Shows
Stepmom Support Network - Community, Stepmom, Divorce, Custody, Burn outEP 25 | Stepdads Need To Be Recognized on Father's Day TooFather's Day is full of celebrations for biological dads — and they deserve every bit of it. But today, we are taking a moment to talk about the stepdads. The men who chose a child that was not biologically theirs and loved them anyway. The men who showed up to games, helped with homework, navigated hard co-parenting dynamics, and built relationships from scratch with no guarantee of how it would turn out.Stepdads are the silent majority of the blended family world. They do not always talk about their struggles. They do not always ask for re...
2026-06-2219 minStepmom Support Network - Community, Stepmom, Divorce, Custody, Burn outEP 23 | Why You Should Not Treat Your Stepkids Like Your Own Kids (The Truth Nobody Says)Are you trying to love your stepchildren well but finding that treating them exactly like your biological children isn't working?In this episode, we discuss a truth that many people are afraid to say out loud: stepchildren are not your children, and approaching the relationship as if they are can sometimes create more frustration, resentment, and unrealistic expectations for everyone involved.This conversation is not about loving stepchildren less. It's about understanding the unique dynamics of blended families and building relationships that are healthy, respectful, and sustainable.In this episode, you'll learn:
2026-06-0324 minStepmom Support Network - Community, Stepmom, Divorce, Custody, Burn outEP 21 | You Were Called To Be His Wife First - Everything Else Comes After ThatYou stepped into this blended family ready to show up for everyone. But somewhere along the way, the wife got lost inside the stepmom.In this episode, Lina Shine gets straight to the point. Your first assignment in this blended family is not the kids. It is your marriage. And when that order gets flipped - everything suffers. The partnership. The family dynamic. And most of all, you.We are getting into:Why so many stepmoms unknowingly deprioritize their marriageWhat it actually means to be a wife first in a blended family...
2026-05-2336 minStepmom Support Network - Community, Stepmom, Divorce, Custody, Burn outEP 20 | Why Mother's Day Is So Hard for Stepmoms - And How To Heal After ItLast Sunday was Mother's Day. And if you're a stepmom, there's a good chance you woke up this morning carrying something you don't quite have the words for yet.Maybe nobody acknowledged you. Maybe you watched your partner celebrate someone else while you sat quietly in the background. Maybe the stepkids didn't say anything not because they don't care, but because nobody told them they could. Maybe you smiled through the whole day, held it together, kept the peace, and now that it's over, the weight of it is sitting right on your chest.That feeling...
2026-05-1426 min
Stepmom Support Network - Community, Stepmom, Divorce, Custody, Burn out7 Habits That Will Actually Make You a Happier StepmomBefore you keep listening, when was the last time you genuinely felt happy in your role as a stepmom?Not relieved. Not just grateful the week is over. Not the kind of okay that comes from everyone behaving for a few days. Actually, genuinely happy - settled, like you were exactly where you were supposed to be, and it felt good to be there.If that question just sat heavy in your chest, this episode is for you.In this solo episode, Lina Shine breaks down the seven habits she has seen over and over again...
2026-05-0737 min
Stepmom Support Network - Community, Stepmom, Divorce, Custody, Burn outEP 18 | When Stepmom Becomes The Enemy — Loyalty Binds and Parental Alienation ExplainedWhat happens when the person who is supposed to co-parent with you becomes your biggest source of conflict and your stepkids are caught in the middle?In this episode, Lina Shine sits down with Nika Chadwick — high-conflict coparenting and stepfamily dynamics coach — for one of the most honest conversations we have had on this podcast. Because loyalty binds and bio mom conflict are two of the most painful and least talked about realities of blended family life. And if you are living it right now, you already know how isolating it can feel.Nika brin...
2026-04-291h 02
Stepmom Support Network - Community, Stepmom, Divorce, Custody, Burn outStepparents: You Are the Real Deal — Here’s How to Own ItAre you a stepparent who feels like you've completely lost yourself in this role? You're not alone — and it doesn't have to stay that way.In this episode, we're talking about one of the most overlooked struggles in blended family life: stepparent identity loss. When you pour everything into a role that rarely gets acknowledged, it's easy to forget who you were before the stepkids, the schedules, and the dynamics that come with it.We're getting into:Why stepparents are so prone to losing their sense of selfThe silent pressure to "just be gr...
2026-03-1123 min
Stepmom Support Network - Community, Stepmom, Divorce, Custody, Burn outThe Hidden Sacrifice of Childless & Childfree StepmomsWhat is the real sacrifice childless and childfree stepmoms make? And why does no one talk about it openly?In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Mindy Kyle, a Certified Parenting with Purpose Coach and Certified Stepfamily Coach with over 15 years of experience specializing in the stepparent journey. Having become a stepmom to four children in her 20s, Mindy understands firsthand the emotional, relational, and identity shifts that come with entering a blended family.Together, we unpack the hidden sacrifices childless and childfree stepmoms make from grieving motherhood expectations, to navigating invisibility, to redefining id...
2026-02-241h 00
Stepmom Support Network - Community, Stepmom, Divorce, Custody, Burn outImposter Syndrome in Stepmotherhood: The Emotional TruthImposter syndrome doesn’t just show up at work—it shows up at home too, especially in stepmotherhood. In this episode, I’m joined by guest host Lauren Weeks, a long-distance stepmom, to have an honest, validating conversation about imposter syndrome as a stepmom and the quiet doubts so many stepmothers carry.We explore what it feels like to love children you don’t live with full-time, question your role in a family you joined later, and wonder if you truly belong. Lauren shares her experience navigating long-distance stepmotherhood, emotional distance, comparison, and the pressure to “get it right”...
2026-02-1148 min
Stepmom Support Network - Community, Stepmom, Divorce, Custody, Burn out5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Stepmom (Real Talk)Becoming a stepmom is a life-changing journey; one that comes with challenges no one really prepares you for. In this video, I share 5 things I wish I knew before becoming a stepmom, including the emotional realities, mindset shifts, and hard lessons that shaped my experience in a blended family.Whether you’re new to stepmotherhood, thinking about becoming a stepmom, or already deep in the stepparenting journey, this video offers honest insight, validation, and encouragement. We talk about boundaries, expectations, emotional exhaustion, relationship dynamics, and the growth that happens when you stop trying to be perfect.
2026-02-0408 minStepmom Support Network - Community, Stepmom, Divorce, Custody, Burn outInstant Gratification Is Destroying Healthy Relationships (Here’s Why)This week on The Stepparenting Network, Lina Shine talks about how instant gratification feels good in the moment, but over time, it can quietly damage even the healthiest relationships. In this video, we unpack how the need for immediate validation, quick fixes, and emotional shortcuts is hurting communication, trust, and long-term connection in relationships.Whether you’re navigating marriage, stepparenting, blended families, or long-term partnerships, this conversation sheds light on why patience, emotional regulation, and intentional effort matter more than ever. You’ll learn how instant gratification shows up in everyday relationship dynamics and what to do inst...
2026-01-2904 min
Stepmom Support Network - Community, Stepmom, Divorce, Custody, Burn outThe Power of Authenticity in Stepparenting: How I Reduced Stress as a Stepmom | Lina ShineIn this episode, Lina Shine talks about how choosing authenticity in stepparenting transformed her experience and became one of her greatest strengths. Lina shares her journey as a stepmom, how letting go of unrealistic expectations and showing up as her true self helped her build trust, confidence, and healthier relationships within her blended family. This conversation is for stepmoms, stepdads, stepchildren, and anyone navigating blended family dynamics who feels pressure to perform, overcompensate, or fit into a role that doesn’t feel natural. We explore the power of authenticity, emotional honesty, and self-acceptance in stepparenting, and how embracing who yo...
2026-01-1012 min
The Trade Up StepmomGeographically Separated SpousesIn this episode of The Trade Up Stepmom, we dive into the challenges and dynamics of maintaining a strong family bond when one spouse works out of state. Join us as we explore the unique experiences of balancing a civilian job with 75% travel, the emotional impact on blended families, and the strategies for keeping love and connection alive across the miles. Discover how communication, mutual support, and a shared commitment to family values can turn geographical separation into a journey of growth and understanding.
2026-01-0447 minThe Trade Up StepmomEnding 2025In this episode of The Trade Up Stepmom, we explore the vibrant and sometimes chaotic world of blended family life during the holiday season. From the excitement of having all the children home for Thanksgiving to the unexpected challenges that arise, this episode delves into the heart of family dynamics. Listen in as we share personal anecdotes, life updates, and the valuable lessons learned along the way. Whether it's managing teenage antics or advocating for our children's education, this episode offers a candid glimpse into the joys and trials of modern parenting. Join us for an engaging conversation filled...
2025-12-2830 min
The Stepmom Side Podcast#114: My Why: Stepmom Coaching, The Stepmom Side Community, and PodcastIn this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia Krasko opens up about her why—the real reason she started coaching stepmoms, built The Stepmom Side Community, and launched this very podcast.She shares her raw, unfiltered story of hitting rock bottom as a stepmom, googling “how to get divorced,” and feeling like an outsider in her own home. Alicia explains the turning point when she admitted she needed help, how outside support transformed her stepmom journey, and why she decided to step into the role of coach.You’ll hear why The Stepmom Side Communit...
2025-09-1622 min2025-09-1007 min
Essential Stepmom Podcast112. Tammy Cohen: Text Messages To My SonsTammy Cohen, brand messaging consultant and founder of the Women Beyond the Table Business Network is the author of Text Messages To My Kids, a book brimming with inspiration for how you (or your partner) can begin, renew or truly uplevel your connection with kids - especially those who don't live with you or who are in a phase of life where they don't seem open to hearing from you. By going where they are - ie., on their phones - you can meet them in familiar territory and get their attention in a new way. In our conversation...
2024-07-1254 minThe Trade Up StepmomThe Golden Uterus and Male Equivalent, Part 2Sorry to break this up into two pieces but it's the only way to get it on here!
Stepmom's know about the golden uterus. Just because you carried this child doesn't mean you are the end all be all. Here we talk about it and the male equivalent.
Follow us on YouTube @TheTradeUpStepmom
2024-02-2012 minThe Trade Up StepmomThe Golden Uterus and Male Equivalent, Part 1Sorry to break this up into two pieces but it's the only way to get it on here!
Stepmom's know about the golden uterus. Just because you carried this child doesn't mean you are the end all be all. Here we talk about it and the male equivalent.
Follow us on YouTube @TheTradeUpStepmom
2024-02-2011 min
The Stepmom Diaries | Blended Family & Stepmom Support Podcast73. Whether you'd do it all again, with Beth McDonough of The Inclusive StepmomToday I'm talking to Beth McDonough, my partner in Stepfamily Magazine, which includes the Stepmom Summit, the Stepfamily Circle Membership, and our upcoming Stepmom Retreat (we still have one spot for you if you're looking for a getaway!). In this episode, you'll get a sneak peek into how we work, as we shoot the breeze talking about all the things - especially what we'd go back and tell our younger selves as new stepmoms. About Beth: Beth McDonough is a badass stepmom coach and happens to be my business partner over at Stepfamily...
2023-10-1929 min
Real Happy Mom[211] Tips to Go From Stressed to Having Fun as a Stepmom with Michaela BucchianeriSend me a textApproximately 1/3 of all weddings in America today form in stepfamilies. More and more women are becoming stepmom. Unfortunately, the stereotypes about stepmoms aren't what many moms aspire to be—and functioning well as a stepmom is challenging and unique. So, I contacted today's guest—Michaela Bucchianeri, to help us out. Mikayla is a clinical psychologist, speaker, and coach who blends the science of psychology and the art of stepmom eating. Mikayla explicitly helps women in this unique role to create a stepmom identity that's all their own. Whether...
2023-09-0525 min
The Stepmom Side Podcast#1: Finding My Place: Becoming a Stepmom, Navigating Insecurities, and Embracing the ChaosWelcome to the very first episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast! In this introductory episode, Alicia, the host and Stepmom Coach, dives into her journey—from her small-town Iowa roots to her current life as a stepmom in Michigan. If you follow her on Instagram, you already know this episode has been a bit daunting for her. Talking about stepmom life? Easy. Talking about herself? Eh, not as much! But here we go, and she’s spilling all the tea on her life, her family, and how she’s navigated the ups and downs of being a stepmom.K...
2023-07-1833 minThe Stepmom Diaries | Blended Family & Stepmom Support 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 minThe Stepmom Diaries | Blended Family & Stepmom Support 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 min
The Trade Up StepmomBonus Episode: We're now The Trade Up Stepmom PodcastWe're now The Trade Up Stepmom Podcast!!! New episode coming soon!
Thank you to all the loyal listeners out there. I couldn't do this without you!!!
2022-11-1300 min
Essential Stepmom Podcast109. Nail your timing.OK, this is a bit of a weird episode - it's actually the audio from a livestream video I did in my Spectacular Stepmom Facebook group. I'm talking about how to get better at knowing exactly when to say your peace and when to hold back - when to act and when to wait. This is all about the shadow and power archetypes, and about the real difference between logic and magic.
I offer a unique style of coaching for couples where you work with me individually on alternating weeks. Email me for more information at info...
2022-03-2341 minEssential Stepmom Podcast107 You're not crazy - magic is real.Join my Facebook group, The Spectacular Stepmom!
You can reach me any time at info@essentialstepmom.com.
Don't forget to check out the UnDeletable Dad podcast too!
Here's a little free advice for you: 3 SECRETS OF SUCCESSFUL STEPMOMS!
https://tracypoizner.lpages.co/3-secrets-of-successful-stepmoms
2021-12-2309 min
Essential Stepmom Podcast105 The Alienated StepmomWant to learn how to get through to kids who are being brainwashed about you? Sign up for my FREE 3-part workshop October 27-29, 2021 called Reversing Parental Alienation.
Go to bit.ly/alienationstrategy to register and don't forget to join the private Facebook group just for this event!
You can always reach me at info@essentialstepmom.com. Limited 1:1 coaching spots are still available.
2021-10-2612 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 102: Nacho Role-play with Lori Sims (Part 2)"I thought David was a pretty good parent - until we got married!"
Here's a link to the episode with Lori's husband David: https://anchor.fm/essentialstepmom/episodes/ESP-6-3-David-Sims---Pulling-it-out-of-the-fire-elkg5g
I do a livestream video every Monday in my Facebook group The Spectacular Stepmom. Tomorrow's session (Monday Sept 13) at 1pm EDT is called Bouncing Back From Stepmom Burnout - Before It's Too Late. Join the group by sending a join request to facebook.com/groups/thespectacularstepmom or email me at info@essentialstepmom.com to ask for a link to the replay.
S...
2021-09-1221 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 11.2 Attorney Seth Nelson: Should you settle for 60/40?This is part 2 of my 3-part conversation with Florida-based family law attorney Seth Nelson. Listen at 2:20 to hear Seth describe the the 3 worlds in which he lives as a divorce attorney, at 5:25 to learn about the many categories that courts consider (Factors A, B, C....all the way to Factor T!) and 10:10 to hear his take on why 60/40 might be better for you, even if you're getting the short end of the stick.
Seth's podcast is How To Split A Toaster - you can find it here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-split-a-toaster-a-divorce-podcast-about/id1527497405
H...
2021-09-0918 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 11.1 Divorce Attorney Seth Nelson"Live your life, not your divorce!"
Seth's podcast is called "How To Split A Toaster: A divorce podcast about saving your relationships". Here's a link to the show on Apple podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-split-a-toaster-a-divorce-podcast-about/id1527497405
You can contact Seth's office in Tampa, Florida via his website, https://nelsonkoster.com
Sign up for The Ultimate Stepmfamily Summit with my link to get my special registration bonus, access to over 50 of my stepmom video tutorials!
Click here: https://bit.ly/tracysummit
My gift is crafting ingenious...
2021-09-0815 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 10.6 Anna De Acosta in conversationVisit Anna's website at https://annadeacosta.com.
The Ultimate Stepfamily Summit is happening from September 15-17. It's FREE! Sign up now at bit.ly/tracysummit to get my special bonus offer of lifetime access to my library of over 50 Livestream stepmom tutorial videos! You'll never be at a loss for something to listen to again!
2021-09-0144 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 10.5 The Loyalty Bind, and what to do about it.Loyalty is one of the most misunderstood topics in the stepfamily world. I believe it's something much more fundamental than wondering which parent to believe, or visit, or like.
This episode has been pulled from a live video I did a while back into my two Facebook groups - The Spectacular Stepmom and One For The Dads. If you'd like to belong to a positive, bash-free community, I invite you to join us there. Just send a join request to either group. With apologies for the gendered group names, same sex families are very welcome in both places.
To register...
2021-08-2429 minThe Stepmom Coach PodcastStepmom's Book of Boundaries Sample Audio BookWhat’s missing in your stepfamily?
If you’re in a stepfamily, you may feel as if something is missing.
You can’t put it into words yet, but you know it’s a problem.
Maybe you’re new to this. Maybe not.
Still, everything from badly-behaved exes to parenting rifts causes squabbling that disrupts the harmony in your home.
The Stepmom’s Book of Boundaries helps you thrive despite rocky relationships, schedule snafus, and more.
Stepmom Magazine Contributor and Master Certified Stepfamily Coach Claudette Chenevert provides clear explan...
2021-06-2308 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 9.6 Greg Menendez on how the mind worksGreg Menendez teaches people how the mind works - and then, they never look back! Greg can be found at likeneverbefore.co.nz
I have a Facebook community for stepmoms where I'd be glad to see you - join The Spectacular Stepmom by sending a join request to facebook.com/groups/thespectacularstepmom
If you're a dad, you can connect with me in 3 ways:
1. My private Facebook group is called One For The Dads - send a join request to facebook.com/groups/oneforthedads
2. I'm on the private and anonymous Discord server at...
2021-05-1841 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 9.3 The Archives of Essential Stepmom PodcastSorry for my podcast fail this week, but join me reading Amanda Ripley's High Conflict: Why We Get Trapped and How We Get Out. Here's a link to order from Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/high-conflict-amanda-ripley/1137938562
If you're ready to address your deepest stepmom anxieties, or get to work on overcoming that post-divorce "parenting paralysis" that seems to strike even the most professionally successful dad, give me a shout about working together 1:1. You can book a free call with me at bit.ly/CALLTRACY
Here are the episodes I suggested from our...
2021-04-2806 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 9.2 Q: "How do I merge the best parts of myself with my stepmom role?"This is an audio recording of a livestream on this topic from my Spectacular Stepmom facebook group. Not a member? Send a join request to THE SPECTACULAR STEPMOM
Interested in booking a free coaching call with me? Go to bit.ly/CALLTRACY
2021-04-2031 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 8.7 When the ex won't play by the rules - with Jen SzeghiJen Szeghi is a trained psychologist, mediator and parent coordinator, and brings all that expertise to her parent coaching practice. You can connect with Jen at her website successfulparentingLLC.com
Watch for her YouTube channel coming up, The Alienator's Chess Game!
You can find me, temporarily, at tracy@tracypoizner.com, at least until my Essential Stepmom website is all hooked up again.
Ready to jump on a call? I'm all ears. Sign up for a free call to experience what coaching feels like for yourself , no strings attached. If you like how I...
2021-04-0644 min
10CBF: A Podcast for Blended FamiliesS2-E6: "What I Learned from Three Decades of Stepparenting" with Claudette Chenevert, "The Stepmom Coach"Claudette Chenevert, AKA “The Stepmom Coach” works with stepmoms who are striving to create a cohesive family life. She holds a BIS in Psychology of Communication from George Mason University, focusing on stepfamily dynamics and is Certified Coach with Results Coaching System, a neuroscience based program. Claudette helps stepmoms build and create strong and healthy stepfamilies by helping stepmoms focus on what they want as a woman, a partner and a parent. She has over 30 years of experience as a stepmom and 37 years as a mother. She understands what it’s like to be in your shoes and teaches the be...
2021-04-0656 min
Plus HER - A Stepmom's JourneyStepmom Kia " Is being a Stepmom enough?"On today's episode, I have a special conversation with fellow Stepmom Kia about;
💕The ups and downs of being a Childless Stepmom⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
💕The infertility journey challenges⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
💕Accepting God's Plan for your life & finding happiness in your circumstance⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀
Grab a cup of tea, get comfy and listen close to the story of Stepmom Kia Roberson.
Connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
SUBSCRIBE, RATE & REVIEW
XO
About our Guest:
Mrs. Kia Roberson is a wife and stepmom of ten years and through her experience wanted to expand the stepmom platform...
2021-03-2835 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 8.3 Carly Israel says "Thanks, but no thanks!"You can find Carly at carlyisrael.com and her podcast is called In Your Corner Divorce.
Her book, Seconds and Inches is available at Barnes and Noble, Amazon and Bookshop.org.
Find more information about the Nacho Kids Academy at nachokidsacademy.com/theessentialstepmom. That's the link that will let them know I sent you, so they can sponsor my work here at The Essential Stepmom too!
You can always reach out to me with your questions or comments at info@essentialstepmom.com. I'd be very glad to hear from your partner, too.
2021-03-0958 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 8.2 Nurture Burnout with Anne CullenNurture burnout can happen to anyone who cares a lot about the people they live with, or work with, or share the planet with. It's especially common in stepmoms, so if you ever feeling like you're teetering on the edge of burnout, this episode is for you!
I have something else for you - my Healing Stepmom Burnout Quickstart Guide. It's free - grab it here:
https://tracypoizner.lpages.co/quickstart-guide/
You can always reach me at info@essentialstepmom.com
Book a free call - no strings attached - and learn more...
2021-03-0243 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 8.1 The teenage stepdaughter with Mary T. KellyMary Kelly is probably the most experienced therapist in America for stepfamilies and their kids with over 18 years of experience dealing with this family dynamic. She's a regular contributor to Stepmom Magazine, HuffPost and other publications.
Find her at realstepfamilies.com
Her Facebook page is Real Stepfamilies, Real Solutions and she's on instagram @realstepmoms.
Email me at info@essentialstepmom.com and say "Add me to your email list!" for my weekly messages.
Book a free call, no strings attached to ask about coaching or to learn about Undeletable Dad: bit.ly...
2021-02-2352 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 7.8 How to Raise a Boy - with author Michael C. ReichertThere's a lot of talk about helping girls to take their power and shed limiting stereotypes, but our boys suffer from limits too. How can we stop our unconscious role-typing of boys and girls? Don't we want boys to become compassionate, sensitive, heart-centered husbands and dads?
Michael C Reichert can be found at MichaelCReichert.com and his book How To Raise A Boy: The Power of Connection to Build Good Men is available from Amazon and Barnes and Noble
Join my mailing list by sending me an email message at info@essentialstepmom.com. I'd love...
2021-02-1650 min
Stepmom SaysHow to Raise Good KidsStepmom Says lists out her successful parenting tips. These ideas are tried and true, and very basic. Many out there have used these ideas to change their relationships with their kids.
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This episode is sponsored by
· Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stepmomsays/support
2021-02-1623 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 7.7 The Addicted Child - with author Richard CapriolaRichard Capriola has been a mental health and addictions counselor for over two decades. He's been licensed in Illinois and Texas and recently retired from Menninger Clinic in Houston where he worked as an addictions counselor for adolescents and adults diagnosed with psychiatric and substance abuse disorders. He is the author of the book "The Addicted Child: A Parent's Guide to Adolescent Substance Abuse".
You can find all the information you need at his website: helptheaddictedchild.com
Send your questions on the topic of kids and substance abuse and Richard will address them on a...
2021-02-0940 minStepmom SaysInternet Myths and Advice About StepparentingStepmom Says does a very brief overview of what the internet says about stepparents and some good advice for high conflict situations.
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This episode is sponsored by
· Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stepmomsays/support
2021-02-0822 minStepmom SaysMy Body Image JourneyStepmom says talks about MLMs, treatment of plus sized people, and how we speak to our children.
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This episode is sponsored by
· Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stepmomsays/support
2021-01-3122 minStepmom SaysMy Therapy JourneyStepmom Says talks about therapy and how it's helping her. She encourages the listener to reach out and ask for help if they need to.
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This episode is sponsored by
· Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stepmomsays/support
2021-01-2424 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 7.4 Best-of-Essential-Stepmom, Red Flags with Lori SimsLori Sims is the creator of the ingenious Nacho Kids method and the Nacho Kids Academy which is saving blended families and second marriages every single day.
Check out the Nacho Kids Academy with this link and she'll send some support right back to this podcast!
NachoKidsAcademy.com/theessentialstepmom
Shoot me an email at info@essentialstepmom.com
Ready to just book yourself in as a coaching client? Here's my calendar:
Book Your Coaching Appointment Here!
Is your husband/partner ready to conquer alienation through parenting mastery, mental resilience and...
2021-01-1948 minStepmom Says2021 ResolutionsStepmom Says talks about her resolutions, goes on for a while about positive change, and hopes she inspires you to have a good week.
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This episode is sponsored by
· Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stepmomsays/support
2021-01-1815 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 7.3 For the weary dad who feels like giving up.Alienated kids can be awful to their divorced parent. Does your partner ever just feeling like giving up? It's pretty normal to run out of steam and it's OK to take a break but don't give in to despair. Miracles happen all the time - you can even make them happen yourself! Grab my free "Restorative Parenting Quick start Guide" by going to bit.ly/dadagain .
Join the awesome Spectacular Stepmom group at facebook.com/groups/thespectacularstepmom
Tell your partner to send a join request to One For The Dads at facebook.com/groups/oneforthedads
Let's be pen pals! Here's...
2021-01-1433 minStepmom SaysMy Step -Parenting JourneyA short description of how my stepmom journey started and were I am now.
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This episode is sponsored by
· Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stepmomsays/support
2021-01-1117 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 7.1 Not Just A Stepmom with Heidi FarrellHeidi's blog can be found at notjustastepmom.com
Grab my free Restorative Parenting QuickStart Guide at bit.ly/dadagain
Would you (or your partner) share your experiences of parental alienation with me? Email me at info@essentialstepmom.com to set something up, or just go ahead and jump onto my calendar to book any time you see that works for you:
https://tracypoizner.bookafy.com/service/invitation-to-chat
2020-12-1545 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 6.7 The completely amazing, totally absent bio mom.Are you sick and tired of hearing about your stepchild's fantastic mom, when you're the one showing up for the child in all the way's she's not?
Let's talk this through, and we'll talk about life coaching too - maybe you're finally ready to make a step towards letting go of the filters that are keeping you from having a better experience of stepmom life.
Send me an email at info@essentialstepmom.com and say "I'm not sure yet, but talk to me about what coaching involves". We have to BOTH believe that I'm the r...
2020-12-0121 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 6.2 The Divorced Dad Diaries with Stephane JutrasYou can find Stephane's podcast on every platform, and by visiting his website,
thedivorceddaddiaries.com
You can find my blog and other resources at essentialstepmom.com
If it's time for you to get another level of support for your stepmom journey, reach out for a 1:1 coaching session or two. Email me for more info at info@essentialstepmom.com or just go ahead and book your first appointment at tracypoizner.bookafy.com
2020-10-2033 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 5.7 Are you panicking about college fees yet? Part 2 with Denise ThomasYou heard it right - college scholarships are available even for kids in kindergarten! You don't have to go nuts with it, but it's truly never too early to start learning about what's involved in getting your kids a full ride. Learn to line up your ducks and you can save tens of thousands of dollars.
Denise Thomas can be found at http://bit.ly/aheadoftheclass - this is an affiliate link, so if you sign up for one of her awesome programs, Denise will send back some support to this podcast!
Want a scholarship...
2020-10-0632 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 5.6 Are you and your partner stressing (or fighting) over college fees yet? It's coming!My guest Denise Thomas dug herself and her family out of bankruptcy and researched her butt off to get $199,000 in college scholarships for her two home-schooled kids. She says it's not about marks, it's about smarts! She'll dish some secrets in this episode and the next one - it was too much goodness for just one show! Learn more about Denise and her programs at http://bit.ly/aheadoftheclass. (This is an affiliate link - if you sign up for any of Denise's great programs, she'll send a portion of your registration fee back here to support this podcast!)
2020-09-2944 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 5.5 Kate Anthony talks First-Wife-Forever Syndrome!Do you know anybody's first wife who seems to cling energetically to him years, even after she gets a new partner? Turns out this is not such a rare phenomenon. Today's guest gets full marks for putting her experience as "that" bio-mom on the table, crumbs and all!
Kate Anthony is a gem. She's the host of the critically acclaimed and New York Times recommended podcast The Divorce Survival Guide Podcast and the creator of the groundbreaking online coaching program, Should I Stay or Should I Go? which helps women make the most difficult decision of their liv...
2020-09-2234 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 5.3 High Conflict: The Drama Behind Parental AlienationCan you get off the hamster-wheel of drama? How can you fight for your kids without just buying into more drama?
Reach out any time to me at my personal email: info@essentialstepmom.com
Sign up for the FREE Stepfamily Summit 2020 here: http://bit.ly/tracysummit
Join me and my guest Naja Hall this Wednesday, Sept 9 at 4:30 pm EDT for a livestream about high-conflict X's - watch right from the Essential Stepmom Facebook page: http://facebook.com/essentialstepmom
2020-09-0819 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 4.4 How do you bond with a kid that wants nothing to do with you?It's actually pretty simple: you bond around the fact that they don't want to connect with you! I'll explain how it looked in my family and how it worked out for us. Spoiler alert: Happy Ending!
Check out the Nacho Kids Academy with this link to support this podcast with a portion of your membership fee:
NACHOKIDSACADEMY.COM/THEESSENTIALSTEPMOM
Visit my website for a free download: 50 Ways to Level Up As A Stepmom
#blendedfamily #stepmom #youvegotthis
2020-07-2821 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 4.3 Go Blend Yourself: Busting More Stepfamily MythsThis is my new go-to comeback for anyone who wants to give me unsolicited advice about my stepfamily dynamics. They can try whatever they like on their own family!
Visit my website at essentialstepmom.com
Join my Facebook community by sending a join request to The Spectacular Stepmom
2020-07-2120 minEssential Stepmom Podcast4.2 Busting Blended Family Myth #2Myth #2 is that Blended Families are forever families. Truth is, they unblend just the same as other stepfamilies do. What can we do to make our families stand the test of time, despite messed up custody schedules, high conflict personalities, loyalty issues and more?
Listen up and we'll get started.
Visit me at essentialstepmom.com for my blog and other info.
Join the Facebook group by sending a join request to The Spectacular Stepmom
2020-07-0713 minEssential Stepmom Podcast4.1 The Myth of the Blended FamilyI'm going to go out on a limb here and say that stepfamilies aren't required to blend. They have a much more noble mission in my opinion, which is to "mend". When you shift your focus, everything could change for your family.
The book I mentioned is Simple Abundance by Sarah Ban Breathnach.
Visit my website at essentialstepmom.com. Contact me with your thoughts about this episode, or just to say hi at info@essentialstepmom.com
I hang out with a bunch of wise, supportive and compassionate stepmoms on Facebook in a private...
2020-06-3015 minEssential Stepmom Podcast3.10 The Evil Stepmom Archetype: #notmeDo you feel like you're walking around wearing a heavy backpack that you can't take off? I don't know about you but I hate it that the idea of a stepmother is automatically linked to an image of someone not so nice. I'll share some thoughts about how we can change that dynamic.
The Budweiser "stepdad" commercial I'm referring to can be seen here:
BUDWEISER STEPDAD COMMERCIAL
Read MY ARTICLE ABOUT IT ON THRIVEGLOBAL HERE
Will you talk with me about BRAINWASHED STEPKIDS? Do you have one? Were you one as a c...
2020-06-2314 min
Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 3.5: Your Mother's Day Readiness ChecklistBrace for it - the whole world is getting ready to poke you in a very sensitive spot. Here's how to prepare. Don't forget, Stepmom Day is the following Sunday - put it in big letters on the family calendar and let them know what kind of activity to surprise you with!
Visit me at essentialstepmom.com and get in touch via my private email address, info@essentialstepmom.com
Did you know you can book a free stepfamily strategy session with me any time? Click this link and then find a date and time when yo...
2020-05-0522 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 3.4: True Confessions: I've lost it on someone else's kids - more than once.What can I say? This is embarrassing but it's good for me to talk about it, and it's good for you to hear it because maybe by laughing *at* me (even if I feel like you're laughing *with* me), you can avoid repeating my mistakes!
Join my Facebook community, which I police like a pit-bull to keep safe and 100% positive, by sending a join request to The Spectacular Stepmom.
Personal support is available - visit essentialstepmom.com for details.
2020-04-2916 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 3.1 Mothers In A Dangerous TimeSeason 3: The Season of Coronavirus! You thought being a stepmom was the hardest thing you'd ever done? LOL - welcome to the new hardest thing ever! I'll share some advice about getting through this pandemic with your head on straight.
Kim John Payne's Simplicity Parenting website is simplicityparenting.com
Learn more about Juice Plus by following this link: http://suejohnson.canada.juiceplus.com
Want my Gratitude Journal template? Grab it here.
Connect with me any time at my personal, private email address: info@esentialstepmom.com
2020-04-0122 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 2.21: Five Kinds of Stepmom Who DON'T Need to "NACHO"!Lori Wilkins Sims is my guest today. She's the originator of the Nacho Kids method. I challenged her to come up with some situations where it's not necessary to disengage from some aspects of raising your stepkids, and we had a lively conversation - some of it serious and some tongue in cheek. I challenged her to talk about the kinds of situations that would make a stepmom not need to follow her "nacho kids" advice!
Learn about the Nacho Kids Academy at bit.ly/essentialnacho . If you register from that link, you'll be supporting this podcast a...
2020-03-2444 minEssential Stepmom PodcastThe cure for picky eating [and BONUS: The cure for ANGST over picky eating!].CLICK BELOW to join my 4 day livestream video challenge from Monday March 9 to Thursday March 12, 2020. You can watch live, on replay or listen in audio only mode and download the tips and recipes too!
bit.ly/stepmomtricks
The book I mentioned is The Collapse of Parenting by Leonard Sax.
Please come on over and join us on social media, if that's your jam. We're at The Spectacular Stepmom on Facebook.
Ready for some one on one advice you so you can feel lighter and more optimistic about stepfamily life? Want to...
2020-03-0324 minThe Trade Up StepmomEp: 18 Bio Mom TipsBio Mom tips from a Stepmom and Bio Mom point of view! Just be a good person...
2020-03-0230 minEssential Stepmom PodcastConfessions of a people-pleasing stepmom [and the 3 stages of a recovery-in-progress]What can I say? It's true, I'm a work in progress.
Brene Brown's audio-book The Power of Vulnerability is available from her website, www.brenebrown.com
Visit my website at www.essentialstepmom.com
Join the Facebook group, The Spectacular Stepmom
We have a group for your spouse called One For The Dads too!
Got my free guide yet? Grab it here: Playing Hard To Like: 10 Challenging Stepkid Personalities and How To Win Them Over
2020-02-2519 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 2.17 Stop the "Stepmom Spiral": 3 ways to conquer the habit pattern of negative thinking.Want my free gratitude journal template? Grab it here:
bit.ly/123gratitude
I love to hear from you - really, it just makes my day every time. You can find me at my personal email, info@essentialstepmom.com.
If you'd like to chat, I encourage you to book a free 20-minute strategy session:
BOOK A CALL WITH TRACY
Learn more about me and my work at essentialstepmom.com
Finally, I have a Facebook group for stepmoms and one for their partners. Hope to see you there!
2020-02-1822 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 2.15: For those days when you think you just suck at this.Everyone has days like this, I know I have had my share. Days when you think you just suck at being a stepmom and everything that's going wrong is your fault. I made a live video last year for my Facebook group, The Spectacular Stepmom and I decided to share it with you here.
If you'd like to know more about Vipassana meditation, and how you can sign up to do a 10-day course like the one I'm at now, here's the link:
www.dhamma.org Click on wherever you are in the world to g...
2020-01-2820 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP. 2.14 Dads, Kids and Consequences (and the 4-minute mile)There's a lesson we can all learn from the story of how Roger Bannister became the first human to run a mile in under 4 minutes, and especially from what happened next!
The world is changing, family structures are changing and we need to change in order to keep to keep the orders of relationship inside our families intact. Here's a little piece of unconventional advice on that topic.
Looking for a supportive community of like-minded stepmoms? Check out my Facebook group, The Spectacular Stepmom
Could your spouse use a place online to connect with...
2020-01-2124 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 2.13 Dealing with Alienated TeensThis is from a live video I made for my Facebook group called One For The Dads. If you'd like to join (and you're a biological dad) send a join request!
If you're a stepmom and you're looking for a social media community, join us at The Spectacular Stepmom
I'd love to hear from you! Reach out any time to my personal and private email account at info@essentialstepmom.com
Please take a moment to rate or review this podcast on iTunes. You'll be helping another stepmom out there somewhere to find this...
2020-01-1421 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 2.12 Riffing on Brene Brown's "Dare To Lead"If you don't know Brene Brown, just google her TED talk on vulnerability - it's had over 30 million views. She's the author of a number of fabulous books, but the one I'm working on right now is called Dare to Lead. I dare you to read it and not see every word of it as advice for you as the leader of your family project!
You can listen to this book on Audible, and they'll give you a free month to try it out with no obligation. Audible.com. I encourage you to visit her website, brenebrown...
2020-01-0721 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP. 2.11 My Christmas Miracle + REPLAY: OVERSTEPPINGHappy New Year to you, wherever in the world you're listening from. I am partway through a holiday experience unlike anything I've had in 13 years of blended family life. It took us a long time to get here, but that only makes me appreciate it more! If I can give you one single piece of advice, it would be about overstepping.
In my opinion, that's the number one challenge in stepmom world, so I'm replaying the very first episode of this podcast for those of you who never heard it, and as a reminder for those of you w...
2019-12-3128 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 2.8 On Being A Childless StepmomIn response to a listener request, I interviewed Sonia Richter - artist, stepmom and blogger. Sonia opened her personal struggle with childlessness to the public when she wrote a blog called Raw Brutal Honesty On Being a 44 Year Old Childless Stepmom Artist.
You can read that at soniarichter.com
I want to hear from you, especially if you resonate with this topic. Drop me a line at my personal and private email, info@essentialstepmom.com
If you'd like to get a sense of what it might be like to have my personal support...
2019-12-1029 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 2.7 Five thousand desperate stepmoms Googled THIS phrase and found ME on YouTube!I was astonished to learn that one of my stepmom tutorial videos was outperforming the others by 100 to 1. What was so special about my message in that video that had stepmoms flocking in droves to watch it?
Spoiler alert - it's about not liking your stepchild.
Grab my free download about dealing with problem kids here:
PLAYING HARD TO LIKE: 10 CHALLENGING STEP KID PERSONALITIES AND HOW TO WIN THEM OVER
2019-12-0316 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 2.6 Control Junkie No More!I am a recovering control junkie and not afraid to admit it. I now get my fix minding my own business and controlling the only thing I really can, which is my own actions, and my reactions to things.
Anna de Acosta has a similar story although all the parts of our journey are unique to our own experiences and circumstances. I'm excited for you to hear her story, one that led her back from 6 years in Peru to live practically around the corner from me!
You can find more Anna at annadeacosta.com
...
2019-11-2642 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 2.5 Step-parent Burnout SyndromeI am acquainted with burnout, like many other high performing women. I've burned out once as a wife and once as a stepmom. Luckily, I've been developing a rich support network around me to help me cope so that I don't get all the way to burn out ever again. One of my most important supporters is Tania Heinemann, a Registered Holistic Nutritionist and Certified Lactation Consultant - really sorry I didn't have her around when I had my own breastfeeding woes!
You can connect with me at info@essentialstepmom.com. I'd especially like to hear from...
2019-11-1936 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 2.3: The Heartbreak Of Feeling Invisible.Do you feel invisible sometimes? Like, your stepchild acts as if you don't exist? Or your parenting input to your spouse is ignored? And what about a biomom who doesn't acknowledge all that you do for her child? This episode is for you!
We'll talk about the difference between FEELING invisible and actually BEING invisible - taking charge of your own presence to decide for yourself when you can achieve your belongingness goals by temporarily getting out of the way. I'll give you some precise strategies and some mindset tweaks to help you over this common hump...
2019-10-3025 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 2.2 Duda Baldwin - Spiritual Teacher and StepmomDuda Baldwin is the creator of the Little School of Buddhism and she's a life coach who brings a spiritual edge to learning to crush your goals while staying true to yourself. You can learn more about Duda at kickassmuse.com.
Tracy's articles have been published in ThriveGlobal, Medium and Elephant Journal. Send your comments or questions to her via info@essentialstepmom.com.
If you're not already part of her Facebook community, send a join request to The Spectacular Stepmom.
Grab this free resource - Healing Stepmom Burnout: A Quickstart G...
2019-10-2244 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 2.1 Who Gets To Be Part Of Your Tribe?This is about your stepmom tribe, your dream team, your support network. We're going to design your very own dream team on this episode and by the end you'll know exactly who your team members are, where they're hiding and how to get exactly what you need from them.
Here are links for the resources I mentioned in this episode:
Nacho Kids Academy
Susan Stiffelman
Essential Stepmom Session Groups - book a call with me here to find the right group for you.
2019-10-1618 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 15: The Disengaging EssayMy guest Maarit Miller created and published a version of the Disengaging Essay that made it famous in the stepmom world. You can read it on Maarit's blog, Blended Family Frappe.
I'll be taking a break for the next while as I focus on helping the participants in Stepmom Success Lab. There's still room for you there too - come and join us and be supported with a small community of women who are learning the stepmom ropes right alongside you. Start feeling more relaxed and confident ASAP! Get all the info here:
STEPMOM SUCCESS...
2019-08-2759 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 14: Guest Shannon Bally on being a stepdaughter and a bio mom.Shannon Bally is the host of a podcast called The Bumpcast. Her life so far includes having 4 children and 3 stepmoms. Her husband is stepdad to her oldest 2 children and she can speak to what it looks like as a bio mom when the kids come back from visiting dad!
Here's a link for Shannon's podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bumpcast/id1412697251
There's just one more episode this season - don't miss Maarit Miller talking about her part in making the Disengaging Essay available to stepmoms so they can make the changes that really...
2019-08-2035 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 13: Is it mean not to share your cookies?This episode is about peer support and peer advice, and how to know when to take advice from a stranger. What does that have to do with sharing cookies?
A simple request for advice on social media gave me the inspiration to talk about sharing the parenting of your stepkids, and how much of that you should be doing as a stepmom.
Interested in learning more about Stepmom Success Lab? We're starting up on September 1 so check it out here!
Stepmom Success Lab
You can get loads of first-rate, trustworthy parenting tips from...
2019-08-1324 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 12: Infertility - Support and Transformation with Dr. Stacy ThomasDr. Stacy is a Clinical Psychologist in private practise in Toronto, Canada. She specializes in helping women manage the emotional challenges of infertility.
Her free guided journal is available at
http://growingforwardjournal
Learn more about Stepmom Success Lab, my 6-week turbo-training program for women who want to quickly fill in the important blanks in their own knowledge about parenting, step-parenting and step-family life at training.essentialstepmom.com
Connect with me at info@essentialstepmom.com
2019-08-061h 01Essential Stepmom PodcastESP 11: Parental Alienation Part 3This final episode of my 3-part series on Parental Alienation is about how to support yourself and your partner to weather the emotional wear and tear of this kind of situation.
Please rate us on iTunes so other stepmoms can find us and listen along with you!
EssentialStepmom Podcast on iTunes
Here's my free Gratitude Journal template - join my email community and it will be sent right to your inbox!
http://tracypoizner.lpages.co/gratitude-journal
Stepmom Success Lab is my 6-week turbo program to help you quickly and p...
2019-07-3029 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 10: Parental Alienation Part 2Kim Wilson describes her experience being completely alienated from her mother from age 1 to age 7, and the effect this had on her future relationships. I find it incredibly helpful to hear from adults who lived through this because they can explain to us what it felt like and how it resolved for them. My research - a survey of over 200 women who reported being alienated as children - confirms that the vast majority of kids eventually seek out the erased parent and enjoy a deeper relationship with that parent than they have with the one who controlled them.
2019-07-2333 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 9: Parental Alienation Part 1 - 10 Practical TipsParental Alienation might be the most difficult challenge a step-family can face. Here are 10 practical tips for helping things along. In the next episode, we'll talk about what to say to the kids, what not to say, and how to help them express whatever they may be feeling.
Stepmom Success Lab is starting again on September 1, 2019! Listen to the course modules at your own pace, use the workbook to solidify your learning, and let me help you adapt the techniques to suit your unique situation in our live video Q&A sessions. Here's the link to learn...
2019-07-1731 minEssential Stepmom PodcastESP 8. Understanding Loyalty: Loving The Stepchild Who Won't Let You InThe loyalty bind, or loyalty conflict as it's sometimes known, is possibly the most insidious barrier to a healthy relationship between a stepmom and her partner's children. It's not always noticeable at the start of a new family and it can become a problem at any time, even years down the road. Its very hard to help by giving love, when the problem is that the child can't allow him or herself to love you back!
1. It can happen at any time, whether bio mom is very present in their lives or not around at all.
2019-07-0921 min