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Is stepmomming the most challenging thing you’ve ever done in your life? If so, you’re in the right place!
Welcome to the Stepmomming Made Easy podcast, where your host, Certified Stepparent Coach Kristen Skiles will ensure you never feel alone on this stepmom journey again. We’ll never be able to predict every stressor or struggle you could anticipate as a stepmom, but each week, you’ll learn new tools and techniques to prioritize your peace. Tune in for your weekly dose of validation, inspiration, and step-by-step guidance to build a stepmom life you love.
78 Episodes
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In this episode of Stepmomming Made Easy, I sit down with Todd Jensen, PhD, MSW to unpack what research really says about building strong stepfamily relationships—especially when pre-teen and teen stepchildren are involved. We talk about why authenticity matters more than perfection, why discipline may not be your domain, and how to create connection without forcing it. If you’ve ever wondered how to show up as your true self and still build meaningful relationships with your stepkids, this e...
In this episode of Stepmomming Made Easy, I sit down with certified marriage and stepfamily life coach Heidi Farrell to unpack one of the most common challenges stepmoms face—parenting differences. We explore why discipline and household expectations can feel so personal, and how communication, empathy, and boundaries can rebuild connection with your partner. Heidi introduces her Communicate, Motivate, Separate, Celebrate framework to help couples navigate disagreements with compassion and te...
In this episode, I sit down with stepfamily coach and licensed counselor Rachel Dunne to talk about grief, loss, and healing as a stepmom. We dive into how stepfamily life is built on loss and why acknowledging that truth is the first step toward peace. Rachel shares how to process grief, release shame, and give yourself permission to feel all the emotions that come with stepmom life. If you’ve ever felt the weight of "It wasn’t supposed to be this way," this conversation will bring validatio...
So many stepmoms I meet feel underappreciated. In this episode, I kick off season four by naming and unpacking the invisible load so many stepmoms carry behind the scenes. I explore the mental and emotional labor of keeping everyone and everything together, and how unspoken expectations and a desire for appreciation can lead to resentment and burnout. I’ll help you check your motivations, set healthier boundaries, and remember that your worth isn’t measured by how much you do, but by who you ...
In this powerful episode, I dive deep into a critical challenge for stepmoms: living life beyond the custody schedule. Drawing from a chapter in my upcoming book Stepmomming Made Easy, I share personal insights on how custody arrangements shouldn't dictate your entire life. I explore how constantly planning around your stepchild's schedule can lead to burnout, resentment, and missed opportunities. The key message? Live your life 100% of the time, not just 50%. By maintaining a full, bal...
In this powerful episode, Amelia Nagoski, co-author of Burnout, dives deep into the unique challenges stepmoms face. She explores critical concepts like human giver syndrome, the stress response cycle, and how stepmoms can prevent burnout. Amelia shares her personal stepmom journey, offering compassionate, science-backed strategies to help stepmoms navigate complex family dynamics while maintaining their mental and emotional well-being. Whether you're struggling with burnout or seeking ...
Today, I'm joined by guest Michelle Dempsey-Multack, and we are discussing the unique challenges and perspectives of stepparenting and co-parenting. As a stepmom, biological mom who shares custody of her own daughter, and someone who grew up with stepparents, Michelle shares valuable advice on building healthy relationships, managing family dynamics, and prioritizing the needs of the children. The discussion covers common misconceptions, the importance of empathy, and strategies for creating ...
In today’s episode, I’m joined by Ainsley Keller from The Stepcollective to talk all things holidays! From managing expectations and navigating traditions to tackling tricky schedules, we cover it all. Ainsley also shares her powerful holiday mantra: Connection Over Perfection—a game-changer every stepmom needs this season. If the holidays have you feeling overwhelmed, this episode is your reminder that joy is within reach. Tune in and let’s make this holiday season one to truly enjoy! Ai...
In today's episode, I welcome back Anita Inglis to share her expert advice on navigating tough conversations with your partner as a stepmom. We discuss common communication challenges and strategies for effective dialogue. Anita provides valuable insights on preparing for difficult talks, handling defensive responses, and recognizing abusive relationships. This is a must-listen episode packed with actionable tips. Links Mentioned: https://step-familydynamics.com/ https://www.facebook.com/St...
Calling all childless stepmoms! In today's vulnerable and heartfelt conversation, childless stepmom Lauren shares her struggles with infertility and how it impacted her role as a stepmom. She opens up about the resentment, guilt, and loss of identity she experienced, as well as the strategies that helped her maintain hope. Lauren provides invaluable advice for other childless stepmoms navigating this complex journey, emphasizing the importance of self-care, community, and redefining one's ide...
I'm thrilled to share this conversation with Brenda Ockun, the founder of Stepmom Magazine, who has been a wealth of knowledge and support for stepmoms worldwide for 15 years. Brenda and I dive into the common struggles stepmoms face, including the complex relationship with the ex and the tendency to lose oneself in the role... and we answer the one question every new stepmom asks herself, "Does it EVER get better?!" Brenda Ockun is Founder & Publisher of StepMom Magazine—the how-to gui...
In today's episode, I am getting on my "stepmom soapbox" to address the common and unhelpful statement made to stepmoms that they "knew what they were signing up for." I knew my partner had a child; I did NOT know everything that entailed. No parent—especially a stepparent—can truly know the challenges of parenting until they experience it firsthand. Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happi...
As a stepmom, I've faced my fair share of challenges, but the struggle with control has been one of the toughest. I know how it feels to be at the mercy of custody schedules and co-parenting dynamics that don't always align with our own preferences. But I'm here to tell you, my fellow stepmoms, that there is hope! In today's episode, I'm sharing three instant gratification tips that can help create a more peaceful stepmom life—from cutting ties with toxic triggers to carving out sacred daily ...
In this episode, I share how becoming a mom has impacted my role as a stepmom. I discuss the challenges and benefits of balancing these two identities, and how it has transformed my relationship with my stepdaughter. I'll also answer your most burning question... "Do I love my biological child more than I love my stepchild?" Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.com/happier Join our stepmom small grou...
In today's episode, Tammy J and I discuss the myths surrounding disengaging as a stepmom. It's a conversation you really can't miss! We explain that disengaging is not about disappearing or failing, but rather an opportunity for stepmoms to step back, reflect, and grow in order to be their best selves and support their families. Our conversation emphasizes the importance of giving space for everyone in the blended family to learn their roles and redefine relationships in a healthy way. ...
In today's episode, I am sharing the single biggest barrier to thriving as a stepmom. In order to create a stepmom life you love, you must first grieve the loss of the life you thought you would have. Holding onto unmet expectations will only lead to ongoing frustration and disappointment, so give yourself permission and space to mourn the loss of the vision and plan you had for your future. You deserve a stepmom life you love! Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15...
In today's episode, I'm chatting with Mindy Kyle, and we are delving into the complexities of loyalty binds and betrayal blindness in blended families. Mindy defines loyalty binds as emotional conflicts where children feel compelled to side with one parent over another. Why do our stepchildren feel this way, and what we can we do about it? We talk about all this and more! Mindy is an LCS Certified, Positive Parenting Certified, and Blended Family Certified life coach with over 15 years of e...
In order to be a happy, successful stepmom, you MUST stop acting like you are in a nuclear family. In today's episode, I'm making my case with 5 specific reasons: 1) Your role and position in the family are often unclear, unlike in a nuclear family. 2) Stepfamilies lack the time to develop shared norms, rules and culture. 3) Not all parents in a stepfamily back each other up. 4) Stepchildren don't need another original parent; as a stepmom, you should find a unique r...
I have learned a LOT of lessons the hard way as a stepmom. And today, we're shaking this up a bit from the typical episode. I'm sharing five of those lessons with you. Through my personal stories, I hope to validate and normalize the full range of emotions and struggles that stepmoms face, providing comfort in the knowledge that you are not alone on this journey. Ready to create a stepmom life you love? Grab my FREE GUIDE 15 Ways to Become a Happier Stepmom Overnight: https://stepmomming.co...
Co-parenting with someone who is chaotic, uncooperative, and/or high-conflict can be challenging, to put it lightly. Today, I'm joined by fan-favorite Naja Hall, and we are sharing personal experiences and insights on how to maintain peace and find solutions, when co-parenting just won't work! We're discussing why parallel parenting is a positive alternative to co-parenting, including the impact on everyone's mental health. You deserve a stepmom life you love, stepmom. Naja is the founder o...
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