Podcasts about Coparenting

Psychotherapist Jessica Anne Pressler uncovers Erin's "traitor within" story and teaches her to stop pursuing avoidant men and be more accepting of secure relationships. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's easy to look at the unfinished parts of your blended family and wonder if something is wrong.Maybe relationships haven't developed as quickly as you hoped. Your stepchild still keeps their distance. A biological parent feels caught in the middle. Or shifting schedules, transitions, and circumstances outside your control continue to create tension.When reality doesn't match the family you imagined, discouragement can creep in. But the truth is, blending a family is a process, and a family 'in process' isn't necessarily an unhealthy family. Sometimes, it's simply still growing.In honor of National Stepfamily Day, we're shifting our focus from the challenges of blended family life to some of the unexpected strengths that can develop as you learn to navigate the challenges over the years.After more than 25 years in our own blended family, we've seen acceptance, resilience, and flexibility grow in ourselves and our kids. We've also discovered that a healthy remarriage can give children a new picture of what love, conflict resolution, forgiveness, trust, and commitment can look like, which will have an impact on their future relationships.None of these strengths develop automatically, and celebrating your family doesn't mean pretending the hard parts don't exist. It means recognizing meaningful progress while allowing everyone to experience the family honestly.Your family may still be “in the crock pot.” Some relationships may still feel awkward or unfinished. But slow progress is still progress.This National Stepfamily Day, we invite you to notice how far you've come, celebrate the wins, and hold onto hope for what's still developing.You'll Discover:Why an unfinished blended family isn't necessarily an unhealthy familyHow acceptance can reduce blame and create more empathy and emotional safetyHow kids and adults develop resilience by moving through difficult experiences rather than simply “getting over” themWhy healthy flexibility doesn't mean abandoning boundaries or allowing chaos to take overHow your marriage can offer kids a new and healthier vision for committed relationshipsResources from this Episode:Episode 141. Can my kids be emotionally harmed by blended family dynamics?Episode 27. How to Set Clear Boundaries and Safeguard RelationshipsEpisode 187. Basics for Blending:  How to Tolerate and Manage Discomfort and DistressReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey.  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/freesessionSubscribe or Follow the Show Click here to subscribe on YouTubeClick here to follow on 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!

Psychiatrist and relationship expert Dr. Laura Dabney discusses dating and relationships with high-profile men, how suppressed emotions like neediness, anger and sadness can shape relationship patterns, and practical coaching techniques to help break free from toxic cycles.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this powerful episode of I Am Dad Podcast, Dr. Matisa Wilbon hosts a heartfelt conversation with Alex Lima, a father of six, grandfather of three, and a man who began his fatherhood journey at just 16 years old. Alex brings a rare and honest perspective on what it means to grow up while raising children, to father children across different stages of life, and to navigate the realities of multiple parenting relationships. His story moves through young fatherhood, co-parenting, blended family formation, faith, maturity, and the ongoing work of becoming the kind of father his children need. One of the most compelling parts of Alex's story is how he reflects on co-parenting across different relationships. With his oldest children, he describes building a fluid and healthy co-parenting culture where his former partner, new partners, extended family, and support systems could all show up together around the children. He remembers being at games and family moments where everyone understood the assignment: they were on “Team Kids.” Alex is also honest that not every co-parenting relationship worked the same way. He speaks candidly about the challenges, emotional discomfort, and ripple effects that can happen when adults struggle to create that same shared family rhythm. Rather than presenting blended family life as simple, he offers something more useful: a real picture of growth, accountability, sacrifice, and the maturity required to keep children from carrying adult conflict. This conversation explores: • What it means to become a father at 16 • How fatherhood gave Alex discipline and focus • Parenting across different relationships and stages of life • What healthy co-parenting can look like after a romantic relationship ends • Why blended families require humility, sacrifice, and vision • How fathers can help children feel whole across households • Why parents must put children above ego, discomfort, and old hurt • How growing up without his father shaped Alex's commitment to presence • Why children need truthful conversations from both fathers and mothers • How faith and maturity changed Alex's approach to fatherhood • Why the co-parenting village matters At the center of this episode is a powerful lesson: co-parenting maturity is not about pretending everything is easy. It is about adults doing the hard emotional work necessary so children can feel loved, supported, and whole. Alex reminds us that fatherhood is not frozen at the age you became a dad. It grows as you grow. His journey from a 16-year-old father to a 50-year-old father and grandfather shows what can happen when a man chooses presence, learns from mistakes, embraces truth, and keeps becoming.

What does it actually mean when a child says they don't want to spend time with the other parent?In the first episode of our new series, When Children Resist or Refuse: Why don't they want to go?, Danielle Black unpacks one of the most difficult - and most misunderstood - issues in post-separation parenting: children who resist or refuse time with a parent.Because a child's refusal tells us that something is happening. It does not, by itself, tell us why.Is the child frightened? Is the parenting arrangement simply too much for them? Are they struggling with transitions, neurodivergence or sensory overload? Was the relationship with the other parent ever particularly strong? Has something happened to rupture it? Could family violence, coercive control, harmful parenting or boundary violations be relevant? Is the preferred parent contributing to the problem? Could there be alignment issues or inappropriate parental influence?And why do these cases so often collapse into the deeply inadequate binary of abuse versus parental alienation?In this episode, Danielle explores how we can move away from labels and towards something much more useful: understanding the individual child, their history, their relationships and the evidence actually in front of us.Danielle also looks at the assumption that more parenting time automatically creates a better or more "meaningful" parent-child relationship - and why the research is considerably more complicated than that.This episode also introduces the newly expanded Module 13 of The Post-Separation Parenting Blueprint™: When Children Resist or Refuse Contact, including substantial new research and practical frameworks for parents navigating exactly these issues.And there's some news.The Post-Separation Parenting Blueprint turns ONE on 27 September 2026!

What does healthy co-parenting after divorce actually look like?   In this special episode of the Why Not Now? Show, Amy Jo Martin sits down with the show's longtime producer - and her former husband - Richard Grewar for a candid conversation about the past few years of raising their son, as co-parents.   Their approach can be summed up in a phrase that helped shape their transition: one family, two homes.   Amy Jo and Richard share what it took to move from marriage into a new kind of partnership, while keeping their son's experience at the center of their decisions. They talk openly about the parts that were difficult, the mistakes they made, the support they sought from therapists and coaches, and why they don't believe there's one blueprint for successful co-parenting.   They also get practical, with tools and routines that have helped them along the way: the "20 Second Rule" they first created during their son's 90-day NICU stay, daily voice notes between households, shared calendars, navigating transitions, giving each other room to parent differently, and establishing trust and boundaries around new relationships.   Every situation is different, and this isn't a prescription for divorce or a step-by-step guide to co-parenting. It's an honest look at what Amy Jo and Richard have learned while trying to build something that works for their family.   For anyone navigating divorce, separation, co-parenting, blended families, or simply wondering whether family can look different without feeling broken, this conversation offers a thoughtful perspective on finding another way forward. Amy Jo Martin speaks globally on Humanizing AI, Leadership, Decision-Making, and the Future of Work. Learn more about keynote topics and availability: amyjomartin.com/speaking   Learn more about Amy Jo: https://amyjomartin.com/ Get Amy Jo's newsletter: https://amyjomartin.com/newsletter Watch Amy Jo's Speaking Reel: https://amyjomartin.com/speaking   Follow Amy Jo… Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amyjomartin/ X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/amyjomartin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmyJoMartin/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AmyJoMartinRenegade Why Not Now? Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whynotnow/ Buy Amy Jo's book: https://amyjomartin.com/book Follow Renegade Global: https://www.instagram.com/renegade_global Learn more about the Co-Parenting Handbook (the book mentioned in the episode...we aren't affiliated in any way): https://karensbonnell.com/karens-books/

Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!Ready for your own pattern interrupt? Explore Wendy's upcoming experiences in France and discover what becomes available when you step outside your routine, learn something new, and say yes to an adventure that feels good.wendy-harrop.com/journeysIn this episode, Wendy sits down with therapist Jessica Fern and restorative relationship practitioner David Cooley to examine how shame shapes the way we relate to ourselves and the people closest to us. They introduce the “inner shame triangle”: an inner critic that attacks, a shame part that absorbs and believes the criticism, and escaper parts that try to outrun it through over-functioning, under-functioning, busyness, or numbing. The conversation becomes deeply personal as Wendy reflects on her divorce and Jessica and David share how they ended their marriage, continued co-parenting, and created a new relationship structure that better meets their family's needs.They explore: How the inner critic, shame, and escaper parts reinforce one another and show up during relationship conflict  Why willingness and capacity are both necessary for couples who want to grow together  What it means to measure a relationship's success by whether people's needs are being met, not simply by how long it lasts This is a conversation about recognizing the internal patterns influencing your relationships, responding to yourself with greater compassion, and allowing relationships to evolve when the old configuration no longer works.Connect with Jessica & David:Get their book, Transforming the Shame Triangle: amazon.com/Transforming-Shame-Triangle-Using-Parts/dp/199086970X?tag=syty-20JessicaFern.comRestorativeRelationship.comTheAzuriteWay.comAsk Jess & Dave Show: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGHjbRL3XbZT0ZppTALUwwBUub68uMiij________________________________________________________________________________________Connect with Wendy:LinkedinInstagram: @wendy.harropFacebook: Phineas Wright HouseWebsite: Phineas Wright House PWH Farm StaysPWH Curated Experience and TravelInterested in being a guest on the show? Send your pitch to podcast@phineaswrighthouse.comPodcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat!If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a  5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.

"A toxic environment is a toxic environment, whether the parents are together or they're separate." That's not a divorce coach talking. That's Dave Kopeny — a former probation officer, school counselor, and sheriff's department investigator who now works as a private investigator specializing in families whose teenagers are struggling with substance use. And what he told Lisa in this conversation is something every parent navigating a high-conflict divorce or difficult co-parenting situation needs to hear: research shows an amicable divorce is actually better for a child's mental health than staying in a toxic marriage. The problem is, most of the people in our community don't have an amicable divorce. They have a toxic divorce and a toxic co-parenting situation — and that, Dave explains, is one of the heaviest burdens a child can carry, precisely because they have no control over it.This episode goes far beyond drug facts and statistics. Dave draws a direct line between the conflict a child witnesses at home — whether inside a marriage or across two households — and their risk of turning to substances to cope with feelings they don't know how to name. He also speaks candidly to a dynamic so many BTGO parents live with every day: the co-parent who checks out entirely. Dave sees it often in his own work with families — usually a father who doesn't have day-to-day custody, is angry at his ex, and simply stops showing up. Dave's advice for the parent left holding it all is direct, practical, and free of judgment.What You'll Learn:✅ Why research shows an amicable divorce protects kids better than a toxic intact marriage✅ How ongoing co-parenting conflict becomes a burden kids have no ability to control ✅ What to do when only one parent is willing to engage with a struggling teen ✅ Why you can't have a productive conversation with your child while you're dysregulated yourself ✅ The specific behavioral changes Dave tells parents to document before confronting a teen ✅ Why a mother's intuition about her child is worth listening to — and what Dave tells fathers about it ✅ How to reframe a hard conversation as "you and your child against addiction," not you against your child ✅ Why today's marijuana is a different, far more potent substance than the drug earlier generations knew ✅ The "four eyes vs. two eyes" problem single parents face — and who to bring in when you can't partner with your ex ✅ How to open a non-shaming conversation with a teen you're worried about, in under two minutesAbout Dave Kopeny:Dave Kopeny brings a rare, full-circle perspective to the world of adolescent substance use. He grew up in a household shaped by his father's alcoholism, later lost a brother to long-term addiction and a sister-in-law to a heroin overdose — experiences that shaped both his empathy and his career. Dave spent decades working directly with high-risk youth, starting as a juvenile probation officer in California, then serving as a school counselor, returning to intensive probation work, and later investigating for a sheriff's department. Today, as a private investigator, he specializes in helping families whose children are struggling with substance use disorder find their way toward lasting sobriety. He is the author of a book on adolescent addiction and founded a free online community where parents can learn the facts about teen substance use without cost or obligation.

Brandi and Lawrence aren't a couple. He's a gay man, she's a lesbian, and they were best friends first, until they decided, in their twenties, to build a family together on purpose, with a legal parental agreement in place before they ever tried to conceive. They walk Shan through what that intentionality actually looked like. But underneath the logistics is the part nobody warned either of them about, the isolation Lawrence carried as the only man in his friend group building a family this way, and the year their living situation and their respective romantic relationships pulled the friendship apart so hard that Brandi had to tell Lawrence something she still calls one of the biggest heartbreaks of her life: that she could stay his co-parent, but she couldn't stay his friend. ____________ Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://www.forhers.com/shan to get personalized, affordable care that gets you. Right now, our listeners get an additional 15% off any MasterClass annual membership at https://www.masterclass.com/lovers Follow Parental Agreement Resource → https://u42luyhpb6f.typeform.com/agreement Website → http://theparentalagreement.com/ Follow Lawrence Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/lawrenceccarroll/ Majestic Art Gallery → https://majesticartgallery.org/ Donate to LA Pride → https://lapride.org/donate-to-la-pride/ Follow Brandi Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/brandijandrews/?hl=en Youth Dealer, skincare for melanated people → https://www.instagram.com/youthdealerco/?hl=en Want more Lover? Receive my Lovers Letter → http://loversbyshan.com/newsletter Join the Lovers Community → https://www.loversbyshan.com/community Explore quizzes and worksheets → http://loversbyshan.com/quizzes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Suggest 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 Click here to subscribe on YouTubeClick here to follow on 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!

Struggling to get on the same page with your co-parent about screen time rules? Worried that enforcing boundaries might harm your relationship with your teen? In this episode, Delaney talks with renowned family psychologist and author Dr. Laura Kastner about the tricky, but crucial, process of setting and upholding screen time rules. Together, they explore a practical roadmap built around The Four Cs: Calm, Confidence, Co-Parent Unity, and Collaboration. Packed with relatable examples and expert-backed strategies, this conversation will help you navigate resistance and hold boundaries that support your child's emotional development and well-being.   Featured Expert Laura Kastner, PhD   Books Getting To Calm, by Laura Kastner, PhD Wise Minded Parenting, by Laura Kastner, PhD   Additional Resources: Screenagers Website Bring Screenagers to Your Community   Time Code 00:00 Understanding the Core Issue: Fear and Relationships 00:27 Introduction to Parenting in the Screen Age 00:45 Challenges of Setting Screen Time Boundaries 01:10 Real-Life Examples of Unpopular Rules 02:31 Interview with Dr. Laura Kasner: The Four Cs 02:58 Applying the Four Cs to Real Scenarios 04:45 Staying Calm and Confident 06:23 Co-Parenting and Collaboration 08:39 Handling Teen Reactions and Family Meetings 12:18 Polarization and Parental Unity 20:03 Concluding Thoughts and Resources

Movin' DifferentlyIn this episode of Parental Revisory, hosts Bethany and Mariano discuss things their children can do that their parents would NEVER allow to fly. Also, Mariano tells us how his three children have experienced different versions of he and his wife and Bethany shares how she allowed her son a bad word pass at the Kendrick Lamar concert.In this episode:Real check-ins with friends who are new parentsWhy spank when you can converse?Each child gets a different version of youDiscussing Consent with BoysGive the kids INFORMATIONBad Word Pass?And so much more! FOLLOW @parentalrevisory on Instagram!Video available on YouTube every Wednesday!Questions? Need Advice? We want to hear from you!Email us at ParentalRevisory@gmail.com

Send us Fan MailThe hardest part of co-parenting after betrayal isn't always the logistics. It's the story you keep telling yourself about what your ex “should” be doing and the emotional whiplash that hits when they don't follow through. Today we get brutally honest, in a way that's meant to bring relief, about why chasing the fantasy of a suddenly reliable co-parent keeps you stuck and dysregulated.I break down a distinction that changes everything: the difference between a “Disneyland parent” and a “convenience store parent.” One may be fun-focused but still consistent and involved. The other shows up only when it works for them, cancels when something better comes along, and leaves you holding the emotional and logistical load. We also play with other truth-telling labels (holiday parent, highlight reel parent, revolving door parent and more) not to shame anyone, but to help you see patterns clearly so you can plan your life without constant resentment.From there, we shift the spotlight back where your power actually is: who you're becoming. I share how I think about being the anchor parent, why “believe the patterns, not the promises” matters, and what real boundaries look like when pickups run late or parenting time is inconsistent. We talk about stopping the habit of parenting your former spouse, protecting kids from becoming messengers, and letting disappointment be a normal human emotion instead of an emergency you have to fix.If this lands in your chest, you're not alone. Subscribe, share this with a friend who's co-parenting through divorce, and leave a review so more people can find support when they need it most.Please follow me on instagram and facebook @happilyevenaftercoach and if you want to see what coaching is all about I offer a free 30 min. clarity call via zoom. Email me: hello@lifecoachjen.com for any comments or questions. Thanks for listening, please like and review as well as share with your family and friends. My website is www.lifecoachjen.com take the Free Quiz to find out how- How healed you are? 

Untying the Knot, Supporting Women through Divorce and BeyondDivorce changes a child's world, but hard feelings do not automatically mean lasting damage.

❌ Can You Refuse Child Support Payments? | Los Angeles Divorce ⚖️ Can you refuse child support payments in California? In most cases, no. Child support is considered a right that belongs to the child, not either parent. Even if both parents agree to change support, the court generally must approve the agreement before it becomes legally effective.

⚖️ How to Establish a Fair Child Support Agreement. | Los Angeles Divorce

⚖️ Can Child Support Be Waived If Both Parents Agree? | Los Angeles Divorce

⚖️ What If Your Ex Is Using Child Support for Personal Expenses? | Los Angeles Divorce

⚖️ What to Do If Your Ex Won't Communicate About the Kids. | Los Angeles Divorce

⚖️ How to Deal with a Controlling Co-Parent. | Los Angeles Divorce

⚖️ How to Reduce Conflict in Shared Custody Arrangements. | Los Angeles Divorce

After divorce, medical decisions don't stop. Kids still need vaccines, dental appointments, medications, evaluations, therapy, all of it. In high-conflict or parallel parenting, even basic healthcare decisions can become a new arena for control, misinformation, and sabotage. To help navigate this, I'm talking with board-certified pediatrician Dr. Madeline Gagnon, a complex care specialist who has worked with families at Boston Children's Hospital and other leading institutions. We get into how kids get pulled into adult conflict without realizing it, what healthy conflict actually looks like between co-parents, and what child-centered medical decision-making means when parents don't agree. We also tackle a question that comes up constantly: if you're going to keep fighting these battles anyway, shouldn't you just stay in the marriage? It's a conversation about knowing what's worth going to bat for, what isn't, and how to keep your kids at the center. What you'll hear about in this episode: What child-centered medical decision-making looks like when you and your co-parent don't agree (3:49) How triangulation shows up in divorced families, often more subtly than you'd expect, and how kids get pulled into it without even realizing what's happening (17:44) Whether staying together just to keep the peace and avoid future battles is really the safer choice for your kids (28:23) Wisdom for the mom who feels like she's fighting an uphill battle just to get her kid the care they need (44:13) What healthy conflict actually looks like between exes, and how to move toward it instead of away from it (46:54) Learn more about Dr. Madeleine Gagnon: Dr. Madeleine Gagnon is a board-certified pediatrician, qualified neutral mediator, and advocate for family communication and conflict resolution. A graduate of Georgetown University School of Medicine, she has worked for leading institutions including Boston Children's Hospital. She is the founder of BRIDGE Health Consulting, which helps families navigate conflict, grief, trauma, and life transitions; PULSE, a social initiative for teens and their parents that promotes communication and confidence through mentorship and social media; and BRIDGE To Home, which provides in-home support services for individuals with disabilities and mental health needs. Through years of work spanning both the clinic and community, Dr. Gagnon delivers practical, real-world approaches to everyday challenges that resonate meaningfully with parents, children, and teens alike. A trusted voice on parenting, adolescence, and family dynamics, Dr. Gagnon is frequently featured as a medical expert on network television and public radio affiliates. Resources & Links: Kate Anthony's Complete Parenting Plan  Focused Strategy Sessions with Kate  The Divorce Strategy Toolkit Phoenix Rising: A Divorce Empowerment Collective Kate on Instagram Kate on Facebook Kate's Substack Newsletter: Divorce Coaching Dispatch Episodes are also available YouTube! Seven Step Mindset Reset for Divorce  Listeners can exclusively book a free 15–20 minute Parent Strategy Call with Dr. Gagnon Dr. Gagnon's website Dr. Gagnon on Instagram (Resources for Parents) Dr. Gagnon on Instagram (Resources for Teens) Dr. Gagnon on Instagram Dr. Gagnon on Facebook =================== DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ADVICE.  YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY, COACH, OR THERAPIST IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM. ===================

⚖️ How to Make Co-Parenting Work Even If You Disagree. | Los Angeles Divorce

Stepparenting can be deeply meaningful, but it can also leave you feeling rejected, exhausted, and unsure of your place in the family. We know how painful it is to care about a child, invest your heart, and still feel pushed away.In this episode, we sit down with Laura Petherbridge to talk honestly about the expectations that often set stepparents up for disappointment and the pressures that can eventually lead to burnout. Laura reminds us that thriving as a stepparent starts with understanding how blended families are different, recognizing what is and isn't within your control, and learning when to step back without stepping out. Laura is an author, speaker, chaplain, and life coach who presents on relationships and marriage, stepfamilies, co-parenting, divorce prevention, and divorce recovery. She has written several books, appeared on countless TV, radio, and podcast segments, and spoken across the U.S., Australia, and South Africa. She also offers a practical and encouraging monthly newsletter. (You can sign up using the link below!)Some additional things we explore with Laura include why a stepparent's influence matters more than forcing authority or closeness, how biological parents can unintentionally intensify burnout, and why protecting your identity outside the stepparent role is especially important for childless stepmoms.If stepparenting has worn you down, this conversation will help you release unrealistic expectations, protect your heart, find healthy support, and move forward with greater clarity and hope.You'll Discover:Why realistic expectations are essential for preventing stepparent disappointment and burnoutHow to distinguish healthy “stepping back” from emotionally checking out of the familyWhy influence is often a healthier goal for a stepparent than authority, control, or forcing connectionHow the biological parent can either reduce or intensify the pressure a stepparent experiencesWhy maintaining your own identity, relationships, and support system is especially important for childless stepparentsResources from this Episode:CLICK HERE to sign up for Laura's newsletterCLICK HERE to join Laura's private FB group for childless stepmomsScreens and Teens:  Connecting with Our Kids in a Wireless World by Kathy Koch PhD Ready for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey.  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 Subscribe or Follow the Show Click here to subscribe on YouTubeClick here to follow on 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 to 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!Click Here to join us on YouTube and be sure to subscribe!

⚖️ How to Handle Co-Parenting with a Difficult Ex. | Los Angeles Divorce

It's the final episode of Judge Jess...

Dr. Sarah Hensley coaches Erin on her anxious preoccupied attachment style and why she keeps attracting dismissive avoidant men.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

⚖️ How to Prove You Are the Better Parent in Custody Cases. | Los Angeles Divorce

⚖️ How to Handle Child Custody Disputes Without Court. | Los Angeles Divorce

Jaidyn Alexis opens up about her relationship with Blueface, the challenges of co-parenting and how she's moving forward while building her own identity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

⚖️ Can Divorced Parents Agree on Future Child-Related Expenses in California? | Los Angeles Divorce ⚖️ Can divorced parents agree on how to handle future child-related expenses in California? Yes. Parents can address agreed financial responsibilities involving their children as part of their divorce arrangements. Planning ahead for expenses like school activities, medical needs, and other child-related costs can help reduce confusion and create a clearer co-parenting structure after divorce.

⚖️ How to Deal with a Controlling Co-Parent. | Los Angeles Divorce ⚖️ How do you deal with a controlling co-parent after divorce in California? Setting clear boundaries, maintaining consistent communication, and following an established parenting plan can help reduce conflict and create a healthier co-parenting structure. After divorce, disagreements between parents can make communication and parenting decisions more difficult. Having clear custody arrangements, documented agreements, and a focus on the child's best interests can help create more stability.

Toya Johnson Rushing joins Rickey Smiley for a deeply personal conversation about her journey from the spotlight of reality TV to a life centered on "protecting her peace." Toya opens up about the evolution of her motherhood, the distinct differences in how she raised Reginae versus Reign, and the importance of having a partner like Robert "Red" Rushing who truly makes her feel "seen and heard." This episode goes beyond the headlines, offering a rare look at the woman behind the entrepreneur and the strength it took to navigate fame while building a legacy of her own. The conversation takes a raw and emotional turn as Toya discusses the profound loss of her two brothers and her ongoing journey through grief. She shares how she turned her pain into purpose through her "Weight No More" health initiative and gives a transparent look at her co-parenting relationship with Lil Wayne. From hilarious stories about "giving the eyes" in Vegas to powerful insights on faith and resilience, this episode is a masterclass in growth, grace, and knowing your worth. CHAPTERS(0:00) - Introduction: Toya Johnson on Growth and Peace(4:46) - New Orleans Roots: Family Recipes and Mother Nita’s Gumbo(5:44) - Leaving Reality TV: Why Toya Prioritizes Her Peace(10:06) - Parenting Journey: Differences in Raising Reginae vs. Reign(12:00) - The Reality of TV Editing: Protecting Your Narrative(18:14) - Finding True Love: The Story of Toya and Red(27:40) - Overcoming Grief: Healing After the Loss of Her Brothers(35:11) - Co-Parenting with Lil Wayne: Respect and Maturity(38:45) - Health & Wellness: The Weight No More Initiative(50:14) - Lightning Round: Fun Facts and Toya’s FavoritesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ResourcesEpisode 167. Achievable Strategies to Make Your Marriage the Foundation of Your Blended FamilyEpisode 206. Avoid These 5 Common Pitfalls  to Ensure a Successful PartnershipEpisode 139. The Most Common, Challenging Pain Point Every Blended Couple Experiences (Trapped Teammate / Stranded Stranger dynamic)Episode 77. 3 Unique Differences That Make a Blended Family Marriage ChallengingEpisode 160.  A 4-Part Framework for Achievable Expectations and How to Live Them OutEpisode 130. How to Build Trust that Nurtures Bonds with Your Kids and StepkidsEpisode 214. Does Permissive Parenting Help or Hurt?  Discover How to Know and GrowSuggest 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 Click here to subscribe on YouTubeClick here to follow on 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! From   

Psychologist and emotional eating expert Rachel Goldman discusses the harmful effects of diet culture, GLP-1 abuse, intuitive eating and mindful consumption. She also shares tools for mindful eating and parenting strategies for supporting children struggling with body image.Follow Dr. Rachel on Instagram at @drrachelnycHer book, "When Life Happens: The Mindset Shift You Need to Manage Stress, Build Confidence, and Break Free" is available at https://whenlifehappensbook.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the last episode in The Ex-Files series I'm talking about what changes when you are co-parenting with a high-conflict ex where “communicate openly” and “be flexible” aren't just unhelpful, they can actually set you up for more chaos. The goal becomes steadiness: keeping your nervous system regulated, keeping communication clean, and keeping your kids emotionally protected when they're with you.I break down parallel parenting as a useful baseline and then go deeper with tools that work when the other parent is inflammatory or controlling, including the BIFF method to help you take your power back in this co-parenting relationship. I'll then focus on the part that matters most: your children. Drawing on trauma-informed parenting insights and research on stress and brain development, you'll learn why transition days can feel so hard, why kids may act younger under chronic stress, and how to create an environment of safety through calm routines, predictability, and consistent one-on-one connection. If you want calmer co-parenting communication, stronger boundaries, and a steadier home for your kids, press play. Then subscribe, share this with a friend who needs it, and leave a quick review so more divorced moms can find real help.To download your FREE "Becoming You Again Podcast Map" click here. To schedule your complimentary consult with Karin click here.Struggling after divorce to get to know yourself? Click here to grab my $7 guide to get started!If this podcast resonated with you in any way, please take a minute to follow and give me a rating wherever you listen to podcasts.======================================DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR EDUCATIONAL, INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND ARE NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING PSYCHOLOGICAL, COUNSELING OR PROFESSIONAL HEALTHCARE ADVICE. =======================================

⚖️ How to Successfully Mediate a Child Custody Dispute. | Los Angeles Divorce

Why do dads with "good" divorce attorneys still lose ground in custody court? Because a lawyer isn't a strategist — and that gap is where parenting time quietly disappears.In this episode, we break down what divorce attorneys are actually built to do (and what they're not): they can't manage your life, anticipate long-term custody outcomes, or protect the fatherhood you'll live after final orders. We get specific about why family court rewards efficiency over strategy, how attorneys become reactive by design, and what happens when "just get it done" advice collides with the custody case you actually need to win.We also go tactical:How to run a results-focused meeting with your divorce attorneyHow to demand a real 90-day custody strategy — not just next stepsHow to document your case without burning billable hoursWhy "lower the temperature" advice on protective orders or step-up plans can quietly wreck your custody trajectoryWhat ex parte orders and manufactured status quos really do to your parenting timeIf you want a stronger custody outcome, a clearer parenting plan, and a strategist's seat in your own case — not just a lawyer's client seat — this episode is your playbook.Topics covered: divorce attorney strategy, custody case planning, family court tactics, parenting time, ex parte orders, protective orders, 90-day legal strategy, post-divorce fatherhood Support the showBeing unprepared is how great fathers become weekend visitors. Most ground is lost quietly through "drift" and decisions made under pressure. Stop the drift today at TheDivorcedDadvocate.com.Access your tactical tools:Weekend Visitor Risk Assessment (TheDivorceQuiz.com): Identify your "quiet loss" exposure in 10 minutes.Strategic Risk Consultation (TalkWithJude.com): Book a private triage to ensure your mistakes don't become your permanent reality.Your kids are counting on you.

Send us Fan MailThank you, Shannon Steadman, for making today's episode possible!!!Your kids won't remember your job title, but they'll remember whether you were there. That's the heartbeat of this conversation with Josh Iadarola, a dad who has lived the hard parts of fatherhood and kept showing up anyway.We start with gratitude and get honest about mental health, anxiety, and the quiet pressure so many dads carry. Josh shares what he's most grateful for as a father, why mental well-being deserves as much attention as physical health, and how vulnerability can become a strength instead of a liability. We also talk about the values he learned growing up in a tight family routine: consistency, discipline, respect, and a work ethic modeled through sacrifice.Then we go deeper into divorce, co-parenting, and the grit required to stay present when life gets complicated. Josh opens up about the commitment he made to his son, the emotional reality of Sunday drop-offs, and what it means to create a positive home even when you're hurting. From there, we shift into blended family life and “bonus kids,” what helped him build trust quickly, and why he sees a bigger family as more love, not more problems. Along the way, we hit practical leadership lessons for the home: respond instead of react, apologize when you miss, and parent each child as an individual with their own needs.We also spotlight Josh's professional world at CoWorx Staffing Services and how they think about staffing, retention, safety, and employee engagement through a service-first model. If you're a working dad trying to lead with humility, curiosity, and steadiness, you'll get plenty to take back to your own household. Subscribe, share this with another dad who needs it, and please leave a review so more families can find these conversations.Support the showPlease don't forget to leave us a review wherever you consume your podcasts!  Please help us get more dads to listen weekly and become the ultimate leader of their homes! 

Stepparent burnout doesn't start in a dramatic moment. It develops quietly as a stepparent keeps giving, serving, adjusting, but ends up with this increasing feeling of being invisible, rejected, or alone.A stepparent may believe that loving their family means doing more. But when healthy investment turns into over-functioning, the result is often resentment or emotional withdrawal.  Then burnout can set in.In this episode, we help stepparents recognize the warning signs of burnout and invite biological parents to listen with curiosity (not defensiveness). The goal is simply to understand the difficult dynamics that tend to create pressure on a stepparent and consider a more sustainable family structure.We'll walk you through four practical steps that can help.  And we'll explore the difference between healthy disengagement and emotional abandonment.Stepparent burnout doesn't mean you're failing. It may simply mean your current strategies aren't working. With honest communication, realistic expectations, healthy limits, and stronger teamwork, couples can reduce resentment and build a home where everyone has room to breathe.You'll DiscoverThe often-overlooked warning signs of stepparent burnoutWhy feeling like an outsider can cause a stepparent to over-functionHow to distinguish healthy investment from self-erasureFour practical steps for reducing resentment and rebalancing family rolesWhat healthy disengagement looks like without withdrawing from the familyResources from this Episode:Episode 235. Stepparenting Takes Two:  How to Build Connection and Avoid Common Wrong TurnsEpisode 204.  4 Facets of Stepparenting:  Defining Appropriate Roles and ResponsibilitiesEpisode 230. Everyday Decisions, Big Tension:  The Hurtful Patterns That Create Blended Family DivisionEpisode 157. 3 Seasoned Stepmoms Share How They've Survived and Thrived in Their Blended Family JourneyEpisode 236. Does it Ever Get Easier?  How to Stay Hopeful by Playing the Long Game [with Gayla Grace]Episode 203. How to Make Better Decisions and Solve Problems as a United TeamReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey.  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/freesessionSubscribe or Follow the Show Click here to subscribe on YouTubeClick here to follow on 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!Click Here to join us on YouTube and be sure to subscribe!

Hey there, Family Brand OGs and newcomers alike! This week, we're joined by our friend Wayde Elliott, who we had the privilege of meeting this summer while cruising through Croatia with our families. We got to know Wayde and his daughter, Avery, on that trip, and some of the conversations we had together made us realize he had a perspective we haven't shared enough of here on the Family Brand Podcast: what does it look like to intentionally build a strong family when your family doesn't necessarily look the way you once imagined it would? Wayde's story has included some massive changes. After 20 successful years as a dentist, a spinal fusion surgery suddenly took him out of dentistry at nearly the same time he was going through a divorce. He eventually reinvented himself professionally through self-storage and real estate development, but in this conversation, we really wanted to talk about what was happening at home. When Wayde realized his marriage was ending, he made a conscious decision that the divorce didn't have to become destructive. Instead of approaching it from a place of winning or losing, he asked his ex-wife what she wanted and committed to creating the best possible outcome for her, himself, and most importantly, their kids. That decision wasn't always easy, but more than a decade later, Wayde says they still have a good relationship and have been able to remain flexible and supportive as co-parents. We also get into the parts of co-parenting that aren't so simple. What happens when you and your ex have completely different ideas about parenting? How do you respond when a decision in the other household undermines something you're trying to teach in yours? Wayde shares why he's learned to create space before reacting and to pay attention to the meaning he's assigning to an experience. We also talk about the difference between living in what Wayde calls a "suffering state" versus a "beautiful state," and why he's committed to continually becoming a better version of himself. That leads us into one of our favorite parts of the conversation: personal and family core values. Wayde shares his own values—love, learning, abundance, fitness, family, and contribution—and how he uses them as an alignment filter for his life. But maybe the most powerful moment of this episode happened before we ever hit record. During our time together in Croatia, Wayde and Avery had a conversation that changed the way he thought about showing up as her dad. Like a lot of entrepreneurs, Wayde is wired to solve problems—but Avery didn't need him to solve hers. She needed her dad to listen. She told him she wanted more one-on-one time with him, and instead of immediately trying to fix the situation, Wayde sat with her and listened. Since coming home, he's intentionally created more time that's just for the two of them. It's such a simple reminder, but one we all need: sometimes the people we love don't need our solutions. They need our presence. Hit play to hear the full conversation with Wayde! We talk about divorce, co-parenting, fatherhood, ego, forgiveness, personal growth, core values, and what it can look like to choose a beautiful family life even when the original plan changes. P.S. We're here to help you build your own Family Brand, one episode at a time. So go ahead, hit play, and let's grow together! Or, if you are ready to dive into our community, follow the links below!   LINKS: All Links Family Brand!  stan.store/familybrand familybrand.com/quiz familybrand.com/retreats.  Links For This Episode: https://www.instagram.com/waydeelliottdmd?igsh=MTc0emRjMDBxcG1mZA%3D%3D https://www.linkedin.com/in/waydeelliottdmd Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Meet Wayde Elliott 01:00 Why Wayde Chose the Family Trip to Croatia 02:00 Losing His Career While Going Through Divorce 03:00 From Dentistry to a Completely New Career 04:18 Choosing an Intentional Divorce 05:00 Asking, "What Does Success Look Like?" 07:00 Creating a Win-Win for the Entire Family 08:00 Preserving a Relationship With Your Ex 09:00 Why Communication Matters in Co-Parenting 10:00 Parenting Differently in Two Households 12:00 The Meaning You Give an Experience 13:00 Love and Forgiveness Over Criticism 14:00 Deciding What Your Family Will Look Like 15:00 Interested vs. Committed 17:00 Why Ego Can Destroy Relationships 18:00 Responding Instead of Reacting 19:00 Living in a "Beautiful State" 20:00 Wayde's Personal Core Values 22:00 The Conversation With His Daughter That Changed Him 24:00 Your Kids Don't Always Need You to Fix It 26:00 Staying Present With Your Kids After Divorce 28:00 Wayde's Advice for Parents Going Through Divorce 30:00 Choosing the Meaning You Give Hard Experiences

Kail Lowry is back! We catch up on everything that's changed since her last visit—from raising seven kids and watching her oldest reach the age she was when she became a mom, to her plans for law school, the pressure of supporting a huge family, and what life looks like with her new boyfriend, Isaac. Plus, Isaac joins us to talk relationships, money, marriage, and what it's really like stepping into Kail's very public world. Shopify: Build your own business with a free trial at https://shopify.com/unplanned Nutrafol: Get $10 off your first month's subscription and free shipping at https://nutrafol.com with promo code UNPLANNEDPOD. Hiya Health: Receive 50% off your first order of Hiya kids vitamins athttps://hiyahealth.com/UNPLANNED—this deal is only available at this link or find Hiya in Target stores nationwide. Zocdoc: Taking care of your health just got easier - start here with Zocdoc: https://zocdoc.com/UNPLANNED #sponsored Honeylove: Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to https://honeylove.com/UNPLANNED! #honeylovepod Follow The Unplanned Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/unplanned__podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@unplanned_podcast Listen to the pod on Spotify/ Apple Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ToDA4ufQuWuEgMq07zN6t https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-unplanned-podcast/id1669604504 Follow Matt & Abby: Abby's Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/abbyelizabethoward/ Matt's Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/_matt_howard_/ TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@matt_and_abby Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/mattandabb YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@MattandAbby Mascara is sold out! Thank you guys so much! Sign up here for updates on restock: https://www.biswell-beauty.com/ Chapters: 02:02 - Catch up 02:42 - Therapy 04:29 - Breaking off my engagement 08:21 - Cheating 11:38 - Turning pain into profit 13:46 - Cost of custody 22:15 - Having more kids 25:31 - Moving to NC 26:25 - Legal reform 28:08 - Law school 32:09 - Being the breadwinner 36:58 - Cosmetic surgery 39:30 - My Team 44:39 - Losing my father 48:00 - How I'm raising my kids differently 51:15 - Tour 51:54 - Dating with 7 kids 1:09:35 - Audience questions 1:18:00 - Agree or Disagree Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Link Up w/The Morning Sickness Digitally All Over:Instagram: @hms_98_official, @bosskupd, @bretvesely, @dickToledoX/Twitter: @HMSon98, @DickToledo, @bretveselyFacebook: @HMSKUPDYouTube: @hmspodcast9320, @98kupdRequest/Call in/Wakeup Song line:(IN AZ) 602.585.9800More HMS: www.holmbergpodcast.com, www.98kupd.comEmail: dtoledo@98kupd.com, bvesely@98kupd.com, bbogen@98kupd.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Good Moms are joined by comedian, digital creator, host on the syndicated morning radio show "The Breakfast Club", and author Jess Hilarious. The ladies talk about navigating co-parenting with exes, setting boundaries in new relationships, and balancing independence with partnership. They also get into communication, accountability, and recognizing patterns in both parenting and dating. You can expect to hear: Accountability and recognizing personal patterns in love and parenting Gender roles and shifting expectations in modern relationships Parenting styles, discipline, and raising kids with structure vs flexibility Protecting children while still allowing them to grow and learn The influence of social media on relationships and parenting decisions Public perception vs real-life identity Managing privacy while living a public-facing life Emotional awareness and maturity in adult relationships Healing from past relationship experiences Lifestyle habits, including health, wellness routines, and body maintenance Financial responsibility and stability within relationships Friendship dynamics and support systems Navigating trust, loyalty, and respect in partnerships A listener story focused on relationship decision-making and consequences ------------------------- Watch This episode & more on YouTube! Catch up with us over at Patreon and get all our Full visual episodes, bonus content & early episode releases. Let us help you! Submit your advice questions, anonymous secrets or vent about motherhood anonymously! Submit your questions ---------------------------------------- Check out Jess' book Til Death Do We Parent ! Summary: Before Jess Hilarious ever had dreams of telling jokes in front of sold-out arenas across the country, being featured on Wild-’n-Out, or becoming a cohost on The Breakfast Club, Jess dreamt of marrying her high school sweetheart and raising a family together in their hometown of Baltimore, Maryland. In hopes that having her partner’s child would solidify this outcome, Jess became pregnant at nineteen but begrudgingly learned that the vision she had for her life—as a wife and mother—would have to be reimagined.After multiple attempts at a relationship between her and her son’s father failed, Jess accepted that, while they would never get married, they were forever linked by the lifetime commitment of raising a child together. With her trademark wit and perspective, Jess shares her experiences with valuable and vulnerable insight for coparents who struggle with what it means to put their children first while protecting them from the ups and downs of adult relationships. ’Til Death Do We Parent is an inspirational journey to coparenting with ease and humor. ---------------------------------------- Connect With Us: @GoodMoms_BadChoices @TheGoodVibeRetreat @Good.GoodMedia @WatchErica See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.