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Watch this episode on YouTube.

Extracurriculars are meant to be fun, but they can be a source of tension for coparents. In this video, we provide practical advice to help you and your coparent make decisions smoothly. We cover everything from the importance of trial periods for new activities to setting boundaries for mutual respect, both on the sidelines and online. By working as a team, you can give your child the gift of a positive experience, preventing them from being soured on activities they love.

Find more practical coparenting tips at www.coparentacademy.com

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Watch this episode on YouTube. 

A child's education is a critical part of their well-being, but for coparents a parent-teacher conference can quickly become an arena for conflict. This guide helps you put your child's needs first by equipping you with the professional-grade tools to navigate any difficult situation with grace. 

This video gives you a tactical roadmap to:

• A clear, 3-step plan for before, during, and after the conference.
• Ensure your child feels secure in a "two-parent" system, even after separation.
• Create a consistent academic plan across both households, minimizing stress for your child.
• Handle disagreements with your coparent in a way that models respectful behavior for your children.
• Transform the conference into an opportunity to celebrate your child’s victories together.
• Why demonstrating your ability to show up for your child's education is the ultimate win.

For more tactical, professional solutions that help you take control of your coparenting journey, visit coparentacademy.com.

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Watch this episode on YouTube. 

In this episode, we answer a question posed by a mother who is concerned the child is moving to overnights with the father too quickly. The court has approved unsupervised day visits, and now he's asking for overnights. This mother is nervous, not just about the living situation but also about past behaviors. We talk about what truly constitutes a "stable enough" environment for a child's overnight visits, going beyond who's on the lease. Are class differences unfairly influencing perceptions? How can parents ensure their child feels safe and has their own space, even in unconventional settings? Join us for an honest discussion about navigating court orders, parental anxieties, and the child's perspective in complex family dynamics.

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This episode is our third in a four-part series on the stress children feel during separation and divorce and the coping mechanisms available to them.

In this episode, we start out discussion about coping mechanisms available to children.

These episodes are based on the Children's Stress Scale used by Linda for years as part of her work with children.


Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.  To learn more about becoming the best coparent you can be, visit coparentacademy.com.

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This episode is our second in a four-part series on the stress children feel during separation and divorce and the coping mechanisms available to them.

In this episode, we continue to discuss the various stress factors affecting children. In Episodes 77 and 78, we'll discuss the coping mechanisms available to children.

These episodes are based on the Children's Stress Scale used by Linda for years as part of her work with children.


Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.  To learn more about becoming the best coparent you can be, visit coparentacademy.com.

Let us hear from you!

In this episode we begin a four-part series on the stress children feel during separation and divorce and the coping mechanisms available to them.

In Episodes 75 and 76, we'll discuss the various stress factors affecting children. In Episodes 77 and 78, we'll discuss the coping mechanisms available to children.

These episodes are based on the Children's Stress Scale used by Linda for years as part of her work with children.


Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.  To learn more about becoming the best coparent you can be, visit coparentacademy.com.

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This week we conclude our two-episode conversation with Brad Baldridge.

Brad Baldridge, CFP®, is a College Funding Consultant specializing in late-stage college funding planning and the chief podcaster of Taming The High Cost Of College.  He provides customized planning using the latest financial aid, tax, cash flow and academic strategies.

In this conversation, we dig into the details of what coparents should be considering in funding their child's college education, whether college is years away or started last year. Linda and I were blown away by all we didn't know about college financial planning, and this was an extremely informative conversation.

Learn more about Brad and his services at his website, tamingthehighcostofcollege.com. Be sure to check out the several college financial planning calculators and tools on the Resources page of his site.

Also, please check out Brad's podcast:  https://tamingthehighcostofcollege.com/category/podcast/

At the end of this episode, you will hear important disclaimers Brad asked us to make available in the recording.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.  To learn more about becoming the best coparent you can be, visit coparentacademy.com.

Let us hear from you!

This week we begin a two-episode conversation with Brad Baldridge.

Brad Baldridge, CFP®, is a College Funding Consultant specializing in late-stage college funding planning and the chief podcaster of Taming The High Cost Of College.  He provides customized planning using the latest financial aid, tax, cash flow and academic strategies. 

In this conversation, we discuss the difficult situation of college funding during and after a divorce, starting with the foundational information any parent needs to know when planning for the financial realities of their child's college education. 

Learn more about Brad and his services at his website, tamingthehighcostofcollege.com. Be sure to check out the several college financial planning calculators and tools on the Resources page of his site. 

Also, please check out Brad's podcast:  https://tamingthehighcostofcollege.com/category/podcast/

At the end of this episode, you will hear important disclosures Brad asked us to make available in the recording.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.  To learn more about becoming the best coparent you can be, visit coparentacademy.com.

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This week, we conclude our conversation with attorney and Guardian ad Litem Keith Jones. In this episode we discuss the Guardian ad Litem report, participation in mediation, and participation in trial as an expert witness.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.  To learn more about becoming the best coparent you can be, visit coparentacademy.com.

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This week we begin a two-episode conversation with attorney and Guardian ad Litem Keith Jones. Keith has nearly 30 years' experience as an attorney and Guardian ad Litem and was kind enough to share his experience and expertise with us.

This week's episode is an introduction to the concept of a Guardian ad Litem, including what one is, when one is appointed, how they conduct their investigation, and how they are paid.

In next week's episode, we conclude our conversation with Keith as we discuss the Guardian ad Litem report, participation in mediation, and participation in trial as an expert witness.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.  To learn more about becoming the best coparent you can be, visit coparentacademy.com.

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This week we conclude our conversation with Licensed Professional Counselor Jaime Vogt about Extended Forensic Evaluations (EFE). In this episode, Jaime discusses in detail the process she uses to conduct an EFE.

Jaime is a licensed professional counselor in the state of Oklahoma. She has conducted over 3,000 forensic interviews of children for frontline investigations. 

Prior to starting her private practice she began her work with children as a therapist with Family and Children's Services in the Family Sexual Abuse Treatment Program .  She later became the Children's Services Director and Forensic Interviewer for the Child Abuse Network at the Children's Justice Center.

Jaime appears regularly as an Expert Witness in Criminal, Juvenile and Civil proceedings regarding Forensic Interviewing and Child Abuse Issues. She has testified for both prosecutors & defense attorneys in criminal proceedings in both district and federal courts . She trains mental health professionals and attorneys in child interviewing and related topics.

Ms. Vogt has served on the board for the Oklahoma Association for Collaborative Professionals and is currently a member of the Quality Assurance Panel for the Tulsa County Courts.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

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This week we are thrilled to have the opportunity to sit down with Jaime Vogt for the first part in a two-part series on extended forensic evaluations. 

Jaime is a licensed professional counselor in the state of Oklahoma. She has conducted over 3,000 forensic interviews of children for frontline investigations. 

Prior to starting her private practice she began her work with children as a therapist with Family and Children's Services in the Family Sexual Abuse Treatment Program .  She later became the Children's Services Director and Forensic Interviewer for the Child Abuse Network at the Children's Justice Center.

Jaime appears regularly as an Expert Witness in Criminal, Juvenile and Civil proceedings regarding Forensic Interviewing and Child Abuse Issues. She has testified for both prosecutors & defense attorneys in criminal proceedings in both district and federal courts . She trains mental health professionals and attorneys in child interviewing and related topics.

Ms. Vogt has served on the board for the Oklahoma Association for Collaborative Professionals and is currently a member of the Quality Assurance Panel for the Tulsa County Courts.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

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This is third of three episodes focused on reconciliation counseling. In this episode, we discuss the risks and rewards of reconciliation counseling, as well as some thoughts for the custodial parent.   

After listening to this episode, you'll know what to expect if you or someone in your family is going through reconciliation counseling.
 
To do a much deeper dive into the concept and practicalities of reconciliation counseling, take our Reconciliation Counseling course at coparentacademy.com.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

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Watch this episode on YouTube

Are you tired of the constant battles and high "transaction costs" in your co-parenting relationship? This episode dives deep into how cooperation, trust, and empathy can transform your coparenting interactions, making life easier for you and significantly benefiting your child.

We'll break down these important elements in the order they build on each other:

• Cooperation: Learn where to start with small, low-investment acts that can chip away at the "us vs. them" mentality. Discover how even minor adjustments, like meeting 30 minutes later or bringing a snack, can be perceived as major issues, and how taking the initiative can lead to a more reciprocal dynamic. We'll explore why a lack of cooperation is a "tax" that makes your life harder and how it negatively impacts your child.
• Trust: Understand how consistent cooperation can pave the way for greater trust. We'll discuss why creating an environment where your coparent feels safe to admit mistakes is so important, and how responding with grace, rather than judgment, can lead to more openness and a healthier relationship. Discover why rebuilding trust takes time and consistent effort, especially after a violation, and the hidden "administrative layer" it often requires.
• Empathy: See how a foundation of cooperation and trust makes empathy a natural next step. We'll explore how empathy can prevent small problems from escalating, incentivize honesty, and model positive pro-social behavior for your children.

Improving your coparenting relationship is not just about thinking differently, but doing things differently. We'll discuss why investing in cooperation, even when it feels like you're losing initially, is an investment in your own peace of mind, your coparenting relationship, and most importantly, your child's well-being and happiness.

You'll learn:

• Practical strategies to initiate cooperation without fear of disappointment.
• How to respond to coparent mistakes in a way that builds trust, not resentment.
• The long-term benefits of embodying empathy in your coparenting interactions.
• Why "borrowing trouble" from past experiences can hinder progress.
• How your children are keenly aware of parental cooperation (or lack thereof) and its impact on them.

Let us hear from you!

This is the second of three episodes focused on reconciliation counseling. In this episode, we discuss the process of reconciliation counseling.  After listening to this episode, you'll know what to expect if you or someone in your family is going through reconciliation counseling. 
 
To do a much deeper dive into the concept and practicalities of reconciliation counseling, take our Reconciliation Counseling course at coparentacademy.com.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

Let us hear from you!

This is the first of three episodes focused on reconciliation counseling. In this episode, we discuss what reconciliation counseling is, when it is appropriate, and when it is inappropriate.
 
To do a much deeper dive into the concept and practicalities of reconciliation counseling, take our Reconciliation Counseling course at coparentacademy.com.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

Let us hear from you!

Mom is frustrated that Dad won't help their young child with homework. What should she do about her concerns?

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.  In this podcast we reference our coparenting principles that are the foundation of our Coparent Academy approach. You can learn more about our coparenting principles in our Foundations 1 - Principles course at coparentacademy.com.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

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Mom has a high conflict coparent who is rude and mean in his communication with her. Mom feels anxious about communicating with Dad and asks for advice on how to deal with her high conflict coparent.

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.  Our Foundations Bundle at Coparent Academy can help you deal with a high conflict coparent by learning important coparenting principles, 7 keys to good communication, and our conflict management protocol.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

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What should a child call each parent's house? is there anything wrong with saying "Mom's house" or "Dad's house"? What does it mean if a child call's one parent's house "home", but not the other?

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.  This episode discusses stepfamily dynamics.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

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A Dad feels extreme guilt because of how he's been handling his frustration with his 8-year-old daughter. But does he really?

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.  This episode discusses stepfamily dynamics. If you would like to learn more about how to build a successful stepfamily, try our Success Stepfamilies course at Coparent  Academy.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

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A mom is showing her 10-year-old son only Dad's side of their text communication - especially when he's not being as nice as he should be. Should Dad show the child all of the text messages and tell him that his mom is a liar?

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

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A Mom has heard from her eight-year-old child that Dad is going to move and maybe change the child's school.  What should she consider in deciding whether to take the matter back to court?

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

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Mom thinks that Dad is trying to manipulate their child's therapist. Linda and Ron discuss what boundaries should be set by treating professionals or the courts when coparents bring their conflict to the professional's office.

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you listen.

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Linda and Ron discuss the complex issue of whether and when a child should tell a judge which parent they would prefer to live with. 

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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Making coparenting decisions can feel like a minefield, especially when you need to find common ground. In this video, we discuss practical strategies for successful coparenting. We'll show you how to build mutual respect, truly understand your coparent's perspective, and always put your child's well-being first.

You'll learn to spot your deal breakers, grasp the real cost of conflict, and create an environment where your child can truly thrive. We're sharing practical advice on how to approach those tough conversations, avoid unnecessary conflict, and find solutions that work for everyone.

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In this episode with have a conversation with therapist Jayden Freeman of the Therapy Connections podcast. (Therapy Connections - YouTube). In this conversation, we discuss how conflict in coparenting affects children and how Jayden is an example of the good that can happen when parents coparent well. 

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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Should a parent force their child to express affection for them? In this episode, we discuss the implications of forcing your child to tell you that they love you.   

Spoiler:  don't do it.

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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In this 13th and final episode of our Parental Alienation season we discuss parental alienation as domestic violence.

In this episode, we refer to the Duluth Power and Control Wheel.

Our research material for this episode comes from Professor Jennifar Harman and colleagues. Learn more about Professor Harman.

Next week, in our final episode of the parental alienation season, we'll discuss parental alienation as both domestic and child abuse. 

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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In this 12th episode of our Parental Alienation season we discuss how to help alienated children and the targeted parent.

Next week, in our final episode of the parental alienation season, we'll discuss parental alienation as both domestic and child abuse. 

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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In this 11th episode of our Parental Alienation season we are joined by Clint, an alienated father, to discuss how he has learned to cope as the targeted parent in the face of protracted alienation. 

In the following weeks as we wind down our parental alienation season we'll cover our final two topics, which are: 

• how to help alienated children and their parents;
• parental alienation as both domestic and child abuse

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles. Courses discussed in the episode were the Reconciliation Counseling, 7 Keys to Better Communication, and Active Conflict Resolution courses.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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In this 10th episode of our Parental Alienation season we discuss the effects of alienation on children and the targeted parent. 

As we wind down our parental alienation season we'll cover our final topics, which include: 

• how to help alienated children and their parents;
• controversy surrounding parental alienation syndrome; and
• parental alienation as both domestic and child abuse

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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In this 9th episode of our Parental Alienation season, we continue and conclude our discussion of the 17 strategies typically used by alienating parents. In this episode, we work through numbers 13, 14, 15, and 16 of the following 17 strategies:  

1. Badmouthing
2. Limiting Contact
3. Interfering with Communication
4. Interfering with Symbolic Communication
5. Withdrawal of Love
6. Telling Child Targeted Parent Does Not Love Him or Her
7. Forcing Child to Choose
8. Creating the Impression that the Targeted Parent is Dangerous
9. Confiding in Child
10. Forcing Child to Reject Targeted Parent
11. Asking Child to Spy on Targeted Parent
12. Asking Child to Keep Secrets from Targeted Parent
13. Referring to Targeted Parent by First Name
14. Referring to a Stepparent as “Mom” or “Dad” and Encouraging Child to Do the Same
15. Withholding Medical, Academic, and Other Important Information from Targeted Parent/ Keeping Targeted Parent’s Name off of Medical, Academic, and Other Relevant Documents
16. Changing Child’s Name to Remove Association with Targeted Parent
17. Cultivating Dependency

The research behind today's episode was done by Dr.  Amy Baker (amyjlbaker.com), and we rely on her 2006 article "Behaviors and Strategies Employed in Parental Alienation", which is available for free download here. 
 
In the following weeks, we'll do continue our deep dive into everything related to parental alienation, including: 

• the effects of alienation on children and parents;
• how to help alienated children and their parents;
• controversy surrounding parental alienation syndrome; and
• parental alienation as both domestic and child abuse

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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In this 8th episode of our Parental Alienation season, we continue our conversation with a father named Clint who believes he has been the target of parental alienation.  

This is the second in a two-part conversation with Clint. In this episode, we learn more about some of the strategies of alienation he believes have been used against and how his children have been affected by the conflict.  

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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In this 7th episode of our Parental Alienation season, we take a break from our work through the academic literature to talk with a father named Clint who believes he has been the target of parental alienation.  

This is the first of a two-part conversation with Clint. In this episode, we learn about Clint and some of the details of his struggle against parental alienation. 

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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In this 6th episode of our Parental Alienation season, we continue our discussion of the 17 strategies typically used by alienating parents. In this episode, we work through numbers 9, 10, 11, 12, and 17 of the following 17 strategies:  

1. Badmouthing
2. Limiting Contact
3. Interfering with Communication
4. Interfering with Symbolic Communication
5. Withdrawal of Love
6. Telling Child Targeted Parent Does Not Love Him or Her
7. Forcing Child to Choose
8. Creating the Impression that the Targeted Parent is Dangerous
9. Confiding in Child
10. Forcing Child to Reject Targeted Parent
11. Asking Child to Spy on Targeted Parent
12. Asking Child to Keep Secrets from Targeted Parent
13. Referring to Targeted Parent by First Name
14. Referring to a Stepparent as “Mom” or “Dad” and Encouraging Child to Do the Same
15. Withholding Medical, Academic, and Other Important Information from Targeted Parent/ Keeping Targeted Parent’s Name off of Medical, Academic, and Other Relevant Documents
16. Changing Child’s Name to Remove Association with Targeted Parent
17. Cultivating Dependency

• the remaining 17 strategies used by alienating parents;
• the effects of alienation on children and parents;
• how to help alienated children and their parents;
• controversy surrounding parental alienation syndrome; and
• parental alienation as both domestic and child abuse

Let us hear from you!

Watch this episode on Youtube.

Reconciliation therapy offers a path parents and estranged children to reconnect, but it's not without significant risks. Many parents assume there's nothing to lose, but an unprepared approach can actually worsen the situation, causing more pain for both parent and child, and potentially ending any chance of future reconciliation.

In this candid discussion, we dive deep into the often-overlooked dangers of entering reconciliation counseling without proper preparation. We discuss why it's important for estranged parents to be financially ready, emotionally stable, and to have addressed underlying issues like anger management, domestic violence, coercive control, and substance abuse. 

Learn why genuine self-reflection and a willingness to be vulnerable are essential for success. We also highlight the critical role of attorneys in guiding clients through this complex process, ensuring they are truly ready to engage constructively and, most importantly, safely for the child.

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In this 5th episode of our Parental Alienation season, we continue our discussion of the 17 strategies typically used by alienating parents. In this episode, we work through numbers 5 through 8 of the following 17 strategies:  

1. Badmouthing
2. Limiting Contact
3. Interfering with Communication
4. Interfering with Symbolic Communication
5. Withdrawal of Love
6. Telling Child Targeted Parent Does Not Love Him or Her
7. Forcing Child to Choose
8. Creating the Impression that the Targeted Parent is Dangerous
9. Confiding in Child
10. Forcing Child to Reject Targeted Parent
11. Asking Child to Spy on Targeted Parent
12. Asking Child to Keep Secrets from Targeted Parent
13. Referring to Targeted Parent by First Name
14. Referring to a Stepparent as “Mom” or “Dad” and Encouraging Child to Do the Same
15. Withholding Medical, Academic, and Other Important Information from Targeted Parent/ Keeping Targeted Parent’s Name off of Medical, Academic, and Other Relevant Documents
16. Changing Child’s Name to Remove Association with Targeted Parent
17. Cultivating Dependency

The research behind today's episode was done by Dr.  Amy Baker (amyjlbaker.com), and we rely on her 2006 article "Behaviors and Strategies Employed in Parental Alienation", which is available for free download here. 
 
In the following weeks, we'll do continue our deep dive into everything related to parental alienation, including: 

• the remaining 17 strategies used by alienating parents;
• the effects of alienation on children and parents;
• how to help alienated children and their parents;
• controversy surrounding parental alienation syndrome; and
• parental alienation as both domestic and child abuse

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

Let us hear from you!

In this 4th episode of our Parental Alienation season, we begin our discussion of the 17 strategies typically used by alienating parents. In this episode, we work through the first four of the following strategies:  

1. Badmouthing
2. Limiting Contact
3. Interfering with Communication
4. Interfering with Symbolic Communication
5. Withdrawal of Love
6. Telling Child Targeted Parent Does Not Love Him or Her
7. Forcing Child to Choose
8. Creating the Impression that the Targeted Parent is Dangerous
9. Confiding in Child
10. Forcing Child to Reject Targeted Parent
11. Asking Child to Spy on Targeted Parent
12. Asking Child to Keep Secrets from Targeted Parent
13. Referring to Targeted Parent by First Name
14. Referring to a Stepparent as “Mom” or “Dad” and Encouraging Child to Do the Same
15. Withholding Medical, Academic, and Other Important Information from Targeted Parent/ Keeping Targeted Parent’s Name off of Medical, Academic, and Other Relevant Documents
16. Changing Child’s Name to Remove Association with Targeted Parent
17. Cultivating Dependency

The research behind today's episode was done by Dr.  Amy Baker (amyjlbaker.com), and we rely on her 2006 article "Behaviors and Strategies Employed in Parental Alienation", which is available for free download here. 
 
In the following weeks, we'll do continue our deep dive into everything related to parental alienation, including: 

• the remaining 17 strategies used by alienating parents;
• the effects of alienation on children and parents;
• how to help alienated children and their parents;
• controversy surrounding parental alienation syndrome; and
• parental alienation as both domestic and child abuse

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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In this 3rd episode of our Parental Alienation season, we discuss the 8 behavioral manifestations of alienation in children. Those behaviors are: 

1. Campaign of denigration;
2. Stating weak, frivolous and absurd reasons for the rejection of the target parent;
3. Lack of ambivalence towards alienating and target parents;
4. Strongly asserting the decision to reject the target parent is their “own will”;
5. Absence of guilt about how the target parent is treated;
6. Use of borrowed scenarios and ideas adopted from the alienating parent to make accusations against the target parent;
7. Child will repeat back entire scenarios, even though they don’t understand the words they’re using or what the circumstances of the scenario mean; and
8. Rejection spreads to target parent’s entire family including grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, etc. 

In the following weeks, we'll do continue our deep dive into everything related to parental alienation, including: 

• 17 strategies used by alienating parents;
• the effects of alienation on children and parents;
• how to help alienated children and their parents;
• controversy surrounding parental alienation syndrome; and
• parental alienation as both domestic and child abuse

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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In this 2nd episode of our Parental Alienation season, we discuss the 4 Factor Model of Parental Alienation.  Those four factors are: 
 
1.    Existence of a prior positive relationship with now rejected parent.

2.    Absence of abuse or neglect on the part of the rejected parent.

3.    Use of alienating behaviors by the favored parent.

4.    Exhibition of alienation behaviors by child. 

The purpose of the 4 Factor Model is to rule out reasonable estrangement from an absent or abusive parent so that abused and/or neglected children are not mistaken for alienated children and placed back with their abuser. 

You can find Dr. Rachel Baker's 2018 article addressing the validity and reliability of the model at Reliability and validity of the four‐factor model of parental alienation (pasg.info)

In the following weeks, we'll do continue our deep dive into everything related to parental alienation, including: 

• 8 behaviors of alienated children;
• 17 strategies used by alienating parents;
• the effects of alienation on children and parents;
• how to help alienated children and their parents;
• controversy surrounding parental alienation syndrome; and
• parental alienation as both domestic and child abuse.
  
  

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

Let us hear from you!

For the next several episodes we're focusing on Parental Alienation. In this episode, we give a brief history of parental alienation, which starts earlier than you may think. 

In the following weeks, we'll do a deep dive into everything related to parental alienation, including: 

• 4 factors of parental alienation
• 8 behaviors of alienated children
• 17 strategies used by alienating parents
• the effects of alienation on children and parents
• how to help alienated children and their parents
• controversy surrounding parental alienation syndrome
• parental alienation as both domestic and child abuse

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles.

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

Let us hear from you!

Transitions are always hard for kids. Transitioning into a new stepfamily is no different. In this excerpt from the Coparenting Academy "Successful Stepfamilies" course, Linda and Ron introduce why transitioning into a stepfamily can be so hard for children, and how the transition affects different children differently.

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles. Learn more about Successful Stepfamilies course. 

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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When you're dealing with a frustrating coparenting situation, how do you tell what's upsetting you and why?  This excerpt from the Coparenting Academy "Active Conflict Resolution" course can help you understand what you're feeling and why you're feeling that way about your coparent's actions.

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles. 

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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A Dad with a history of mental illness and drug use is "napping" for hours at a time while his 6-year-old is in his care. What should Mom do?

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles. 

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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Is two hours each way too much driving time for a standard visitation schedule?  Linda and Ron discuss whether it is and how to make the most of the long drive.

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles. 

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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When a dad refuses to pay for anything other than child support, saying that he doesn't have to contribute to the cost of their winter clothing, a mom asks what child support is for.

Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles. 

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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Watch this episode on YouTube.

What is child support really for? When a parent pays a set amount each month, does that cover every single expense for the children, including seasonal necessities like snow boots? We break down a viral Reddit post from a mom questioning the purpose of the $200 per child she receives monthly.  Her ex-husband claims his child support payments cover his half of new snow boots, even telling the kids he's already paid for them. 

Join us as we discuss the fundamental legal and ethical obligations of both parents when it comes to financially supporting their children.  We'll explore:

- The primary purpose of child support (Hint: It's for necessities like housing, food, and utilities). 

- Whether the paying parent has a right to control how the money is spent. 

- The damaging effects of discussing child support payments with your children. 

- How custody arrangements, like 50/50 splits, factor into the equation. 

Whether you're paying or receiving child support, this is a conversation you don't want to miss.

Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discussions about legal topics. It is not a substitute for legal advice from a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

Chapters:
00:00:00 A Reddit Dilemma: "What is Child Support For?"
00:01:13 The Damaging Mistake Parents Make With Child Support
00:02:21 The Legal Obligation of Both Parents
00:04:42 Prioritizing Needs: Rent and Food Before Clothing
00:05:49 "It's None of Your Business How the Money is Spent"

Let us hear from you!

A mom tries to decide how to deal with her ex whom she thinks is depressed but may also be trying to manipulate her to drop child support.

 Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles. 

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

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Holidays are often a source of conflict for coparents.  In this episode, Linda and Ron discuss how to think about the holidays in a way that puts your children first.

 Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles. 

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.

Let us hear from you!

A concerned mom wonders if FaceTime visits between her two-year-old and her drug-addicted ex are too confusing for the child or even worth having.

 Visit coparentacademy.com to see all available courses and discounted course bundles. 

Thanks for listening!  If you have questions, comments, or concerns, please email us at podcast@coparentacademy.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher. or wherever you listen.