and how failing to correct behavior early can shape the kind of adults children become. Expect unfiltered insight on modern parenting, masculine leadership, and what it really means to step up as a father and partner. This episode challenges passive parenting, highlights the importance of boundaries and consequences, and breaks down why “letting kids be kids” without structure leads to long-term damage. If you're dealing with disrespectful children, step-parent tension, or constant arguments over discipline, this episode gives direct, actionable perspective on how to take control, unify your household, and raise strong, respectful kids.Disclaimer: We are not professionals. This podcast is opinioned based and from life experience. This is for entertainment purposes only. Opinions helped by our guests may not reflect our own. But we love a good conversation.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/2-be-better--5828421/support.

Ines Franklin is a teaching pastor, speaker, and author of Blended and Blessed and Uncharted: Navigating Your Unique Journey of Faith. Originally from Puerto Rico, Ines has experienced firsthand the complexities of brokenness, blended family life, redemption, and restoration. Through her writing and ministry, she helps families navigate difficult seasons with honesty, grace, and a faith-centered perspective rooted in the teachings of Jesus. In this episode, Brad and Ines Franklin explore the realities of blended family life, the emotional weight of divorce and rebuilding trust, and the ways God brings healing through vulnerability, empathy, and perseverance. Ines shares her personal story of abuse, addiction, divorce, and restoration, along with how she and her husband Jim built a unified family rooted in grace and faith. The conversation dives into the Beatitudes, emotional healing, family dynamics, forgiveness, leadership within the home, and how blended families can become powerful examples of redemption and hope. "Jesus does not turn away from messy situations. He steps into them with grace and redemption." – Ines Franklin "Blended families are not second-class families. God can bring healing, unity, and purpose even through brokenness." – Ines Franklin "Every family has dysfunction somewhere. The goal is not perfection. The goal is movement toward healing, wholeness, and unity." – Ines Franklin This Week on The Wow Factor: Ines' journey from Puerto Rico to California and learning English as a teenager Her experiences with abuse, divorce, addiction, and hitting rock bottom How faith and church became the turning point in her healing journey The meaning behind blended families and the hidden grief many families carry Why the Beatitudes became the framework for Blended and Blessed The importance of vulnerability, empathy, and keeping short accounts in family relationships How blended families can reflect God's redemption and become a light for others Ines Franklin's Word of Wisdom: Do not let shame, brokenness, or past mistakes convince you that your family cannot heal. God works through imperfect people and messy situations. Healing often happens one step at a time through honesty, grace, forgiveness, and a willingness to keep moving toward unity even when it feels difficult. Connect With Ines Franklin: Ines Franklin Website Ines Franklin on Instagram Ines Franklin on Facebook Ines Franklin on LinkedIn Buy Ines Franklins Books The Journey We Share | Faith and Life Uncharted Podcast Connect With Brad Formsma: WOW Factor Website   Brad Formsma on LinkedIn   Brad Formsma on Instagram   Brad Formsma on Facebook   Brad Formsma on X

ResourcesEpisode 50. How to Openly Communicate What You Really Want Episode 179. Conquer Fear and Embrace Your Blend with Confidence and Clarity Episode 98. Is fear of being vulnerable keeping you from loving your spouse wholeheartedly?Episode 180. Break Free from Guilt and Blend with Authenticity and SecurityEpisode 187. Basics for Blending:  How to Tolerate and Manage Discomfort and Distress (Part 1 of 2)Episode 237. Communication Frustration?  Gain Powerful Tools & Insight to Help Reduce Conflict & Stay ConnectedSuggest a Topic or Ask a Question  Would you like us to discuss something specific or answer your question on the show?  Let us know!We've made it easy.  Just click here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/shareReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/free-callYou don't need to navigate blended family life alone.  Join our supportive community where you'll connect directly with us and other couples just like you who are intentionally investing in healthy blending strategies.  Click the link to find out how to join: https://learning.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/blendingtogetherSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

We want to hear from you! Please, send us a text comment or suggestion. In part two of this conversation, Jon Lewis reflects on what it has meant to begin again in more ways than one—building a new career while also becoming a father again in midlife. This episode explores the emotional weight of that decision, the hesitation and hope that can come with starting over, and how maturity can reshape the way a person experiences parenting, responsibility, and purpose. Jon shares how this season of life has changed his perspective on fatherhood, success, and what truly matters, while also speaking honestly about the demands of balancing work, family, energy, and identity.This episode also takes a real look at the rewards and challenges of choosing a different path later in life. From unexpected joys and deeper intentionality to sacrifice, doubt, and the pressure of holding multiple responsibilities at once, the conversation offers a thoughtful and grounded picture of change in adulthood. At its heart, this episode is about meaning, timing, and the courage to build a life that reflects who you are becoming. It is a conversation for anyone wondering whether a major life change is still possible, and a reminder that some of the most meaningful chapters begin when you are finally ready to live them well.To find out more about Rod McCall and Eryk's Place of Hope check out https://fortheloveoferyk.com/ & https://eryksplaceofhope.com/Find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.

05/24/26 Christ at Home: Blended Families - Joe Mena by City Tribe Church

Blending a family is hard. Blending a family with three teenagers? Absolute chaos sometimes.

In this episode of the 2 Be Better Podcast, Chris and Peaches break down real-life relationship and parenting challenges from listener emails, diving deep into blended families, discipline, emotional regulation, and communication. They tackle the difficult reality of conflicting parenting styles, step-parent dynamics, and how inconsistent discipline can create division in a household. Through raw conversation and personal experience, they unpack what it takes to raise respectful, emotionally regulated children while maintaining a strong relationship with your partner. Expect honest, unfiltered perspectives on modern parenting, masculinity, boundaries, and accountability. This episode challenges common parenting approaches, explores how childhood habits shape adult behavior, and gives practical tools for handling tantrums, setting structure, and leading your family with intention. If you're struggling with discipline, blended family tension, or trying to become a better partner and parent, this episode offers real talk, tough love, and actionable insight to help you step up and lead your home the right way.Disclaimer: We are not professionals. This podcast is opinioned based and from life experience. This is for entertainment purposes only. Opinions helped by our guests may not reflect our own. But we love a good conversation.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/2-be-better--5828421/support.

Co-parenting conversations can escalate fast, especially when an ex is reactive, manipulative, dismissive, or unreasonable. It's tempting to defend yourself, fire back, or make a quick decision just to escape the pressure. But that kind of response rarely moves things forward, and it can leave kids carrying the emotional weight of adult conflict.In this episode, we share practical tools to help you communicate with an ex in a way that is calm, clear, and solution-focused. You'll learn our 5 A's Framework for navigating hard co-parenting conversations, along with strategies for handling pressure, staying grounded, and setting healthy boundaries with confidence.We also open up about a painful moment in our own blended family story, when Kim felt pressured by her ex into making a major decision before she had time to think clearly or consult with Mike. From that experience, we share what we wish we had known then, and how these tools can help you protect your marriage, create greater stability for your kids, and build more peace in your home.Be sure to grab the free downloadable worksheet for this episode to help you plan your next hard conversation and put these tools into practice.You'll Discover:Why reactive communication with an ex often fuels ongoing conflict How to use the 5 A's Framework for clearer, more cooperative co-parenting conversations Three strategies for handling pressure-filled moments with greater steadiness A simple tool for setting healthy boundaries with an ex How consistency can build trust, influence, and greater stability for your kidsResources from this Episode:CLICK HERE to grab your free co-parenting communication worksheetEpisode 211. 8 Warning Signs Your Ex is Manipulating Your Child's Heart and MindEpisode 218. How to Positively Influence You Kids' Character When Your Ex Undermines Your Values Episode 207.  4 Big Myths About Parenting When an Ex Has Different Rules and How to Build Consistency  Episode 232. 5 Principles to Manage Contact Between Homes and Promote Your Child's WellbeingEpisode 229. The Heavy Burdens Kids Carry: Loyalty Binds, Parental Allegiance and How to HelpEpisode 175. 8 Tips to Protect Kids From Stress and Tension When Moving Between HomesEpisode 161. How do Healthy Parent/Child Roles Help Avoid the Pitfalls of Parentification [ with Ron Deal & Lauren Reitsema]Episode 112. 3 Dangerous Dynamics That Can Destroy Co-Parenting - And Hurt the KidsEpisode 42. Our Challenging Story of Parental Alienation - and 6 Tips For YouEpisode 91. Is Your Husband's Hostile Ex-Wife Invading Your Life, Stealing Your Joy and Confidence?Episode 194. Powerful Tips for Effectively Connecting with Your Angry or Distant Child [with Amy J.L. Baker]Episode 226. How Two Homes Raise Kids That Thrive:  A Blueprint for Caring Parents [with Jay & Tammy Daughtry]Ready for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Question: We are seriously considering becoming foster parents.  We have 2 children by birth, and I am really worried about how this will affect them and what I can do to prevent some of the negative effects.Resources:The Impact of Fostering and Adoption on Kids Already in the Family (Resource)Talking with your Resident Kids about Foster Care or Kinship Care (Resource)What You Should Know About Disrupting Birth Order in Adoption & Foster CareSupport the showPlease leave us a rating or review.  This podcast is produced by www.CreatingaFamily.org. We are a national non-profit with the mission to strengthen and inspire adoptive, foster & kinship parents and the professionals who support them.Creating a Family brings you the following trauma-informed, expert-based content:Weekly podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

If there's one thing we've learned in our 25 years of marriage, parenting, and blended family life, it's this: communication problems aren't about bad intentions more often, they're about lacking the right tools. In this episode, we share the painful, unproductive patterns we got stuck in and the communication shifts that changed everything for us, helping us strengthen our marriage and build a healthier parenting partnership.We unpack a simple communication styles model, then share two practical frameworks that help couples handle sensitive issues with more wisdom and less reactivity.  We also share about the impact of emotional dysregulation (one of the biggest obstacles to healthy communication), and touch on four of the most common unhealthy patterns that keep couples stuck.This episode will offer practical tools to build trust and connection, reduce conflict, and communicate more like a united team.  Even when you each have different perspectives.  If we can do it, you can too!  Listen in and learn these pivotal tools so you can break free from unhealthy communication patterns and make a real difference in your relationship!You'll Discover:How different communication styles can quietly create friction, even when both of you mean well A simple framework for talking about sensitive issues, especially conversations about each other's kids How to use the FAQ approach to start hard conversations without blame or escalation Why emotional dysregulation can quickly derail communication How to recognize Gottman's Four Horsemen and replace them with healthier patterns that build connection and teamworkResources from this Episode:CLICK HERE to schedule your free call and learn more about our Relate Strong coaching focused on regulating painful emotions when it matters most.FREE DOWNLOAD: Communication Toolkit WorksheetEpisode 202.  How to Break Free from Painful Cycles and Enjoy Deeper Levels of Intimacy [with Ron & Nan Deal]Episode 203. How to Make Better Decisions and Solve Problems as a United TeamCrucial Conversations by K. Patterson, J. Grenny, R. McMilan, A. Switzler Leave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

Comparisons are the Thief of Joy—But What About in Blended Families? In episode NKP362 of the Nacho Kids Podcast, Lori and David dive deep into the pitfalls of comparison, especially when it comes to blended families, kids, and relationships. Listeners will hear personal stories from Lori about her son Jackson's academic achievements and the emotions that arise when comparing him to David's children. Together, Lori and David candidly discuss how easy it is to compare kids, relationships, and even possessions, leading to unnecessary feelings of inadequacy and frustration. They reveal their distinct perspectives on academic success, parenting expectations, and why it's crucial to focus on each person's unique strengths instead of measuring up to others. In this episode: Why comparison in blended families can be harmful How Lori and David navigate differences in their children's achievements The importance of recognizing individual strengths and backgrounds Why it's better to compare yourself only to the person you were yesterday If you'd like to be a guest on our podcast, email us at contactsus@nachokids.com. If you are struggling in your blend, or just want to better your blended relationships (including your relationship with your partner), join the Nacho Kids Academy at nachokidsacademy.com today! We offer one-on-one coaching and couples coaching. If you are interested, email us at contactus@nachokids.com to check our availability.  

Ryan Pineda, alongside cohost Brian Davila, interviews Chandler David Smith as he shares his journey through profound personal loss, rebuilding life and family, and achieving financial freedom through real estate and resilience.⁣⁣Connect with Chandler - ⁣https://www.instagram.com/ChandlerDavidSmith/⁣https://www.youtube.com/c/ChandlerDavidSmith⁣⁣__________⁣If you want to start your real estate investing business, we'll give you 1:1 coaching, seller leads, software, & everything you need. https://www.wealthyinvestor.com⁣⁣If you're a business owner who wants to get in peak physical shape, we can help! https://www.allproceo.com⁣⁣Join our private mastermind for elite business leaders who golf. https://www.mastermind19.com⁣⁣Join free Bible studies and workshops for Christian business leaders. https://www.tentmakers.us⁣__________⁣CHAPTERS: ⁣0:00 - Introduction & Reunion⁣1:15 - Life Before Tragedy⁣1:47 - Cancer Diagnoses Begin⁣7:12 - Navigating Grief Process⁣11:45 - New Love & Blended Family⁣25:51 - Life After Loss & Career Shift⁣27:01 - Real Estate Freedom Explained⁣35:00 - Passion vs Financial Freedom⁣37:42 - Love of Sales & Competition⁣41:00 - Sales Skills & Door-to-Door Stories⁣45:19 - Active Income vs Passive Income⁣50:36 - Future Plans & Fatherhood Focus