Shows
AI-Empowered Mom#39 AI-Empowered Mom | Stepfamily Solutions with Cameron NormandStepfamilies navigate a level of emotional, cognitive, and logistical complexity that most parenting advice was never designed to address. In this episode of the AI-Empowered Mom podcast, Sarah Dooley is joined by Cameron Normand, CEO of Stepfamily Solutions and host of The Stepmom Diaries podcast, for an honest, research-based conversation about what stepfamilies really need to thrive.Cameron shares her personal journey as a stepmom, why stepmothers often carry a heavier mental and emotional load, and how unclear roles, high conflict dynamics, and unrealistic expectations can lead to burnout and isolation. Together, they unpack...
2026-01-2523 min
The Stepmom Diaries Podcast111. Why New Year Resolutions Fail for Stepmoms: The Hidden Pattern You Need to KnowIf January already feels heavy… if you're tired of trying to feel hopeful... or if you're sitting there thinking, "What is wrong with me?" this episode is for you. January can be hard for stepmoms. And there's a reason no one talks about it. In Today's Episode, We're Talking About: Why January hits so hard for stepmoms Why the 'try harder' culture and first family advice miss the mark - especially this time of year The patterns that come up every January What not t...
2026-01-0918 min
Fresh Start Family ShowEp. 298: 5 Step-Parenting Mistakes That Hold Us Back with Cameron NormandIs step-parenting feeling harder than you expected? You’re not alone — and you’re not doing it wrong.
In this heartfelt and practical episode, Wendy talks with Cameron Normand, founder of Step Family Solutions and host of The Stepmom Diaries, about the five most common mistakes stepparents make — and what to do instead.
Drawing from her own experience as a stepmom of four (including one with special needs) and years of coaching stepfamilies, Cameron shares real-world tools for building connection, setting boundaries, and finding peace in the beautiful chaos of blend...
2025-11-1254 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast110. My Husband Doesn't Support Me with His Kids: What Every Stepmom Needs to Know"My husband is an idiot." That's what a stepmom said to me recently - not once, but multiple times. But behind those words? A mountain of hurt, exhaustion, and feeling completely alone in her own home. If you've ever felt like you're carrying everything by yourself while your partner seems checked out, dismissive, or just doesn't get it - this episode is for you. I'm diving deep into what "he doesn't have my back" really means, why it's about so much more than just everyday disagreements, and most important - what you can...
2025-10-2428 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast109. When It's All Too Much: Mindfulness Tools for Stepmom Life You're not broken. You're overwhelmed. This episode is for those moments when you're trying so hard to keep it together, but inside you're screaming. The mental load is crushing you, your patience is hanging by a thread, and even the dog's breathing feels like too much . . . If that rings a bell, let me reassure you that no, you're not broken. You're just overwhelmed. And there are tools to help you manage your stress. This week, I'm joined by licensed therapist and coach Kristin Cogan for a conversation every stepmom (and honestly, every woman) n...
2025-10-0231 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast108. Stepmom Triggers and the Power of Choosing Peace Over Panic What if you could take that familiar whisper of "You don't quite belong" and give it the heave-ho? Picture this: at your stepdaughter's sorority Parents Weekend, everyone's wearing their "sorority mom" pins . . . everyone but you. That familiar whisper starts: "I wonder if they notice I don't belong here." But then something incredible happens: you pause, breathe, and choose a different thought. This episode is about that moment - how triggers that used to wreck you now don't have to. You know what I'm talking about: It can be the smallest, most seemingly-insignificant moments that hits...
2025-09-2631 min
So Money with Farnoosh Torabi1879: Stepfamily Finances: Navigating Love, Money, and the Insider-Outsider DynamicBlended families don’t just merge households—they merge bank accounts, bills, and very different money expectations. And while stepfamilies are becoming more and more common, the financial playbook for them is far from simple. Every dollar spent can feel loaded: is it going to your kids, your spouse’s kids, or the kids you’re now raising together?My guest today, Cameron Normand, is one of the country’s leading stepfamily experts and the founder of Stepfamily Solutions. She knows firsthand how money and emotional labor intersect in blended families, and she’s built a career helpi...
2025-09-1532 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast107. Stop Trying Harder: Why Stepmoms Need Support, Not Perfection "You're not the problem. You're just doing it alone." If you attended the Stepmom Summit last weekend, you wrapped up in a high - feeling seen and understood. But it's over now, and you're back in a house that doesn't feel like yours with zero space to land. Today we're talking about why "trying harder" isn't the answer, and what you actually need to create lasting change in your stepfamily life. In This Episode, We Cover: Why Stepmom Life Feels So Isolating The myth of "trying harder" and the stepmom spiral of second-guessing your...
2025-09-1226 min
No Guilt Mom | Overcoming Mom Guilt, Parenting Tips, & Self Care for Moms346: What Your Step Mom Friends Want You to Know with Cameron NormandBeing a stepmom is not for the faint of heart—and yet, no one hands you a guidebook when you join a blended family. Cameron Normand, founder of Step Family Solutions and host of The Stepmom Diaries podcast, is here to spill the truths most people won’t say out loud.In this episode, we’re tackling the unfiltered realities of stepmom life—why it’s way harder than you expected, the one mistake almost every new stepmom makes, and why society still gets stepmoms all wrong. Plus, Cameron shares the secret to keeping your sanity when things get...
2025-02-2534 min
An Imperfectly Perfect Life with Shari LeidCameron Normand on Thriving in Blended FamiliesSend us a textBlended family life can present unexpected challenges, requiring compassion and communication. Through personal stories and expert insights, we explore the realities of stepfamily dynamics, emphasizing the importance of setting expectations and boundaries for a harmonious family life.• Common challenges faced by stepparents • Importance of realistic expectations in blended families • Navigating high-conflict relationships with ex-partners • Discussing finances and gift-giving in stepfamilies • Role of communication in fostering understanding • Strategies for managing relationships with adult children • Value of pre-marital stepfamily coaching • Resources available for stepfamilies • Conclusion on the journey of blended...
2025-02-0533 min
What Fresh Hell: Laughing in the Face of Motherhood | Parenting Tips From Funny MomsFresh Take: Cameron Normand of "Stepfamily Solutions"How can a step-parent gain the trust of her kids as she becomes part of their family? Cameron Normand, founder of Stepfamily Solutions, discusses her own experience as a stepmom and offers some helpful takeaways for navigating stepfamily dynamics.Cameron and Margaret discuss:
The biggest misconception about stepfamily life
Cameron's top piece of advice for new stepmoms
How to deal with a stepchild or ex-spouse who is less than accepting
Here's where you can find Cameron:
stepfamilysolutions.com
@stepfamilysolutions on FB, IG, and TikTok
Listen to Cameron's podcast "The Stepmom Diaries"
2024-05-1734 min
Husband in LawEmails From The ExCameron met her forever partner when she was 40 and couldn’t wait to start their life together. But then, on their honeymoon, her partner started getting texts from the other woman, and she realized that maybe this wasn’t what she signed up for… It left her asking herself, where is the handbook for stepparents and co-parents?! And since there wasn’t one, she created the closest thing you could hope to find.Cameron Normand is CEO of Stepfamily Solutions and host of The Stepmom Diaries podcast.Through her coaching, courses, magazine, and summit, she has help...
2024-04-2438 min
Hustle Like A Mother PodcastFrom Politics to Stepfamily Solutions: Leveraging Career Skills in Entrepreneurship with Cameron NormandStepparents listen up - this episode is for you! Come chat with Cameron as she shares how she went from a life in politics to running her own business after she became a stepmom and realized how little resources existed for her and her family. Listen in while we chat transitioning skills from corporate life to entrepreneurship, business growing pains and more. Find Cameron HERE! GET YOUR CONTENT STRATEGY STARTER FREEBIE!
2024-03-0633 min
Co-Parenting with Confidence126. Building Healthy Stepfamilies with Cameron NormandWhen you think of a stepmom what comes up? Often it is either the evil stepmother from the Disney Stories or Carol Brady. Well on today's podcast we're talking to Cameron Normand of Stepfamily Solutions who offers us a healthy and broader perspective. The conversation is an invitation to let go of the unhealthy expectations and shift our perspectives of what it means to be a stepmom and what a stepfamily could look like. Cameron Normand is CEO of Stepfamily Solutions and host of The Stepmom Diaries podcast. Through her coaching, podcast, magazine...
2024-03-0631 min
Let It Be Easy with Susie MooreNavigating The Intricacies Of Blended Families with Cameron NormandAre you diving head-first into the world of blended families? Join us as we untangle the complexities of this journey with our incredible guest, Cameron Normand, founder of Step Family Solutions and The Stepmom Diaries Podcast. From sharing her personal narrative of becoming a stepmom to four children to navigating the often intimidating realm of finances in a blended family, Cameron's experiences and insights are nothing short of enlightening. As a stepmom, she draws upon her journey to help us understand the often unspoken realities of stepfamilies - a crucial conversation, especially considering that 40% of American families are in...
2023-10-0853 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast70. How To Navigate Stepfamily FinancesStepfamily finances and the issues around them are some of the most important but least talked about (at least in advance) landmines that must be navigated in a new blended family. When I met my husband, Craig, we talked about all kinds of things when we were planning to marry and move in together. But you know what we didn't talk about? Stepfamily finances. We did sit down right around when we got engaged to go through each of our assets and debts. And we talked about our philosophy around debt…But that was about the extent of...
2023-09-0717 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast66. How to be an unbothered stepmom, with Bee ChatmanIf you're a new stepmom (or even a not-so-new stepmom) who has struggled, today's guest will speak to you. Because I'm talking to a stepmom coach about how to find your footing. My guest this week is Bee Chatman, a stepmom coach and Operations Manager at the Naja Hall Coaching Agency who helps her stepfamily clients with all the things. About Bee: Bee is an experienced coach and serves as Operations Manager at The Naja Hall Coaching Agency. With 6 years of dedication in the field of coaching, Bee is knowledgeable in life transitions, e...
2023-06-2923 min
MAMA, You're Doing Great!™ | Real, Relatable Motherhood Situations, Advice & Encouragement for Mamas41 | The Stepmom, Bonus Parent, Blended Family Guide to Success w/ Cameron NormandCameron Normand is Founder of This Custom life and host of The Stepmom Diaries podcast, where she provides advice and tools to help stepmoms manage their blended family lives.She is also co-founder of The Stepmom Summit and co-CEO of Stepfamily Magazine. Cameron is a Certified Stepparent Coach, the creator of the BLENDED Family Formula For Stepmom Success, and author of The Stepmom’s Gratitude Journal.Today she is on the podcast to encourage and help blended families come together in the best way they know how, to be the best parents they can for th...
2023-06-2730 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast65. Being BOLD When Your Relationship Is In Crisis, with Jessica FrewIf you've ever felt like you've gotten lost in your relationship or your stepfamily, today's conversation will resonate with you. My guest is relationship crisis coach, Jessica Frew. Jessica is an expert at helping her clients deal with betrayal - recognizing it and coming back from it, all while making sure to keep their sense of self. About Jessica: Jessica Frew is a wife, ex-wife, mom, stepmom, and BOLD action taker. She has a successful podcast called "Husband in Law" that she records with her husband, Matt, and her ex-husband, Steve. Together they are sharing t...
2023-05-1133 min
The ZubcastEp. 71 - Interview w/ Carter NormandIn episode 71 of The Zubcast, we are incredibly excited to have 67's videographer and content creator Carter Normand on the show! We talk about his upcoming docuseries, his interactions with the players behind the scenes, and Dave Cameron being a content goldmine.Thank you all so much for listening and stay tuned for future episodes!
2023-05-0934 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast64. Accepting Your Stepmom Life, Even When It's High-Conflict, With Anita InglisToday's guest is one of my favorite stepmom coaches. She's seen it all and her down-to-earth (and sometimes blunt, but in the best possible way) advice is always spot-on. And regardless of what you may be struggling with in your stepmom life, you'll get great advice from Anita in this episode. About Anita: As a step-child, divorced mother, and step-mother Anita has been part of a step-family for most of her life. This gives her important insight into the varied and complex dynamics at play within step- and divorced families and brings her personal experience a...
2023-05-0437 min
Radical StepmomsSeason 6: Episode 14: Let's talk teens, blended family finances and finding your voice with guest, CameronChristina welcomes Cameron, a stepmom who found her voice and founded This Custom Life, is host of The Stepmom Diaries podcast, Co-CEO of Stepfamily Magazine, and Co-founder of The Stepmom Summit. Cameron discusses how she stepped into her role and how the ages of our stepkids can impact the way we show up. Christina and Cameron chat how the bond can be different between your different stepkids, the guilt we carry and some mistakes stepmoms make when trying to define their role. Cameron also shares some ideas and suggestions on how to navigate blended family finances. What should you consider...
2023-05-0341 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast63. Being A Radical Stepmom With Christina NelsonToday's guest is truly "radical." If you haven't listened to her podcast, you've probably seen her relatable, raw, and often funny stepmom posts on Instagram. It's a delight to get to chat with Christina Nelson of Radical Stepmoms about all the things. And Christina gives us a preview of her talk at the Stepmom Summit, the free 3-day event I host for stepmoms, which is THIS WEEK! If you haven't heard me talk about the summit, it's a live, online (did I mention free?) event for stepmoms. We've got 25 of the world's top experts in stepfamily issues ta...
2023-04-2028 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast62. Kick Ass At Stepmom Life With Jamie ScrimgeourToday we're kicking ass and taking names. Just kidding (kind of) - I'm actually having a discussion with one of the OG's in the online stepmom space, Jamie Scrimgeour, host of The Kickass Stepmom podcast. I always enjoy a chat with Jamie and we are talking about all. the. things. Jamie is also a speaker at our third annual Stepmom Summit next week. The Stepmom Summit will feature presentations, live panels, and coaching with 25 of the world's top stepfamily experts. You can grab your FREE ticket to hear her speak HERE! About Jamie: Ja...
2023-04-1330 minThe Stepmom Diaries PodcastBonus Episode: Stepmom Resources You NeedI've had some amazing podcast guests the last few months, and have even more coming up in the next few months - but I thought I'd take a beat and record a quick bonus episode for you to talk about some of the things going on in my world and some things I've been working on for you. It can be hard to find resources that apply to your specific stepmom situation. I've got access to so many resources that are helpful for stepmoms, so I wanted to highlight just a few that are coming up that...
2023-04-1212 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast61. Conscious Coparenting With Mikki GardnerLast episode, we had a great chat with Katie Davie about coparenting - and it's such an important topic, we're continuing the discussion this week. Coparenting, both in your household and with your partner's ex, can be loaded with stress. Today's guest, stepmom Mikki Gardner, talks about what "conscious parenting" is and how you can be more intentional in your relationship with your spouse - and their ex. About Mikki Mikki Gardner is the host of the Co-Parenting With Confidence Podcast and a mom of 3 (her son and 2 bonus sons). After learning how to na...
2023-04-0636 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast60. How To Coparent Peacefully, Even When It Feels Impossible, With Katie DavieSupporting your spouse as they coparent with their ex can be one of the hardest parts of stepmom life. Today's guest, Katie Davie, has found a way to help coparents that doesn't require the high conflict coparent to even be a part of the process. She founded Coparenting Peacefully in 2021, where she helps coparents, biological parents, and stepparents become the best versions of themselves - and protect their peace. Katie has an undergraduate degree in psychology, has studied at the High Conflict Institute, and is a certified coach. Her ebook, Your Guide To Coparenting With B...
2023-03-2422 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast59. Letting It Be Easy (Even With Stepmom Life), With Susie MooreHave you ever wished stepmom life could just be easier? This week's guest is going to tell us how you can "let it be easy." A few weeks ago in Episode 56, I got to chat with one of my business mentors, Amy Porterfield, about her stepmom life and this week I'm talking to one of my other business mentors (and really one of my favorite people around), Susie Moore, who's got some amazing lessons around mindset. Susie grew up living on welfare in a variety of women's shelters, often on the run from her abusive, al...
2023-03-1635 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast58. When It Feels Like The Conflict Will Never End, with Megan Hunter, CEO of The High Conflict InstituteIn this episode, I'm bringing back my guest from Episode 27, Megan Hunter, to talk about high-conflict relationships. This is a topic that just can't be discussed enough and as CEO of the High Conflict Institute, Megan's expertise is unmatched. About Megan: Megan Hunter, MBA, is co-founder and CEO of the High Conflict Institute and founder/publisher at Unhooked Books. Megan is a keynote speaker and trainer on high-conflict interactions and disputes, and conflict influencing. She is the author of several books and serves on several boards throughout her career. She is a mom of 3, stepmom of 5, nana of 4, a...
2023-03-0936 min
We Might Be DrunkEp 117: Ari Shaffir and Bar Search Pt 2We brought in the big guns for this episode, 3 more bartenders up on the chopping block. Can they make the best drinks and rise to the top? We have Shayne, Steffe and Cameron and of course the great comedy of @arishaffir Get tickets to see Ari at the Beacon Theatre March 24th and catch his comedy special "JEW" streaming on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2YtIBYM4w0 Mark Normand: http://marknormandcomedy.com/ Sam Morril: https://www.sammorril.com/shows Ari Shaffir: https://www.arishaffir.com/ *Important Links* Shop: https://www.wemigh...
2023-03-062h 05The Stepmom Diaries Podcast57. Dating And Stepfamily Life After 60In this episode, we're talking about something we haven't tackled yet: relationships and marriage after 60. Settling down in your later years presents totally different blended family issues than what you face in your younger or midlife years. There are 73 million people over the age of sixty in the United States, or twenty-two percent of the total population – and that number is only growing. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2050, the number of people aged sixty-five to eighty-nine will double, while the number of Americans over the age of ninety is expected to quadruple. And while muc...
2023-03-0326 min
Authentically Raw with Jamie Berris36. Navigating Step-Mom Life with Cameron NormandCameron Normand is founder/CEO of This Custom Life where she provides tools and resources to help stepmoms manage their blended family lives. She is also Co-CEO of Stepfamily Magazine, Co-Founder of The Stepmom Summit, and host of The Stepmom Diaries podcast. She is a Certified Stepparent Coach, the creator of the BLENDED Family Formula For Stepmom Success, and author of The Stepmom’s Gratitude Journal. Cameron has been featured in CNET, The Cut, Business Insider, Upjourney, the Today Parenting Team, and StepMom Magazine, among others. Cameron received her BA from the University of South Carolina and her JD from Emory U...
2023-03-0333 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast56. How To Love Stepmom Life While Building A Business Empire With Amy PorterfieldThis is a special episode because I am interviewing one of my favorite business mentors, Amy Porterfield - who also happens to be a stepmom. And Amy doesn't hold back. She talks all about how she balanced stepmom life with building her multimillion-dollar business. And how she dealt with the struggles of not feeling like a "real mom." And she gives us a sneak peek into her brand new book, Two Weeks Notice - a handbook for any woman who's thought about starting her own business. The book is already a bestseller and will make a difference...
2023-02-2326 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast55. Moving Forward When Things Are Hard With Michelle WolfeHow Do You Move Forward When Things Get Tough? Balancing all the stepfamily things can be really overwhelming. And if you're like me, sometimes you just want to crawl back into bed and hit the "fast forward" button until things are calmer. Except they don't ever really get calmer, do they? Today's guest, Michelle Wolfe, is in tune with that emotion. She's the host of the Muve Forward podcast, investor, and founder of MUVE Life Activewear. If you like The Stepmom Diaries, can you do me a favor? Head to iTunes and leave me...
2023-02-1738 min
Wellness for Financial GrownupsMoney tips for complicated families with Stepmom Diaries podcast host Cameron NormandCameron Normand of This Custom Life, and Co-CEO of Stepfamily Magazine shares her strategies and advice for blended and otherwise complicated family finances. For more information, visit the show notes at https://www.bobbirebell.com/podcast/Cameron-Normand
2023-02-0721 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast54. Raising Financial Grownups With Author Bobbi RebellHelping kids learn about money is difficult, but is even more complicated in stepfamilies. Today's guest is money expert and author Bobbi Rebell, CFP®. Bobbi is the founder of Financial Wellness Strategies and the author of Launching Financial Grownups: Live Your Richest Life by Helping Your (Almost) Adult Kids Become Everyday Money Smart. She is a financial wellness advocate, the host of the Money Tips for Financial Grownups podcast, and the founder of GrownupGear.com. Bobbi was previously a global business news anchor and personal finance columnist at Reuters and held various journalist positions at top news outlets including CN...
2023-01-2027 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast53. What Does New Year, New You Even Mean?It's the new year, so everyone is making resolutions. Instead of an actual resolution - because let's face it, I usually give up on those within a few days of the new year - I again decided to choose a word for the year. In this episode, we'll talk about my word and why it doesn't mean what you think it might mean. Plus, how you can make sure 2023 is your best year yet! If you enjoy The Stepmom Diaries podcast, would you do me a big favor and head HERE to leave me a re...
2023-01-1317 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast52. Finding Your Holiday Happy When You Feel Like ScroogeIt's the eve of the holiday weekend for millions of stepfamilies around the world. And if you're like me, even when you're having a great holiday season you still have some level of anxiety as you deal with the complications that come with being part of a blended family. That's what we're talking about in this episode - and you'll come away with some tips for how to cope with the challenges and actually enjoy your holidays. If you enjoy listening to the podcast, could you do me a solid and head to iTunes and l...
2022-12-2217 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast51. Dear (Step)Mama Bear . . . with Author Jo DoddToday's episode features author Jo Dodd talking about her journey to kids book author and her most recent book, "Dear Mama Bear With The F*ed Up Hair." She's got some great lessons about family and why you don't have to hold it together all the time. And her book is perfect for moms and stepmoms who are struggling to hold it all together. About Jo Jo Dodd is an author, coach and mom of four. In 2020, after a 6-month furlough, she took a bold leap, stepping away from a leadership role in Corporate America, to launch...
2022-12-0831 minSo Money with Farnoosh Torabi1442: Financial Advice for Step Parents and Blended FamiliesThe modern family is often a blended one. How should couples with step children manage expenses? What are the important conversations to have before getting married? Expert Cameron Normand, co-founder of The Stepmom Summit, joins to share insights from her work and real life as the stepmom to four children.More about Cameron: She is founder/CEO of This Custom Life, where she provides stepmoms with tools and advice to help them manage their blended family lives. She is a Certified Stepfamily Coach, the creator of the BLENDED Family Formula For Stepmom Success, and author of The Stepmom’s...
2022-11-3029 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast50. Live Your Ideal (Step)Mom Life, Rage Room IncludedIt's our FIFTIETH episode, can you believe it?!? And it's a goodie - I'm talking to one of my OG business besties about mom life, the hot mess express, and rage rooms. My guest is Nikki Oden, a lawyer and mom coach who teaches working moms how to battle burnout, own their days, and lose the mom guilt. She is the founder of Your Ideal Mom Life® and host of the Love Your Mom Life podcast. Nikki's work has been featured in TODAY Parents, The Boston Globe, Cafe Mom, Thrive Global, Authority Magazine, Kidspot, and more. ...
2022-11-2333 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast49. Emotional Exhaustion Is Real, But You Can RecoverThe holidays are approaching and I don't know about you, but I'm already tired. Stepmom life is exhausting on a good day and it can be hard to figure out how to feel restored. That's exactly what we're talking about in this episode. I'm talking to Nancy Colier, author of The Emotionally Exhausted Woman: Why You're Feeling Depleted And How To Get What You Need. Nancy tells us what the $14 billion self-care industry has gotten wrong and how we can truly take care of ourselves. It's an important conversation for stepmoms - and any woman...
2022-11-1736 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast48. The Professional Stepdad Is In The HouseEver wondered if stepdads face the same challenges as stepmoms? Well, we find out in this episode, when we chat with Franco Zavala, also known as the "Professional Stepdad." Franco is an actor, host of The Professional Stepdad Podcast and YouTube Show, 60-second storyteller, and stepfather of five, who loves sharing wisdom, insight, and anecdotes about fatherhood. Driven by his passion to affect real change, Franco is on a mission to challenge the current narrative around the meaning and purpose of being a Stepdad in today's world. You can find Franco on his YouTube Channel, h...
2022-11-1132 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast47. Stepfamily Pets & What Fido Can Teach Us About Stepfamily LifeWe're back and in this episode, we're talking about why it's been a tough fall this year. And I'm opening up about the recent death of my beloved dog, Charlie. Why it's so hard to lose our fur-babies - and the surprising lessons he taught me about stepfamily life and relating to my stepchildren. If you enjoy The Stepmom Diaries, would you head over to iTunes or wherever you listen and leave me a review? It will help me reach even more stepmoms like you!
2022-11-0414 min
The KICK-ASS Stepmom Podcast160: Closing The Door On Fertility Treatment, Stepmom Mistakes + Finding Your Role with Cameron NormandThis week I am interviewing fellow Stepmom and creator of The Blended Family Formula, Cameron Normand about all things Stepmom life. We dive into: Parenting teenagers Her journey with infertility When to close the door on fertility treatments Mistakes stepmoms make What to do when your stepkids want nothing to do with you Parental alienation Disney parenting and more! For more from Jamie Scrimgeour visit www.jamiescrimgeour.com Follow along on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jamiescrimgeour Follow along on Facebook: www.facebook.com/scrimgeourjamie ...
2022-10-2440 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast46. More Of The (Big) Stepfamily Challenges with Dr. Patricia PapernowPart TWO of TWO Episodes With Dr. Papernow! This episode is the second installment featuring Stepfamily Magazine's Clinical & Research Advisor and Advisory Board member, AND Stepmom Summit keynote speaker, Dr. Patricia Papernow. We started talking and there was so much to cover, it took two episodes! About Dr. Papernow Dr. Patricia Papernow is widely recognized as one of the world's foremost experts on "blended families." She is the author of Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships: What Works and What Doesn't, which has been called "the best book ever written on the...
2022-08-2342 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast45. Meeting The (Big) Stepfamily Challenges With Dr. Patricia PapernowPart ONE of TWO Episodes With Dr. Papernow! This episode is the first of two featuring Stepfamily Magazine's Clinical & Research Advisor and Advisory Board member, AND Stepmom Summit keynote speaker, Dr. Patricia Papernow. We started talking and there was so much to cover, it took two episodes! About Dr. Papernow Dr. Patricia Papernow is widely recognized as one of the world's foremost experts on "blended families." She is the author of Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships: What Works and What Doesn't, which has been called "the best book ever written on th...
2022-08-2244 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast44. When It's Time To Set Some BoundariesThe Stepmom Summit Speakers Series Continues! In this episode, we're going deep with Dr. Erin Careless on what it means to set some boundaries and "step back." We also talk about finding stepmom resources and why it's so important to look for tools that are evidence and research-backed. Erin is one of the experts speaking at this year's Stepmom Summit and is the Chair of Stepfamily Magazine's Advisory Board. Erin became a stepmom when she met her partner Matt in 2014. That same year, she became a Certified Stepfamily Coach and founded Steplife as a way t...
2022-08-1628 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast43. Confidence Is Key - Especially For StepmomsWhat Do Stepmoms Have In Common With Endurance Athletes? Today's guest is another speaker at our second upcoming (and FREE) Stepmom Summit, August 25 - 27th. You can head HERE to make sure you are on the waitlist and can snag your spot when tickets open up on August 9th! Sarah Freeman, CEO of Sarah Freeman Coaching, is a passionate endurance athlete, podcast host, step-mum, wife, and a brave, badass, big-hearted woman. Her mission is to guide women endurance athletes and step-mums to embody their next-level confidence through her one on one coaching, podcasting, and speaking....
2022-08-0429 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast42. Your Blended Family DesignBlending Families - And Households In this episode, we're talking to Tamara Harris of Design Your Way Home. Tamara is an interior designer who breaks down decorating into easy-to-follow steps so you can confidently turn your house into a home you love, without frustration, overwhelm or regret-purchases. Tamara is also a stepmom - and a speaker at this year's Stepmom Summit August 25 - 27th, where she'll be talking about the challenges of blending households as a stepfamily - and how to address them. In this episode, she gives a preview of her talk and some g...
2022-07-3123 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast41. When Your Support System StumblesWhat happens when the people who are supposed to support you through thick and thin fall down on the job? Today we are talking about how tricky it can be to handle it when your friends don't support your life choices.
2022-07-2120 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast40. Summer Travel With (Step)KidsIt's summertime and the travel is . . . wild?! These days, whether you're traveling for the holiday long weekend or for a summer vacation, there are lots of factors that can make your trip better - or worse. Flight delays, rental car hiccups, and, of course, traveling with kids. And stepkids. Traveling with kids can present all kinds of unique challenges, so this episode is all about making sure you're prepped for making the most out of your trip, wherever you're going and however you're getting there.
2022-07-0119 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast39. When You Realize. Your Outlook SucksHow Do You Change Your Stepmom Outlook? What do you say when people ask if you enjoy being a stepmom? I recently had someone ask me if being a stepmom was hard and the answer I blurted out surprised me. And it made me realize that I could use some mindset work myself. But guess what - changing your outlook and mindset can be harder than it sounds - and that's what this episode is all about.
2022-06-1616 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast38. A Conversation About The BLENDED Family FormulaAlways a student! In the course of my stepmom coaching experience, and as the co-founder of Stepmom Summit and the co-owner/co-Editor In Chief of Stepfamily Magazine, I've helped thousands of stepmoms find peace with their journey. And what I've learned along the way is that the problems that every stepmom faces really boil down to 7 key issues and responses. And if stepmoms understand these issues, they can deal with literally anything that comes up in stepmom life. So I brought it all together into the BLENDED Family Formula. Whether you're dealing with high conflict ex issues - wh...
2022-04-0819 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast37. Using Your Personality Style To Communicate: Interview with Karen BemmesHow To Use Your Personality Style To Communicate Better We have a special treat in this episode: we're talking to Karen Bemmes, a certified DISC behavior system expert. And she's offering a special bonus for my BLENDED Family Formula students (reminder that doors open next week!) [in the meantime, you can sign up for my FREE stepmom Masterclass on April 5 and 6 HERE] Who is Karen? Nearly 30 years ago, Karen Bemmes sat straight up in bed while reading a book called Positive Personality Profiles. She looked at her husband and said, "I understand Lisa for the f...
2022-03-3148 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast36. Breaking Through To Your StepkidsWhy It Can Be So Hard To Relate To Your Stepkids If you've had a hard time getting to know, communicating, or relating to your stepchildren - you are not alone. It can be really difficult to develop that relationship, even when you're trying your hardest. We'll talk all about why it's hard and how you can improve things in this episode. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Episode 3 is a great introduction to handling it when your stepmom reality isn't quite measuring up to what you expected. AND - the doors to...
2022-03-2422 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast35. The Biggest Key To Fixing Your Stepfamily ProblemsIt's not WHAT you say, it's HOW you say it. What do you do when it feels like you and your spouse just cannot get on the same page? When even small discussions turn into big arguments. You've got to dig deep and really examine how you're communicating with each other - and that's what this episode is all about. Also, the BLENDED Family Formula course will open its doors on April 4th for just a few days! Join the waitlist HEREso you're the first to know! (and the course will do some deep dives o...
2022-03-1728 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast34. When Coparenting Just Isn't WorkingIt's a square peg, round hole situation. What do you do when you've tried and tried and just can't make coparenting work with your spouse's ex? It can be really hard when you feel like you're forcing communication while the other house just doesn't want to make it work. The good news is, you and your partner have options. We'll talk about what you can do when coparenting seems impossible - and more - in this episode. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Stepfamily Magazine Join the waitlist for my p...
2022-03-1025 min
Compelling Conversations: Where Law Meets BusinessCameron Norman - Complelling Conversations with Dara RosenbaumDara Rosenbaum interviews attorney, author and entrepreneur Cameron Normand of This Custom Life. From this episode, you will learn how she juggles her "day job" as a corporate politico in DC with her own company, which helps Stepmoms find support, expert advice, and tools to cope with blended family challenges.I'm Dara Rosenbaum, a founding partner and attorney at Rosenbaum & Taylor in New York. My own journey has shown me the power of learning from others, whether from their successes or their failures. Each episode provides a compelling conversation with a business leader, business owner or other inspiring...
2022-02-2229 min
Shameless LeadershipCameron Normand: How Mom Culture Totally Misses The Mark For StepmomsCameron Normand is the host of The Stepmom Diaries podcast, co-founder of The Stepmom Summit, and founder and CEO of This Custom Life, where she provides stepmoms with tools and advice to help them embrace their blended family lives. She is a Certified Stepparent Coach, the creator of the BLENDED Family Formula For Stepmom Success, and author of The Stepmom’s Gratitude Journal.Cameron received her BA from the University of South Carolina and her JD from Emory University School of Law. By day, she is a corporate politico in the Washington, D.C. area and serves on...
2021-12-1552 min
I Know I’m Crazy with NAJA HALL080: Stepkids, discipline, and other touchy topics with Cameron NormandNaja chats with Cameron Normand, host of The Stepmom Diaries podcast, co-founder of The Stepmom Summit, and founder and CEO of This Custom Life, where she provides stepmoms with tools and advice to help them embrace their blended family lives. She is a Certified Stepparent Coach, the creator of the BLENDED Family Formula For Stepmom Success, and author of The Stepmom’s Gratitude Journal.
Cameron received her BA from the University of South Carolina and her JD from Emory University School of Law. By day, she is a corporate politico in the Washington, D.C. area and se...
2021-11-2328 min
Queen Of Your Castle Ft. The Whole StepfamilyWhen Your Stepchild Calls The Police On You: Interview with Cameron NormandThis week's guest, Cameron Normand, has lived through a stepmom's worst nightmare... One of her stepchildren called the police on her.Tune in to find out:The big mistakes she and her new husband made when trying to blend their stepfamilyThe risks involved with stepmoms being rule-enforcers and disciplinariansWhat role a stepmom should be playing in her stepfamilyThe perfect storm that led to one of Cameron's stepkids calling the police on her (yikes)How to successfully navigate a high-conflict coparenting relationshipHow the acronym BLENDED can help you to live your best stepmom lifeTo...
2021-10-2549 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast33. Reclaiming Your Power With Naja HallNothing Is Off Limits! In today's episode, I talk to Naja Hall, founder of Blended and Black and VIP Stepmom and host of the podcast, I Know I'm Crazy. Naja describes her life's work as being "to teach empathy, accountability, and emotional intelligence in order to serve individuals and families that are affected by some of life's toughest transitions." I'd say she's succeeded. She serves stepmoms with a dedication, humor, and empathy that gives stepmoms the tools to cope with all the challenges. And y'all, we talk about everything in this no holds barred discussion...
2021-09-3042 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast32. Talking All Things Stepmom With Dr. Patricia PapernowA Supersized Episode You Do NOT Want To Miss I was thrilled to talk with Dr. Patricia Papernow in this episode. Dr. Papernow is one of the top experts in the world working with blended families and if you attended The Stepmom Summit last month, you heard some amazing advice from her. If you missed it, don't worry - you can still get access to her talk and all of the content from the three day event HERE. Dr. Papernow has taught about blended families all over the U.S. and the world. She brings fo...
2021-09-191h 08The Stepmom Diaries Podcast31. Real Talk With Maarit MillerLet's Get Real! Being a stepmom can be so hard - and sometimes you want someone to break it down and give you the tough love. The real advice with no sugarcoating. That person is Maarit Miller and in today's episode, we talk to her about all the tough things. The issues like high-conflict relationships, parental alienation, and more. And she's got some great advice for anyone who's struggling. You Can Find Maarit: www.blendedfamilyfrappe.com Instagram The Stepmom Summit: Maarit will also be speaking at The Stepm...
2021-08-1934 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast30. Stepping Back Successfully With Dr. Erin CarelessLearning How To Step Back Figuring out when it's time to take a step back and learning how to do it is no joke for stepmoms. And today's guest, Dr. Erin Careless, is going to tell you how to do it in a way that helps both you and your stepfamily. Dr. Careless, a self-described recovering people-pleaser, has a PhD in adult education focusing on stepmothering, is a Certified Stepfamily Coach, and the owner of Steplife: Stepmom Coaching and Support. She is also a Director of Adult Learning and Teaching at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova...
2021-08-1733 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast29. Successful Stepfamily Relationsh!t with Jessica FrewBeing a BOLD Stepmom Today's guest is Jessica Frew. She is a wife, ex-wife, mom, stepmom, and BOLD action taker. She has a successful podcast called "Husband in Law" that she records with her husband, Matt, and her ex-husband, Steve. Together they share their stories of love, marriage, coming out, divorce, remarriage, and co-parenting to help others know they are not alone. Jessica is also a speaker at our upcoming Stepmom Summit, where she'll be talking about LGBTQ issues in blended families with religious differences. You will not want to miss it! You C...
2021-08-1236 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast28. Happily Ever After With The StepqueenThis episode is fit for a queen! In this episode, we talk to Brittany Lynch, the founder & CEO of Stepqueen and the host of top-ranked relationship podcast: Queen of your Castle. Brittany helps stepmoms from around the world to release the jealousy, resentment, anger, and insecurity that come with stepfamily life. With nearly a decade of experience as a Registered Nurse, a post-degree certification in Stepfamily Counselling from the Stepfamily Foundation, Brittany has become a beacon of hope for countless stepmoms who long for a life of peace, acceptance, and security. Brittany is...
2021-08-1030 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast27. A Conversation with Megan Hunter, CEO of The High Conflict InstituteIf you're dealing with a high conflict situation, you NEED this episode! In this episode, Megan Hunter, co-founder of the High Conflict Institute and Conflict Playbook, talks to us about why there's more to high-conflict personalities than meets the eye. And how you, as a stepmom, can deal with them. Megan, along with author and speaker, Bill Eddy, LCSW, Esq. developed the high-conflict personality theory. She foundedthe Institute after 13 years in policy, legislation, and judicial training with the Arizona Supreme Court, Administrative Office of the Courts, and the Dawes County Attorney's Office in Nebraska. She is...
2021-08-0441 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast26. Multi-Cultural Stepfamilies: A Discussion With Kimberly KingFrom Beauty Queen To Stepmom Coach . . . Welcome to Supersized August! Where you'll get TWO episodes a week in the leadup to The Stepmom Summit August 26 – 28th. I mentioned the summit to you last week, but I cofounded it with Beth McDonough of The Inclusive Stepmom and we have got an incredible lineup of 23 the world's top experts on all issues affecting stepmoms. High conflict exes, self-care, boundaries, outsider syndrome. You name it, we've got the experts talking about it. You can get on the waitlist HERE – which is also where you can register once...
2021-08-0345 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast25. Dr. Courtney Conley On The Art Of Relating To TeensNavigating The Teen Years It's been a hot minute since we had a guest and we have got a great one for you in this episode! We will be talking all about how to make it through the teen years and how you can support the teens in your life. Dr. Courtney Conley is an author, therapist, parent coach, and author who specializes in working with adolescents. Courtney's passion stems from her own emotional turmoil during her teenage years. Her mission is to equip adolescents with the inner tools needed to successfully navigate their teenage...
2021-07-2940 minThe Stepmom Diaries PodcastBonus Episode: The Formula To Love Your BLENDED Family LifeYes, There IS A Formula To Love Your Blended Family Life Do you ever wish there was a formula for being a stepmom? Steps you could follow that would help you succeed? Guess what? There is! And that's what we are talking about today in this bonus episode! When I became a stepmom, I looked for the right resources. But nothing out there really spoke to my personal situation. So I started doing research. And learning. And realizing I had already made a pretty good amount of mistakes. So I sat down to t...
2021-07-1522 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast24. Stepmom Boundaries: What They Are And Why You Need Them"Boundaries" Is Not A Bad Word Have you heard the term boundaries before? I hadn't before I became a stepmom. But over the years, I've realized how important they are to my health – and to my family. And that's what we're going to talk about today. Have you heard the term boundaries before? I hadn't before I became a stepmom. But over the years, I've realized how important they are to my health – and to my family. And that's what we're going to talk about today. Resources Discussed In This Episode: Episo...
2021-07-0621 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast23. How To Deal With Stepmom Imposter SyndromeStepmom Imposter Syndrome: 5 Quick Tips To Stop Feeling Like A Fraud It's easy for "imposter syndrome" to creep into stepmom life. That feeling that you are in no way qualified to be doing this. That you don't know what you're doing. That you're not a "real" parent. Every stepmom experiences this at one time or another. The good news is that there are a few ways you can battle feeling like a fraud and regain the confidence you need to succeed. In this episode, I'll give you 5 ways you can do just that. Resources Mentioned...
2021-06-2323 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast22. How To Cope With Parental Alienation As A StepmomParental Alienation Affects Stepmoms, Too. Parental Alienation is one of the hardest issues that faces blended families. And not only can it have an impact on you as a stepmom, but it can be really hard to know how you should deal with it. In this episode, we'll talk through parental alienation and how you can deal with it, both as a stepmom and as a spouse. Resources Mentions In This Episode: The BLENDED Family Formula Course – The next class is opening soon! And you can join the waitlist for this si...
2021-06-1727 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast21. Flipping The Script On Stepmom AssumptionsFacing The Assumptions WE Make There are lots of assumptions out there about stepmoms. And let's face it, most of them are negative. But that's not what we're talking about in this episode. We're going to think about the assumptions that we as stepmoms make about others. And how we can "flip the script" to try to turn those assumptions on their heads. Resources Mentions In This Episode: The BLENDED Family Formula Course - The next class is opening soon! And you can join the waitlist for this six-week intensive HERE.
2021-06-1014 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast20. Why Can't We Just Get Along?It's hard to deal with stepkids who don't like you. Or who aren't nice to you. Or some combination of the two. The good news is that there are some things you can do to release the stress that kind of situation causes you. And that's what this episode is all about. Resources Discussed In This Episode: My piece on Five Ways To Bond With Your Stepchildren My in-depth, and FREE, Guide To Bonding With Your Stepchildren HERE And Don't forget . . . I'm giving away a free 30-minute co...
2021-05-2823 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast19. How To Ask For Help - And Where To Find ItIt's Okay To Ask For Help - And Here's How As a stepmom, you may feel like you should know how to do this job. No, girl, no. There are so many different and unique challenges that every stepmom deals with. It is totally okay to need help. And you should feel comfortable asking for it! But where do you look for good advice or tools to help you deal with all the things? In this episode, I'm going to walk you through all kinds of resources that are available out there for stepmoms. You...
2021-05-2126 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast18. How To Regain Control Of Your LifeGet Control Back - IF You Want It! Hey stepmom, how often do you feel like you have no control over your life? Like everything in your life is dictated either by your spouse's ex or by the stepkids and their schedules. Today we're going to talk about how to get control back – and whether that's actually a good idea. You might be surprised by the discussion. And I'll give you five steps to take to decide if you actually want control back and then what to do to get it. Res...
2021-05-1321 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast17. Mother's Day And Stepmoms: It's Okay To Feel WeirdMother's Day Can Be Awkward For Stepmoms Mother's Day can make stepmoms feel "less than," insecure, like an imposter, or just plain old sad. The good news? Whatever emotions you're feeling as the holiday approaches are totally normal. In this episode, we're going to talk about why it's such a weird holiday for stepmoms and I'm going to give you some ways to cope with it. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: I've also got a blog post on this subject and you can find it HERE. And if you're looking for mo...
2021-05-0516 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast16. How To Get Back On TrackWhat to do when you're feeling out of control Have you ever felt like you've had one of those weeks, or months – or heck, years where nothing seems to go right and you just feel -off-? Or when you wake up, you feel like there's an overwhelming weight bearing down on you and you can't get control of your stepmom life? You're not alone. Stepmom life can be overwhelming - and that's before all the pressure we put on ourselves. It's enough to stress out even the most zen of us! In this epis...
2021-04-2920 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast15. The Hard Truth About Stepmom Outsider SyndromeStepmom Outsider Syndrome Is Real. But the good news is, you can do something about it. In this episode, we'll talk all about how to deal with feeling like an outsider in your own family. And I'll give you five great tips you can implement RIGHT NOW to feel more like you fit in - and to learn how to take a step back when you need to. Resources Mentioned In The Episode: The BLENDED Family Formula For Stepmom Success: This is a six-week course that will transform your stepmom life. I'll open the d...
2021-04-2225 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast14. What's Your Stepmom "Why"?Do You Have A Stepmom Anchor Statement? When you were getting serious with your partner, you probably discussed some of the logistics of what blending your families would look like. Whether you would attend sporting events or pick kids up from school. But did you discuss your role at a deeper level? Did you think about your stepmom purpose? Your "why"? Obviously the "why" starts with you falling in love with your spouse. But what are your hopes and goals for being a stepmom? What kind of stepmom do YOU want to be? To...
2021-01-2925 min
The Stepmom Diaries Podcast13. A Conversation With StepMom Magazine's Brenda Ockun"Even When Stepfamily Life Is Good, It's Complicated." That's the tagline of StepMom Magazine and our guest in this episode is Brenda Ockun, its Founder & Publisher. Stepmom Magazine is the how-to guide for any woman who dates, lives with, or is married to someone who has kids. Written by licensed therapists, published authors, and stepfamily experts, StepMom Magazine is a monthly, online publication in its 11th year and is read by stepmoms in more than 20 countries. The magazine addresses important topics like Co-parenting, Disengaging, Loyalty Binds, Outsider Syndrome, Parental Alienation, and Bonding with Stepchildren.
2021-01-2137 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast12. What To Do When Bio Mom Doesn't Like YouOne of the most common challenges for stepmoms is how to relate to their stepchildren's biological mom, or "biomom" in stepmom speak. Especially if it's a high conflict situation. When you started dating and then settled down with someone with kids, you probably didn't expect that so many aspects of your life would be controlled by someone outside of your marriage or your immediate family. Someone who might not like you. So how do you deal with a biomom who doesn't like you? How do you deal with her if it's a high conflict situation? We...
2021-01-1525 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast11. Why I Stopped Making New Year's ResolutionsIn this episode, we're going to talk about new year's resolutions. Why I stopped setting them this year, and what I did instead. And that it's not too late for you to try it, too. I also give you a hint about some SUPER exciting things coming your way this year. For a free sneak peek, sign up HERE! You can find the show notes (and other goodies) at www.thiscustomlife.com/episode11.
2021-01-0624 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast10. The Mindful Stepmom With Magriet SteynWhy You Need Mindfulness Now And How To Get It Our guest today is Magriet Steyn and she's talking all about how to clear your mind and change your outlook through mindfulness. Stepmom life can be rough - on a daily basis sometimes. And it's all too easy to "catastrophize." (Don't know what that term is? Neither did I before today's talk!) Magriet helps guide stepmoms to a more peaceful outlook and positive mindset through meditation and self-care. Magriet is the founder of Stepfamily Harmony and Mindful Stepmums. She's a professional...
2020-12-1728 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast9. From Stepmom Gratitude To ForgivenessForgive and Forget - not as easy as it sounds! In our last episode, we talked about gratitude and being intentional about things you're thankful for. Forgiveness goes hand in hand with gratitude, believe it or not, and that's what we're talking about today. Forgiving someone is hard. Really hard. In this episode, I'll give you four steps to take so you can both ask for and grant forgiveness in your daily life. Links Mentioned In This Episode: Stanford Forgiveness Project: https://learningtoforgive.com/9-steps/ Mayo Clinic: https://www...
2020-12-1127 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast8. Why Being Grateful Isn't EnoughDid you know that gratitude is more than just being thankful? It's about forgiveness, too. And the two go hand in hand in helping you build a positive frame of mind. This is the first of a two-part series about gratitude and forgiveness and how they relate to your stepmom life. In today's episode, we'll talk about five ways you can reset your outlook by looking for more ways to be grateful in your daily life. You can find the show notes at: www.thiscustomlife.com/episode8
2020-11-2619 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast7. Stepmom Inclusivity with Beth McDonoughCan you imagine falling in love with someone who has a child and then moving from your big city home to the same small town they and their ex have lived in for years and years? Add in all the challenges around being in an LGBTQ+ blended family and you'll have the journey of today's guest. We talk about all of that and more with Beth McDonough, owner of The Inclusive Stepmom, as well as CMO and Editor-in-Chief of Stepmomz, the first mobile app for stepmoms.
2020-11-1929 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast6. Putting Your Relationship FirstIn this episode, we talk all about how you can make your relationship a priority. Especially during these crazy times, it's easy to let your relationship take a back seat to all of the day to day responsibilities you've got. Especially in the complicated dynamics found in blended families. But the good news is, you can get back on track. And I'll show you how. (spoiler alert: it will take some work and some intentionality) Check out the show notes HERE, along with our companion blog post HERE.
2020-11-1222 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast5. All The Stepmom Things: A Conversation With Kristen Skiles Of Stepmomming.comWe're so delighted to welcome Kristen Skiles as our guest in this episode. She is a Certified Stepparent Coach and founder of stepmomming.com, where she works to show stepmoms around the world that stepmomming is what they do and not who they are, encouraging them to embrace their unique roles and truly love their lives. In this episode, we'll tackle all the things. From her unique stepmom history (her husband's ex is one of her besties and actually lived with them for a bit!), to stepmom insecurities, to why you might want to consider a stepmom coach, it's a...
2020-11-0535 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast4. Why You Need Stepmom Self-Care And How To Get It We hear a lot about self-care these days. But what about stepmom self-care? It's just as important for stepmoms, if not more, than for anyone else. In this episode, we'll talk about why stepmoms need to take care of themselves and how you can get started. We've also got a free self-care assessment for you. It only takes about five minutes to complete and will help you identify the areas of your life that are causing you stress and that you need to focus on. You can check it out here: ht...
2020-10-2824 minThe Stepmom Diaries Podcast3. What To Do When Your Stepmom Reality Doesn't Live Up To Your ExpectationsToday is all about the expectations versus the reality of being a stepmom. No matter what you thought life would be like when you married someone with kids, the reality probably looks a lot different. Today we'll talk all about that difference. How it impacts your life as a stepmom, how you can let go of your expectations, and how you can embrace your reality. Don't forget to subscribe to The Stepmom Diaries so that you don't miss an episode. And head to www.thiscustomlife.com for lots more stepmom tools and resources!
2020-10-1621 min