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In this raw and honest conversation, Katie speaks with Francesca—a stepmum to two little girls—about the emotional toll of stepfamily life when things feel anything but safe.

Francesca shares how stepping into her role as a stepmum turned her from a confident, independent woman into someone who felt anxious, overwhelmed, and deeply unsettled. After moving into her partner’s old family home and facing constant drop-ins from the ex, Francesca found herself spiralling—struggling to cope and questioning her place in the family.

Together, Katie and Francesca explore:

• What happens when your home doesn’t feel like yours
• The impact of constant access from the ex—and how it erodes psychological safety
• Why even strong, capable women can feel broken by stepfamily dynamics
• How coaching helped Francesca rebuild her confidence and reclaim her space
• What healing looks like when you’re no longer just surviving

This episode is for any stepmum who’s felt pushed out, overwhelmed, or like they’re losing themselves in the process. Francesca’s story is a powerful reminder that things can change—and that support makes all the difference.

Keywords: struggling stepmum, stepmum anxiety, stepmum support, psychological safety in stepfamilies, overwhelmed stepmum, ex-partner boundaries, stepmum coaching, blended family stress, stepmum podcast, emotional support for stepmums, stepmum mental health

🔗 Ready to feel more in control?

• Book a free intro coaching call: stepmumspace.com/booking
• Learn more about Katie’s work: stepmumspace.com

🎧 Listen now—and share with a stepmum who needs to hear that she’s not alone, and she’s not failing.

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