In today's episode, Kristen and guest Jessica Frew discuss the harmful habit of "shoulding" on ourselves as stepmoms, and provide practical steps to overcome this by reconnecting with our intuition, setting boundaries, and taking small actions to prioritize our own needs. Jessica shares her personal journey of rediscovering herself after nearly losing her sense of identity in stepmotherhood, emphasizing the importance of belonging to ourselves first before trying to belong in our families. This is a conversation you absolutely can't miss!

Jessica Frew is a wife, ex-wife, mom, stepmom, and BOLD action taker.  She believes that we find true peace, connection and confidence by making the next right decision.  Jessica helps you make clear, confident, and concise decisions to lead a BOLD life that feels in alignment with who you were created to be through her Triple B Decision Making Method. You can find Jessica on Instagram @heyjessicafrew and on her podcast “Your Next Best Decision”.

Links Mentioned:

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/heyjessicafrew/

Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-next-best-decision/id1464470280

Website: heyjessicafrew.com/quiz

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Welcome to Season 3 of the Stepmomming Made Easy podcast! In today's episode, I'm sharing five red flags to watch for when dating someone with kids. Stepmomming and being in a blended family can be immensely fulfilling when it's done with the right person. Avoid these pitfalls, and set yourself up for success!

Links Mentioned:

Grab the full Red Flags When Dating Someone With Kids download here: https://stepmomming.myflodesk.com/redflags

Ready to start setting boundaries, stepmom? Grab my FREE GUIDE Basics of a Boundary: https://stepmomming.com/boundaries-basics-guide/

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Two of the largest factors that can make an already-complicated role like stepmom even harder are blending two families and stepparenting when the children have lost their other parent. Today's guest, Rachel, shares all about her experience doing both, and how she navigated these challenges with intentionality, grace, and empathy. Even if you don't fit into either of those categories, you can learn SO much from her!

Rachel G. Scott is a devoted wife, mother, stepmother, and Ohio native. She is also the author of the upcoming book, Taking the 5 Leaps, which releases March 2024. As founder of the I Can’t Come Down Movement, speaker, and podcast host, she desires to inspire believers to walk in their purpose and assignment as they boldly take leaps of faith. 

Links Mentioned:

RachelGScott.Com

BetterThanBlended.com

Taking the 5 Leaps Book (affiliate): https://amzn.to/3PTBTCh

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

When my stepdaughter asked to call me "Mom," feelings of validation, warmth, and love overcame me. They were immediately followed by alarm bells. I refused to allow it. It felt disrespectful to the irreplaceable relationship she shares with her mom and the relationship I'd share with my future child. 

In today's episode, I share the heartwarming solution we came up with, and when I think it's okay for stepchildren to call a stepmom "Mom!" As I always say, no two stepfamilies are alike!

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

You don't know what you don't know... And that is never more true in blended families than when it comes to the critical importance of setting and discussing expectations with your partner! Today, I'm joined by fellow coach, Amy, who is tackling this huge topic with me! Together, we're giving you our very best tips for how to recognize your expectations for your role, home, relationship, and the ex, and how to get aligned with your partner on those things! This is a doozy of a conversation, but it's absolutely a can't miss for any stepmom!

Get ready to meet Amy Ambrozich, M.A., blended family coach and strategist.  As a down-to-earth coach, Active Parenting workshop facilitator, dynamic speaker, and SMART Stepfamily Therapy Provider, Amy has dedicated her career to supporting blended parenting couples in building a stronger parenting partnership. With her practical approach and expert guidance, Amy empowers couples to create a solid foundation, fostering a stronger bond and effective teamwork in their parenting journey.

Whether you're navigating the challenges of a blended family or seeking to enhance your parenting dynamics, Amy is here to provide the support and strategies you need. Join her as she shares her wisdom, insights, and relatable stories on podcasts, offering valuable tools for creating more harmony in your home. 

Learn more about Amy's transformative coaching services at www.daretoparent.com and get ready to embark on a journey towards a stronger and more connected parenting partnership.

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

If you struggle with insecurities because your partner experienced some of their firsts with someone else, you're definitely not alone! Being Kevin's second wife brought out insecurities in me I didn't even realize I was capable of. In today's episode, I'm normalizing the experience and giving you some of my BEST tips to reset your mindset and be more confident and present in your irreplaceable relationship.

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

You are in for such an incredible conversation today, stepmom! I'm chatting with Ashley Machele, a mom who shares long-distance custody of her oldest daughter. She'll share her perspective co-parenting with a stepmom and asks how she can validate and empathize with her daughter's stepmom—a perspective she references as life-changing. We discuss boundaries her daughter's stepmom crossed, how she understands the positive intention behind those actions and appreciates the stepmom regardless, and MUCH more! I'd consider this episode a can't-miss conversation for any stepmom whose stepchild has two homes.

Ashley is the founder of Our Splendid Life. She has provided resources and support for blended families since 2013. She is a certified stepfamily specialist and is finishing her Bachelor's Degree in Family Studies from BYU-Idaho. After struggling for years after her divorce, she felt inspired to do things differently. She has spent the past 15 years trying unconventional techniques to improve her situation, focusing on creating change from the inside out. She is passionate about sharing these tools with other families who are struggling in similar situations because they have truly changed her life!

Links Mentioned:

www.ashleymachele.com

www.instagram.com/ashleymachele/

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

So many of my coaching clients complain they’ve sacrificed too much—some feel they’ve sacrificed everything—for their partners to get everything they want. But stepmomming shouldn’t be sacrificial. In today's episode, we're talking about the difference between sacrificing and compromising, how to set boundaries, and the importance of communicating your needs and desires to your partner.

Links Mentioned:

Sarah Knight, F*ck No book (aff): https://amzn.to/4603ecC

"Hey Stepmom, It's Okay to Take Up Space" article: https://stepmomming.com/okay-to-take-up-space/

Ready to set boundaries this holiday season? Grab my FREE GUIDE Basics of a Boundary: https://stepmomming.com/boundaries-basics-guide/

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

When I first became a stepmom, I felt like I struggled to keep my head above water. I was overwhelmed in so many ways, and the more I struggled, the more ashamed of those struggles I became. Stepparenting is genuinely one of the hardest things I've ever done in my life, but with the right skills, I've found lasting peace and happiness in my marriage and family. If I could go back, here are 5 things I'd do now if I became a stepmom today:

1. Find a stepmom friend
2. Get to know Krista without being in a parent role
3. Do the hard work on my second spouse insecurities
4. Have a conversation with Kevin about expectations and core needs
5. Start setting boundaries

Ready to start setting boundaries, stepmom? Grab my FREE GUIDE Basics of a Boundary: https://stepmomming.com/boundaries-basics-guide/

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hey, stepmom! Does your partner's guilt because of their separation and sharing custody affect their parenting? If so, this episode is for you! Today, I'm chatting with Tracy Poizner about the causes of guilty parenting syndrome, the effect it has on the children and the stepmom, and what you, as the stepmom, can do to empower your partner instead! It's a great interview full of valuable info you won't want to miss!

Tracy Poizner has been a stepmom for over 15 years and launched the Essential Stepmom facebook group about 6 years ago. Her podcast of the same name has over 100 episodes, many of them geared towards problems facing the dads such as parental alienation, bringing a new wife or baby into the family and difficulties asserting authority or enforcing household rules. She hosts a separate podcast specifically dedicated to the challenges of post-divorce fatherhood called UnDeletable Dad.

Links Mentioned: 

essentialstepmom.com

info@essentialstepmom.com

undeletabledad.com

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Holiday custody schedules can be brutal. When your stepchildren are at their other home for the holidays, it can exacerbate thoughts and feelings that your stepfamily is different from the one you always envisioned. It probably feels really unfair. You might feel lonely or miss them. That's a totally normal and natural response. But in today's episode, I'm sharing my BEST tips to make the most of the holidays before, during, and after, when you won't have your stepchildren on a special day!

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Resentment is pretty much a universal experience for stepmoms. If you've struggled with feeling resentful on your journey, you're definitely not alone! In today's episode, Beth McDonough and I discuss why resentment is so common for stepmoms and the reason why, steps you can take to identify your triggers, and how to overcome resentment in order to be fully present and engaged in your stepfamily!

Beth is a Certified Stepparent Coach, Co-CEO of Stepfamily Magazine, Co-Founder of The Stepmom Summit, and owner of The Inclusive Stepmom, where she takes stepmoms from hopeless to happy.

Beth specializes in LGBTQ+ issues, resentment, being a childless stepmom, infertility, dealing with the ex in a small town, and strengthening stepfamilies through focusing on your relationship with your partner.

The Inclusive Stepmom blog was named one of the best stepmom blogs of 2020 by Healthline. Her work has been featured in Good Morning America, NPR, Stepfamily Magazine, Stepmom Magazine, SheKnows Parenting, Bustle, Romper, TravelZoo, BabyCenter, Stepmomming, and ParentMap.

Links Mentioned: 

The Inclusive Stepmom: https://theinclusivestepmom.com

Stepfamily Magazine: https://www.stepfamilymagazine.com

Stepfamily Circle (affiliate): https://stepmomming--stepmomsummit.thrivecart.com/stepfamily-circle/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theinclusivestepmom/

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Sometimes as a stepmom, you're damned if you do, and damned if you don't. And a big reason for that, is because of the double standard between moms and stepmoms. There is an underlying—often misguided—prejudice in our society that stepmoms are less than "real" moms, and today, we're going to break this double standard wide open.

Stepmoms are not less than "real" moms, or anyone else. This is an archaic notion, and it's time for us to rewrite the narrative!

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

The holiday season is incredibly overwhelming for many stepmoms. In today's episode, I'm giving you permission to focus first on your peace of mind. Don't feel obligated to do more than you want to do. 

Say "yes" when you want to, let go of traditions that no longer serve you, and be more present by letting go of expectations of perfection. You deserve a joyful holiday season, stepmom!

Ready to set boundaries this holiday season? Grab my FREE GUIDE Basics of a Boundary: https://stepmomming.com/boundaries-basics-guide/

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Calling all stepmoms struggling with picky eaters! Today, we're chatting with dietitian, Jenny, all about how to take the frustration out of mealtime with picky eaters! I am excited to share with you everything I learned in this interview about the causes of picky eating, ways to discuss food and mealtime to ease the struggles, setting boundaries with extended family members around your child's food choices, and SO much more! Jenny is full of great insight and tangible tips to put some fun back in mealtime.

Jenny Friedman, MS RD is a dietitian who helps families overcome extreme picky eating and pediatric feeding challenges. Known for her playful and approachable style, Jenny is the author of Stories of Extreme Picky Eating: Children with Severe Eating Challenges and the Solutions that Helped Them. Jenny lives in Philadelphia with her family.

Links Mentioned: 

JennyFriedmanNutrition.com or FeedingPickyEaters.com

Instagram: @feedingpickyeaters

Jenny's book, Stories of Extreme Picky Eating: Children with Severe Eating Challenges and the Solutions that Helped Them (affiliate): https://amzn.to/46cm0xB

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hey, stepmom! You're allowed to say no to the ex! And in today's episode, I'm giving you 3 clear ways to do that, with sample scripts! You are completely entitled to your own boundaries and needs, and I want to empower you to use your voice to take back control from the ex.

Ready to learn how to start setting boundaries, stepmom? Grab my FREE GUIDE Basics of a Boundary: https://stepmomming.com/boundaries-basics-guide/

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

You're a stepmom for one reason, and one reason only: your partner! Ensure that your relationship is as strong and healthy as it can possibly be by mastering effective communication practices. Today, Keisha Williams, a Gottman Method trained counselor, joins me on the podcast to share her BEST tips for combatting defensiveness in communication with your partner, how to communicate better during disagreements, and MORE. 

Keisha is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Texas, Florida and Washington State. She specializes in couples counseling but her experience also includes treating behavioral health disorders, family issues, self-esteem barriers, career counseling, and much more.

Her clinical approaches include Gottman Couples Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing and Christian Counseling. She is passionate about serving people. Using an integrated model, she seeks to meet you where you are. 

As a Jesus follower, His influence guides and empowers her work, bringing healing and restoration and hope to individuals and couples. She believes you were uniquely created and we are not meant to do life alone. Being seen by your partner matters. Your relationship matters. It is her honor and mission to help couples move from fighting with one another to fighting together for the sake of their union. 

Links Mentioned: 

1. Interested in becoming Keisha's client? Book a free consultation: https://api.portal.therapyappointment.com/n/public/clientRegistration?therapistId=61C6BD9002AF4B3582849F8A5E41F8CC

2. Interested in learning more relationship tips? Follow Keisha on FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083863911937&mibextid=LQQJ4d

3. Interested in booking Keisha for a speaking engagement? Call or email me at 253-366-3016 or keisha@thejourneytobetter.com

4. Read more about Keisha and her work here:  www.thejourneytobetter.com 

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

I've said it before, and I'll say it again and again: stepparenting is not intuitive. Learning how to navigate this tricky role can be SO challenging! Before defining my role and finding my pacing as a stepmom, I made a lot of missteps. Today, I'm sharing 5 WRONG ways to be a happier stepmom.

I have done every single one of these thinking it would make me happier, but that happiness was fleeting. Thankfully, today I’ve learned much better skills for giving me lasting happiness as a stepmom.

If you’re guilty of 1 (or more) of these wrong ways to be happier stepmom, you’re in good company. But trust me, it’s never too late to course-correct and overcome discontentment in your stepmom life. You can still build a foundation for a stepmom life you love!

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Overcoming parental alienation from a co-parent is one of the most challenging obstacles stepmoms can face. Today, Anita Inglis joins the Stepmomming Made Easy podcast to chat about what parental alienation is, what it isn't, and how we can help our stepchildren overcome it. You'll absolutely love the validation and practical advice offered in this episode!

Anita is a step/mum to 7, aged from teens to adults. After over a decade of navigating family life in a high conflict situation, she now works with families, couples, and individuals around the world. She's passionate about people finding their joy and creating connections, even when the odds are stacked against that outcome.

Links Mentioned:

http://richardagardner.com/Pas_Intro

https://karenwoodall.blog

https://drcraigchildressblog.com

Divorce Poison book by Dr. Richard Warshak (aff): https://amzn.to/3qtJSx5

https://step-familydynamics.com/

https://www.facebook.com/StepFamilyDynamicscom

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

The school year is in full swing for many of us! One of the most common questions I receive from stepmoms this time of year is, "Should I attend the parent-teacher conference?". My answer isn't the same for every stepmom, but in today's episode, I'll give you some helpful insight into boundaries to set about being involved in your stepchild's education and questions to ask yourself to help you make the right decision about this year's parent-teacher conference. 

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Stepmom, you are in for a treat today! I'm chatting with No Guilt Mom's JoAnn Crohn all about the sources of guilt, and how to rewire years of conditioning that make it such a powerful motivator. If you suffer from guilt in your stepfamily, you definitely won't want to miss this interview!

JoAnn Crohn, M. Ed is a parenting educator and life coach who helps moms feel confident in raising empowered, self-sufficient kid while pursuing their own goals & passions.

She’s an accomplished writer, author, podcast host of the No Guilt Mom podcast, and speaker, appearing in national media and founder of the company, No Guilt Mom.  Her specialty is helping moms form deeper & more supportive relationships with their kids & other adults,  while finding what lights them up in No Guilt Mom’s Balance program. 

JoAnn is a former elementary school teacher with a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction as well as a National Board Certified Teacher in Middle Childhood Education.  She’s a mom to 2 kids - ages 14 and 10.

Links Mentioned: 

JoAnn's “Stop Doing” Checklist: https://www.noguiltmom.com/stop-doing

Website: https://www.noguiltmom.com

Facebook: facebook.com/noguiltmom

Instagram: instagram.com/noguiltmom

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Oftentimes, stepmoms and their partners work to keep the peace with their stepchild's other home. But at what cost? If trying to keep the peace outside of the home has cost you the peace inside your home, then you do not want to miss today's episode! Perhaps it's an unpopular opinion, but I truly believe "Keep the peace" is really shitty advice for stepmoms and their partners stuck in situations where it's impossible to have peace within your home AND with your stepchild's other family.

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hey stepmom! Welcome back to the Stepmomming Made Easy podcast!! I've missed you this summer!!

I have so many incredible episodes lined up for you this season. I thought we knocked it out of the park with season 1, but somehow season 2 is EVEN BETTER. 

Get ready, because it all starts on October 3rd!

When I first became a stepmom, I felt like everyone else (my partner, my stepdaughter, and my partner’s ex-wife) had more control over my life than I did, and it drove me WILD. Today, I’m happy to report, I have firmly taken back control and am happier than ever, and I want the same for you, stepmom. So, here are 3 very tangible ways to take back control as a stepmom!

Links Mentioned:

Listen to EP 28: Why I Think “Keep the Peace” is Shitty Advice: https://stepmomming.com/ep-28-why-i-think-keep-the-peace-is-shitty-advice/

Join Control Freak Collective: https://stepmomming.thrivecart.com/control-freak-collective-april-24/

Ready to start setting boundaries, stepmom? Grab my FREE GUIDE Basics of a Boundary: https://stepmomming.com/boundaries-basics-guide/

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hey, stepmom! Summer break is quickly approaching, and with it, stress and overwhelm for many stepmoms. In today's episode, I share with you my three main tips for how to navigate summers as a stepmom:

1. Manage your schedules

2. Manage your energy

3. Manage your boundaries

Plus, I answer some of your questions about summer! If you're stressed about the kids being home for a couple of months, then this episode is for you!

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hey, stepmom! Mini-wife (or husband) syndrome is something many stepmoms are combatting in their households. Today's guest expert, Maarit Miller of Blended Family Frappe, is talking about what it is, how to deal with it, and how to communicate with your partner about your uncomfortable feelings! It's a GREAT conversation you won't want to miss!

Maarit is a writer, artist, and former single mama turned stepmama who literally wrote the book on disengaging. Today, she supports struggling stepparents 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.

Links Mentioned: 

https://blendedfamilyfrappe.com/mini-wife

Stepmonster book (affiliate): https://amzn.to/3IvF9AT

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Hey, stepmom! In today's episode, we're hearing the final installment of our "Let's hear from our partners!" series. In this episode, we're hearing from our partners about the stepmom's role and involvement, and what our partners would change if they could. I think you'll find their answers to these questions SO interesting:

1. If you got a do-over in your current relationship, what would you do differently?
2. What is something your partner does (or has done in the past) that makes your life more difficult or has been counterproductive with your ex or your kids?
3. What is the role that you want your partner to fill, and how has that perspective changed over time?

Are you ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Mother's Day is often one of the hardest days of the year for stepmoms. It's a day that highlights for many stepmoms how the role mirrors the mom role but is still dramatically different in certain ways. If you're concerned about the upcoming holiday, here are 5 tips and reminders for you:

1. This is only 24 hours. Don't let this one day define your worth.

2. Separate your facts from your feelings.

3. Share your expectations for the day with your partner.

4. Stay off social media for 24-48 hours to avoid getting triggered.

5. Stepmother's Day is the Sunday after Mother's Day.

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hey, stepmom! It's time for the second installment of our partners series! This time, our partners are answering critical questions like:

1. What’s one thing you want your partner to know about your struggles as a divorced/separated parent?
2. What are you insecure about in stepfamily life and how can your partner make you feel more secure?
3. What worries do you have about stepfamily life in the future and how can your partner support you?
4. What is your biggest fear as a divorced/separated parent?

Their answers are so insightful. I know you're going to love this episode!

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hey there, stepmom! My parents divorced when I was 2, and I had a few different stepparents throughout my childhood. Today, I'm sharing what I learned from that experience and how I use that intel to be the best stepmom I can possibly be! We've heard from the partners; now, let's get the stepchild's perspective!

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

You are in for such a treat today, stepmom! We’ve spent some time talking about our partners’ perspectives, but now let’s hear it directly from them! In today’s episode, a panel of partners is answering some of your most burning questions, including:

1. Is your current situation any less special than the relationship with your child(ren)'s parent?
2. How have lessons from your past relationship impacted your current one?
3. When your partner is feeling insecure about their role in your life, what’s one thing you’d like them to know?

I think their answers might surprise you! Tune in for the first installment of this new series on the Stepmomming Made Easy podcast!

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hi, stepmom! If you are ready to ditch the guilt and show up confident and purpose-filled in your stepmom role, then today's episode is for you! 

Don't love your stepchildren? Dreading seeing the ex at your stepson's baseball practice? Feeling guilty for not showing up in the same role the ex did? Disappointed in yourself for not being able to figure out this stepmom stuff on your own and needing some guidance and support along the way? All TOTALLY normal! Tune in to learn more about how to ditch the guilt and feel better aligned as a stepmom!

Quotes Mentioned:

"Don't set yourself on fire trying to keep others warm." - Penny Reid

"Guilt, shame, and criticism are some of the most damaging forces in your life." - Jen Sincero

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hi, stepmom! Have you ever struggled to understand your partner's perspective and why they seem to have such a different experience in your family than you do? Today, we're exploring why! You and your partner have different lenses through which you view your family, and once you understand the differences, it can explain so much!

Ready to set boundaries with the ex to protect your peace? Grab my FREE GUIDE Basics of a Boundary: https://stepmomming.com/boundaries-basics-guide/

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hi, stepmom! In today's episode, Erin Careless, PhD and I are chatting about all things stepping back! If you've noticed that your role needs a refresh and you want to learn how to take a step back from tasks and triggers that disrupt your peace in your stepfamily, you don't want to miss this talk!

Erin Careless, PhD is a Certified Stepparent Coach and writes under the name, Steplife. Two stepkids and two "ours babies" keep life busy for Erin and her husband, Matt. A stepchild herself, Erin experienced divorce, remarriage, and step-siblings within her own family. This experience adds to her ability to coach and support stepmoms in diverse situations. 

Erin specializes in topics such as stepmother identities and roles, mothering work, parenting styles, stepping back, and ours babies. Her work has been featured in StepMom Magazine, Stepparent Magazine, Huffington Post, DivorceForce, The Divorce Magazine, and Erin has presented her research at various academic conferences. 

Links Mentioned: 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steplife.ca/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erinsteplife/

For Erin's course, 6 Steps to Stepping Back, email steplife@yahoo.com.

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Stepparenting is not hard because you're doing it wrong. Stepparenting is hard because it's an entirely different family structure and dynamic than we've experienced before. Today, I'm joined by arguably the foremost expert on stepfamily dynamics, Dr. Patricia Papernow, to discuss 5 challenges stepfamilies face. We're normalizing the challenges you struggle with and talking all about what works and what doesn't work!

Dr. Patricia Papernow is an internationally recognized expert on stepfamilies. She teaches all over the U.S. and the world about best practices for meeting stepfamily challenges integrating the now considerable research with her own four-plus decades of clinical work. She loves putting this good information into the hands of people in stepfamilies!  

Patricia has written dozens of articles and book chapters and has authored the leading books in the field: Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships: What Works and What Doesn’t, and, with Karen Bonnell, The Stepfamily Handbook: From Dating to Getting Serious to Forming a “Blended Family.” 

She is the recipient of awards for Distinguished Contribution to Family Psychology from the American Psychological Association and the award for Distinguished Contribution to Family Therapy Theory and Practice from the American Family Therapy Academy.

Links Mentioned:

stepfamilyrelationships.com

Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships: What Works and What Doesn’t Book (affiliate): https://amzn.to/3PLSuYk

The Stepfamily Handbook: From Dating to Getting Serious to Forming a “Blended Family” Book (affiliate): https://amzn.to/48IKC2y

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hi, stepmom! I want to talk about CONTROL! As stepmoms, we feel like we don't have any, we crave it, we need it... and yet, sometimes we inadvertently give it away! Today, I'm sharing 4 ways we unintentionally give away control as a stepmom: 

1. You're not empowering your partner to make decisions.
2. You're answering texts or emails as they come in.
3. You're not setting boundaries to protect your peace.
4. You're planning your life around the custody schedule.

Ready to set boundaries with the ex to protect your peace? Grab my FREE GUIDE Basics of a Boundary: https://stepmomming.com/boundaries-basics-guide/

Join our life-changing signature program, Control Freak Collective: https://stepmomming.thrivecart.com/control-freak-collective/ 

Stepmom infertility is like salt in the wound. Raising another woman’s child while struggling to have your own is a uniquely painful experience. For my fellow stepmoms battling infertility as a stepmom, I'm sharing 4 big tips for coping with those feelings before they turn to resentment!

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hi, stepmom! One of the BIGGEST stressors that many stepmoms face in their stepfamilies is their partner's ex. The ex may be overtly high-conflict, or they may be more subtle with their distrust or dislike of you. Even though it can feel *really* personal, it's entirely possible you didn't do anything wrong to cause them to dislike you. In today's episode, I'm diving into 4 reasons why the ex may not like you, even when you did nothing wrong! 

Ready to set boundaries with the ex to protect your peace? Grab my FREE GUIDE Basics of a Boundary: https://stepmomming.com/boundaries-basics-guide/

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Stepmom, you're in for a treat, today! I'm joined by Joslynn Flowers of The Daily Stepmom, and we chat about all things full-time stepparenthood, adding an ours baby to the family, and race dynamics in stepfamilies. Joslynn is an absolute delight, and I know you're going to love this conversation!

Joslynn is a full time mom of 4, (the older 3 being her stepkids) and a certified stepmom coach, who resides in California. Joslynn has a serious passion for helping others succeed in life! In her time as a stepmom she has experienced the many struggles that can come along with being a stepmom and blending of a family. 

She is Co-Founder of The Stepmom Collective, a community based app with the intent to help Stepmoms build community, grow in their role, feel supported and understood on their journey of being a stepmom. She also recently co-hosted the first ever, in person Stepmom Collective Conference which was held in Santa Barbara, CA. 

Joslynn created and hosts a chart topping podcast called The Daily Stepmom Podcast, and has been a featured speaker for The Stepmom Summit and The Ultimate Step Family Summit. She was named one of the Top 10 NEW Podcasts in 2022 by SHE Magazine and has been interviewed by Raise Parenting Magazine. 

Joslynn is a lover of wine, coffee and all things sports! She loves to travel, read, despises laundry and has recently become a fan of the show Outer Banks. More than anything she loves to connect with others via her instagram account so find her at Dailystepmom (https://www.instagram.com/dailystepmom/).

Joslynn's website: www.thedailystepmom.com

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hey, stepmom! Today, we have a special guest, my friend Beth McDonough of The Inclusive Stepmom! We discuss a tendency for some stepmoms to "stepsmother" their stepkids and what you should do instead! We also chat about feeling jealous of your stepkids, the shame you may experience around those feelings, and what we can do to resolve it!

Beth is a Certified Stepparent Coach, Co-CEO of Stepfamily Magazine, Co-Founder of The Stepmom Summit, and owner of The Inclusive Stepmom, where she takes stepmoms from hopeless to happy.

Beth specializes in LGBTQ+ issues, resentment, being a childless stepmom, infertility, dealing with the ex in a small town, and strengthening stepfamilies through focusing on your relationship with your partner.

The Inclusive Stepmom blog was named one of the best stepmom blogs of 2020 by Healthline. Her work has been featured in Good Morning America, NPR, Stepfamily Magazine, Stepmom Magazine, SheKnows Parenting, Bustle, Romper, TravelZoo, BabyCenter, Stepmomming, and ParentMap.

Links Mentioned: 

The Inclusive Stepmom: https://theinclusivestepmom.com

Stepfamily Magazine: https://www.stepfamilymagazine.com

Stepfamily Circle (affiliate): https://stepmomming--stepmomsummit.thrivecart.com/stepfamily-circle/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theinclusivestepmom/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theinclusivestepmom/

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hey, stepmom! If you've been struggling in your role, you're definitely not alone. Stepmomming isn't challenging because you're not good enough or not cut out for it. It's just plain tough! In today's episode, I'm sharing three aspects of the stepparent role that make it so challenging.

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hi, stepmom! Barb Goldberg is joining us for today's episode of the Stepmomming Made Easy podcast, and I'm so honored! Barb is one of the most fun, creative, and insightful people I've ever met. You're going to LOVE this conversation!

Barb Goldberg is the author and owner of The Evil Stepmother Speaks website, blog and book. As the stepmother to three children and the biological mom to one son, Barb has been through the trenches and understands the challenges of stepmother life. Now, her children are grown and she can look back and teach practical solutions while keeping you laughing along the way.

Barbara has a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, a Master’s degree in Business Administration and is a certified Dr. Martha Beck life coach. She holds Stepmom Retreats every year and also coaches stepmoms.

Barb and I chat about so many important stepmom issues, including:

• The different feelings (& "distance") you feel as a stepmom and as a mom

• Reclaiming control as a stepmom (& Barb's truly unique way of doing it)

• Adult stepkids and stepgrandkids

• The power of doing nothing

Links mentioned:

Barb's book, The Evil Stepmother Speaks (affiliate): https://amzn.to/3XXj6sv

https://www.theevilstepmotherspeaks.com

http://stepmomsanctuaryretreat.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEvilStepMotherSpeaks

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evilstepmom/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/stepmomspeaks

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/stepmomspeaks/

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Stepmomming is uniquely challenging. Unless you've been one yourself, you'll likely never understand a stepmom's perspective. In today's episode, I'm sharing 5 things stepmoms want their partners to know: 

1. I had no idea what I was signing up for.

2. Some days I need a break, and that needs to be okay.

3. My role is different.

4. There is so much pressure on me as the stepmom.

5. You are in the middle (of me/your ex, of me/your kids, etc.).

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

When I was first dating Kevin, I was consumed by thoughts of his ex and constantly questioning if our relationship was as special as theirs had been. In this episode, I'm sharing 5 reminders that helped me to get out of my head and recognize how uniquely special our relationship truly is. You deserve freedom from your insecurities too, my friend.

1. You are the only one thinking about the ex all of the time.

2. Your partner has been shaped by their previous relationship.

3. You are worth the risk.

4. It is different, but it is not less special.

5. You are not version 2.0.

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Additional reading:

https://stepmomming.com/lessons-learned-role-second-wife/

https://stepmomming.com/second-wife-syndrome/

https://stepmomming.com/lies-second-wives-tell-themselves/

Nearly every stepmom I've ever met has felt like an outsider in her stepfamily at some point. In today's episode, I'm sharing my 3 best tips for overcoming outsider syndrome to build a stepmom life you love.

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Additional reading: https://stepmomming.com/outsider-syndrome/

Transition Day can be SO challenging for stepmoms! Stepchildren often have a difficult time making the switch from one house to another, and act out in emotional ways. It makes stepmoms around the world dread transition day!

In today's episode, I'm sharing 3 tips to make transition day easier! Set yourself and your stepchildren up for success with these tips, and you'll find that transition day isn't one to dread anymore!

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Hey, stepmom! Amelia Lane is joining me for today's episode of the Stepmomming Made Easy podcast. We had a fascinating conversation about her experience moving into the home her partner shared with his ex and my experience with the ex moving in with us. You don’t want to miss it!

We talk all about: 

1. A stepmom's perspective when the ex is figuratively or literally in your home (Literally for me, when Krista's mom moved in for 3 months & figuratively for Amelia when she moved into the home her husband used to share with his ex).
2. How she made the house feel like a safe space and more like her home.
3. The importance of feeling and communicating your emotions, and the power of validation.

Amelia is a {second} wife, mom of two, and stepmom of one. She and her husband have been together for 12 years and married for 7. 

After overcoming her own stepfamily challenges: insecurity, shame, and what felt like endless frustration, Amelia made it her mission to help stepparents just like her! In 2020 she became a certified stepparent coach and opened Lane Stepfamily Coaching. In addition to her specialized education, Amelia’s biggest asset to coaching is her lived experience. Not only is she a stepmom, but a child of divorce too. This allows her to offer clients many different perspectives when helping them work through, and learn to cope with their unique challenges.

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Links mentioned:

https://lanestepfamilycoaching.com/

https://www.instagram.com/amelia.lane.stepfamilycoach/

Happy New Year, stepmom! Are you ready to create a stepmom life you love in 2023? My new year's resolution for you is to find freedom and control in your blended family, especially from the ex. In this episode, I share 3 specific ways to make it happen!

Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Apply for stepmom support coaching: https://stepmomming.com/stepmomming-coaching-application/

Hey, stepmom! Naja Hall is joining us for today's episode of the Stepmomming Made Easy podcast and I couldn't be more delighted! This is such an incredible conversation; I know you’re going to get so much out of it!

Naja is the founder of  VIPStepmom and Blended and Black. As a Certified Coach and Educator, she understands that the family is THE MOST influential entity of human development, and her work centers around helping individuals, couples, and families navigate some of life’s toughest transitions. As the host of the popular podcast, I know I’m Crazy with Naja Hall and author of the Amazon best-seller Girl, Bye! Book series, Naja’s life’s work is to teach empathy, accountability, and emotional intelligence through the art of story-telling and genuine human connections. She’s a Stepmom of 3.

Naja and I talk about so many great topics, including:

•What it means to be an unbothered stepmom (& the exact steps to get there).
•The problem with expectations in a stepfamily.
•The one person we, as coaches have decided, has the potential to be a deal breaker.
 
Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy

Links mentioned:

https://www.vipstepmom.com
https://najahallbeauty.com
Stepmom Magazine (affiliate): https://www.stepmommag.com/shop/subscribe-today/annual/?aff=8
Unbothered Red Lipstick: https://najahallbeauty.com/products/seriously-matte-12-hour-lipstick?variant=44011640422715

Hey, stepmom! If you've been playing by the rules of a first family because that's all you've ever known (and I totally get it) it's time to stop now. A stepfamily has different dynamics than a first family and requires a different approach. In today's episode, I'm sharing my top three tips on how to set expectations and get everyone on the same page in order to thrive as a stepfamily. 

Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier

Let’s work together: https://stepmomming.com/quick-links/

Join our FREE support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stepmommingainteasy