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The Stepmom Side Podcast

Author: Alicia Krasko

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Do you find yourself googling for "Stepmom help" or "Stepmom struggles" more than you'd care to admit? 

If so, you're in the right place. The Stepmom Side Podcast is a conversational podcast about being a Stepmom and what that actually looks like. Host Alicia Krasko covers everything from part-time, full-time, to being an empty nester as a Stepmom. 

Every week, you'll get a bit of humor, advice, and a conversation that will have you taking an objective look at how you're showing up. You can expect honest (and uncomfortable) conversations with perspective shifts mixed in to help you create the life you no longer have to google for help.

84 Episodes
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In today’s episode, we’re tackling a big one—happiness. More specifically, how YOUR happiness is an inside job, even when stepfamily stress is trying to bulldoze its way into your peace. If you’ve ever felt like your emotions are at the mercy of the ex, your stepkids, or the never-ending co-parenting drama, this episode is for you. Alicia breaks down: ⁃ How stepmoms unknowingly give away their power and happiness ⁃ Three practical ways to take back control (without the guilt) ⁃ Why boundaries...
What happens when a stepmom decides to leave her relationship—but she’s deeply connected to her stepkids? This is a heartbreak that no one talks about. Today, Alicia is diving into: How to break the news to your stepkids Whether you should stay in contact after the breakup How to deal with the overwhelming guilt and sadness Healthy ways to cope and move forward Leaving a relationship when stepkids are involved adds layers of pain, guilt, and uncertainty. But here’s the truth—you can love them...
In this episode, Alicia is tackling one of the most frustrating issues many stepmoms face: what to do when your partner isn't stepping up with their kids or your "ours baby." It's hard when you feel like you're doing it all on your own, especially when your partner's involvement with their stepkids or shared children is lacking. First, Alicia dives into the common reasons why dads may hold back when it comes to stepping up for their stepkids. From co-parenting guilt to emotional distance, she...
Welcome to another episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast! In this episode, Alicia dives into a tough but important topic: what to do when your partner doesn’t back you up as a stepmom. If you’re feeling unsupported, frustrated, or like you’re handling everything on your own, you’re not alone. Alicia shares actionable advice to help you navigate this challenge and start feeling more supported and confident in your role as a stepmom. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to recognize if your partner...
Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of stepmom life? In this episode, we tackle the relentless cycle of burnout and share practical strategies to reclaim your peace. From setting boundaries to finding your support system, this episode will help you take the first steps toward a calmer, more confident life. Plus, discover how connecting with like-minded stepmoms in The Stepmom Side Community can transform your journey. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why stepmom burnout happens and how it im...
In this episode, Casey McGuire Davidson, a life sobriety coach, shares her personal journey with alcohol and its profound impact on her relationships, parenting, and well-being. Casey discusses the societal pressures and stigmas surrounding alcohol consumption, especially for high-achieving women and mothers, and how "mommy wine culture" perpetuates harmful coping mechanisms. She opens up about her struggles with drinking, the resentment it created in her marriage, and how quitting alcohol le...
Welcome to the first episode of the year! In this episode, Alicia shares how choosing a single word for the year can set the tone for success, clarity, and peace in your stepmom journey. Her word for the year, Intentional, is all about making purposeful choices in time management, relationships, work, and self-care. She also invites you to reflect on what you want your year to feel like and walks you through practical steps to choose your own word. Plus, Alicia introduces her upcoming re-rele...
In this reflective episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, we’re diving into the highs, the lows, and everything in between from 2024. Alicia gets real about her challenges, celebrates her wins, and shares what she’s looking forward to in 2025. If you’re ready to reflect on your own year and find inspiration for the year ahead, this episode is for you. What We Cover: The struggles of 2024: wasted time, dropped balls, and battling imposter syndrome.Major wins: drama-free holidays, thriving stepki...
In this episode, Alicia dives into the all-too-common feeling of being a third wheel in your own family as a stepmom. From understanding the root causes to actionable steps and mindset shifts, this episode is packed with insights to help you reclaim your seat at the family table. What You’ll Learn: Why feeling like an outsider happens and what it means.How to address these feelings with your partner and kids.Actionable strategies to build connection and confidence.The mindset shift that can t...
Does it feel like you’re the only one laying down the law while your partner lets things slide? Are you starting to resent your stepkids when the real issue is a lack of teamwork with your partner? In this episode, Alicia breaks down why your frustration with discipline isn’t really about the kids—it’s about getting on the same page with your partner. Alicia shares insights, practical tips, and mindset shifts to help you stop feeling like the “bad guy” in your home and start building house ex...
Holidays as a stepmom can feel like walking a tightrope between honoring old traditions and creating space for something new. But here’s the thing: the holidays aren’t just about the past—they’re about building a future full of joy, connection, and belonging. In this episode, we’re diving into how you can confidently ditch outdated traditions, create fresh ones, and build a holiday season that feels uniquely yours. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How to gracefully step away from traditions ...
The holidays are supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but for stepmoms? Let’s be real—it’s often a mix of logistical nightmares, emotional overload, and a whole lot of deep breathing. In this episode, Alicia is tackling the holiday stressors stepmoms face, straight from her Instagram broadcast channel: Stepmom Support. From co-parenting chaos to feeling like an outsider at family gatherings, we’re diving into the real struggles—and how to navigate them without losing your mind ...
In this episode, Alicia tackles a common, yet often tricky, part of stepmom life: having your stepkids come back home from college. If you’re feeling torn between enjoying the holiday reunion and dreading the disruption to your routine, this episode is for you! Alicia dives into real strategies for setting respectful boundaries and practical ground rules, so everyone can enjoy their time together (without you losing your mind). What You’ll Learn: How to set boundaries with college-age stepkid...
In this episode, I tackle one of the biggest pressures in stepfamily life: the expectation to create a “blended” family. Society makes us feel like a stepfamily isn’t successful unless everyone’s close and connected immediately, but real-life doesn’t always work like that. Lets break down the difference between blending and bonding and why forcing “blended” family dynamics often leads to more tension than connection. Listen in to learn: Why blending isn’t the ultimate goal and what to focus o...
As a stepmom, the holiday season can feel like you’re juggling everyone else’s needs—and there’s never enough time for you. In this episode, Alicia breaks down why self-care isn’t just a nice-to-have but a must-do during the holidays. From sneaking in “me-time” pockets to setting boundaries with your schedule (yes, it’s okay to say “I’m busy!”), she shares simple, powerful strategies for protecting your peace. You’ll learn why stepping back from the comparison trap can be the best gift you gi...
In this episode, Alicia dives into a classic struggle: surviving family gatherings without losing your mind (or your peace). Whether it’s Aunt Judy offering unsolicited advice or cousins asking uncomfortable questions about your role as a stepmom, family events can turn into an emotional minefield real quick. Here’s what we’re covering today: Why Family Gatherings Attract Unsolicited Opinions: Is it the holiday spirit, or do people just forget their boundaries when they pass the gravy? We’ll ...
In this episode, Alicia is joined by a fellow stepmom, Lauren from Blended by Distance, to dive deep into the rollercoaster of emotions and challenges stepmoms face. They get real about some of the biggest hurdles that can make stepmoms question our sanity... Here’s what is covered: Losing Yourself: That feeling when you wake up and realize you’ve put yourself last for way too long. We talk about how easy it is to get caught up in being everything to everyone—your stepkids, your partner...
In this episode, I dive into the rarely discussed but very real phenomenon of stepmom-specific anxiety. If you’ve ever felt like you're constantly on edge, waiting for the next family drama to erupt—whether it's the stepkids, the ex, or just life in general—this episode is for you. I'm breaking down what makes this anxiety unique, why you might be feeling it, and, most importantly, how to manage it before it manages you. Here's what I dive into: Understanding Stepmom Anxiety: It's more than ...
In today’s episode, I'm diving into a topic that doesn’t get enough attention—Dad Guilt in a Stepfamily. You’ve probably heard a lot about stepmom guilt, but what about the dads? Many dads in stepfamilies feel torn between their kids and their new family. That guilt can impact everything from how they parent to how they show up in their marriage. I'll break down what dad guilt looks like, how it affects family dynamics, especially when it comes to disciplining kids, and what both partners can...
Is your home feeling more chaotic than calm? In this episode, I sit down with a decluttering expert Amy Slenker-Smith to tackle all things mess-related. Whether you’re drowning in toys, paperwork, or just stuff you can’t seem to part with, this episode is packed with practical tips and mindset shifts to help you reclaim your space—and your sanity. We dive into the emotional attachment to items, how decluttering can improve mental health, and how to get the whole family on board (yes, even the...
In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, we’re diving deep into the legal side of stepfamily dynamics with none other than Tracey J. Coates, Managing Partner of Coates Family Law, PLLC. Tracey is a powerhouse attorney who represents high-net-worth and high-profile clients in domestic relations cases, including divorce, child custody, and adoption, and estate planning. Tracey is the host of the popular podcast, The Tracey Coates Show, and has published numerous articles on family law topic...
Ever feel like your partner’s ex is always around—at every event, in every conversation, and all over social media? In today’s episode, we dive into the awkward and often frustrating reality of dealing with your partner’s ex and how to keep your cool when it feels like they’re *everywhere.* I’m breaking down: - Why it can feel like the ex is always around (even if they’re not!) - How to communicate with your partner about boundaries without causing a fight - Tips for handling social media w...
So, your stepkid doesn't like you? Join the club, girlfriend. You aren't the only stepmom that's felt that. In this episode, I discuss: -how it's really not something personal (promise!) -how to deal with the disrespect -why taking time for YOU is so important -ways to build respect (little by little) and more! Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think! Get all the FREE RESOURCES here. Wan...
Dr. Jakubowski is a well-respected international influencer on helping kids live happier, healthier lives. She has touched the lives of thousands of families in multiple states with her ability to connect and help kids experience success from challenging behaviors. With a doctorate in Educational Leadership, and nearly 20 years of experience in education as a teacher, assistant principal and principal, she is highly regarded as an educational gamechanger. In this episode, we discuss: -...
Melanie Stern is a psychotherapist specializing in alcohol and substance use issues and individual adult therapy. She tailors treatment to the individual to reveal the root of the problem with therapeutic process that is informed by psychoanalytic thinking, systems, CBT techniques, and trauma-based theory and practice. She is also a mother and step-mother, enjoys running and being by the beach, and is a proud lifelong New Yorker. In this episode, we discuss: -what is addiction? -how to brea...
Krista St-Germain is a Master Certified Life Coach, grief expert, widow, mom and host of The Widowed Mom Podcast. When her husband was killed by a drunk driver in 2016, Krista’s life was completely and unexpectedly flipped upside down. After therapy helped her unfurl from the fetal position, Krista discovered Life Coaching, Post Traumatic Growth and learned the tools she needed to move forward and create a future she could get excited about. Now, she coaches and teaches other widows so they c...
First, it's normal! Completely normal. Everyone has done it, so don't beat yourself up about it. In this episode, I discuss why it happens and how to break the cycle of repeating it. Let's be honest, you want to stop the cycle, too. You don't want this living rent free in your head. Worrying is like rocking in a rocking chair; you can do it all day, but you don't get anywhere. Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and le...
I know this sounds like a crazy concept, especially if you have an upbringing like mine. You know, one with the authoritarian parent. "Do as I say, not as I do." or a parent that expects you to jump when they say, "jump." Listen in on why apologizing to your stepkid when you are wrong/made a mistake is actually helpful to your relationship. Dare I say an apology could strengthen it? Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciak...
Ever feel like everyone else belongs but you do not? There's a secret language they speak. There are inside jokes. The history they share. The memories, vacations, and, well, you know everything that you don't share with them. In this episode, I break down, what outside syndrome is, what it feels like, and things you can do to overcome and work through it. We talk about this in The Stepmom Side Community. Come join us there! Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you li...
In this episode, Alicia talks about being "just the stepmom" and how society puts pressure on stepmoms to show up in all the ways, but to remember that, as a stepmom, you aren't the kid's mom. She talks about changing your perspective from being "just" the stepmom to "I'm just the stepmom." Listen in to hear the difference and for tips to embracing being just the stepmom. Want help "Defining Your role"? Click here. Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to ...
How hard is it to admit you are wrong? Do you have to have things your way? How hard is it to say, "I'm sorry"? If those are hard questions to answer, this episode might be for you. It's a little dose of tough love to help stop your ego from driving the bus. Listen in as I share a nickname my husband gave me early on in our relationship. (Thankfully, he never uses it now!) The resource mentioned is: Mastering the Stressors found here. Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. ...
We've all been there: that awkward, "I don't know how to connect with my stepkid...but I know I should at least try.." In this episode, I talk about -why it's important to build connections with your stepkids -where things can go sideways -what to do when it doesn't go well -how to try again Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think! Get all the FREE RESOURCES here. Want to learn more abo...
JP Marsh is a single "girl dad" to a 9 year old. He's gone gone from "Conflict to Collaboration" in the 7+ years of co-parenting. JP speaks, coaches, and advocates for the benefits of getting out of your own way to be adults in the eyes of your children. In this episode, we cover: -the double standards of stepmoms and stepdads -changing your perspective on the other parent -what your "cutesy" name for the ex says about you -why being and acting like an "adult" in a blended family situation ...
Christina is a San Diego native, with a degree in English from San Diego State University. She is a project manager by trade and a producer, writer and director by fun. Christina is the host of Wise Cracking Blonde Trivia Show. In this episode, we discuss: -what it's like having different custody schedules for siblings -how we help the kids navigate things when they go wrong -why Christina doesn't parent her stepkids -why doesn't she force her stepkids to like her -how she's gamified her fa...
If you're a new stepmom, this episode may be just a bit relatable. I cover: -major differences -sharing things -how your relationship seems to take a hit -what stepmoms tell me they wish they would have waited on...and more! Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think! Get all the FREE RESOURCES here. Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Loo...
Jessica is a licensed clinical counselor and her job is to help people manage their anxiety and depression, but what she focuses on first is their sleep. In her spare time, she keeps busy on her farm with her husband and four boys. Their life is very busy with sports and farm life. In this episode, we discuss: -what is EMDR? -why you need to engage both sides of the brain to process -does EMDR make you forget memories? -alternative methods for EMDR and more! To connect with Jessica: pathtow...
Bryana Kappadakunnel is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, an Infant-Family Early Childhood Mental Health Specialist, and a Perinatal Mental Health Specialist. She has an MA in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and is the CEO and founder of Conscious Mommy and Child Parent Connection. She has a private practice in Redondo Beach, CA and is a mom of 2. In this episode, we discuss: -why kids lie -not setting your kids up to lie to you -what to do when you kids do lie...and ...
Does that podcast title make you want to skip this episode? #relatable First things first: everyone is on their own healing journey. You might be further ahead than everyone else. You might be further behind. Reminder for you: it's not a race. Everyone is on their own journey. Listen in as I walk you through a few tips you can use to get to a friendlier relationship with the ex. Caveat to this: not everyone can be friendly. Not everyone is going to have a friendly relationship. THAT IS OK ...
I posted an "Ask Me Anything" box on Instagram and the questions submitted were pretty juicy. In this episode, I covered: -stepmom burnout -do I get tired of talking about stepmom stuff? -in-laws openly love/discuss the ex -spousal support for the mom while she has a live in boyfriend and more! Podcasts referenced in this episode are: Everyone Talks About the Ex...HELP! How Your Expectations Set You Up For Failure Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this,...
Jessica is a licensed clinical counselor and her job is to help people manage their anxiety and depression, but what she focuses on first is their sleep. In her spare time, she keeps busy on her farm with her husband and four boys. Their life is very busy with sports and farm life. In this episode, we discuss: -why you feel like eating everything in sight when you don't get enough sleep -how much sleep you should get -why sleep aids aren't all that great for you -what happens when you add sc...
In this episode, I talk to you about the ONE thing you can control: YOU. I walk you through a couple scenarios and how you can control (yourself in) them. There's even a bit of tough love mixed in! If you want to chat this through tonight (May 14th), The Stepmom Side Community's Group Coaching is tonight. Sign up for the community here! Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think! Get all the FRE...
Aside from being the owner of Entering Motherhood, Sarah Marie is a mom of two, wife, and birth and postpartum doula. She is certified as a postpartum nutrition professional, holds a doula certification specifically centered around VBAC preparation, and is an active doula in her community. In this episode, Sarah walks us through all things birthing and what to expect when you are expecting! Here are a few topics covered: -what to do when you are overwhelmed -why having a plan/doula are impo...
In this episode, I cover a lot of ground. I talk you through 9 things that would have been really beneficial to know prior to being a stepmom...or getting married. You live and learn, right? Here are a few of the things covered: -diplomacy/communication -protecting your relationship -being able to add humor -Boundaries-what they are, what they are not and what to know...and more! Resources mentioned: Mastering the Stressors (if you need help changing the way you handle things) 5 Steps to ...
This is the first (of hopefully many!) topic requests for the podcast. This stepmom is a full time stepmom and their mom barely sees them, but when she does, she comes over to their house...and eats everything in it. Sounds like we need to rework how to navigate this dynamic...listen in. Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think! Get all the FREE RESOURCES here. Want to learn more about The Ste...
Jyl Barlow navigates life as a stepmom and second wife with amazing hindsight. Her memoir, What to Expect When You Weren't Expecting, shares her bumpy road as a stepmom and the lessons learned along the way. Jyl lives in Virginia with her husband and two children, all of whom survived loads of speed bumps on the way to thriving as a family. In this episode: -Grief in stepfamilies -Guilt and how that plays out -What if you kept a separate living arrangement for awhile and more! Connect with...
Naja Hall is the founder of VIP Stepmom 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 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 ...
Mother's Day: one of the dreaded holidays for stepmoms. It's a weird one to navigate. What do I do? Should I expect anything? Is it weird? Send help! Listen in to get a bit of help (now!) on how to navigate Mother's Day this year and going forward! Resources mentioned: #27: How Your Expectations Set You Up for Failure Blog: Mother's Day As A Stepmom Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think! ...
Jaclyn Vonnahme is a licensed therapist & life coach with her own mental health struggles. Her mission in life is to remind people they are never alone! In this episode: -sobriety -trolls on social media -should you be on medication forever? -difference between coaching and therapy and more. Connect with Jaclyn: Instagram The Anxious Therapist Podcast Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you th...
Suzanne is a former actress and Miss Arab USA turned writer. Her debut memoir, Post Pardon Me, is a dark comedy on postpartum depression and anxiety. She offers laughter and understanding to help mothers through the difficult early phases of motherhood. In this episode, Suzanne walks us through what postpartum life can be like. She fuses in humor, but more importantly, wants you to know you aren't alone. She's kind, funny, and relatable, and then she opens up about generational trauma. Li...
Being a stepmom is wild. Some days are great. Some days are crap. Some are a mix of the two. Sometimes it feels like you're just waiting for the other shoe to drop. In this episode, Alicia breaks down the ebbs and flows of relationships with: -Your partner -Your stepkids -The other house...and yourself. Episodes mentioned: #3: Embracing Being "Just" the Stepmom Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know wh...
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