Christina welcomes back Michelle to talk about real and tactical tips for navigating the chaos of summer—when there’s no school or camp buffer, exchanges get messy, routines fall apart, and stepmoms often end up managing more than they expected. Michelle and Christiina talk about boundaries, managing expectations with partners, and keeping your sanity when everything feels unpredictable. What can you do now to protect your peace this summer?  Listen in! 

About My Guest: 

Michelle Mitchell, JD — founder of High Conflict Resolutions, LLC. Connect at coparentingcoach.com

Find her on IG: coachmichellesd

So much more than a podcast!!!

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Christina welcomes Aimee to chat about her long-term decision to not have children, and then falling in love with a man who has 2 kids. PLOT TWIST! Aimee shares how she jumped right in, then needed to find her boundaries before she lost herself. How do you manage the guilt while disengaging? How do you find your role when you never wanted to “mother”? Christina and Aimee discuss parenting with intent, communication as a stepmom and more! Listen in! 

About My Guest:

Aimee is almost 3 years into her stepmom role, helping raise 2 pretty amazing kids. Before meeting their dad, she had made the decision to be childless by choice. Although it has been one of the most difficult roles for her to navigate (because this can get messy,) it has been the most rewarding.Instagram: @aimeestockton

So much more than a podcast!

Did you know there are exclusive Bonus Episodes? Become a Member of the⁠ ⁠⁠Rad Community ⁠⁠⁠and get access!

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Christina welcomes Nathalie who shares her story of finding love and KIDS in her early 20’s. Young stepmoms have a unique journey. Nathalie shares how her friendships evolved or dissolved after taking on the stepmom role, having a partner in the military and managing custody schedules and oh-yes, high conflict situations. What can new, young stepmoms learn from Nathalie? Listen in! 

About My Guest: 

My name is Nathalie and I'm a 22-year-old stepmom. I became a stepmom 2 years ago, going into my final year of undergraduate. I am now in my Master's in Social Work, where I've learned the struggles of managing my personal life, along with the schedules of my partner and stepkid.

Find her on IG: @nathalieepoulinn

So much more than a podcast!!!

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Christina chats with Jeni, a mental health therapist specializing in maternal mental health. As a mother and stepmom herself, Jeni discusses the intersections of mental health and all forms of motherhood. Self care is drilled into us, but how do we really care for ourselves? Jeni and Christina chat the pressures to be "perfect", mom guilt, the relationships with our partners and our step-kids. Listen in!  About My Guest:  Jeni is a widow, wife, mom, and stepmom. Her step-kids are 9 and 8, and her biological kids are 5 and 3. With four kids, the house is very loud, and very full of love. Jeni works as a mental health therapist specializing in perinatal mental health (so all things maternal and then some), couples counseling, and other things in between. Music is a necessity to life, including hearing her husband sing show tunes. So much more than a podcast!!! Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member?  Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina is welcoming back attorney and high conflict parenting coach, Michelle! You may remember her from Season 3: Episode 32 - if not, listen to that one too! On this episode, Michelle is answering listener's questions. What is the best way to manage a high conflict ex who is constantly presenting with double standards? What do you do when the ex refuses to respond to an email? She'll answer these and many more! High conflict is no picnic, but there are strategies you can implement to protect your peace. Listen in!  About My Guest:  Coach Michelle is a high conflict resolution coach, an attorney, and a badass single mom. She helps parents disengage from high conflict relationships, getting them out of court, and stepping back into their lives. Her unique combination as a certified Martha Beck life coach, a lawyer for almost 20 years, her field of study in Psychology, and her own personal family law experience, makes Michelle a well-rounded coach, capable of helping parents learn how to disengage from a challenging and protracted co-parenting relationship. https://www.coachmichelle.club Find her on INSTAGRAM  So much more than a podcast!!!  Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member?  Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina chats with Kelly, a stepmom and licensed clinical psychologist to unpack that complicated question of: Am I supporting my partner or am I enabling them? It feels like a fine line, right? They chat the many factors that contribute to a stepmom's motivation to jump in to "support": mental health, our shit, their shit, the damn patriarchy! When do we know when our support isn't actually serving anyone? Listen in!  Mentioned in This Episode: Emotional Labor Article  About My Guest: Kelly is a licensed clinical psychologist and a full-time stepmom to two boys. "This life - after choosing to be childless and live with my cats for years - has been a ROLLER COASTER."  So much more than a podcast!!! Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member?  Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina welcomes back seasoned stepmom, Laurie Short. You may remember her from Season 3: Episode 25! In this episode, Laurie gives the pep-talk all stepmoms need to hear. Stepmotherhood is not easy, but we have to keep the long-view perspective. How do we keep focus on the little moments? How do we take care of ourselves? How do we not let the hard stuff ruin our spirit and sense of purpose? Listen in and feel inspired - you got this mama. We're right there with you.  About My Guest: Laurie is an author, speaker, wife and stepmom. She and her husband have parented full time for twelve years, and she recently released a book called Grace-filled Stepparenting: help and hope for this unique and loving role So much more than a podcast!!! Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member?  Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina and Stevie discuss heartache, finding love, and how the stepmom role changes and challenges you. Topics Discussed:  Fertility & Miscarriage  "Ours Baby" - sharing news with SK's and the ex  Preparing for baby - transitions for the SK's  Sharing your big moments with the ex & SK's and the complicated feelings that follow  When the ex becomes a stepmom Listen in as Stevie shares her inspiring story of loss, grief, love and her journey of Step/Motherhood.  About My Guest: Stevie went from being married and hoping for a family of her own, to unexpectedly finding herself widowed at 29. She found new love and is now a Stepmama and a new Mama to a 6 month old baby boy. Her story to motherhood and stepmotherhood starts long before she met her husband. Her journey throughout this role has had a lot of ups (and then even more downs) and she can honestly say that nothing has challenged her more in her life. "I had no idea what I was stepping into when I joined this family but I do know it has brought me some of my greatest joys and the welcomed challenge of tapping into strength I never knew I had." On Instagram: @stevie.Becker So much more than a podcast!!! Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

When second marriages are statically "doomed" Christina and Brooke discuss what it takes to make a blended family successful. Brooke shares her experience of being a long-distance stepmom, how she handles "mini wife syndrome" and how she nurtures the relationship with her stepkids and her "ours babies". Listen in as Brooke and Christina break down the hardships, the joys, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way to turn their struggles into confidence. About My Guest:  In the 7 years Brooke has been with her husband, she’s gone from a fantasy of what her life would look like, to the reality of court battles and insecurities, to a place where she is finally comfortable. She is a confident stepmom of two and mom to two ours babies. Her mission now is to help other women struggling through it to find their place. Find her here: https://strugglingstepmom.com So much more than a podcast!!!  @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina chats with Ann, a parent coach who offers a unique holistic approach to parent work that includes emotional support, home management skills, AND effective discipline. Ann may not be a stepmom, but through her work with blended families she offers insights into how stepmoms can find their voice in their home, how to navigate discipline, and how stepmoms can overcome barriers to bonding with stepkids. Stepmotherhood IS motherhood and Ann offers an empowering perspective on how we can lean into the vulnerability and settle into our role with grace and confidence. Listen In!  About My Guest:  Ann is a mother of four children and a parent coach based in Denver, Colorado. She has lived the dream (and difficulty) of parenting through every childhood stage from infancy through adolescence. She understands not only the joys but the difficulties and worries that come as a parent. Ann has a unique holistic approach to parent work that includes emotional support, home management skills, AND effective discipline that empowers children while improving behavior. She coaches women through various stages of motherhood -- from conception to the transition into their new motherhood role, to behavioral challenges, to starting a business with kids in tow. Ann is someone who will give it to you straight, and love you fiercely. https://www.annkaplanparentcoach.com/ Download the Workbook: Getting Kids to Listen the First Time So much more than a podcast!!!  Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member?  Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina invites her husband, Jacob back on to answer your questions! Do they ever feel like blended life is too hard? What made them fall in love? How do they handle the tough conversations and how does Jacob feel when Christina shares her stepmom hardships? While the two answer questions they also recognize and celebrate the growth they've experienced over the years. There's always room for improvement, but it's important to recognize how far you've come. Listen In! 

So much more than a podcast!!! 

@radicalstepmomspodcast 

Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website!

www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com

 **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina and Genet chat holidays, G gives an update on what she's been up to, and they discuss plans for the upcoming year. They also answer questions submitted by listeners. Does G feel taken advantage of after she invested so much time into being a stepmom? When is it a good time to schedule with a stepmom coach? And more! Listen in!  So much more than a podcast!!!  @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedulea 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina and Marykate discuss the complexities surrounding the relationships with Mother In Laws. Marykate shares her story of navigating her high conflict MIL, the ways it impacted her relationship with the ex and the boundaries necessary to honor herself, her partner and her step-daughter. We may not get to pick our family, but we have a choice in our boundaries. If you have a difficult relationship with your in-laws, this one is for you. Listen in! 

About My Guest! 

Marykate is a 25 year old stepmom living in the suburbs of Minneapolis, Minnesota with her husband, 9 year old step daughter, their two black labs, and two black rescue kitties. She works for everyone’s favorite Seattle based coffee giant, managing several locations in the Twin Cities.
When she’s not slinging lattes and developing leaders, she loves to spend her time kayaking with her step daughter, or getting beers with her friends.

So much more than a podcast!!!

 Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast 

Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? 

Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com 

**This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina welcomes Alexandra Nolan to chat how to create harmony within your blended family. Establishing a new family system takes time, so what can we do as parents and stepmoms to foster security, love and respect? Listen in as Alexandra and Christina talk loyalty binds, family identity and finding your footing as a stepmom.

About My Guest 

Alexandra Nolan is a dynamic parenting educator, aspiring All About Parenting Trainer, and successful momtrepreneur. As a mother of three boys, she seamlessly blends personal experience with evidence-based strategies to empower parents across the United States.

Currently pursuing her certification, Alexandra specializes in applying Self-Determination Theory to foster intrinsic motivation in children, helping families create nurturing environments that promote autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

Her journey from a struggling parent to a passionate advocate for positive parenting techniques makes her uniquely qualified to guide others through their parenting challenges. Alexandra’s approach focuses on achieving balance in parenting styles, moving away from fear-based methods towards more effective, scientifically-backed strategies. Her workshops and webinars offer practical tools for parents to raise confident, responsible children while strengthening family bonds. Alexandra’s mission is to transform parenting experiences by bridging the gap between parenting science and everyday family life.

Find her on IG!

So much more than a podcast!!!

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Schedule with Christina⁠ and get some 1:1 support.

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Christina chats with Kisha who shares her unique story of how she stepped up when the ex wouldn't and the double standards that followed. Listen to this stepmom's story of being labeled the "homewrecker", being a full-time stepmom, and how she supported her stepson through his heartache, teenage years and beyond. Listen in!  Find her on Instagram: @kisha.paloma.lani So much more than a podcast!!!  Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member?  Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina chats with Scarlett who shares her journey of blending families, raising teens and going from fulltime to minimal contact. When the kids left the house to live with their mom, how did Scarlett and her husband cope? What lessons did she learn along the way? What has she done to rebuild the relationships with her kids?  Listen in to a story of vulnerability, redefining your role as "stepmom" and learning to enjoy the blended family you have. Enjoy! Mentioned in this episode: Christmas Joy Audit About My Guest: I am a mother, wife and teacher. My husband and I help blended families strengthen and enjoy their relationships. I am the host of Prayers From a Mom Podcast and Co-host of Enjoying Your Blended Family. So much more than a podcast!!!  @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina chats with Kelly who shares her story of becoming a full-time stepmom and navigating chronic illness, infertility and grief. How do you move through the emotions of wanting an "ours baby" with your partner, while managing your health and being a full-time stepmom? Kelly shares her insights on how she handles seeing baby announcements and picture-perfect holiday photos. Stepmoms can be both happy and grieving; let's normalize these emotions. Listen in!  About My Guest: Kelly Palmquist, LMSW, is a licensed clinical social worker. This stepmom’s unique perspective on navigating life’s challenges is also informed by master’s degrees in counseling and social work plus extensive experience in the mental health and medical social work fields. Kelly enjoys empowering women to find their magic amid adversity, encouraging others to survive “the storm with gratitude, grace and joy” to then thrive through her blog at www.SunshineInHeavyWeather.com and via Instagram @kelpalms. So much more than a podcast!!!  @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

In this episode, Christina chats with Alan, a dad who shares his story of high-conflict, alienation, family court, self-representation and out of state custody. Like many dads, Alan wasn't seen as an equal parent by his son's mom and had to overcome numerous obstacles to remain in his son's life. Alan has now become an advocate for dads around the world, amplifying their voice and their rights as parents. To the stepmoms who support their partners through the worst of it - this one is for you. Grab your partner and listen in. About My Guest: Alan is the creator and founder of Fathers Lives Matter and the host of the Fathers Truth Podcast. Find him in Instagram @fatherslivesmatter **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

We know and understand our side of the story, but what about the ex/bio-mom perspective? In this episode Christina chats with Katie, a single-mom who unpacks the feelings behind her previous high-conflict tendencies. Katie shares the hard work she's done to find peace within herself and her co-parenting relationship. Why does the ex react like that? Does she really hate you? Listen in! About My Guest:  Katie is a Coparenting Coach and Mom of two young children, who has been co-parenting for almost five years. She’s been the “crazy bio-mom” a time or two, but has now reformed and peacefully collaborates with her co-parent and his partner. Proof that it can be done! You can find her on Instagram @coparentingpeacefully and www.coparentingpeacefully.com **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Welcome to Season FOUR! Christina kicks off the season with psychotherapist Deana Panza to discuss the important topic of boundaries. Boundaries is a big word that gets thrown around a lot, but what does it mean? What doesn't it mean? How do we enforce boundaries with those we love without disrupting all the "blending"? Deana and Christina discuss hot issues like no kids in the bedroom, resentment and the relationship with the ex. Listen In!!  About My Guest:  Deana is a psychotherapist, speaker, coach, and wellness educator who helps people reconnect with their most authentic selves. For nearly a decade, she has been collaborating with people to empower them to take back control of their lives by helping them get to know their true selves and encouraging them with the power of choice. Website: http://deanapanza.com and Follow her on INSTAGRAM **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Welcome to the Season Three Finale!! Christina chats with Sam and Jenny, the husband and wife who are the definition of blended! They are both bio-parents, stepparents, she adopted and they foster! There is never a dull moment with a house full of kids, co-parenting with multiple exes and yup - a high conflict one to boot. Listen in as this inspiring couple shares their love story and how even through the tough stuff, they never doubt the life they've built together and the dreams they have to fulfill.   Thank you for making Season 3 amazing - and I look forward to a RAD Season 4 (Coming November 2021)  About my Guests:   Sam and Jenny reside on 7 acres of land in NW Arkansas surrounded by each of their own bio kids, step kids, with adoption and foster care all mixed in. To add to the circus throw in some goats, chickens, and other various farm animals. Sam is a project manager for a well know paint company and Jenny stays at home managing the family after hairdressing for 20 years and owning a salon. Both are family centered and have a love for tools and motorcycles and being in the garage together when they have time.  So much more than a podcast!!!   @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com   **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina chats with Michelle, a high-conflict resolution coach and attorney who helps parents disengage from high conflict relationships, getting them out of court, and stepping back into their lives. When you're attempting to parent with a high conflict person, you feel like you're walking on eggshells. How do you protect your peace? What are the best ways to communicate? What shouldn't you do? How do you define your boundaries and disengage? Listen in!  About My Guest: Michelle uses her unique combination as a certified Martha Beck life coach, a lawyer for almost 20 years, her field of study in Psychology,  and her own personal family law experience, to help parents learn how to disengage from a challenging and protracted co-parenting relationship. Visit her here: https://www.coachmichelle.club or on INSTAGRAM So much more than a podcast!!! Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member?  Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

As part of the Court Series, Christina chats with Stacy the supervisor of Pacific Northwest Guardian ad Litem in Washington State. She answers what exactly a GAL does, what to know and how to prepare if you happen to work with one. Stacey not only shares her professional wisdom, but also shares her personal blended family story. Listen in to hear her insights as a bio mom, an ex-stepmom and how she now supports her partner as a step-parent. Enjoy!  About My Guest:  Stacy is the owner and supervisor of Pacific Northwest Guardian ad Litem. Stacy started as a volunteer GAL, then known as a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) in Whatcom county in 2012 for title 13 cases (Dependency). She has her BS in Social Sciences and a minor in Law and Justice. Stacy took over as the owner of PNWGAL in 2014, serving children in Skagit and Whatcom County. PNWGAL has been contracted to provide GAL services since 2015 in Skagit County. Though certified as a Title 26 (Family Law) GAL in 2016, her devotion is to abused and neglected children. In 2017, she started the first volunteer advocate program (VGAL) for Skagit County and now focuses her time on supporting, supervising, and training her dedicated group of Guardian ad Litems. So much more than a podcast!!!  Come Join the community on Instagram @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

One of the many stressors of blended family life can be navigating the court system. In this episode, Christina chats with Diane Broderson a Family Law Attorney in Washington State. Diane shares her expertise on navigating Family Court and things you can do to be prepared. What are her "must haves" for Parenting Plans? What should you avoid? What's a good holiday schedule? When should you modify the Parenting Plan or Custody Order? Diane also shares her experience as a stepmom and bio mom. What has she learned given the multiple hats she wears? Listen in!  Disclaimer: This episode is for informational purposes only. None of the information provided is intended to constitute, nor does it constitute legal advice. About My Guest: Born and raised in the Spokane area, Diane graduated from Whitworth University with a degree in Social Services in 2012 and graduated from Gonzaga Law School in 2017. From the day she applied for law school, family law has been her passion. As the mother of four and stepmother of two kids, she has first-hand experience with many family law issues. You find her at www.farnsworthbroderson.com Or on Instagram @farnsworthbroderson So much more than a podcast!!!  Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member?  Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina is excited to welcome J.P. to the podcast to get a dad/partner perspective! JP shares about his co-parenting dynamic and what he considers when dating and potentially welcoming a stepmom into the blended mix. How does he view the stepmom role? What responsibility does the dad/partner have in the “blended process”? And what red flags does he suggest the stepmom pay attention to? 

We talk about it all and more! Listen in! 

About My Guest: 

41 year old Single Girl Dad to a 9 year old. Have gone from Conflict to Collaboration in Co-parenting and now Coach, Speak, and Advocate to help others do the same.

Find him on IG here.

So much more than a podcast!!!

Instagram

Schedule with Christina and get some 1:1 support.

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Communication is key, right? How do we talk about different parenting styles? Or if our partner has zero boundaries with the ex?? In this episode Christina chats with Gabby, a bio-mom to 2 and a stepmom to 1. Gabby shares her personal journey of divorcing her toxic ex-husband and later meeting her new love. Using her wisdom as a Relationship Coach Gabby shares how to have the hard conversations with our partners, and provides insights into how she improved her own co-parenting relationship with her ex-husband and her stepson's mom. How can we lean into the discomfort and find hope in what feels hopeless? Listen in!  About my guest: Gabby Gast is a Relationship Coach focused on improving communication and confidence in Co-Parenting and Blending Families. She shares her personal journey through her successful double-lung transplant while co-parenting, blending her family, and living an authentic life with vulnerability, as she navigates the many challenges and excitements of all things, co-blending. She loves to help parents find their voice again by sharing relatable ways to co-parent with confidence and blend families with compassion. Gabby has a co-blended family with her husband, Paul and their three kids; a boy and girl of her own, and her stepson. They live on a beautiful acre of property in the suburbs of Milwaukee, WI with their dog; Quill, and two cats; Rocket & Groot. Yes, they are a Marvel fan family! You can find Gabby at: www.gabbygast.com or on INSTAGRAM

Christina chats with Maarit from Blended Family Frappè who shares her story of how she decided not to have an ours baby with her beloved husband. What did she consider? What were her fears? How does she feel now, years later? Christina also opens up about the decision to have her daughter and the crossroads her and her husband are now at in deciding if they'll close the door to having more children.   Deciding to bring a baby into the world can be complicated, and for stepmoms we have unique considerations. Listen in.  About My Guest: Maarit is a writer, artist, and former single mama turned stepmama who literally wrote the book on disengaging. Today, she helps blended families in high conflict find some kinda zen as they navigate their way through dating, marriage, raising stepkids, and dealing with the ex. You can find her online at blendedfamilyfrappe.com or on Instagram @blendedfamilyfrappe. ******************* So much more than a podcast!!! Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com 

Genet joins to give an update on what's she's been up to and really, just to say hi and have some fun! Christina and G answer listeners' questions and discuss the decisions they wouldn't make again, how to handle a "Sour Patch" ex ... to name a few. Then they dive into a little truth or dare. Listen in for some real and raw honesty and lots of laughs! Cheers!  Find Genet on Instagram: @g_heaven11 So much more than a podcast!!! Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member?  Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com 

Christina chats with Caley, a stepmom who knows the woes of ineffective attempts at co-parenting. We chat how and when to make the shift to parallel parenting, how to navigate the differences in households, stepkid jealousy and so much more. When do you choose to confront the ex? How do you handle comments like, "well, my mom..."? Grab your beverage of choice and listen in!  So much more than a podcast!!!  @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedulea 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com

Christina chats with Laurie, a seasoned and full-time stepmom. Just after their wedding day, Laurie became a full-time stepmom when her stepson's mom moved out of the country.  Laurie shares her story of bonding with her stepson, the teen years, being called "mom" and how she kept her marriage strong with a non-traditional "honeymoon" stage. Laurie has wisdom, wit and a massive heart which led to her pouring her story onto paper. In her book, Grace-filled Stepparenting: help and hope for this unique and loving role Laurie validates stepmoms and gives them hope and comfort. Listen in and enjoy!  About My Guest:  Laurie is an author, speaker, wife and stepmom. She and her husband have parented full-time for twelve years, and she recently released a book called Grace-filled Stepparenting: help and hope for this unique and loving role Find her on Instagram: @lauriepshort So much more than a podcast!!!  @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina chats with Karen, a mom who can speak to the complexities of sharing custody of her daughter, navigating a relationship with a stepmom and...this is where it gets juicy... what happens when you fall back in love with your ex and now YOU'RE THE STEPMOM to your child's half sibling? WHAT?! That's right, listen in as Karen shares her story of love, being a mom, divorce and reuniting with her ex. Listen in as they discuss high conflict, being a stepmom, custody schedules, half-sibling dynamics and choosing what's best for the kids over what feeds the ego. Enjoy!  So much more than a podcast!!! Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina welcomes Beth to chat about co-parenting dynamics and how a rocky start can lead to shared vacations. Beth discusses how she's navigated being the third mom figure while finding freedom in her role as a stepmom. We discuss fertility, being child-free and how to survive stepmotherhood while also being an introvert! Listen in! About My Guest: As a Certified Stepparent Coach, owner of The Inclusive Stepmom (www.theinclusivestepmom.com), and coach inside of Stepmomz, the first mobile app for stepmoms, Beth McDonough has supported thousands of stepmoms through articles, group coaching support, forums, 1:1 coaching, webinars, panels, her signature course, and podcasts. As a child of divorce herself and one of three moms and one stepdad raising one feisty redhead, she knows how to thrive in an environment with lots of different personality types, conflicts, and energies. Beth married her wife in 2017 and has one stepdaughter, who is nine years old. Find Beth in Instagram So much more than a podcast!!! Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina chats with Erin who opens up about her journey through stepmotherhood, including the decision to leave her relationship and ultimately her official role as "stepmom". We all have our threshold. The invisible line of when too much is too much and we're presented with the choice to walk away. Erin shares when she knew it was time to leave, how her relationship with her stepkids has evolved, the challenges she's faced and what she wants other stepmoms to know. A chapter has ended, but Erin's life post-stepmom is radiating love and life. Listen in! About My Guest:  Erin has an energy about her that elicits introspection and laughter. She finds joy in practicing yoga, meditation and is currently managing the front desk at a community dance studio. Erin is recently divorced from a 4 year marriage/5 year relationship with a man with two kids and their HCBM. You can find Erin on Instagram: @emharris2u So much more than a podcast!!! Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member?  Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina chats with Michaele-Lynne, a stepmom to two teenage girls and a mom to her 3 year-old ours baby. Michaele-Lynne discusses her battle between disengaging and being a people pleaser, and how writing about stepmotherhood has helped her process the hard times and the good times. We chat the teen years, hands-off discipline, and raising an ours baby. What helps us grow through what we go through? Listen in! 

About My Guest: 

Michaele-Lynne and her husband of four years live in Rochester, NY where she works as a Human Resources professional. They live with his two daughters (13 and 16) with whom he has split custody and their 3 year old daughter. She enjoys arts and crafts, traveling, sampling different teas, dining out, craft beer, yoga, Zumba, golf, and watching hockey. Oh, and Stepmom gatherings!!

Check out her book Blended Reality: Poems and thoughts for Stepmoms, Blended Families & the People that Support Us 

So much more than a podcast!!! 

Find me on Instagram @radicalstepmomspodcast 

Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website!

www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com

**This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Meet Casey, a “late in life” lesbian, who left her husband at 32 after having an affair with her now partner. Casey explains how they've been living through the pandemic while in the throes of a custody battle and blending their family. What can be done when the ex refuses to go through with the second parent adoption? How are LGBTQ families represented in the blended world? What needs to change legally and in the way we perceive families? "With no “dads” in the picture, it’s just so. Many. Mom. Feelings." -Casey  Listen in and Happy Pride Month!  So much more than a podcast!!!  Find me on Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com  **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

The holidays are supposed to be full of joy and love, but in a blended family…it can also bring frustration and conflict. In this BONUS episode, Christina and Michelle chat ways to prepare, things to consider and tips on protecting your holiday peace. How do you navigate schedule changes, gift giving, or holiday cards? Listen in! Happy Holidays, rad stepmoms! About My Guest: Michelle Mitchell, JD — founder of High Conflict Resolutions, LLC. Connect at coparentingcoach.comFind her on IG: coachmichellesdSo much more than a podcast!!!Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcasthttps://chatwithchristina.as.me/and get 1:1 support!https://www.patreon.com/radicalstepmomspodcasthttp://www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com/

Many stepmoms have felt the pressures and expectations to fit into an already established family unit. Do you want to spend every holiday with the ex? What if you don't want the photo-op blended life? What if it's feeling a little too "sister-wife" and you're needing to create some boundaries? Meet Miranda, a stepmom who had to alter the expectations placed on her to fit her own comfort level. How has she advocated for herself to create the life she wants? Listen in!  About My Guest:  Miranda is an engaged step-mom-to-be already living the stepmom life. Having fertility issues she believed meeting someone with a child would allow her the opportunity to share her mom heart and build a family of her own. Little did she know, she was entering a situation with an already established family unit that would require her to navigate what she describes as an “over blend” and advocate for having a family dynamic of her own. So much more than a podcast!!!  @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina welcomes the lovely Naja Hall to discuss how to manage a high conflict ex on social media, navigating the impacts of child support, insecurities and more. Naja is a force, and her stepmom energy is inspiring. Listen in and learn how to be "unbothered".  About My Guest:  Naja is a stepmom to 3 and knows the hardships of parental alienation and unsuccessful attempts at justice in family court. She used her experience and drive to create her platform for blended families, Blended and Black. Her vision has created a space where women from all races, backgrounds, ages, and perspectives can congregate on common ground: How To Be An Unbothered Stepmom. So much more than a podcast!!! Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Grab your beverage of choice and get excited... Christina welcomes back Genet and she's ready to give an update on where she's at in her stepmom journey.  It's no secret, blended family life is hard and being a stepmom is one one of the hardest things we've taken on. What keeps us strong? When is too much, too much? How do we know if we're making the right choice, and for the right reasons? Genet is keeping it real and raw, listen in. 

So much more than a podcast!!!
Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast
Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member?
Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com
**This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

How has our own childhood impacted our experience as a stepmom? On this episode, Christina welcomes Lindy who shares her story of being a stepdaughter turned stepmom. What was her experience like being in a blended family? How has her relationship with her own stepmom shaped how she is with her own stepdaughters? Listen in as Lindy also shares about her fertility struggles, how her partner supports her in her role and her advice for new and seasoned stepmoms! Enjoy! About My Guest:  Lindy works in public policy in the San Francisco Bay Area, where she lives with her fiancé and two stepdaughters. She’s navigating 2nd marriages, 2nd families and some huge firsts while trying to figure out how to thrive in her 30s. You can find her on Instagram @lilsteps_bigsteps So much more than a podcast!!! Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina welcomes one of her best friends on to discuss his blended life. Doug is a bio dad AND stepdad who has a lot to share about stepping up, managing a high conflict ex, parenting differences and keeping it about the kids. He shares what it's been like to be the bio dad and support his wife as a stepmom, and what he's needed to be successful as a stepdad. Talking to Doug is like chatting with another stepmom - he GETS it! Listen in! So much more than a podcast!!! Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

Christina chats with Kelly, a mom to 2, a stepmom to 3, and add two ours babies makes SEVEN kids! Kelly shares her stepmom story and how she manages the many hats she wears. Does her role as a stepmom impact her identity as a bio mom? How has she transitioned into motherhood with her ours babies? How does she take care of herself when she's always caring for others? What does a blended family need to be happy and healthy? Listen in!  So much more than a podcast!!! Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

In this special episode, Christina chats with her husband's stepmom to hear about her 30+ years experience in this role. She shares how quickly she dove in, how she navigated insecurities, the teen years and how an act of disengaging saved her family. Christina and Tina discuss the parallels of their lives and the similarities of every stepmom journey. Tina is definitely a radical stepmom who's been through the trenches. If you're looking for a success story...listen in!  So much more than a podcast!!!  Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com **This episode is sponsored by StepMom Magazine. Use discount code: Radical20 to save 20% **

As stepmoms we are presented with the privilege of influencing and teaching our step-children. Some topics carry more weight than others. In this episode, Christina chats with Avril, a stepmom and social justice advocate to discuss raising antiracist children, and the steps white parents can take to look at their own beliefs and biases. We are at a deep and urgent need for change in our society, and it starts with the conversations we have at home. Lean into any discomfort or curiosity, and listen in. About My Guest:  Avril Williams is an art educator, yoga teacher, entrepreneur and advocate for social justice. Her experience growing up on a farm in Maine within a mixed-race blended family has played a part in who she is today. After leaving her home state she attained her degree in art education, a yoga teacher certification, and has travelled extensively internationally. In doing so, she realized the importance of making our dreams reality, living authentically and being active in how we choose to show up in the world. Avril now owns her own business, A Dandy Line with Avril, to help others do the same through what she calls “creative intentional living”.  www.adandylinewithavril.com So much more than a podcast!!!  @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com

Talking about puberty and sex with our kids doesn't have to make us break out in an anxious rash. In this episode, Christina chats with sexuality educator Sarah Spoule to answer questions like: what is the typical age to have the "sex talk"? How do we talk to our kids about their bodies and boundaries without shaming? How do we navigate these conversation when there's differences in households? Listen in as Sarah shares how to makes these conversations less scary, and more normalized.  About My Guest:  Sarah is a sexuality educator and mum-of-three. She supports all sorts of parents to build even more connection with their growing kids by talking about sensitive subjects like bodies, sex and consent. Find her: www.instagram.com/iamsarahsproule/ www.sarahsproule.com Mentioned on this Episode: Breaking the Hush Factor: Ten Rules for Talking with Teenagers about Sex by Karen Rayne www.amaze.org

Christina and the lovely Kimberly King chat how blended life changes after an ours baby and how despite it's challenges, we feel we were meant to be stepmoms. Kim shares her story of moving to a new country with her family (including the ex) and the complexities of being in a interracial/multicultural marriage. What considerations does a stepmom have when blending cultures and family values? What has helped her the most in bonding with her stepkids? What's her "why?" when things get hard? Listen in!  About My Guest:  Kimberly King is a Certified Stepfamily Coach using her knowledge and personal experiences to help unique blended families navigate their way toward a peaceful + happy home. The stepmom of 2 is also biracial woman in an interracial + multicultural marriage and blended family, She's a chef by passion and you can usually find her in the kitchen cooking up delightful dishes or doting on her handsome 2 year old. The Kings have recently traded city life for island life with a move from Los Angeles all the way to Jamaica. Find her here www.honestlymum.com MORE THAN A PODCAST: Get 1:1 support, become a member and get the resources you need! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com 

Christina welcomes back Coach Michelle Michele to discuss the foundations of navigating a high conflict co-parenting relationship. If we’re in a high conflict dynamic we know the toll it can take on our relationship and our own mental health. We can all name one bad habit we have or one need that isn’t being met.  What can you start implementing right now that will save time, money and resources in the long run? Listen in! 

About My Guest: 

Michelle Mitchell, JD — founder of High Conflict Resolutions, LLC. Connect at coparentingcoach.com

Find her on IG: @coachmichellesd

So much more than a podcast!!!

Instagram: @radicalstepmomspodcast

Schedule a session with Christina

Join the Rad community to meet other stepmoms and gain access to exclusive content!

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Let's chat disengaging, discipline, stepmom wins AND fails, being a child-free stepmom navigating infertility and... co-sleeping! This episode is jam packed with nuggets of insights and wisdom that will leave you saying, "Yeeesssss!." Listen in as Christina chats with Karen, a stepmom who has learned what "stepping back" means to her and how boundaries saved her from resentment.  About My Guest: Karen is a 31 year old wife, stepmom to her 8 year old son and a fur mom to a 1 year old rescue mutt. She works in Accounting but has her Masters in English. She loves to read, help other stepmamas try to navigate their journeys and write. Her true passions are baking and horror movies. Read her blog: https://theatypicalchildlessstepmom.blogspot.com/ So much more than a podcast!!!  @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com

Affairs. They happen, right? Listen in as I chat with Erika about her journey into stepmotherhood. How did she meet her current partner? How has she navigated being viewed as "the other woman"? What is her relationship like with the the kids? The ex? We talk about it all! We can't choose who we fall in love with, or the timing. Sometimes things get a little messy. Listen in!  About my Guest: Erika is a rock-climbing, skiing, hiking, National Park geek who lives in Wyoming with her incredible husband. She is a stepmom to 2 stepdaughters and 1 stepson, and a cat-mom of 2! She is in her third year of working towards a Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education and hopes to become a middle school or high school social studies teacher soon.

Christina chats with Lisa who tells her story of never wanting to have children, and how jumping into stepmotherhood has impacted her. Lisa shares that while she remained childfree by choice, a hysterectomy at 32 stirred up some difficult emotions. What has helped her along the way? What words of advice does she have for other stepmoms? Listen in!  So much more than a podcast!!!  @radicalstepmomspodcast  Want to schedule 1:1 session or become a Radical Member? Head to my website! www.radicalstepmomspodcast.com