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23 episodes with gayla grace
5 episodes with gayla grace
5 episodes with gayla grace
2 episodes with gayla grace
2 episodes with gayla grace
In this episode of Family Life Blended, Ron Deal and Gayla Grace explore the myths surrounding stepfamilies and the myths that often cause harm to blended family dynamics. The conversation is framed around common misconceptions, historical folklore, and personal experiences with step-parenting. They begin by discussing how negative stereotypes have been perpetuated, particularly the myth that all stepmothers are wicked and all stepfathers are abusive. This stereotype has roots in fairy tales, notably the Brothers Grimm stories, where stepmothers were often depicted as evil characters. The hosts note that while there is a small grain of truth to some of these stories (as abusive step-parents exist), they don't represent the reality for most stepparents, who are often loving, hardworking, and deeply committed to their stepchildren. They stress that stepping into a parental role in a blended family requires time and patience, and stepparents should avoid rushing or forcing relationships to develop.Another myth discussed is the idea that stepparents are instantly accepted and integrated into the family. While some young children may quickly bond with a stepparent, the process of blending families typically takes time and doesn't happen overnight. The hosts explain that trying to assume an immediate parental role, especially in cases where stepchildren have strong loyalties to their biological parents, can be detrimental. They caution against the idea of erasing or replacing the biological parent in the child's life.Ron and Gala also dive into the myth that calling stepchildren "my children" will create a mutual, instant bond. While it's important to express care and make the child feel included, they emphasize the need for communication and co-creation between stepparent and child about their relationship. They also tackle the belief that stepparents should love their stepchildren the same as their biological children. The reality is that the connection may not be as strong initially, but that doesn't mean it can't grow over time. The key is to be equitable in how stepparents treat both biological and stepchildren, with fairness being the priority.Through these discussions, the episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for families navigating the complexities of blended family life. The hosts encourage listeners to embrace the process of building relationships gradually, be patient, and avoid the harmful myths that can cause unrealistic expectations. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29
In this episode of Family Life Blended, Ron Deal and Gayla Grace explore the myths surrounding stepfamilies and the myths that often cause harm to blended family dynamics. The conversation is framed around common misconceptions, historical folklore, and personal experiences with step-parenting. They begin by discussing how negative stereotypes have been perpetuated, particularly the myth that all stepmothers are wicked and all stepfathers are abusive. This stereotype has roots in fairy tales, notably the Brothers Grimm stories, where stepmothers were often depicted as evil characters. The hosts note that while there is a small grain of truth to some of these stories (as abusive step-parents exist), they don't represent the reality for most stepparents, who are often loving, hardworking, and deeply committed to their stepchildren. They stress that stepping into a parental role in a blended family requires time and patience, and stepparents should avoid rushing or forcing relationships to develop.Another myth discussed is the idea that stepparents are instantly accepted and integrated into the family. While some young children may quickly bond with a stepparent, the process of blending families typically takes time and doesn't happen overnight. The hosts explain that trying to assume an immediate parental role, especially in cases where stepchildren have strong loyalties to their biological parents, can be detrimental. They caution against the idea of erasing or replacing the biological parent in the child's life.Ron and Gala also dive into the myth that calling stepchildren "my children" will create a mutual, instant bond. While it's important to express care and make the child feel included, they emphasize the need for communication and co-creation between stepparent and child about their relationship. They also tackle the belief that stepparents should love their stepchildren the same as their biological children. The reality is that the connection may not be as strong initially, but that doesn't mean it can't grow over time. The key is to be equitable in how stepparents treat both biological and stepchildren, with fairness being the priority.Through these discussions, the episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for families navigating the complexities of blended family life. The hosts encourage listeners to embrace the process of building relationships gradually, be patient, and avoid the harmful myths that can cause unrealistic expectations. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29
Christmas can be a complicated time for blended families. Join us as we discuss the challenges and joys of navigating the holidays with step-parents, step-siblings, and divided households. We'll hear from Ron Deal and Gayla Grace, experts on blended families, as they share practical tips and heartfelt advice. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29
Christmas can be a complicated time for blended families. Join us as we discuss the challenges and joys of navigating the holidays with step-parents, step-siblings, and divided households. We'll hear from Ron Deal and Gayla Grace, experts on blended families, as they share practical tips and heartfelt advice. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29
The intersection of marriage and parenting often creates tension for stepcouples that leads to disagreements and, as a result, slows down relationship building. Listen to Ron Deal and Gayla Grace give valuable input on how to become a parenting team and strengthen your marriage in the process as you cope with common stepfamily dynamics such as: different parenting styles, co-parenting struggles, rejection from stepchildren, stepparent ambiguity, fear of failure, a paralyzed biological parent, a stepparent who oversteps their place, guilt from the past and fear to parent well because of what the children have already walked through, and other challenging dynamics. Show Notes and Resources Register for this year's Summit on Stepfamily Ministry! Watch Women and Blended Families Watch: No Threat video Check out Stepparenting with Grace and Building Love Together. The Smart Stepfamily on RightNow Media
Who comes first in a marriage? And how to communicate it well? Hear from Dennis and Barbara Rainey, Bob Lepine, and Ron Deal and Gayla Grace as they discuss how to prioritize marriage in a blended family and how to implement family meetings towards that end. Show Notes and Resources Help make YOUR mark: Your donation supports crucial resources for families and includes a special FamilyLife Pen and Brant Hansen's book, "Unoffendable"—join us today! Learn More About The Summit on Stepfamily Ministry Listen to the full episode here Discover more resources for blended families and listen to more on the FamilyLife Blended podcast Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network
Who comes first in a marriage? And how to communicate it well? Hear from Dennis Barbara Rainey, Bob Lepine, and Ron Deal Gayla Grace as they discuss how to prioritize marriage in a blended family and how to implement family meetings towards that end. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29
Who comes first in a marriage? And how to communicate it well? Hear from Dennis Barbara Rainey, Bob Lepine, and Ron Deal Gayla Grace as they discuss how to prioritize marriage in a blended family and how to implement family meetings towards that end. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29
Should your partner be your first priority in a blended family? What if your biological kids are still reeling from transition? Hear what Ron Deal and Gayla Grace, of FamilyLife Blended have to say on this important question! Show Notes and Resources Help make YOUR mark: Your donation supports crucial resources for families and includes a special FamilyLife Pen and Brant Hansen's book, "Unoffendable"—join us today! Learn More About The Summit on Stepfamily Ministry Listen to the full episode here Discover more resources for blended families and listen to more on the FamilyLife Blended podcast Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network
Should your partner be your first priority in a blended family? What if your biological kids are still reeling from transition? Hear what Ron Deal Gayla Grace, of FamilyLife Blended have to say on this important question! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29
Should your partner be your first priority in a blended family? What if your biological kids are still reeling from transition? Hear what Ron Deal Gayla Grace, of FamilyLife Blended have to say on this important question! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29
As a blended family couple, it's not uncommon to experience sexual pitfalls that bring additional stress to your relationship. How do you prevent physical intimacy issues and work through those that have shown up? In this episode, Ron Deal and Gayla Grace talk about how to build trust and emotional safety to overcome common pitfalls such as: the comparison trap, fear and insecurity from "ghosts" of marriage past, unlearning old rhythms of sexual practice and learning new ones, and lingering messages from prior sexual experiences that can inhibit healthy physical intimacy in marriage. In addition, you'll understand more about the biblical view of healthy sexuality and why God established boundaries around it. Show Notes and Resources Make plans to join us at the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry! Check out where Ron will be speaking. Listen to or watch episode 30, 66, or 131. Send a donation and get a copy of The Smart Stepfamily Marriage
Ghosts of marriage past—triggers from past hurt that we carry into a new relationship—are common for blended family couples. But emotional ghosts don't just appear from relationship baggage. We can be triggered by childhood wounds, grief, or other hurts that leave a residue on our heart and create hypersensitivity to getting hurt again. As a result, we guard our heart and resist vulnerability in our relationships. In this episode, Ron Deal speaks with Gayla Grace about how to recognize our ghosts and take responsibility to move past our fears. Ron and Gayla both share ghosts they've wrestled with and how to have conversations with your partner that build trust in your relationship. Show Notes and Resources Register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry! Get your copy of The Smart Stepfamily Marriage Make a tax dedecutible donation and get a free gift! Watch Women and Blended Families on YouTube Call and leave a message with your podcast suggestions: 407-826-2606
Stepparenting myths have been around a long time, and they can negatively impact stepparents if not understood well. Although there might be some truth to them, the non-truth messages create tension and confusion for us. Ron Deal talks with Gayla Grace about how to sort through the reality and false messages of myths such as: All stepmothers are wicked and all stepfathers are abusive, stepparents can easily take on a high parental role, stepfamilies can behave as traditional families, we will love biological and stepchildren the same, and if you call them "my children," they will like being your children. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. Get a copy of In Their Shoes for a gift of any amount! Check out books and resources for Blended Families! Email us a review or a comment! blended@familylife.com
Mother's Day can be rough for stepmoms. Maybe you feel left out, unloved, and unappreciated. Ron Deal, Gayla Grace and Summer Butler discuss how tough times, like the stepmom Mother's Day dilemma, can build strength. They offer advice on how to reclaim identity and make Mother's Day a little less miserable. Show Notes and Resources Check out more content on FamilyLife Blended Listen to Gayla Grace's full episode Double your gift this month when you give to FamilyLife! Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network
Mother's Day can be rough for stepmoms. Maybe you feel left out, unloved, and unappreciated. Ron Deal and Gayla Grace discuss how tough times, like the stepmom Mother's Day dilemma, can build strength. They offer advice on how to reclaim identity and make Mother's Day a little less miserable. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29
Mother's Day can be rough for stepmoms. Maybe you feel left out, unloved, and unappreciated. Ron Deal and Gayla Grace discuss how tough times, like the stepmom Mother's Day dilemma, can build strength. They offer advice on how to reclaim identity and make Mother's Day a little less miserable. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29
Help for your finances! Money matters can be a hot topic for blended families, creating strife and inequity if not handled well. Listen in as Ron Deal speaks with Gayla Grace and financial expert Greg Pettys about how couples can make wise decisions on financial issues that benefit all members of their blended family. Gain insight from listener questions such as: Should my spouse and I carry separate bank accounts? How do we spend our money equitably with “his and her” kids? Why do blended families need to do estate planning? What budgeting tools do you recommend? How do we share our resources? And more great topics applicable to every blended family. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about resources for blended families. You can watch the podcast on YouTube. You can still join the Blended and Blessed Livestream! Look for a small group in your area. Get your copy of The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning Make a donation to FamilyLife Blended.
Instead of stressing out and working overtime, are there easier ways to handle things? Here is some helpful stepfamily advice from Ron Deal and author Gayla Grace about stepfamily dynamics. Maybe peace is closer than you think. Show Notes and Resources Connect with Ron Deal and catch more of their thoughts at rondeal.org, and on X @RonLdeal and Instagram @FamilyLife Blended. And grab Ron's book, "The Smart Stepfamily" in our shop. Intrigued by today's episode? Think deeper about blending families by listening to Working Smarter Not Harder. Want to hear more episodes by Ron Deal, listen here! Get ready to tune in or join us in person for Blended and Blessed, running from January 1, 2024, to April 27, 2024! Get ready for the most anticipated event of the year, tailored specifically for stepfamily couples, dating couples with kids, and all those committed to the prosperity of blended families. Donate to FamilyLife Today! Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife's podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network
Instead of stressing out and working overtime, are there easier ways to handle things? Here is some helpful stepfamily advice from Ron Deal and author Gayla Grace about stepfamily dynamics. Maybe peace is closer than you think. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29
Instead of stressing out and working overtime, are there easier ways to handle things? Here is some helpful stepfamily advice from Ron Deal and author Gayla Grace about stepfamily dynamics. Maybe peace is closer than you think. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29
How do you navigate Christmas in a blended family? It can be overwhelming to schedule the various holiday get-togethers and manage expectations on all sides of the family. Gayla Grace with FamilyLife Blended joins the conversation to talk about how to work through the challenges and joys of being part of a blended family on Thursday's Mornings with Seth and Deb.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you ever wondered how to be thankful in a hard season in your blended family? Listen to Ron Deal and Gayla Grace talk about finding joy, regardless of our circumstances, as we focus on God's faithfulness, His provision, and His promises. Show Notes and Resources Thank you for sending a gift to be matched dollar for dollar! Send us your review via email: blendedquestions@familylife.com or voicemail: 407-826-2606. Info on Blended and Blessed Register now for Blended and Blessed Live Event and Livestream.
The holidays can be a stressful time juggling visitations, planning family activities, and managing all the feelings in the Christmas season. Emotions in blended families are often magnified during Christmas. Gayla Grace and Ron Deal offer practical ways to be sensitive and promote positivity so your holiday can be a truly joyous time. Show Notes and Resources Gift a copy of The Smart Stepfamily More Blended Family Resources Ron's upcoming events Send a gift to FamilyLife Blended Leave us a review voicemail at 407-826-2606 or email us: blendedquestions@familylife.com
Identity, belonging: They're burning questions in any teen. How can you feed these in your teen, so their transitions between vastly different stepfamily homes mean they grow stronger, more resilient, and grounded in Jesus Christ? Author Kara Powell discusses the needs of teens in stepfamilies with Gayla Grace and Ron Deal. Show Notes and Resources Sign up for the StepFamily Summit and secure your spot today! Connect with Gayla Grace and catch more of her ideas at stepparentingwithgrace.com Connect more with Kara Powell at karapowell.com Listen to the full episode with Kara Powell and Gayla Grace. Discover more resources and listen to more on the FamilyLife Blended podcast Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com. See resources from our past podcasts. Find more content and resources on the FamilyLife's app! Help others find FamilyLife. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Check out all the FamilyLife podcasts on the FamilyLife Podcast Network
How can you establish your marital relationship as the foundation for the home when children preceded your union? It starts by understanding that a strong marriage contributes more significantly to the stability of the home than any other factor—including the children. In this episode, Ron Deal & Gayla Grace offer practical tips on how to put your spouse in the front seat of your heart while still prioritizing your children. Show Notes and Resources Your review of the podcast might be played on a future show! Call 407-826-2606 FamilyLife Blended resources Make a tax deductible donation. Join us for this year's Blended & Blessed. Watch from home!
Blending isn't the goal for stepfamilies; it suggests the family becomes one in a relational sense, which rarely occurs. Other cooking strategies that stepfamilies try, such as the instapot, food processor, or pressure cooker, don't work well either. Then what does? Listen to Ron Deal and Gayla Grace discuss how crockpot cooking is the key. Show Notes and Resources Get your copy of The Smart Stepfamily Blended Family Events and Resources Join us for this year's Blended and Blessed. Watch from home! Make a tax deductible contribution to support the blended podcast. Write to us at blendedquestions@familylife.com or call 407-826-2606 to share a review of the podcast.
Do you have a roadmap to follow on your blended family journey? We'd like to encourage using God's Word to guide you, encourage you, and empower your steps. Listen to Ron Deal & Gayla Grace, along with stepcouple guests, talk about the value of scripture for families who are in need of hope, guidance, comfort, and encouragement in their homes. Show Notes and Resources We would love to hear about your family's "Promised Land Moment!" Call 407-826-2606 or write to us at blendedquestions@familylife.com Epsiode 97: Protecting Your Kids From Porn Blended Family Events and Resources Thank you for sending support. One day to a better marriage! Learn more.
What are key stepping stones every stepfamily needs that will lead to healthy relationship building? Ron Deal and Gayla Grace discuss how perseverance, flexibility, commitment, Christ-likeness and other core attributes work together to create familyness. Show Notes and Resources Share a positive moment in your family's journey with others. Write to us at blended@familylife.com or call 407-826-2606 to share a positive moment for your family! Blended Family Events and Resources Get your copy of The Smart Stepfamily. Make a tax deductible contribution to support the blended podcast. One day to a better marriage! Learn more.
What does it mean to work smarter, not harder? How do we apply that to our relationships and why is it important? Listen to Ron Deal and Gayla Grace talk about unique blended family dynamics and the value of strategic and intentional behavior as we build relationships. Show Notes and Resources Empowered to Love Registration Blended Family Events and Resources Find blended family ministries and events. Order The Smart Stepfamily Couple's Set Would you please give us a review on a voicemail? Call 407-826-2606
How did Ron Deal get started in blended family ministry? When was FamilyLife Blended birthed and what role does Nicole Burns play? What about Gayla Grace's start in stepfamily ministry? Listen to Ron Deal and Gayla Grace tell their stories and how they intersect with FamilyLife. Show Notes and Resources Listen to episode 21- Stepfamilies and The Holidays Thank you for sending a year end donation! More information and registration on the Preparing to Blend virtual premarital course for couples Register for the Empowered to Love resort event on Feb 13-17, 2023. Get your copy of Step Parenting with Grace by Gayla Help others find FamilyLife Blended. Leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. Please email blendedquestions@familylife.com or call in a question for a future podcast at 407-826-2606.
Pornography is everywhere. It's quickly becoming the leading sex educator of our kids. Listen to Ron Deal's conversation with Brian Goins and Gayla Grace about the new documentary series "Brain, Heart, World" to learn how to address this important topic with your family. Show Notes and Resources Access the "Brain, Heart, World" free video series. Get your copy of Brian's book: Playing Hurt: A Guy's Strategy for a Winning Marriage. Get Blended resources like The Smart Stepdad and The Smart Stepfamily. Buy The Summit on Stepfamily ministry all access pass. Every donation is appreciated. Check availability for Brian's new series for parents on Right Now Media. Please email blendedquestions@familylife.com or call in a question for a future podcast at 407-826-2606.
Senior Pastor, Larry White, sits down with member Gayla Grace from Family Life Ministries!
Are you in the early years of blending a family and you wonder if life will ever get easier? Listen to Ron Deal & Gayla Grace talk about the honeymoon season that often follows the hard relationship-building years and the rewards that come as familyness begins. Show Notes and Resources Look for a blended small group happening in your area. Get a copy of The Smart Stepfamily. Your gift will be matched dollar for dollar! Information on The Summit on Stepfamily Ministry.
Our bonus episode offers another question and answer format with Ron Deal and Gayla Grace to address those hard-to-navigate circumstances in your blended family with solutions that offer nuggets of wisdom and practical suggestions. Show Notes and Resources Find a therapy provider. Get Smart Stepfamily resources Check out all FamilyLife Blended has to offer. Learn more about the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry.
Do you have stepfamily questions for the experts? We have answers! Listen to Ron Deal and Gayla Grace discuss everyday issues that frequently show up in blended family homes—along with practical solutions—to help you find harmony in your relationships. Show Notes and Resources Get Smart Stepfamily resources Check out all FamilyLife Blended has to offer. Support FamilyLife Blended Check out ministries in your area on our searchable map. Learn more about the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry.
Are you steering your kids toward Christ while the other home is steering them toward the world? Ron Deal talks with Kara Powell and Gayla Grace about how to manage bi-polar value differences between homes and how to understand and answer the three important questions every teenager is asking. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Fuller Youth Institute and Kara's new book, 3 Big Questions That Change Every Teenager Learn more about Gayla Grace. Learn more about the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. You can support the FamilyLife Blended podcast. Please call and leave us a message or send us an email with your questions!
Our guest today is the amazing Gayla Grace, of Family Life Blended! Gayla Grace serves on staff with FamilyLife Blended® as a writer and a speaker and desires to equip blended families for life together. She is the author of Stepparenting with Grace: A Devotional for Blended Families and co-author of Quiet Moments for the Stepmom Soul. She has a master's degree in Psychology and Counseling and is a mom to three and stepmom to two adult children. She and her husband Randy have been married 26 years and are recent empty nesters residing in Conway, AR. Quotes: "Don't quit--it's normal to go through a wilderness." "In a remarriage, the non-bio parent comes in as a friend and should focus on building a relationship with the kids...Let them know 'I care about you.'" "Watch the cues from the kids and try to match that." "One obstacle is the ambiguity of the stepparent role, and that role will change over time." "Don't wear your feelings on your shoulder." "Hold onto the small victories and encouraging moments as a stepparent." "We don't realize the impact we're having on our stepkids' lives until they're old enough to realize it as well." "If someone has been a lousy spouse, we assume they're also a lousy parent, but that's not necessarily the case. We have to change our mindset about that person." "Make sure you are nurturing your marriage." Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaGrace.author Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaylagrace/ Websites: http://www.stepparentingwithgrace.com/ https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/blended-families/ https://www.familylife.com/podcast/familylife-blended-podcast/ Gayla's Books: https://www.amazon.com/Gayla-Grace/e/B00J9P237A%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share Email: blended@familylife.com
God loves the work of refining our character, particularly as we engage in family relationships. We become more and more like Christ as we learn how to love, forgive, show kindness, and be family to one another. In this episode, Ron Deal talks with Summer Butler and Gayla Grace about the value of God's refining fire for stepmoms. Show Notes and Resources Gayla Grace Summer Butler and her book Please call and leave us a message! 407-826-2606 The Smart Stepmom Summit on Stepfamily Ministry Searchable map
Would you like your kids to hear helpful advice from several experts about their blended family struggles? This podcast is for you! Listen for yourself first, then with your child—young or old—to encourage dialogue about their feelings that can help build a bridge for long-term relationship building. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Lauren Reitsema. Get Lauren's book, In Their Shoes. Learn more about Gayla Grace. Get Gayla's book, Step Parenting with Grace. Stepfamily Therapy Providers Leave us a voicemail review; you might hear it on a show! 407-826-2606 Get the Blended & Blessed Digital All-Access Pass
Do you have stepfamily questions? We have answers! Listen to Ron Deal's discussion with Gayla Grace on important topics like finding your place as a stepparent, being a childless stepmom, reasonable parenting standards, adding a new baby to a stepfamily, coping with a narcissistic bio parent in the other home, and more. Show Notes and Resources Send us your questions for a future podcast: blendedquestions@familylife.com or 407-826-2606 Learn more about Blended & Blessed live event and livestream Listen to Sandi Patty and Ron, episode 27 Stepfamily Therapy Providers The Smart Stepfamily (from RightNow Media) Well-blended and the Certificate in Blended Family Ministry Links not working for you? Go to our website to get more details about this episode: https://www.familylife.com/podcast/familylife-blended-podcast/74
Whether we call it step, co, nacho, or parallel, we all parent and the children we parent manage some type of loss. None, however, is more keenly felt that loss due to the death of parent. I have experienced this in my own blended family. And so has our guest, Gayla Grace. Join us in a conversation about parenting the grieving bonus child. Gayla's book, Stepparenting with Grace: A Devotional for Blended Families, provides companionship, encouragement, understanding, and biblical insights from a veteran stepmom. This trusted resource will help you gain strength, wisdom, and comfort as you navigate the often rocky terrain of blending a family. You can purchase her book here. Email Grace at gayla.grace@familylife.com Connect with her on Facebook. Be blessed by her ministry and resources at Family Life Blended or on her website, Stepparenting With Grace. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Welcome to Blended Kingdom Families! Living blended their entire lives, Scott and Vanessa Martindale know first-hand both the joys and difficulties of living blended. After coming out of one of the hardest seasons of their life, God asked them to partner with Him, in building Blended Kingdom Families everywhere. This has now birthed a ministry that desires to help others in remarriage and cultivate community among blended families.We are so excited to release this week’s episode, “Stepparenting With Grace” with Gayla Grace!Gayla Grace serves on staff with FamilyLife Blended and is a part of blended family her self. She shares with us her experience in her blended family which comes with joy and struggles.We can't wait to share this episode with you. On todays episode we discuss: You are still loved and worthy even though you walked through divorceThe church is not for perfect people Stepparenting with graceHow to deal with circumstances you cannot controlThis episode plus the entire Blended Kingdom Families Podcast library is available on all major podcasting platforms as well as our website and YouTube channel!! Be sure to subscribe so you’ll never miss an update!!We pray that this podcast blesses you today!
Parents, stepparents and school representatives (teachers, counselors, and administrators) all play a role in helping school-home relationships thrive. But not everyone knows how to play that role. Ron Deal is joined by school counselor Allison Weatter, principal Steven Helmick, and teacher Nan Deal, along with stepmom and author Gayla Grace, for a panel discussion on this important subject. As a parent or stepparent, how can you help teachers understand your unique stepfamily dynamics and relate to your child better? As a teacher or school counselor, how can you better advocate for and look out for your students who live in stepfamily or single parent homes? Kids wear different backpacks to school with baggage they're carrying from life experiences. Listen in for some great ideas on how to help lighten their load as a parent, stepparent, or school representative. Show Notes and Resources Learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/ Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended
This week, Andrea talks to Gayla Grace on the important subject of ministering to blended families. Gayla's family is blended, and they dive into the complicated history that comes with merging two families together. For more resources from Gayla Grace visit her site: www.stepparentingwithgrace.com/
This week, Andrea talks to Gayla Grace on the important subject of ministering to blended families. Gayla's family is blended, and they dive into the complicated history that comes with merging two families together. For more resources from Gayla Grace visit her site: www.stepparentingwithgrace.com/
How do you give grace to a teenager? To a stepteenager, at that? And, how do you give each other grace as parents, when it comes to how they react to your teenager? Ron discusses these questions and more with Randy and Gayla Grace. Show Notes and Resources Learn more about Gayla and her ministry at http://stepparentingwithgrace.com/ To learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry visit. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/ Gayla's book Stepparenting with Grace provides wisdom and comfort from a veteran stepmom. https://www.christianbook.com/stepparenting-with-grace-devotional-blended-families/gayla-grace/9781683972686/pd/972686 Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, resources, for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended
Has blending families proven to a much bigger challenge than you anticipated? The key to a harmonious life may just be a perspective shift away. In this episode, Michelle and author Gayla Grace (stepparentingwithgrace.com) breakdown five myths about stepfamily life that can help adjust expectations and bring the contentment you've been searching for. Links 5 Myths About Step Family Life Step Parenting with Grace For additional show notes and resources discussed in this podcast, please visit michellenietert.com/podcast.
How do you cope as a leader when relationships are hard? How can you respond when you’ve been hurt, or when you disagree with those in leadership? What do you do when you are struggling in your marriage? We’ve been going through a series about Healthy Relationships, and the goal has been to help support you in your leadership to be able to develop and nurture healthy interactions with those around you. But we also know this: sometimes, relationships are just plain hard. There isn’t always an easy answer, and sometimes you can be doing all the right things, but nothing seems to change. In this episode, we address 3 of those situations and offer some encouragement for you if you are dealing with a hard relationship. We’re going to discuss what to do when you’ve been hurt, when marriage is hard, and when you disagree with leadership over you. When you’ve been hurt: Determine whether you need to address the person who hurt you. Refer to Episode 16 with Carrie Sharpe. She gave us 6 tips on how to deal with conflict. Give yourself time to process & heal. Writing. I’ve found writing to be extremely helpful during times when I’ve been hurt. Check out Episode 21 where Gayla Grace shared about how she’s used writing in her life. Self-Awareness. We learned a lot about self-awareness in Episode 17 with Beth McCord. One of the ways self-awareness can be helpful when you are in a situation where you’ve been hurt is to reflect on how you react to that hurt. Turn to God through prayer and scripture. When marriage is hard: We talked about marriage with our husbands in Episode 18, and we shared some of our stories and experiences as couples who lead together. But we didn’t share a lot about what to do when marriage is hard. Here’s a few brief ideas for you when marriage is hard. Take care of yourself. Physical wellness - Keep your body healthy, especially when you are under stress. This might include exercising, eating healthy, and morning and nightly routines. Spiritual health - Stay connected to God through your spiritual disciplines and stay involved in a church community and small group, if possible. Mental & emotional health - Find things that you enjoy and fill you up. Also, seek additional professional support such as therapy if needed. Relational wellness - Maintain relationships outside of your marriage such as friendships and extended family. Find other people who will encourage you and support your marriage. It’s important to know who is safe and have appropriate boundaries when it comes to sharing about your marriage challenges. This could be a friend, accountability partner, or mentor. Control your attitude and your mindset. This is super hard, but it can be done with God’s help. Look for little ways to appreciate your spouse. Our thoughts precede our emotions and our actions, so can you reframe your thoughts to find something positive to think about your husband? If you can’t find something positive currently, think back to a time when your relationship was healthy and remember something positive from that experience. When you disagree with the leadership over you: Understand that you may not have the whole picture. This means that your leaders may have information that you do not have. Trust them enough to handle the information and make decisions based off of that. Speak love over your leaders. Make sure that you don’t tear down your team members or your leaders. Key Quotes from episode: “There is no human relationship that can fully fulfill you.” “It’s important that we hold other leaders up and encourage them, even when we disagree with them.” For the full show notes for this episode, visit estherlittlefield.com/episode22. Connect with Esther and the Christian Woman Leadership Podcast: Website Instagram Facebook Group Facebook Page Episode Sponsor: Morningstar Media Services This episode was originally published on estherlittlefield.com/episode22. To join the Purposeful Leadership Facebook Group, go to estherlittlefield.com/group.
How can you develop healthy relationships with your kids or stepkids? What are specific challenges for stepmoms? And how in the world can you practically develop relationships with your children? Whether you’re a mom to your own children, stepchildren, or both, this is a can’t-miss episode as we learn healthy ways to connect with our kids and how to navigate technology as a family. In this episode of the Healthy Relationships series, I chat with Gayla Grace, director and cofounder of Sisterhood of Stepmoms and author of the book "Stepparenting With Grace." We unpack common mistakes stepmoms make, strategies you can implement today to help connect with your children, and the importance of failure. For the full show notes for this episode, visit estherlittlefield.com/episode21. How can parents develop healthy relationships with their kids? Here are practical strategies you can implement today to nurture connection with your children: Remember that your kids may be wired differently than you. Parent each child according to their personality type and needs. Stay on top of technology. What are some specific step-parenting challenges? Understand the role that grief plays. Every step-family comes become of a loss. As the adult, you may view this as a second chance, but your children view it through the lens of loss. Look behind the tantrums and other behaviors to talk about their feelings and the root of the issues. Offer grace. Discipline comes in after relationship. Quotes from episode: "Rules without relationship lead to rebellion." "Don’t be paralyzed by perfection." "Nothing can serve us better as a leader than to walk in humility." Connect with Gayla: If you’re a stepmom in need of encouragement, tips, and tools, make sure to connect with Sisterhood of Stepmoms. Website Facebook Twitter Connect with Esther and the Christian Woman Leadership Podcast: Website Instagram Facebook Group Facebook Page Episode Sponsor: Morningstar Media Services This episode was originally published on estherlittlefield.com/episode21. To join the Purposeful Leadership Facebook Group, go to estherlittlefield.com/group.
Are you in a situation where you find yourself wondering where the manual to being a good stepparent is? Do you know someone that is struggling to navigate the waters of stepparenting with grace and God's guidance? Join Coming Alive Conversations for an interview with Gayla Grace, author of Stepparenting with Grace: A devotional for Blended Families Author Gayla will share from her own experience of navigating the waters of stepparenting and how God met her family there. Links: www.stepparentingwithgrace.com Purchase the book Visit Gayla on Facebook
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