Podcasts about stepparent

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

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

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

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

ResourcesEpisode 236. Does it Ever Get Easier? How to Stay Hopeful by Playing the Long Game [with Gayla Grace]Episode 157. 3 Seasoned Stepmoms Share How They've Survived and Thrived in Their Blended Family JourneyWomen & Blended Families: Mother's Day/Stepmother's Day  (Gayla's interview with Laura Petherbridge)CLICK HERE  Mother's Day Tips for HusbandsSuggest a Topic or Ask a Question  Would you like us to discuss something specific or answer your question on the show?  Let us know!We've made it easy.  Just click here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/shareReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/free-callYou don't need to navigate blended family life alone.  Join our supportive community where you'll connect directly with us and other couples just like you who are intentionally investing in healthy blending strategies.  Click the link to find out how to join: https://learning.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/blendingtogetherSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

In this episode, we sit down with our friend Gayla Grace for a deeply encouraging conversation about what it really takes to build a strong blended family over time. Gayla candidly shares about the challenges she and her husband faced while blending "hers", "his", and "ours". From parenting conflict to grief and unexpected setbacks, Gayla shares how those hard seasons pushed them to seek help, grow in humility, and fight for unity in their marriage.Gayla is an author and international speaker with the FamilyLife Blended® team, where she encourages and equips blended families. She has a master's degree in Psychology and Counseling, and she hosts the livestream Women & Blended Families.Throughout our conversation, we explore three powerful truths that every blended couple needs to hear: expect challenges, expect the process to take longer than you want, and commit to playing the long game. Gayla offers practical wisdom, hopeful mindset shifts, and a refreshing reminder that your efforts matter, even when you don't see immediate results.  Listen in and be encouraged as our guest Gayla Grace shares from more than 30 years of personal experience, and reminds us that blended family life is rarely easy or quick, but it can absolutely be worth it. You'll Discover:Why blended family couples need to expect challenges and meet them with both grit and grace Why playing the long game can lead to deep rewards in your marriage and step relationships How community and the right kind of support can help you move forward when you feel stuck Why making your marriage the foundation of your home creates greater stability for the whole familyResources from this Episode:Beautifully Blended: 101 Devotions to Encourage Couples in Blended Families by Gayla GraceCLICK HERE to connect with GaylaWomen & Blended Families: Mother's Day/Stepmother's DayReady for some extra support: We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesessionYou don't need to navigate blended family life alone.  Join our supportive community where you'll connect directly with us and other couples just like you who are intentionally investing in healthy blending strategies.  Click the link to find out how to join: https://learning.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/blendingtogetherSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsGive a review over on Apple Podcasts .  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” .  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

Sam and Sierra answer a letter from someone whose husband wants her to be a more involved stepparent Join us on Patreon for an extra weekly episode, monthly office hours, and more! SUBMIT: justbreakuppod.com FACEBOOK: /justbreakuppod INSTAGRAM: @justbreakuppod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Please join me for a conversation with Toronto Canada stepparent adopted person Craig Wallace.https://www.ontario.ca/page/search-adoption-recordsPeople who are adopted, even by stepparents, are legally barred from accessing a certified copy of their original birth certificate. Some places allow an adopted person to access a noncertified copy at a specified age. The opinions of the host and their guest are just that, their opinions.The host is not a lawyer, a therapist or an adoption professionalThank you for listening

Resources from this episodeEpisode 235. Stepparenting Takes Two: How to Build Connection and Avoid Common Wrong TurnsEpisode 103. 4 Revealing Myths About 1 on 1 Time Between Parents and their Bio-Kids (Part 1 of 2)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-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

This one took a while to land. The part that tried hard not to upset anyone, to do it right, to keep the peace, to earn my place was running rampant!And how exhausting that became.Somewhere along the way, I realised trying to be liked was costing me something far too precious ... myself.This is a conversation about self-abandonment in prettier clothes. About confusing being liked with being loving. About the shift from managing everyone else's comfort to staying true to what feels right and good and true for you.If you're a step-parent who has bent yourself to belong, bit your tongue, second-guessed your instincts or wondered why this role can feel so hard, this one is for you.IN PERSON EXPERIENCES, MelbourneSunday Meds - April 26th, 2026One-day retreat in Balnarring - June 12th, 2026ONLINE WORKThe Good Life - sign up hereAuthentic The Program - sign up here1:1 COACHINGKeen to work together? - Book a 20-minute call nowRead my book, Authentic - coming home to your true self - AUS, EUR, USAWrite into us - let us know what you want to hearWelleCo - use code KAT15 for 15% off welleco.com.auwww.katjohn.com.auSupport the show

FORGIVE & FORGET: They Broke Up On Vacation But She Still Wants Him To Pay His Part! full 834 Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:01:37 +0000 CizCGuseSzgtDSBa0QGUgtndOwzuunnW breakup,forgive and forget,forgive & forget,who is right,who is wrong,step parent,music,society & culture,news Kramer & Jess On Demand Podcast breakup,forgive and forget,forgive & forget,who is right,who is wrong,step parent,music,society & culture,news FORGIVE & FORGET: They Broke Up On Vacation But She Still Wants Him To Pay His Part! Highlights from the Kramer & Jess Show. 2024 © 2021 Audacy, Inc. Music Society & Culture News False https://

When we got married, we stepped into blended family life with a lot of hope, but also a lot of unrealistic expectations. We thought connection would come quickly, parenting would feel natural, and our new family would settle into place easily. Instead, we ran into disappointment, resistance, and the painful realization that blended family life does not work like a first family experience.  In this episode, we share one of the most important truths that changed everything for us: stepparenting is a two-person job. That shift helped us stop putting pressure in the wrong places and start building with more wisdom, patience, and teamwork. Our hope is that this conversation helps you let go of unrealistic expectations and take wise next steps toward real trust, genuine connection, and healthier family dynamics. Resources from this Episode:Strategy #1:   Encourage relational growth in wise, helpful ways and reduce pressure:Episode 213. Discover How to Better Understand and Connect with Children of Divorce [with Lauren Reitsema]Episode 72. The Best Way to Create Healthy, Bonded RelationshipsEpisode 130. How to Build Trust that Nurtures Bonds with Your Kids and Stepkids Episode 37. Why do kids struggle to accept their stepparent?Strategy #2:  Help a resistant child bring down walls in ways they can receive:Episode 229 The Heavy Burdens Kids Carry:  Loyalty Binds, Parental Allegiance, and How to Help Episode 222. Step-by-Step Guide:  Facing Painful Pushback Without Making Things Worse (Part 1 of 2)Episode 132. How do loss and grief impact blended family integration?Episode 159. How to Stay Hopeful as a Stepparent When You're Continually Rejected and HurtEpisode 92. At a loss and feeling defeated because the kids stubbornly refuse to blend?Strategy #3:  Build your parenting partnership and reduce negative interactions:Episode 219. From Chaos to Clarity: A Proven Strategy for Leading Your Blended FamilyEpisode 204. 4 Facets of Stepparenting:  Defining Appropriate Roles and ResponsibilitiesEpisode 208. The Transfer of Power: A Smart Strategy for Stepparents Left in ChargeEpisode 205. 4 Facets of Parenting:  What Bio Parents Need to Know to Achieve Best Outcomes Episode 230. Everyday Decisions, Big Tension:  The Hurtful Patterns That Create Blended Family DivisionReady for some extra support? CLICK HERE to schedule your free coaching sessionCLICK HERE to join the Blending Together Community

ResourcesEpisode 234. Caught in the Negative?  How to Reframe Painful Moments and Regain Hope Episode 106. How to Avoid "Outlaw Words" [with Mark Warren]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-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

The reality is, blended family life gives us plenty of painful moments to get caught up in: tension with an ex, a hard interaction with a stepchild, a family activity that goes sideways, or marital conflict. And it is easy for one negative moment to become the headline.In this episode, we unpack negativity bias, our tendency to notice the negative faster, feel it deeper, and replay it longer. When it goes unchecked, it can shape how we make decisions and relate to the people we love.  And it can steal your joy and leave you feeling hopeless.This conversation is personal for us. As we reflected on our own journey, we were reminded how easy it would have been to let negativity define our marriage and our family years ago. But real (imperfect) progress became possible when we chose to refocus on the small wins along the way and hold onto hope.  That made all the difference for us, and we want to equip you to do the same. You'll Discover:What negativity bias is and why it can make one hard moment feel louder than all the good ones combined How negativity bias impacts your marriage, your connection with step kids, and even relationships between homes Practical ways to reframe painful moments, interrupt negative self-talk, and move toward a growth mindset How to capture the good and cultivate belief so you can protect your emotional wellness and lead your family with greater hope and courageCLICK HERE to join the Blending Together CommunityResources on this topic:Soundtracks:  The Surprising Solution to Overthinking by Jon AcuffEpisode 117. Harness the Power of Positive Affirmation with Your Kids and Step-KidsEpisode 105.  What powerful traits do you need to successfully blend and stay united?Episode 220. From Marginalized to Mainstream:  How to Reclaim Confidence for Your Blended FamilyEpisode 165.  How important is your mindset when it comes to blended family life? Episode 156. The 3 Super Strengths of a Blended Family MarriageEpisode 187.  Basics for Blending:  How to Tolerate and Manage Discomfort and Distress (Part 1 of 2)Episode 136. How to Intentionally Create Positive Family Time and Reduce Relational TensionEpisode 219. From Chaos to Clarity: A Proven Strategy for Leading Your Blended FamilyEpisode 225. Gratitude Superpower:  How to Boost Hope and Connection Through Challenging SeasonsEpisode 159. How to Stay Hopeful as a Stepparent When You're Continually Rejected and HurtEpisode 231.  When Your Ex Starts Dating:  How to Handle Their New Partner and Protect Your Kids

In this episode of The Team Chip Podcast, Chip Townsend walks through exactly how to run a Parents on the Mat event from start to finish. From the moment families walk in the door to the final high-five, every piece matters. Chip breaks down how to create the right energy in the first 10 minutes, structure a class that's high energy but low pressure, and turn simple drills into powerful confidence builders for both students and parents. He also shares the real “secret sauce”—putting the child in the teacher role—and why that moment is often what locks parents in for the long term. Plus, how to use games, connection, and simple self-defense to create an experience families won't forget. If your events have ever felt chaotic or underwhelming, this episode gives you a clear, repeatable plan to run them with confidence. Get our FREE Moms & Dads on the Mat Guide: https://try.tcmartialarts.com/momsanddadsonthemat/  Ready to jump in? Buy our Moms & Dads on the Mat Plug & Play Course: https://courses.teamchipcurriculumsolutions.com/momsdadsonthemat?utm_source=ebook 

ResourcesGet your FREE copy of Blended Family Finances (limited offer) by Brian K. PetersonTo connect with Brian, CLICK HERE (Endurance Financial Group / Blended Family Financial)Episode 233.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-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

Money is a hard topic for any couple, but in a blended family, it often carries even more weight. It's rarely just about numbers. It's about history, protection, prior commitments, loyalty, fear, values, and the future you're trying to build together.In this episode, we sit down with Brian K. Peterson to unpack why money conversations feel so loaded in stepfamilies, and how couples can approach them with more wisdom and unity. Instead of treating money like a scoreboard, Brian invites couples to ask a better question: What are we trying to build together? That shift can move you from conflict and anxiety toward collaboration and peace.You'll also hear why a unified financial vision matters, especially with child support, co-parenting stress, legal battles, and shifting seasons that can make stability feel fragile. Join us as we explore why unity isn't sameness, it's honoring each person's story while intentionally building a shared future. Brian is a husband, dad, and stepdad, and the founder of Blended Family Financial. He created the Planning Built for Life® process to help stepfamily couples move from financial tension to shared clarity and direction. He and his wife, Cara, are passionate about building strong blended families, and he's the upcoming author of Blended Family Finances: How to Talk About Money, Plan for the Future, and Build a Life You Love.If money has become a source of stress, silence, or disconnection in your relationship, this episode will help you slow down, get honest, and start moving toward a more intentional and united path.You'll Discover:Why money conversations feel more complicated in blended familiesHow fear, protection, guilt, and past experiences quietly shape financial decisionsWhat a unified financial vision is, and how it helps couples move from conflict to collaborationHow to think about legacy as something you live now, not just something you leave laterResources from this Episode:Get your FREE copy of Blended Family Finances (limited offer) by Brian K. PetersonTo connect with Brian, CLICK HEREReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesessionSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

ResourcesEpisode 232.  5 Principles to Manage Contact Between Homes and Promote Your Child's WellbeingArticle from Navesink Wellness Center:  When Your Child Becomes Your Confidant:  The Trap of Emotional SafetyEpisode 161.  How do Healthy Parent/Child Roles Help Avoid the Pitfalls of Parentification? [with Ron Deal & Lauren Reitsema]Episode 229. The Heavy Burdens Kids Carry: Loyalty Binds, Parental Allegiance, and How to Help  Episode 84. How to Cope with Sadness, Anxiety, and Longing While Your Kids are GoneSuggest 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-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

If you've ever wrestled with the question, “How often should my child be in contact with their other parent during my time?”, you've probably realized this isn't really about phone calls. It's about the invisible pressure kids feel to stay emotionally connected to both homes simultaneously and the tension it creates for everyone.If you want your home to be a place of peace and predictability, but you keep getting derailed by “just one more check-in", this episode is for you. The problem isn't a lack of love. The problem is that frequent, parent-driven contact can quietly create loyalty binds, disrupt routines, and place adult anxiety on a child's shoulders.We'll share five principles for healthy cross-home communication, so your child can feel settled, your home can have stability, and you and your spouse can stay united instead of stuck in the same argument about how the other home seems to be intruding on ours.You'll walk away with helpful insight that'll help you decide what's best for your kids: prioritize child-driven connection when possible, create respectful boundaries when needed, protect household rhythms, evaluate your unique co-parenting context, and choose quality over quantity.Because the win isn't “constant access.” The win is a child who feels lighter and freer to love everyone without feeling responsible for meeting unrealistic expectations and managing two homes simultaneously. You'll Discover:How “well-meaning” check-ins can unintentionally create pressure, guilt, or loyalty binds for kidsThe 5 guiding principles to create stability and reduce emotional burden across two homesPractical boundary ideas that protect routines without cutting off connectionA 2-question filter to decide whether your current communication pattern is helping or harmingWhy “quality over quantity” is often the best path to a stronger connection (especially for teens)Resources from this Episode:Episode 161.  How do Healthy Parent/Child Roles Help Avoid the Pitfalls of Parentification? [with Ron Deal & Lauren Reitsema]Episode 229. The Heavy Burdens Kids Carry: Loyalty Binds, Parental Allegiance, and How to Help Article from Navesink Wellness Center:  When Your Child Becomes Your Confidant:  The Trap of Emotional SafetyIn Their Shoes - Helping Parents Better Understand and Connect with Children of Divorce by Lauren ReitsemaEpisode 212.  3 Negotiation Strategies to Increase Collaboration and Influence in Your Co-Parenting Relationship Episode 113.   How to Respond When Being Disregarded, Devalued, or Dismissed by Your Former Spouse  Ready for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession 

ResourcesEpisode 231. When Your Ex Starts Dating: How to Handle their New Partner and Protect Your KidsEpisode 170. Co-Parenting Pitfalls for Bio and Step Parents: How to Avoid "Milestone Mishaps"Episode 135. How to Set Appropriate Boundaries and Negotiate Well with Your Ex-SpouseEpisode 226. How Two Homes Raise Kids that Thrive:  A Co-Parenting Blueprint for Caring Parents [with Jay & Tammy Daughtry]Episode 112. 3 Dangerous Dynamics that Can Destroy Co-Parenting - and Hurt the KidsEpisode 212. 3 Negotiation Strategies to Increase Collaboration and Influence in Your Co-Parenting RelationshipEpisode 188. Basics for Blending:  How to Tolerate and Manage Discomfort and Distress (Part 2 of 2)Episode 20. 4 Big Myths About Parenting When an Ex Has Different RulesSuggest 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-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

If you've ever felt that jolt of panic when your child shares that they've been spending time with "daddy's new girlfriend" or "mommy's new boyfriend"……you're not alone. That moment can trigger fear, jealousy, grief, and of course, a protective instinct that makes you want to react fast.  And sometimes that turns into a moment we later regret.In this episode, we'll help you slow down and respond with wisdom instead of emotion. You'll learn how to make a helpful first impression (even if you don't feel ready), how to reduce tension that fuels loyalty binds, and move toward a healthier co-parenting dynamic without just pretending everything is “fine.” You'll DiscoverWhat to do when you feel unsettled by your ex's “recoupling” How to protect your kids from getting stuck in the middle and stay focused on their well-being How to set a healthy tone with the new partner (and your ex), so you can  avoid common missteps that often strain co-parenting  Resources from this Episode:Episode 229.  The Heavy Burdens Kids Carry:  Loyalty Binds, Parental Allegiance, and How to HelpEpisode 226. How Two Homes Raise Kids that Thrive:  A Co-Parenting Blueprint for Caring Parents [with Jay & Tammy Daughtry]Episode 161.  How do Healthy Parent/Child Roles Help Avoid the Pitfalls of Parentification? [with Ron Deal & Lauren Reitsema]Episode 162. How to Healthy Step-Parent/Step-Child Dynamics Avoid the Pitfalls of Step-Parentification [with Ron Deal & Lauren Reitsema]For Stepparents:Episode 44:  Why does my Husband's Ex Think I'm the Enemy?Episode 45:  How to Cooperate More with Your Spouse's Uncooperative ExEpisode 91:  Is Your Husband's Hostile Ex-Wife Invading Your Life, Stealing Your Joy and Confidence? Episode 170. Co-Parenting Pitfalls for Bio and Step Parents:  How to Avoid "Milestone Mishaps"Ready for some extra support?We're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesessionLeave 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!

ResourcesEpisode 230.  Everyday Decisions, Big Tension: The Hurtful Patterns That Create Blended Family DivisionEpisode 203.  How to Make Better Decisions and Solve Problems as a United TeamEpisode 49. Should Your Highest Priority be Your Marriage…or Your Kids?Episode 103.  4 Revealing Myths About 1 on 1 Time Between Parent and Their Bio-Kids (Part 1 of 2) Episode 147. Do Sensitive Conversations End up Creating Conflict in Your Relationship?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-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

Ever tried to make a seemingly straightforward family decision (something that should be easy) only to feel the tension rise, opinions harden, and lines get drawn? You're not imagining it. In blended families, decisions can feel like loyalty tests.In this episode, we walk through a realistic scenario with a blended couple facing a decision dilemma: Do we prioritize a new experience that one side of the family is excited about… or protect a familiar tradition the other side values deeply? And that's where things get complicated. Because it's often not really about the decision itself. It's about what the decision represents: loyalty and priority.That's when a hurtful pattern shows up that we call a Tenuous Triad:One parent becomes the Trapped Teammate (torn between spouse and kids),Their spouse becomes the Stranded Stranger (feeling unheard, powerless, devalued, overlooked),And the children become Confounded Kiddos (confused, unsettled, and often emotionally loud as they express what they want).And once that triad forms, couples can get stuck in predictable traps:Impatience (“Why can't we just move forward?”)Fear and guilt (“My kids are hurting and I'm to blame if they're disappointed.”)Lack of empathy (“You don't get what this means to them.”)Lack of unity (“We aren't leading together.”)Parent-child allegiance (“I have to side with my kids.”)Our goal is to help you name what's happening so you can stop reacting to surface-level conflict and start leading from a place of clarity and unity.You'll DiscoverWhat a Tenuous Triad is and why it often forms around everyday decisionsHow the Trapped Teammate / Stranded Stranger / Confounded Kiddos dynamic can quickly create biological “sides” in the home and ongoing disconnection, resentment, and hurtHow to shift from reaction and contention to calm, united leadership as a coupleResources from this Episode:Simple Step Episode: Managing Loyalties & Priorities in Your HomeEpisode 59. Why Are You Stuck in a Parent-Child Allegiance? (Part 1 of 2)Episode 179. Conquer Fear and Embrace Your Blend with Confidence and ClarityEpisode 180. Break Free from Guilt and Blend with Authenticity and SecurityEpisode 119.  6 Tips to Grow Empathy and Create More Connection in Your MarriageEpisode 72.  The Best Way to Create Healthy, Bonded RelationshipsEpisode 50.  How to Openly Communicate What You Really WantEpisode 203.  How to Make Better Decisions and Solve Problems as a United TeamEpisode 49. Should Your Highest Priority be Your Marriage…or Your Kids?Episode 103.  4 Revealing Myths About 1 on 1 Time Between Parent and Their Bio-Kids (Part 1 of 2) Ready for some extra support?Connect with us 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

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 GrowEpisode 37. Why do kids struggle to accept their stepparent?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-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

This is a tough situation... that involves a Step Parent..See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

(Spoiler alert!!) The answer is yes and no... We as step-parents get better, and we get better at navigating family. As we accept the dynamics of our family that we can't change and deal with our insecurities, we become more confident and resilient. As we learn to prioritize what is most important and fight to get on the same page as our spouse, the uncharterd waters that used to overthrow you will become your stomping ground! So yes, it can get better ~ and so can you! 

If you've ever watched your child's mood shift the moment they step into a handoff…Or felt the sting of being kept at arm's length for reasons you can't explain… You're not imagining it. In blended families, kids often carry emotional burdens they were never meant to hold.In this episode, we name two of the most common “under-the-surface” struggles: loyalty binds (when a child feels torn between a bio parent and a stepparent) and parental allegiance (when a child feels pressure to align with one parent over the other). We share real-life stories, including the quiet pain behind the rejection of a stepparent's sweet gesture, and the way a joyful moment can suddenly collapse into guilt after a call with the other parent.But we don't stop at awareness. We give you a plan. We'll help you slow down, step into your child's shoes, and create emotional safety. We'll help step-parents stay hopeful and keep expectations realistic. And we'll challenge bio parents to protect their kids from adult tension by choosing the neutral zone (where curiosity lowers the temperature and kids are freed to love without feeling responsible for anyone's emotions).The win isn't perfect co-parenting or flawless moments.  It's this: kids get out of the middle, pressure starts to lift, and your home has room for trust, connection, and peace to grow. You'll Discover:The difference between a loyalty bind and parental allegiance, and how each one shows up in real life. How emotion coaching helps your child process hard feelings without forcing apologies or rushing an unrealistic "fix".  What step-parents can do to cope with rejection (and why “crockpot bonding” protects your heart and builds trust over time). The subtle ways parents accidentally tighten the bind and what to say/do instead to keep kids free to love everyone in both homes. How to find and stay in the neutral zone when insecurity, fear, jealousy, or discomfort hits.  Resources from this Episode:Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships by Patricia PapernowEpisode 222.  Step-by-Step Guide:  Facing Painful Pushback Without Making Things Worse (part 1 of 2)Episode 72. The Best Way to Create Healthy, Bonded RelationshipsEpisode 159. How to Stay Hopeful as a Stepparent When You're Continually Rejected and HurtEpisode 161.  How do Healthy Parent/Child Roles Help Avoid the Pitfalls of Parentification? [with Ron Deal & Lauren Reitsema]  Episode 210.  Is your child pulling away?  Here's How to Respond with Wisdom and LoveEpisode 211.  8 Warning Signs Your Ex Is Manipulating Your Child's Heart and MindReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

ResourcesLast week's episode :Episode 228. How 4 Simple Steps Can Transform Your Family's Struggles into Amazing Wins This Year Moving Beyond Fear:Episode 50: How to Openly Communicate What You Really Want Episode 147: Do Sensitive Conversations end up creating conflict in your relationship?Episode 179. Conquer Fear and Embrace Your Blend with Confidence and ClarityEpisode 98. Is fear of being vulnerable keeping you from loving your spouse wholeheartedly?Coping with Impatience:Episode 105. What powerful traits do you need to successfully blend and stay united?Episode 89. Feeling Stuck in the Change Process?  Change Isn't the Issue - Transition IsEpisode 72. The Best Way to Create Healthy, Bonded RelationshipsEpisode 159.  How to Stay Hopeful as a Stepparent When You're Continually Rejected and HurtOvercoming Limiting Beliefs & Excuses:Episode 120. 3 Valuable Lessons That Saved Our Marriage and Blended FamilyEpisode 165. How important is your mindset when it comes to blended family life?Episode 217. Feeling Overwhelmed and Powerless?  How to Regain Hope with Tools that Heal [with EJ & Tarah Kerwin]Episode 51. Overcoming DiscouragementManaging Emotional Pain:Episode 187. Basics for Blending:  How to Tolerate and Manage Discomfort and DistressEpisode 202. How to Break Free from Painful Cycles and Enjoy Deeper Levels of Intimacy [with Ron & Nan Deal]Episode 139. The Most Common, Challenging Pain Point Every Blended Couple ExperiencesEpisode 107. 3 Disheartening Realities That No Couple Want To Go Through - But We all Have ToEmbracing the Lone Ranger position:Episode 209. Breaking Free from Self-Doubt: 5 Habits to Build Confidence and Trust in YourselfEpisode 215. Does Your Relationship Feel Hopeless?  Why Giving Up Might Not Be the AnswerEpisode 65. 6 Simple Steps for Inviting Your Spouse to Get Help With YouEpisode 138. How Relational Dysfunction Plagued Our Marriage and How We Finally Broke FreeReady for some extra support?Schedule your FREE coaching call here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/free-call

Those of us facing the common challenges of blending often feel frustrated, overwhelmed, or discouraged. It's easy to drift into survival mode and settle for “not that bad.”In this episode, we'll share a clear plan to move forward in a simple way that's not about the pressure of big, dramatic New Year's resolutions.  Here's the truth: transformation doesn't happen overnight, and there are no easy fixes to the complex dynamics stepfamilies face. But change can happen with small, faithful shifts practiced over time. You'll Discover:The difference between information vs. transformation and why “insight without action” keeps couples stuck How to set process goals (not vague intentions), and capture the “gold nuggets” you want to apply to your family's current struggles How to “work your plan” and experience real WINS in 2026!Resources from this Episode:CLICK HERE to schedule your FREE coaching call with usCLICK HERE to learn more about the Blending Together CommunityFind your Focus & Choose your Path:Bonding:For specific episodes on building healthy Bonds, CLICK HEREBuilding Love Together in Blended Families by Ron Deal & Gary ChapmanUnderstanding Kids' Perspectives:For specific episodes to gain insight & support your kids, CLICK HEREIn Their Shoes: Helping Parents Better Understand and Connect with Children of Divorce by Lauren ReitsemaSafeguarding your Relationship / Marriage:For specific episodes to grow a deeper connection and reduce conflict, CLICK HERESaving Your Second Marriage Before It Starts: Nine Questions to Ask Before -- and After -- You Remarry by Drs. Les & Leslie ParrotParenting  & Stepparenting:For specific episodes to develop your parenting partnership and align family expectations, CLICK HEREStepparenting:  Keeping It Sane by Dr. Charles FayParenting Under Fire: How to Communicate with Your Hurt, Angry, Rejecting, Distant Child by Dr. Amy J.L. BakerEffective Co-Parenting:For specific episodes to discover best practices and improve cooperation between homes, CLICK HERECoParenting Works!  Helping Your Children Thrive After Divorce By Tammy Daughtry

Who Says I Love You First When You're a Step Parent by Maine's Coast 93.1

What if stepfamilies are not in the best interest of your child?What if you as a stepparent are the real problem?Studies show that children brought up in stepfamilies are more prone to delinquent behavior than children raised by their biological parents, a fact that is overlooked and deserves more attention to reverse this trend that contributes to unsafe communities. Yet, data also show that one of three Americans is now a stepparent, a stepchild, a stepsibling, or some other member of a stepfamily.In The Art of Stepparenting—How to Blend Families Without Tearing Them Apart, Author Richard R. Ramos provides insight and wisdom for navigating the many challenges and pitfalls stepparents face with the blending of children from different biological parents into a new family unit.He offers valuable principles on parental personal growth in emotional maturity that is the key to improving your capacity to connect with your stepchildren. He will show you how to reconcile strained and/or broken stepparent-child relationships, share how to win loyalty and earn respect for your authority as a single parent or stepparent, and provide wisdom from the lessons learned by other single parents and stepparents.The Art of Stepparenting—How to Blend Families Without Tearing Them Apart will empower the single parent, stepparent, and foster parent to create a blended family experience that provides you with the richness of restoration, reconciliation, and harmony all families deserve to enjoy.He is the author of "The Art of Stepparenting: How to Blend Families Without Tearing Them Apart." https://www.richardrramos.com/http://www.yourlotandparcel.org

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-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed to or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

Do you ever spend time reminiscing?We seem to think back a lot from our current empty next vantage point.  It can be great to recall some of those funny moments in our history.  And it's meaningful when we recount the tough seasons we've endured together as well.As we head into the holidays, we thought it would be fun to pull an interview with our kids out of the archives. So, in this episode, you'll listen in on a conversation with our family reminiscing over some of the ups and downs of our Holiday experiences over the past 20+ years. We wonder if it might stir up a bit of hope for your own future as you hear the authenticity straight from all three of our adult children.  We've experienced some high points and low points as a family over the years — and your family will too.  But as you navigate it together, we believe you can experience closeness, gratitude, and joy as a family.  We hope our discussion blesses you this season.In this episode, you'll discover how our kids answered these questions as they share their holiday experiences living in our blended family:What are your favorite memories (including funny ones)?What might have been a negative experience for you?What things made you feel sad, annoyed, or frustrated?What are you grateful for?What do you wish we (as parents) might have done differently?PLUS you'll catch some of their encouragements for YOU!Resources from this Episode:Episodes that focus on Kid's Perspectives:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/podcast/category/Kid%27s+Perspectives/#filterEpisode 71: How to Help Kids Cope with Painful Holiday DisappointmentEpisode 10. 8 Practical Tips for a Successful Holiday SeasonEpisode 149. How to "Blend" Holiday Traditions and Create Meaningful Connection this Season Episode 151. What Has The Potential to Steal Your Joy - And How You Can Hold Onto It  (Part 1)Episode 171.  How to Experience More Fun, Connection, and Joy this Holiday Season [with Rich and Stacy] Episode 173. Expert Guidance for Holiday Success [with Lauren Reitsema & Joneen Mackenzie]Episode 222. Step-by-Step Guide:  Facing Painful Pushback Without Making Things WorseEpisode 224. Holiday Negotiations That Work:  5 Tips to Reduce Tension and Disappointment  Ready for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

Questions to Ask YourselfAm I continuing to engage in “first-family” activities with my ex (even though we're divorced), mainly because I'm trying to guard my children from experiencing any disappointment or discomfort?Have I noticed any confusion or resentment from my children when they observe our Perfect Pal relationship and compare it to what's actually happened in their lives?Do I feel compelled to continue as Perfect Pals because I'm worried that if I don't, my ex will react poorly, possibly lash out, turn the kids against me, or punish me in some way?  And so I keep showing up as a close friend and confidant just to avoid retribution? Because of our Perfect Pal dynamic, do I sometimes abdicate or agree with my ex, even when I have a different opinion?Do you (or your new partner) harbor resentment toward your ex because they seem to have a lot of power and control over parenting decisions? Do you end up feeling unheard, devalued, or dismissed?  Does maintaining your Perfect Pal relationship seem like it's more important than having an equal voice in your children's lives?What's your next step in moving toward 'Cooperative Colleagues'?ResourcesEpisode 226.  How Two Homes Raise Kids that Thrive:  A Co-Parenting Blueprint for Caring Parents [with Jay & Tammy Daughtry]Episode 71. Helping Kids Cope with Painful Holiday DisappointmentCo-Parenting Works! Helping Your Children Thrive After Divorce by Tammy DaughtryConnect directly with Jay and Tammy:  CoParenting InternationalCLICK HERE to get FREE resources from CoParenting InternationalCLICK HERE for more Episodes on Healthy Co-ParentingSuggest 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-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then s

If you're co-parenting between two homes, you already know: your kids are watching everything.  How you talk about their other parent, handle handoffs, respond to schedule changes, and react when the ex sends that text.  These everyday issues impact and shape your children's well-being.In this episode, we sit down with co-parenting experts Jay & Tammy Daughtry, who are both adult children of divorce and co-parents themselves. They share their TEAMM mindset: The End Adult Matters Most.  It's a powerful reminder that your co-parenting relationship today is shaping the adult your child will become tomorrow.As marriage and family therapists, Jay and Tammy deeply understand the long-term impact of post-divorce dynamics on kids.  They offer compassionate guidance to help you move from feeling stuck, reactive, or alone and instead adopt a calm, intentional, “business partner” approach to co-parenting.  You'll walk away with hopeful, real-life tools to steady your own emotions, protect your kids from unnecessary emotional burdens, and take small, intentional steps toward a healthier co-parenting partnership so your kids experience stability, security, and are free to love both of their parents.You'll Discover:Practical ideas for building alignment, handling hand-offs, and honoring your child's divided heartWhy “The End Adult Matters Most” changes everythingWhy “emotionally baby-proofing” is essential for children of divorce The benefits of a business-meeting approach to co-parenting (TEAMM meetings)How to approach an uncooperative exResources from this Episode:Co-Parenting Works! Helping Your Children Thrive After Divorce by Tammy DaughtryConnect directly with Jay and Tammy:  Co-Parenting InternationalCLICK HERE to get FREE resources from Co-Parenting InternationalEpisode 84. How to Cope with Sadness, Anxiety and Longing While Your Kids Are GoneCLICK HERE for more Episodes on Healthy Co-ParentingReady for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesessionLeave 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!

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-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

Disclaimer: We are not professionals. This podcast is opinioned based and from life experience. This is for entertainment purposes only. Opinions helped by our guests may not reflect our own. But we love a good conversation.In this unfiltered 2 Be Better Podcast episode, Chris and Peaches break down the “princess treatment” trend, the bare minimum vs princess treatment challenge, and a viral Rolling Stone article attacking trad wives and traditional gender roles. They react to the Princess and the Pe fairy tale, the TikTok hose challenge, and the idea that opening doors, pumping gas, ordering for your wife, and protecting her in public is “over the top” or “misogynistic.” You will hear a blunt, masculine perspective on chivalry, equality, and partnership, why “I don't need a man” is propaganda, and the difference between being fully capable on your own and actually wanting to be loved, protected, and prioritized in a traditional marriage.From there they zoom out and tackle the bigger culture war around trad wife content, feminism, and the dating crisis, including why so many men are afraid to approach women, why women who want to be stay at home wives are shamed online, and how real men see the value of a feminine, nurturing wife raising the next generation. They also go deep on blended families and step-parent hate, defending stepdads and stepmoms who choose to love and raise children that are not biologically theirs, and showing how that role can completely change a kid's future. If you care about traditional marriage, princess treatment vs bare minimum, trad wife life, chivalry in relationships, step-parent dynamics, and building a strong, functional family instead of living for internet approval, this video is going to hit hard and give you language for the standards you actually want to live by.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/2-be-better--5828421/support.

You want this season to feel special for your blended family. But instead of joy, you're feeling grumpy, anxious, or even a little hopeless. Schedule changes, empty chairs at the table, tension with an ex, and slow bonding in step-relationships can make gratitude feel out of reach. Deep down you might be wondering, “How am I supposed to be thankful when life really hurts?”In this episode, we'll sit with you in that question. And we'll introduce three simple “gratitude lenses” that will help you focus on what's good without denying what's hard. Through honest stories from our personal journey, including Kim's long season of walking with Annika through addiction and into recovery, you'll see how gratitude can keep you anchored so that you can show up well as you face tough realities.   You'll also learn how to hold grief and gratitude at the same time while guarding against three common negativity traps that quietly drain hope and resilience. By the end, you'll have one small, clear next step to begin practicing gratitude in real life, right where you are, in this season and beyond.You'll Discover:Three gratitude lenses tailored for real life, you can start using todaySimple gratitude habits that can make a positive difference How to hold grief and gratitude simultaneously - without having to pretendThe 3 “P” traps that crush resilience—and how you can resist themResources from this Episode:Episode 42. Our Challenging Story of Parental Alienation - And 6 Tips for YouEpisode 84. Coping with Sadness, Anxiety, and Longing when the Kids are GoneEpisode 154. What practical and Emotional Shifts Can You Expect as You Blend a Family? Episode 14. 3 Helpful Steps to Overcome Your 'Perfectionist' Ideals and Disappointments Episode 202. How to Break Free From Painful Cycles and Enjoy Deeper Levels of Intimacy [with Ron and Nan Deal] Episode 189.  Bringing Hope to the Realities of Grief:  A Path to Understanding and Healing [with Krista St-Germain]Episode 187.  Basics for Blending:  How to Tolerate and Manage Discomfort and Distress (Part 1 of 2)Episode 51. Overcoming Discouragement (Part 1 of  3)Episode 99. Moving Beyond Painful Guilt and RegretEpisode 160. A 4-Part Framework for Achievable Expectations and How to Live Them OutEpisode 220. From Marginalized to Mainstream:  How to Reclaim Confidence Episode 215. Does your Relationship Feel Hopeless?  Why Giving Up Might Not be the Answer?Ready for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

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-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

Tone Kapone, KeKe, and Zach Boog talk Can You Be A Step Parent?, Ja Rule At KeKe's Wedding, Thanksgiving, Big Jam & More!

The holidays can turn magical… …or messy!  This is especially true when two households, multiple calendars, and big expectations collide. You want peace, memories, and connection; the problem is last-minute schedule changes, mixed emotions, and the pressure to please everyone. We've been there. In this conversation, we'll offer practical guidance with a simple plan: five respectful negotiation tips for working with the other home and a kid-centered framework to navigate disappointment when plans don't line up. This year, choose to take a proactive approach so that you can lower tension, avoid drama, and model resilience. The stakes are high. Painful interactions, confusion, guilt, and your kid's sense of stability are all on the line. What does success look like? A calmer season where your family can experience peace and memorable moments, even when things aren't “perfect". You'll Discover:Five negotiation tips for co-parenting that lead to better opportunities for healthy cooperation.Why predictability matters for kids moving between homes, and how early, respectful communication increases collaboration and peace. How to prevent heartbreak by finalizing plans with the other home before sharing exciting news with children. The "Five A's" framework for helping kids manage disappointmentA mindset reframe: missed activities and events aren't failed parenting, they're an opportunity to build emotional resilience and solid character. Resources from this Episode:Episode 67. The Best Co-Parenting Strategy That You Already KnowEpisode 222.  Step-by-Step Guide:  Facing Painful Pushback Without Making Things Worse (Part 1 of 2)Episode 33.  How to Cope with a Difficult Ex and Protect Your ExEpisode 112.  3 Dangerous Dynamics That Can Destroy Co-Parenting - And Hurt The KidsEpisode 113.  How to Respond When Being Disregarded, Devalued or Dismissed by Your Former SpouseEpisode 188. Basics for Blending:  How to Tolerate and Manage Discomfort and Distress (Part 2 of 2)Ready for some extra support? We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesessionLeave 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!

Debbie Ausburn is a social worker and the author of "Raising Other Peoples Children: What Foster Parenting Taught Me About Bringing Together A Blended Family." She shares her experiences as a Foster and Step Parent, and the lessons learned from successes and mistakes connecting and parenting children in situations where trust must be earned instead of assumed. Donate, participate, and promote The Because Organization, this month's highlighted nonprofit. They work with survivors of human trafficking, helping people to build safe and healthy lives after emerging from these abusive situations.    

You're the parent, or stepparent, who wants less conflict and more connection. But a child's resistance, sarcasm, isolation, or hurtful words, such as: “you're not my dad,” can derail plans and result in hurtful interactions. We've been there.In part 2 of this mini-series, you'll discover how to respond well in tough moments of pushback by using John Gottman's 5 steps of Emotion Coaching. You'll hear us role-play around real-life pushback when a child is competing for a parent's love, making accusations and threats, and behaving oppositionally toward a stepparent.We'll offer a better way to manage those moments with words that help kids feel seen, heard, and understood.  We'll also show you the best approach for addressing poor behavior and setting boundaries. The plan is simple: notice the emotion, treat it as an opportunity, listen and validate, help label feelings, then set limits while exploring solutions. Practice this, and you'll be surprised at how you can lower the tension, build relational safety, and strengthen your connection with a struggling child. When pushback hits, it is possible to move away from reacting in ways that don't help and instead, create an atmosphere of mutual trust, respect,  and real connection in your home.You'll Discover:The 5 Emotion Coaching steps from John Gottman (with wording you can steal) and why each step matters. How to decode what's going on underneath pushback and respond in a way that helps your child move through pain, loss, anger, sadness, and confusion. When and how to set behavioral boundaries so that kids are more open to receiving and responding well. A simple script for stepparents to defuse “You're not my dad/mom” moments while building mutual respect and understanding. When and how to engage in problem-solving with your child and foster real buy-in, confidence, and trust.Resources from this Episode:Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child by Dr. John GottmanEpisode 222. Step-by-Step Guide: Facing Painful Pushback Without Making Things Worse [Part 1]Episode 194.  Powerful Tips for Effectively Connecting with Your Angry or Distant Child [with Dr. Amy J.L. Baker]Episode 195.  Connecting with Kim's HARD Child - Facing the Challenges of Parental AlienationEpisode 210.  Is Your Child Pulling Away?  Here's How to Respond with Wisdom and LoveEpisode 211. 8 Warning Signs Your Ex is Manipulating Your Child's Heart and MindEpisode 92.  At a loss and feeling defeated because the kids stubbornly refuse to blend?Episode 132. How do loss and grief impact blended family integration?Episode 189. Bringing Hope to the Realities of Grief:  A Path to Understanding and Healing [with Krista St-Germain]Ready for some extra support?   Schedule your free coaching call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

We know that pushback moments can sting. Eye rolls, refusals, accusations, or shutting down are all things kids in blended families can tend to do. It's easy for parents and stepparents to appease, minimize, deflect, control, try to 'fix-it' or simply avoid pushback (we've done it too). In this two-part series, we act as your guides and name the real struggle beneath kids' hurtful behavior: loss, grief, and fear that come with blending. Then we introduce a clear plan: Emotion Coaching. You'll hear real-life scenarios, why common reactions backfire, and what to do instead to help your child feel seen and supported. The win? A calmer home,  stronger bonds, and practical steps forward. The risk of doing nothing? Escalating conflict, shutdown, resentment, and power struggles. If you're ready to respond to your child's pushback with calm, clarity, and care, this conversation is for you.You'll Discover:The four common Pushback Predicaments: competing for love, accusations/threats, oppositional attitude, and loss & grief. And what's really going on underneath. Why appeasing, minimizing, deflecting, defending, controlling, or avoiding often makes things worse, and what kids hear when we react in those ways. How Emotion Coaching helps kids identify and name big feelings, regulate their emotions, and become receptive to changing their behavior.  Plus, the blended-family benefits (safety, trust, and respect). A simple reflection challenge to build awareness around your typical reaction patterns and your child's reactions to your reactions, so that you can choose a better way to respond next time. Continued Learning on this Topic:Episode 154. What practical and emotional shifts can you expect as you blend your family?Episode 213. Discover How to Better Understand and Connect with Children of Divorce [with Lauren Reitsema]Episode 159.  How to Stay Hopeful as a Stepparent When You're Continually Rejected and HurtEpisode 37. Why do kids struggle to accept their stepparent?Episode 039. How to Create Strong Bonds with Resistant StepkidsReady for some extra supportWe all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesessionLeave 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! 

ResourcesEpisode 221.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-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

ResourcesBlend Don't Break by Chad and Jdele BrignacCLICK HERE to connect with ChadCLICK HERE to connect with JdeleSuggest 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-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

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-callSubscribe or Follow the Show Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple PodcastsClick here to follow on SpotifyLeave a Review in Apple PodcastsIf you're feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they're fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

Have you ever experienced an awkward "stepfamily moment" in public?  Like when someone notices that you and your child have different last names or makes assumptions about your family dynamics?  We've experienced plenty of those moments in our blended family journey, and it doesn't feel very good. In today's conversation, we address the experience of feeling “marginalized” or "less than".  And we'll share what we've done to stand in our true identity and invite others into genuine connection, rather than avoiding the awkwardness.It's liberating to simply normalize the reality that blended families are everywhere, and we embrace three mindset shifts that make a real difference: Be confident and secure about how your family came together Be authentic by offering a simple, positive message that honors your story Avoid comparison traps Our hope is that you'll feel seen, supported, and empowered to carry your story with courage and to know that you aren't alone.You'll DiscoverWhat feeling “marginalized” looks like in everyday moments, and why blended families are part of the cultural mainstreamA simple, unapologetic way to respond to awkward situations without shaming yourself or your kidsFour tools to escape comparison traps and stay confident and secureResources from this Episode:CLICK HERE to check out the Blending Together CommunityEpisode 11. 3 Hidden Strengths for Imperfect Blended FamiliesEpisode 156. The 3 Super Strengths of a Blended Family Marriage Episode 114. Beware of Common Comparison Traps that Create Disconnection and Negativity Episode 160. A 4-Part Framework for Achievable Expectations and How to Live Them OutEpisode 14. 3 Helpful Steps to Overcome Your "Perfectionistic" Ideals and Disappointments Episode 180. Break Free From Guilt and Blend with Authenticity and Security Ready for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesessionLeave 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!Ready to join the Blending Together Community? Click here to get started!

The relationship between a stepparent and their stepchildren can be complicated and complex because there are so many factors at play. Sometimes, those dynamics can delay or derail step-parent/stepchild bonding. In this episode, How To Build Strong Stepparent-stepchild Connections, Scott and Vanessa talk about the role step parents play in creating a solid bond with their stepchild; they also offer suggestions for nurturing and growing those relationships.  We pray this podcast blessed you today!Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community? Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/ For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

We hope all our Creeps and Peeper are also unsettled by our tales this week. Dan starts off in  North Carolina with a story about a man who tried to transform into an actual demon. And some think he was, in a way, successful. Then, his second tale is the story of some of the residents of a housing development outside of Houston, built on a forgotten cemetery, who claim that the spirits of those whose remains were disrespected were both awakened and angered by the destruction of their final resting place. Lynze has three stories today! Her first also takes us to Texas where a strange situation occurs with a neighbor. Then, a woman traveling alone has the creepiest taxi ride to her hotel. Lastly, a young boy runs into the former owner of his Grandmother's home. Scared To Death Merch: Exciting new merch is up in the store! Inspired by various Scared to Death episodes, fan and designer, Alex Reed brought to life so many amazing fears! Get your new merch at badmagicproductions.com Cummins Family Scholarship: Congrats to Alyssa Cramblette, Peyton Hoyt, Josephine Carey and Taylor Karizma who have each been awarded $5,000 in scholarships! HUGE thanks to our Patrons who make this possible each year! Want to be a Patron? Get episodes AD-FREE, listen and watch before they are released to anyone else, bonus episodes, a 20% merch discount, additional content, and more! Learn more by visiting: https://www.patreon.com/scaredtodeathpodcast.Send stories to mystory@scaredtodeathpodcast.comSend everything else to info@scaredtodeathpodcast.comPlease rate, review, and subscribe anywhere you listen.Thank you for listening!Follow the show on social media: @scaredtodeathpodcast on Facebook and IG and TTWebsite: https://www.badmagicproductions.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scaredtodeathpodcastInstagram: https://bit.ly/2miPLf5Mailing Address:Scared to Deathc/o Timesuck PodcastPO Box 3891Coeur d'Alene, ID 83816Opening Sumerian protection spell (adapted):"Whether thou art a ghost that hath come from the earth, or a phantom of night that hath no home… or one that lieth dead in the desert… or a ghost unburied… or a demon or a ghoul… Whatever thou be until thou art removed… thou shalt find here no water to drink… Thou shalt not stretch forth thy hand to our own… Into our house enter thou not. Through our fence, breakthrough thou not… we are protected though we may be frightened. Our life you may not steal, though we may feel SCARED TO DEATH." Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of Scared to Death ad-free and a whole week early. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.