Synergistic Stepparenting Pocast: Recent Episodes
Maria Natapov
Maria Natapov has been a stepparent for 9+ years. When she and her partner learned of the abuse and neglect inflicted by the biological mother, Maria studied and took the lead to install the right supports and prevent her stepdaughter from further harm. Her passion is helping other stepparents transform their challenging responsibilities into opportunities for the whole family to thrive. In Synergistic Stepparenting podcast, Maria talks frankly about actionable steps to transform family chaos into meaningful and harmonious co-parenting. Reminding stepparents that they are not alone. Learn more about Maria Natapov. https://synergisticstepparenting.com/meet-maria/
Hey there, blended family rockstars!
Welcome back to another episode of the Synergistic Stepparenting podcast, where we tackle all things related to blended families, coparenting, stepparenting with harmony and grace. If you’re a stepparent or divorced parent nurturing a new romantic relationship and getting serious, this episode is packed with juicy tips on how to introduce your new partner to your kids smoothly and successfully. So, stick around, because you don’t want to miss this! Find the show notes for this episode at SynergitsicStepparenting.com/100.
Covered Topics:
- Celebrating 100th Episode Milestone - Special Message
- Common Concerns About Introducing a New Romantic Partner to Your Child
- 8 Tips to Successfully Introduce a New Romantic Partner to Your Child
- Special Gift to Make Introducing A New Romantic Partner to Your Child Easier
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hey blended family warriors! Maria here, and welcome back to another episode of Synergistic Stepparenting podcast. Today, I've got something truly special for you. If you've ever felt like you're stuck in a cycle of endless worry and emotional chaos, you’re in the right place. We’re diving into why the power of RRT is the best-kept secret and your new BFF for finally feeling clear, confident, and ready to create the harmony you seek in your blended family. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/99.
Covered Topics:
- What is Rapid Resolution Therapy? (The Recap)
- Rapid Resolution Therapy: Client Case Studies
- Rapid Resolution Therapy: The Process
- Rapid Resolution Therapy: Clients’ Results
Rapid Resolution Therapy: Special Offer
And these results can be yours too. In fact, I want you to experience these powerful results for yourself so badly that I’m offering a 20% OFF promotion on RRT sessions when you purchase by Midnight on Friday, May 31st, 2024 with the code bewell. Plus, I’m making a personal guarantee: if you need more than one session to get the results you seek, I’m committed to working with you for FREE until you do. So you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Don't miss out, go grab your session now to take advantage of this deal at SynergisticStepparenting.com/rr.
So, if you’re tired of battling relentless thoughts and emotions that sabotage your journey towards the life and relationships you crave, this is your chance. Together, we’ll dismantle those barriers, unveiling clarity and propelling you towards the fulfillment you deserve.
Ready to take the first step? Head over to synergisticstepparenting.com/rr and book your Rapid Resolution Therapy Session. Let’s get your subconscious on board with your goals and create those easy, lasting results. Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. I’m here, holding your hand every step of the way.
Until next time, be well!
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Welcome back to another episode of the Synergistic Stepparenting podcast! I’m Maria Natapov, your guide on this journey to creating a harmonious and joyful blended family. Have you ever dealt with co-parenting fear and comparison in your blended family role?
Imagine this: you start your day feeling the weight of all your responsibilities. You worry about how your stepchildren will react to your guidance, how to navigate the tension with your ex-spouse, and how to keep your family united. You fear not being accepted or loved by your stepchildren, and you’re constantly second-guessing your every move.
The tension doesn’t stop there. You’re also dealing with misunderstandings and conflicts with your partner’s ex. Every interaction feels like walking a tightrope, trying to avoid conflict but somehow stepping into it with every move you make. It feels like no matter what you do, you can't seem to do anything right.
Does this sound familiar? Are you struggling to connect with your stepkids while feeling the constant strain of dealing with their other biological parent? Do you feel like you’re always walking on eggshells, trying to avoid conflicts and keep the peace, yet somehow causing more friction?
If you’re nodding along, then today’s episode is for you. Find the show notes for this episode at https://SynergisticStepparenting.com/98.
Covered Topics:
- The Blended Family Possibilities
- Understanding Your Struggleswith Co-Parenting Fear and Comparison
- The Power of Letting Go of Co-Parenting Comparison
- 3 Steps for letting go of Comparison
- Letting Go of Co-Parenting Fears
- 4 Steps for letting go of Fear
- Making Real Connections in Your Blended Family
Creating a blended family that feels united and loving is possible. It starts with understanding, empathy, and letting go of the need to control everything.
Imagine having someone who understands the unique challenges of your high-profile life and can offer personalized, discreet support to navigate your family dynamics.
Think about the relief of having practical, step-by-step guidance to create a nurturing and harmonious environment for your blended family. Take the first step by grabbing your copy of Family Fusion, 6 Steps to Collaborative Co-Parenting ASAP.
And I have something really special that drops in the next few days that you don’t want to miss. So be sure to get your copy and get on my list so that you don’t miss out on this 1st time-ever opportunity! I’ve never done this before and I’m so excited to share this with you.
I’m here to help you make this dream a reality. Let me show you the way to unlocking the door to peace, and deep connections to your blended family. Grab your copy of Family Fusion: 6 Steps to Collaborative Co-Parenting today, and let’s start this transformative journey together.
Welcome back to another episode of "Synergistic Stepparenting," the podcast dedicated to helping you navigate the complex and rewarding journey of blending families. I'm your host, Maria Natapov, and today we’re exploring a topic that weighs heavy on many stepparents’ and divorced parents’ hearts, the struggles of coparenting with an absent coparent. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/97.
Another day begins, and as you sip your morning coffee, you can't shake off the tension that's been brewing for weeks. You're not alone in this maze of emotions. I understand your journey because I've walked it myself. Today, I'm here to offer you a lifeline, a beacon of hope amidst the chaos. Let's embark on a journey together, where understanding, validation, and solutions await.
Today, we're exploring a theme that resonates with so many of you: the delicate balance of finding your role as a stepparent. Picture this: you're eager to step in and help, to be the parent that's missing, but suddenly you feel like an outsider, and your well-meaning efforts aren't quite hitting the mark. It's like trying to fit a piece into a puzzle where the edges are still blurry.
Let’s explore four common challenges that stepparents face in this balancing act, and I'll share practical, neuroscience-backed solutions to help you navigate these hurdles with grace and confidence.
Covered Topics:
- Common challenge #1: Feeling the Urge to Step In as the Absent Parent
- 3 Neuroscience-Backed Solutions to Common challenge #1
- Common Challenge #2: Partner Resistance to Stepparent's Input
- 3 Neuroscience-Backed Solutions to Common challenge #2
- Common Challenge #3: Finding the Balance in Your Role as a Stepparent
- 3 Neuroscience-Backed Solutions to Common challenge #3
- Common Challenge #4: Addressing Necessary Issues with Your Partner
- 3 Neuroscience-Backed Solutions to Common challenge #4
Remember, you're not alone, and together, we can create the happy, harmonious blended family you've always dreamed of. If you're ready to take the next step towards a brighter tomorrow, and you haven’t done so, grab your free copy of Family Fusion: 6 Steps to Collaborative Co-Parenting, and let me support you on your journey to blended family bliss. Your story is waiting to be written, and I'm here to help you turn the page to a new chapter filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities.
Until next time, be well!
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hey there, fellow stepparents! It's Maria Natapov, your go-to guide for navigating the ups and downs of blended family life. I know firsthand how easy it is to catch a bad case of blended family challenges overwhelm caused by juggling the demands of your career, your family, and your own well-being, especially when it feels like conflicts are constantly looming. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/96.
Do any of these thoughts sound familiar?
"I just need some space from the chaos."
"Why do weekends feel like battlegrounds?"
"Am I the only one struggling to find my place?"
If you're nodding along, you're not alone. I hear you, and I understand how overwhelming it can feel when you're at the end of your rope. But, there is hope – and I'm here to help you find it.
Covered Topics:
- Validate Your Feelings
- Understand the Neuroscience
- Take Control of Your Space
- Communicate Effectively
- 3 Key Strategies for Effective Communication
- Seek Support
Ready to take the next step? Grab your very own copy of Family Fusion: 6 Steps to Collaborative Co-Parenting, and get critical insights, strategies, and tips to support you on your journey to finding peace and harmony in your blended family.
Welcome back to another episode of Synergistic Stepparenting podcast, where we dive deep into the realities of blended family life. It's great to have you here, warriors navigating the unique challenges of blended family dynamics. Today, we're tackling a topic that hits close to home for most of you: navigating blended family cumulative stressors. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/95.
Covered Topics:
- Reliving the Blended Family Daily Grind
- Riding the Blended Family Emotional Roller Coaster
- Finding Your Anchor Amidst the Blended Family Storm
- 4 Tools to Curb Your Blended Family Cumulative Stressors
- Getting Support to Transform Blended Family Cumulative Stressors into Harmony Co-Parenting
- A Powerful Resource to Create the Serenity You Crave
I'm here to support you every step of the way. Together, we'll transform your blended family from a source of stress and conflict into a source of joy and fulfillment. Ready to take the first step? Book a call with me today, and let's start your journey to a happier, healthier family life.
I'm excited to introduce you to a resource that can help navigate these waters with confidence and clarity: the Family Fusion: 6 Steps to Collaborative Co-Parenting Guide.
This guide isn't just another how-to manual. It's a roadmap designed to address the pain points many of us face in blended families—creating more peace and harmony among family members. Imagine having more ease in your daily interactions, and working towards that dream of harmonious co-parenting, together.
With this offer, I'm not just handing you a bunch of tips and tricks. I'm helping you conquer obstacles, clarify misconceptions, and embody the core value of guidance every step of the way.
So, if you're ready to take the next step towards a more harmonious family life, click below to grab your copy of the Family Fusion Guide now!
Here's to creating more peace and harmony in your blended family journey!
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Welcome back to another episode of the Synergistic Stepparenting podcast, where we explore the intricate dance of stepparenting with compassion and understanding. Today, we're delving into the pressure facing stepparents to step up or back off, and the strategies for finding balance amidst the chaos. So, grab your favorite mug of tea, settle in, and let's dive deep into this important topic. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/94.
Covered Topics:
- Identifying Common Pressure Facing Stepparents
- Strategist for Striking a Delicate Balance in Your Stepparenting Role
- Strategies for Finding Balance Amidst the Pressure Facing Stepparents
- Reflection Questions to Reduce the Pressure Facing Stepparents
Are you feeling like you're walking a tightrope, trying to balance between stepping up and backing off in your blended family? Do you lie awake at night, wondering how to deepen connections and rapport while navigating the minefield of conflicting expectations? You're not alone in this struggle. It's time to stop feeling overwhelmed and start taking action. Book your call with me today, to get the clarity you need to create the blended family dynamic you crave.
If you're tired of feeling stuck and yearn for support in finding that elusive balance and strengthening bonds within your blended family, don't hesitate any longer. Book a call with me today by filling out a brief questionnaire. Let's turn your frustrations into opportunities for growth and create a family dynamic where everyone feels understood, valued, and connected. Your blended family journey doesn't have to be a solo expedition. Together, we can make it a triumphant adventure towards love, harmony, and lasting happiness.
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. Your positive ratings helps me reach and support more stepparents – like you – move towards more harmony in their blended family.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate this show with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hey there, fellow stepparents and divorced parents! I know how it feels when blended family tensions arise, and it seems like there's no end in sight. You're not alone in this struggle. I get it—I've been there too. But guess what? It's possible to foster a supportive blended family dynamic, and I'm here to guide you through it. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/93.
Covered Topics:
- Acknowledge Your Feelings
- Choose Your Response
- 3 Response Options
- The Role Self-Care Plays
- A Case Study Scenario
- Working the Steps
You're not alone on this journey. With the right strategies and support, you can navigate family tensions with grace and resilience. If you're ready to take the next step towards harmony in your blended family, I'm here to help. Book your call now to discuss your unique challenges and how I might be able to help. Let's connect and explore how I can support you on your path to blissful coexistence.
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships they desire with their blended family.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Another day rolls by, and you find yourself tangled in the chaos of life. Managing your high-powered career and nurturing your blended family is tough. Sometimes it feels like you're juggling flaming torches, hoping they won't burn you or anyone else around you. The stress mounts. You seek to identify your stepchild's challenging behaviors, understand their emotional triggers and effectively respond to them while feeling supported as the stepparent. You long for a sense of peace and harmony within your family dynamic. If this sounds all too familiar, you’ve come to the right place. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/92.
As a CEO, you're accustomed to conquering challenges head-on. But when it comes to navigating the intricate landscape of blended family life, even the most accomplished individuals, like you, can feel overwhelmed. It's like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded — you know there's a solution, but finding it feels impossible.
You yearn for seamless integration between your professional success and your family's well-being. Your stepchildren's happiness and success are just as important to you as your own children's. You're committed to creating a harmonious environment where everyone thrives. But how do you bridge the gap between your high-powered career and the complexities of blended family dynamics?
Covered Topics:
- Identifying Your Stepchild's Challenging Behavior through Emotional Signals
- Understanding the Root Cause of Your Stepchild's Emotional Triggers
- Effectively Responding to Your Stepchild's Challenging Behavior
- Feeling Supported as the Stepparent
- A Sample Scenario of a Stepchild's Challenging Behavior
- A Specific Example of a Stepchild's Root Cause of Challenging Behavior
- The Benefit of Enlisting Professional Support
As you embark on this transformative journey with me, remember that you're not just seeking solutions — you're embracing a lifeline of support and understanding as the stepparent and integral part of the blended family. This will have a massive impact on your relationships with the other blended family members and in your blended family dynamics overall. Together, we'll navigate the maze of blended family dynamics with grace, resilience, and unwavering determination.
So why wait? Take the first step towards a harmonious blended family life by booking a call with me today. To do this, fill out a brief questionnaire at SynergisticStepparenting.com/work. Your path to serenity and connection awaits, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way and support your, the stepparent's, emotional needs.
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships they desire with their blended family.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Welcome to a special episode of the Synergistic Stepparenting podcast. I'm your host, Maria Natapov, and today, we're diving deep into the heart-wrenching scenario of a blended family facing a major blended family crisis: Lily, Emily's 12-year-old stepdaughter, has been diagnosed with a serious chronic illness. We're exploring the stepparent's struggle with overwhelm, the bio-parent's role balancing struggle, and the step-siblings' confusion and vulnerability. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/91.
Covered Topics:
- Insights from a Stepparenting Coach and Blended Family Strategist
- The Stepparent's Struggle with Overwhelm and What to Do About It
- the Bio-Parent's Struggle with Balancing the Roles of Caregiver and Supportive Spouse and What to Do About It
- Embrace Effective Coping Strategies in Your Blended Family
- How to Take Empowered Action in Dealing with a Blended Family Crisis
Are you experiencing a similar situation to Emily’s with Lily’s diagnosis? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about how to navigate it or what the next steps are? Do you find yourself grappling with a whirlwind of emotions, unsure of where to turn for support? It's time to take the first step towards finding peace amidst the chaos.
I personally invite you to book a call with me, Maria Natapov, your guide through the turbulent waters of stepparenting and blended family dynamics. During our call, we'll dive deep into your unique circumstances, exploring the challenges you're facing and the goals you hope to achieve.
Take the first step now by filling out the Work with Maria questionnaire. This simple form will help me better understand your needs and tailor our conversation to address your specific concerns. Whether you're struggling to balance your role as a caregiver, navigating complex family dynamics, or simply seeking support and guidance, I'm here to help.
Don't let the chaos of stepparenting overwhelm you any longer. Take action today and schedule your call with me. Together, we can find clarity, build resilience, and create a brighter, more peaceful future for you and your loved ones.
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships they desire with their blended family.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Another day begins, and the weight of your blended family's complexities sits heavy on your shoulders. You juggle your demanding career, family dynamics, and personal growth aspirations, all while striving for harmony in the chaos. You're not alone. I see you, I understand you, and I'm here to guide you through the maze. Join me as we delve deeper into how to prioritize personal growth and supporting stepchild's growth through blended families. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/90.
Covered Topics
- Recognizing the Challenges of Supporting Stepchild's Growth in Blended Families
- Embracing Personal Growth in Blended Families
- Crafting Clear Expectations for Your Stepchild
- Samples of Developmentally Appropriate Tasks by Stepchild’s Age
- Nurturing Connections with Blended Family Co-Parenting
- Seeking Support Around Supporting Your Stepchild's Growth
- Embracing the Blended Family Co-Parenting Journey
Dear listener, I invite you to join me on this journey of self-discovery and transformation. Take the first step by grabbing your copy of Family Fusion: 6 Steps to Collaborative Co-Parenting. Together, we'll unlock the secrets to harmonious co-parenting, nurturing relationships, and creating a blended family dynamic filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories.
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships they desire with their blended family.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Imagine the heart-wrenching sight of your child, shoulders slumped and eyes downcast, as they endure the painful reality of bullying from an unexpected source — their own parent. Today, we'll delve into the complexities of supporting a child through blended family challenges. I'll offer guidance and support to parents like you to who are navigating the challenging journey of creating and upholding co-parenting boundaries as you support a child through being bullied by a co-parent.
Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/89.
Covered Topics:
- A Painful Blended Family Scenario
- Step 1: Acknowledging the Pain of Navigating Blended Family-Based Bullying
- Step 2: Advocating for Co-Parenting Boundaries
- Step 3: Creating a Safe Haven within Your Blended Family
- Step 4: Empowering Your Child within Your Blended Family
- Step 5: Seeking Professional Support
Ready to support your child through blended family challenges by supporting their co-parenting boundaries? Create a path for your child's healing by downloading my free guide, Family Fusion: 6 Steps to Collaborative Co-Parenting. Join me in championing our children’s right to safety and well-being. Together, let's sow the seeds of strength and resilience in the hearts of our children. Let's nurture a future where they feel safe, loved, and respected within their own families and beyond.
Until next time, be well!
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships they desire with their blended family.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Welcome to another episode of "Synergistic Stepparenting." I'm Maria Natapov, your guide on this journey towards building stronger, more harmonious blended families. Today we're delving into a topic that's often shrouded in darkness. Yet it holds the key to unlocking greater connection and resilience within our families: shame and guilt. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/88.
As stepparents and co-parents, we've all experienced moments of doubt, insecurity, and self-blame. We've questioned our worth, our abilities, and our impact on our blended family dynamics. The truth is, you are not alone in your struggles. There is light at the end of the tunnel. In this episode, we'll explore the insidious nature of shame and guilt in blended families. We'll delve into how they impact our relationships and well-being. Most importantly, we'll uncover what you can do to overcome them.
Grab a cup of tea and find a cozy spot to settle in. We're shining a light on the shadows together. Let's dive deeper into the tangled web of shame and guilt that often accompanies the challenges of step-parenting and co-parenting.
Topics Covered:
- Acknowledge Your Feelings of Stepparenting Shame and Guilt
- Embrace the Connection with Your Stepchild
- Communicate Compassionately with Your Blended Family
- Navigate Stepparenting Co-Parenting with Grace
- Cultivate Stepparenting Self-Compassion
If you’re struggling with any of these steps unsure where to begin, I’ve got you every step of the way. Go to SynergisticStepparenting.com/subscribe to download my "Family Fusion: 6 Steps to Collaborative Co-Parenting" guide. Dont' wait to embark on a transformative journey towards peace, connection, and fulfillment. I’ll be in touch to schedule a call and we'll unlock a brighter, more harmonious future for you and your loved ones. Let's walk this path together, one step at a time.
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships they desire with their blended family.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Welcome, dear listeners, to another episode of Synergistic Stepparenting podcast. I'm your host, Maria Natapov, and I'm thrilled to have you join me today as we dive into the complexities of step-parenting and co-parenting with compassion and clarity.
To all the stepparents and divorced parents tuning in, I want you to know that you're not alone on this journey. Whether you're navigating the delicate balance between your career and family life, or striving to create harmony amidst the daily challenges, this podcast is your sanctuary — a place where your struggles are heard, your victories celebrated, and your questions answered. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/87.
Covered Topics:
- Co-Parenting: A Common Stepparenting Struggle
- Stepping into Co-Parenting Harmony
- Acknowledging Your Struggles
- Prioritizing Your Stepchild
- Establishing Healthy Stepparenting Boundaries
- Fostering Love and Acceptance in Your Blended Family
- Embracing Emotional Expression as a Blended Family Value
- Navigating Co-Parenting Challenges Together
I see you. I understand the weight of your responsibilities and the depth of your commitment to your family's happiness. My guide, Family Fusion: 6 Steps to Collaborative Co-Parenting, the ultimate guide to finding serenity in the storms of blended family life is not just a solution — it's your roadmap to a life filled with harmony, connection, and joy.
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Welcome, cherished stepparents and divorced parents in blended families, to another episode of the Synergistic Stepparenting podcast. I'm here with you, your guide and ally, as we delve into the intricate dynamics of blended family life.
Today, we're tackling a topic that hits close to home for many of us: power struggles. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/86.
Have you ever had déjà vu? Let me paint you a picture…
You found yourself in yet another power struggle with your stepchild, tensions rising between you and your partner as the familiar argument about discipline reared its head. You, feeling isolated and defeated, spent another night tossing and turning, replaying the same scenes like a Groundhog Day movie.
Can you relate? If you said “Yes,” you’re not alone!
But fear not, because today's episode is your beacon of hope amidst the chaos. We're diving deep into the misunderstood realm of power struggles in blended families. We'll navigate through this challenge and emerge stronger.
Covered Topics:
- Exploring Stepparent and Stepchild Fallout
- Neuroscience behind how discipline kills trust and connection
- Embracing a new Approach to Conflict Resolution in the Blended Family
And that wraps up our introduction and first steps on our journey to redefine discipline in blended families. Discipline isn't about control; it's about connection. If you want more, I’ve just released Family Fusion: 6 Steps to Collaborative Co-Parenting.
Grab your copy here to learn powerful strategies and approaches to reduce the power struggles and create more peace, ease, and calm in your blended family. It's the first step towards a harmonious blended family life. Together, we've got this!
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hey there, amazing stepparents and blended family warriors! Welcome back to another episode of Synergistic Stepparenting podcast, your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of struggling with stepparenting with grace and courage. Today, we're diving deep into the heart of one of the most common struggles in blended families: overcoming our own fears and worries. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/85.
Covered Topics:
- Identifying the Monsters Under the Bed: Struggling with Stepparenting
- Separate Fact from Fiction: Stepparenting Myths Debunked
- Embracing the Power of Trying: Stepparenting with Courage
- Cultivating Courage and Connection: Stepparenting with Grace
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hey there, fabulous stepparents! Welcome back to another episode of Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast, where I guide you to navigate the wild and wonderful world of blended families with grace, humor, and a whole lot of heart. I'm your host Maria Natapov, your trusty guide through the twists and turns of stepparenting life.
Today, we’re continuing to explore how to strengthen the stepfamily for harmonious co-parenting, understanding and connection. We're diving deep into the art of building bridges within your blended family. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/84.
Topics Covered:
- Embrace Your Village
- Communication is Key
- Celebrate Your Differences
- Keep Them in the Loop
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hey there, amazing stepparents! It's Maria Natapov, your guide in the world of blended families. Today, let's dive into the stepfamily challenges you face and how to navigate them effectively. Find the show notes at SynergisticStepparenting.com/83.
Covered Topics:
- Stepparent Insight
- Recognizing Stepfamily Patterns
- Neuroscience of Unhealthy Patterns in Stepfamilies
- Leveraging Stepfamily Advantages
- Navigating Stepfamily Issues Together
- Stepfamily Communication and Connection
- Embracing Stepfamily Transformation
You can do this within your own family and of course I would love to support you on this journey. So please don’t hesitate to reach out to me so that we can build this wonderful community approach and collaborative approach together to set your stepfamily up for success.
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hey there, amazing stepparents!
Welcome back to another episode of Synergistic Stepparenting podcast, where we dive deep into the world of blended families with a touch of humor and a whole lot of heart. I'm your host, Maria Natapov, the stepparenting coach here to guide you through the ups and downs of this incredible journey.
In today's episode, we're talking about something many of us face in stepfamilies: How to handle it when your child complains about your spouse, their stepparent. If you've ever felt that sting or confusion, you're not alone. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/82.
Topics Covered:
- The CEO’s Perspective
- The teacher’s Perspective
- Harmony Minded Approach (a 4 step process)
- Tailored Harmony Minded Approach to the CEO's challenge
- Tailored Harmony Minded Approach to the teacher's challenge
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hey there, amazing stepparents!
Welcome to another episode of Synergistic Stepparenting, the podcast where we dive deep into the unique challenges of blending families while leading with love. I'm your go-to blended family strategist, here to guide you on this incredible journey.
Today's episode is extra special, as we explore the power of mourning mindfully and how it can transform your experience as a stepparent. I'm talking to you whether you’re the powerhouse CEO or the dedicated teacher – this one's for every blended family out there! Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/81.
Topics Covered:
- Embrace Your Emotional Voyage
- Heartfelt Healing, Family Bonding
- Balancing Love and Loss
- Craft Your Joyful Blend
- Navigate Loss, Embrace Joy
- Embrace Healing, Cherish Connection
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hey there, incredible listeners!
Welcome back to Synergistic Stepparenting podcast, where we dive deep into the questions that spark growth, transformation, and a little bit of magic on your stepfamily journey.
Today, I’m inviting you to ponder a question that has the power to shape your experiences in 2024: 'What kind of self-regulation and self-care is needed to manifest the life you desire?' Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/80.
Whether you're working on that exciting project, crafting an inspired lesson plan, nurturing your blended family, or simply striving for a particular daily vibe, it all comes down to the choices we make and the habits we cultivate. So, let's break it down together.
Topics Covered:
- Clarify Your Desired Experience
- Identify the Core Values Driving Your Desires
- Explore Your Relationship with Time
- Self-Regulation Foundation
- Putting Self-Regulation into Action
- Cultivate Emotional Intelligence
- Relationships and Collaboration
- and more!
And if you’re looking to unlock the secrets to harmonious blended family living, grab your copy of the Stepparent Survival Kit now for essential tools and strategies to transform your family dynamics today!
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hello, incredible listeners, and welcome back to Synergistic Stepparenting, the podcast that's all about empowering you to live your best stepfamily life. I'm your host, Maria Natapov, and today's episode is a game-changer for anyone looking to make self-regulation and self-care their number one priority in 2024.
We have two incredible individuals in mind as we explore this journey. Let's dive in! Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/79.
Covered Topics:
- The CEO’s Symphony of Success
- Tailoring self-care to a hectic lifestyle
- Blending family responsibilities seamlessly
- Strategies for maintaining privacy in the public eye
- A Teacher’s Journey to Joyful Blending
- Practical strategies for co-parenting success
- Building deeper connections with stepchildren
- Techniques to address conflicts and build stronger family bonds
- Universal Wisdom for All
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hello, fabulous listeners! Welcome back to Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast, where we unravel the secrets to a thriving blended family life. I'm your host, Maria Natapov, and today we're diving deep into the world of self-regulation, self-care, and goal setting, especially tailored for our incredible blended family rockstars – you guys, our listeners.
Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/78.
Covered Topics:
- The Power of Goals
- Understanding the Importance of Goal Setting
- CEO’s Journey – Tailored Strategies for Success
- Teacher’s Odyssey – Nurturing the Heart of the Family
- The Neuroscience Behind Goal Setting
- Practical Tips and Techniques
- Create a Personalized Self-Care Routine
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hello, wonderful listeners! Welcome back to another episode of Synergistic Stepparenting podcast, where we dive into the intricacies of blended family life. I'm your host, Maria Natapov, your go-to guide for creating the harmonious blend you've always dreamed of. Today, we're talking about something we all need after the whirlwind of the holidays - self-care. So, grab your favorite beverage, sit back, and let's dive in!
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/77.
Covered Topics:
- Why is Self-Care Worth Your Time as a Stepparent in a Blended Family?
- The Benefits of Self-Care for Stepparents in Blended Families
- Stepfamily Reset How To’s
- Reset for the Mind, Body and Spirit
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hello, wonderful listeners! Welcome to another episode of Synergistic Stepparenting, the podcast where we untangle the threads of blended families and weave them into a beautiful tapestry of connection. I'm your host Maria Natapov, and today, we've got a fantastic show lined up!
As the holiday season approaches, we're diving deep into a topic that can stir up emotions like a festive pot of mulled wine – triggers! Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/76.
Topics Covered:
- What triggers Are
- Why you get triggered
- The benefits of understanding your triggers and how to respond to them effectively
- How to respond effectively to triggers
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hello, wonderful listeners! Welcome back to Synergistic Stepparenting, the go-to podcast for navigating the intricate dance of blended families. I'm your host, Maria Natapov, and today, we're diving deep into why reaching out to a stepparenting coach and blended family strategist, like yours truly, might be the game-changer you have been looking for.
Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/75. Grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let's unravel the magic behind the curtain.
Topics Covered:
- The Whys
- The Benefits
- Neuroscience
- Abundance Mindset
- Humor
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Welcome sweet stepparents to another episode of the Synergistic Stepparenting. The podcast that helps you create harmony, resolve conflicts, and navigate the intricate world of blended families.
I'm your host, Maria Natapov, and today, we're diving into a topic that's essential for our ultra-high-net-worth maven and our dedicated professionals: Mastering the Art of Self-Regulation. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/74.
Topics Covered:
- Powerful Resource for Stepparents
- Self-Regulation
- How it Works
- The Benefits
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Welcome my dear listeners navigating the challenging waters of blended family living.
I’m you’re host, Maria Natapov, and today I have a heartfelt message for someone equally extraordinary. Now, I know that our audience comes from all walks of life, but today, I’m talking directly to one very accomplished lady, and I think many of you will find value in this too. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/73.
I see you. You’ve built an empire, you’re a tech trailblazer, a mother, a stepmother, a woman with a heart that craves success, family, and fulfillment. It's not easy being in your shoes. I mean, who could possibly understand the balancing act you perform daily?
Topics Covered:
- Conquering Fear for Family Bliss
- Embrace Your Fear, Transform Your Blended Family
- Unlock Your Family's Potential with Expert Guidance
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to another exciting episode of the Synergistic Stepparenting podcast the #1 podcast for high-achieving parents looking to create harmony in their blended families!
I'm your host, Maria Natapov, and today we’re focusing on how to make everyone feel heard as you navigate the intricate world of blended families. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/72.
Alright, picture this: you’re an ultra-high-net-worth individual with an annual income that'll make most people’s jaw drop. You’re not only a tech titan but also a dedicated parent who values family above all else.
Covered Topics:
- The magical family meetings
- 3 key components of a successful family meeting
- The powerful benefits
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hello, dear listeners, and welcome back to another episode of the Synergistic Stepparenting podcast. I'm your host, Maria Nataov, your friendly neighborhood stepparenting coach and blended family strategist. Today, I've got a topic that's near and dear to my heart: the emotional rollercoaster of being in a blended family. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/71.
But first, let's set the stage. As you know, many of you have embarked on this incredible journey of blending families. It's a path filled with love, laughter, but let's be real - it also comes with its fair share of challenges. It's a bit like dancing in high heels while juggling flaming swords - doable but occasionally a tad tricky!
Covered in this Episode:
- Challenges and Blended Family is like Fish and Water
- The Blended Family Bliss Recipe
- 5 Key Ingredients for Blended Family Bliss
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Welcome, dear listeners, to a truly special episode of Synergistic Stepparenting podcast. I’m your host, Maria Natapov, and today I’m delving into a topic that's as complex as it is crucial: meeting your ex's new partner.
But don’t worry, I’ve got your back! Picture this episode as a finely crafted piece of art, designed to elevate your understanding and approach to this delicate situation. So that you can show up even to this encounter as a connoisseur of both style and grace. Find the show notes for this episode at SynergisticStepparenting.com/70.
Topics Covered:
- The Empathy Edge
- The Craft Communication
- Humor: Your Secret Weapon
- Adaptability: Your Agile Ally
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hey there, all you blended family peeps! Welcome to another epic episode of "Synergistic Stepparenting.” Stepfamily life, it's like a surprise package every day, right? You never quite know what you're gonna get, and that's part of its unique charm! Chaos is our ticket to the rollercoaster, and we're here to ride it in style. I'm your host, Maria Natapov, and today's show is not just good; it's top shelf!
Now, picture this folks: You're a high-flying CEO with a penthouse that's basically a city in the clouds. You're jet-setting to exclusive destinations, gracing high-society charity galas, and your annual income is so high, it's practically orbiting the moon. But hold on tight because under all that glitz and glamour, you’re on a mission – a mission to balance your high-powered career with a close-nit family life while keeping the peace and leaving a legacy.
Your life is like a rollercoaster in a designer gown, and today, I'm giving you the insider's scoop on embracing chaos. It’s how stepfamilies turn challenges into catalysts for growth. Find the link to the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/69. Now, I know you're into personal growth, so this episode is for you!
Covered in Episode:
- Neuroscience and the Art of Chaos Management
- 3 Neuroscience Hacks
- Chaos-to-Growth Stories
- Adopting a New Chaos Mindset
- 3 Steps to Managing Chaos like a Pro
- Your "Making Peace with Chaos" JourneyClick here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
“Your podcast is awesome!”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Follow now!
Hey fabulous folks on the blended family journey!
It’s Maria Natapov, your guide through the twists and turns of family dynamics. Today, we're diving headfirst into the mind-blowing world of neuroscience. But don't worry, I promise we'll keep it as engaging as a thrilling rollercoaster ride!
Fin the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/68.
Episode Covers:
- They Brain’s Secret Code
- Holly and Her Dynamic Crew
- Neuro-Hacks That Pack a Punch
- Transforming Family Dynamics, One Hack at a Time
- Ready to Unleash Your Inner Superhero? (Di it in 3 steps!)'
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
“Maria is amazing! Very well rounded insights.”
"Your podcast is awesome!"
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hey there, fabulous stepparents! Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Synergistic Stepparenting: Navigating Family Harmony with Heart and Science. I’m your host, Maria Natapov, and today we’re diving into a topic that’s close to the hearts of every blended family out there. Buckle up, because we’re talking about “Navigating Stepchild Relationships: From Bonding to Building Trust.
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/67.
Topics Covered:
- The ingredients to create trust
- Brain-hug activities
- Table Talk Transformations
- Discover the Ninja move
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hey Stepparents,
It’s common knowledge that society creates roles you are expected to play, whether based on your gender, your job, or other stereotypes that put you in a box. Today we’re speaking with Kristina Mand-Lakhiani about navigating your multi-faceted nature to embrace your whole self.
Kristina will be talking about her new book, expected to drop any minute, called “Becoming Flawesome,” where she shares the journey of her personal transformation on the path to happiness. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/66.
Topics Covered:
- Introduction to Kristina
- How much we are bombarded by expectations
- Social roles and stereotypes surrounding women
- How Kristina’s book came to be
- What it means to be happy with your life
- Action Items
- Links to Kristina (including how to get a free book chapter!)
Click to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.”
If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also, if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hi Stepparents,
Despite rising tensions around the holidays and the buzz of annual family gatherings straining your already taxed energy, the familiarity and nostalgia of holiday traditions brings a certain warmth.
However, if you’re estranged from a loved one or from a person who was once close to you, this time of year can amplify that pain. Today we’re discussing estrangement. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenitng.com/65.
Covered Topics:
- My Story of Estrangement
- Having Your Own Back
- Radical Acceptance
- Being with Uncomfortable Emotions
- Why Uncomfortable Feelings Are Difficult to Tolerate
- Showing Up Authentically
- Taking Responsibility
- Listening and Hearing
- Action Items
And if you continue to struggle, schedule and assessment call with me at synergisticstepparenting.com/work. During the call you’ll gain clarity about the root cause of the issue and identify the next best steps to move your towards the relationship you want.
Until next time, be well!
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hey Stepparents,
Happy New Year!
I’ve been out unexpectedly with a bad cold and some medical issues all of which prevented me from being able to produce the valuable content that I aim to provide you with week to week.
So, I’ve taken the time to tend to my well-being and have some great episodes lined up for you with special guests sharing their insights and resources and addressing topics that don’t get enough attention.
Today’s conversation is no exception with returning special guest, Carrie from Beating Disaster, back to discuss how to make and follow through on choices around safety. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/64.
Covered Topics:
- Introducing Carrie
- Making safe choices related to an environment and different types of relationships
- The fastest way to make a shift
- The danger of assigning labels to people
- What to do before leaving a relationship or a situation
- The importance of being where you’re at
- Changing themes in your life
Subscribe to my email list! You'll be notified as soon as new episodes drop so you don’t miss a thing. When you subscribe you’ll get the guide to Resolve 5 Most Common Stepparenting Challenges in 5 Days. The guide has actionable tips related to what we’ve discussed in this episode.
Until next time, be well!
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hi Stepparents,
The month of October is the of Domestic Violence Awareness and National Bullying Prevention.
As you know, recently, I did a few episodes on raising awareness around domestic violence where I and a guest discussed specific examples of what domestic abuse can look like, how it feels and its common patterns.
But I want to provide you guys with more tips around important considerations to get clear on for yourself as well as for your children as you teach them about safety in relationships. So, I’m thrilled to be joined by Carrie, a defense and violence prevention expert from Beating Disaster.
Find the show notes for this episode at synergiticstepparenting.com/63.
Covered Topics:
- Introducing Carrie - Why talk to kids about relationship safety
- How to talk to kids about relationship safety
- Common mental blocks in children’s books on safety
- The benefits to you of teaching kids about safety
- Action Items
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hi Stepparents,
As the Thanksgiving holiday is sneaking up on us, I like to steel quiet moments of reflection on the year thus far. And I’ve noticed what I am overcome with most in these moments is the feeling of gratitude.
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/62.
Topics Covered:
- Things I'm feeling grateful for this year
- Perspective of Gratitude
- The benefit in taking on a perspective of gratitude even in challenging situations
- My personal experience with taking the perspective of gratitude
- Action Items
Until next time, be well!
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hey Stepparents,
I’m excited to bring to you highlights from my conversation where Allison Dagney interviewed me about the dynamics between a stepparent and a parent and how to navigate these differences to best support the kids.
Allison is a covert abuse survivor, author of When Tears Leave Scars – her personal memoir – and a rapid reprogramming coach for others who have been through the painful experience of emotional abuse.
In this episode we discuss seeing the stepparent as a source of support, the value of the stepparent’s perspective, being transparent with kids about flaws, and loyalty binds.
Get comfy and settle in for this conversation where we share insights and anecdotes about how we’ve navigated this tricky balance in our blended families. It’ll be worth the listen.
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparnting.com/61.
Topics Covered:
- Introducing Allison K. Dagney
- Stepparents aren’t replacing the parents, they are additional support
- Set a positive intention from all angles
- The value and skill of taking in the stepparent’s perspective
- Why it’s critical to be transparent with kids about your flaws
- Children’s loyalty binds
- Don’t speak ill of your stepchild’s/child’s caregivers
- Don’t stifle children from being their authentic self
- Action Items
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hey Stepparents,
I’m excited to bring to you Part 2 of my conversation with Allison Dagney, who is a covert abuse survivor, author of When Tears Leave Scars – her personal memoir – and a rapid reprogramming coach for others who have been through the painful experience of emotional abuse.
In this episode Allison shares why she never wanted to have a conversation with her ex, a key tactic to look out for, what happens when you’re in an unhealthy relationship, and the best thing to do if you or a loved one is being emotionally abused.
Get comfy and settle in for this penetrating conversation that is sure to give you more acumen about your intimate relationships. It’ll be worth the listen.
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/60.
Covered Topics:
- Introducing Allison Dagney
- Why Allison never wanted to have a conversation with her ex
- A key tactic to look out for
- What happens when you’re in an unhealthy relationship
- The best thing to do if you or a loved one is being abused
- The recap
- Action Items
- Links to Allison
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hey Stepparents,
I’ve been under the weather and lost my voice and therefore wasn’t able to record portions of my episode which is why I haven’t put out an episode for a couple of weeks. But I’m thrilled to be feeling better and to pick right up where we left off.
In my last episode, I shared my story of covert abuse, discussing what I endured, how I got there, contributing factors, as well as what my realizations, takeaways and outlook has been since healing from this experience. Find the show notes at synergisticstepparenting.com/58.
Today I’m thrilled to bring to you an interview with Allison Dagney, who is a covert abuse survivor, author of When Tears Leave Scars – her personal memoir – and a rapid reprogramming coach for others who have been through the painful experience of emotional abuse.
In this episode we clarify what emotional abuse is, what keeps the victim in the relationship, how abusers find their victims, and specific examples of emotional abuse so that those going through it can identify if it’s happening to them.
I feel grateful to have had this conversation with Allison who so openly shared her experience of covert abuse and broke down the tactics and nuances in a tangible and easy-to-understand way.
It was healing to discuss this subject matter with someone who deeply understands the experience on a personal level, has done the work to heal her own wounds and is wholeheartedly committed to helping others heal theirs too.
Get comfy and settle in for this eye-opening conversation that is sure to give you new insights into yourself and your intimate relationships. It’ll be worth the listen.
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/59.
Topics Covered:
- Introducing Allison Dagney
- What emotional abuse is
- What keeps the victim in the cycle of abuse
- How abusers find their victims
- Specific details and examples of emotional abuse
- What is a trauma bond
- What is gaslighting
- What is bread-crumbing
- Talking to kids about Emotional Abuse
- Action Items
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hi Stepparents,
First of all, I want to apologize that I didn’t produce an episode last week. I got sick with a nasty cold, and decided to live what I preach, that self-care needs to be a priority. I often talk about how important it is to meet your own needs first so that you can better support others.
So, I followed my own advice, unplugged from everything, and answered my body’s plea for rest.
Since October is domestic violence awareness month, I am sharing a bit more about my 16-year long relationship that was riddled with covert abuse. The abuse was mostly emotional, though there were incidents of physical abuse as well.
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/58.
Covered Topics:
- Abuse Susceptibility
- The Temptation Leading to Abuse
- 5 Tactics of Abuse
- The Wake Up Call of Abuse
- The Aftermath of Abuse
- Clear Hindsight
- An Attitude of Gratitude
- You can Heal and Have An Amazing Life After Abuse
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hi Stepparents,
Have you ever put work into a relationship thinking, “I’m putting in so much, I’ve gotta be racking up some excellent relationship karma points. I’m bound to get some of this coming back around to me!”
Maybe you’ve gotten upset that you’re not getting the same level of support in return, or you’re not being appreciated, or not even being given credit for all that you do. Does this sound familiar?
And when this happens, do you feel frustrated, hurt, and depleted?
This might be counter intuitive, but I invite you to think about whether you’re showing up in the relationship from your best self. This is what we’re exploring today. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/57.
Covered Topics:
- An Alternative to Overextending Yourself
- Cleaning Up Your Relationship Energy
- How Overextending Yourself Makes Your Partner and Stepchild Feel
- How You Feel in Your Relationships as the Overextended Stepparent
- How the Energy of Overextending Impacts Your Stepchild
- How to Deal with the Overextended Stepparent Syndrome
- Action Items
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Recently, I was reflecting on my early days as a stepparent, remembering many times when I felt uncomfortable in said role.
Frustrated and consumed with tension, emotions and split decisions, I worried about what each stakeholder in the situation was thinking and wanting from me. So badly wanting to start off all interactions with my “best foot forward.”
This is the cycle we’ll be exploring on the show today. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/56.
Topics Covered:
- The Stressful Worry Cycle
- The Shift
- The Challenge
- Growing Up with Opposing Cultural Values
- The Impact of Growing Up with Opposing Cultural Values
- The Epiphany
- My Purpose
- The SolutionIf you’re ready to release the frustration and chaos and create aligned harmonious relationships that bring you peace and joy, book your free call with me at synergisticstepparenting.com/work to find out how you can create your dream life.
Until next time, be well!
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hi Stepparents,
This time of year where work gets busier with year-end initiatives and deliverables and school’s back in session.
In some climates, like here in New England, the days are quickly getting shorter, and the busy holiday season is just around the corner. So, it’s no surprise that you might find yourself feeling more drained.
Before you chalk it up to life’s busy day-to-day grind, I invite you to slow down to ponder, is that really all that’s operating here making you feel depleted? Or is it something else?
Is it possible that you have an energy leak? If you’re finding yourself more tired than usual, stick around because this is exactly what we’ll be exploring today! Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/55.
Topics Covered:
- Do you have an energy leak?
- Client Story
- Why it's particularly damaging if and when you have an energy leak at home
- Common mistakes people often make when trying to resolve an energy leak at home
- How do you address these energy leaks?
- So how do you get to the bottom of it?
- 2 Big causes of energy leaks
- 5 reasons for why you can't fix them on your own
- How to resolve the energy leak?
- Action Items
If you find yourself struggling and would like to learn more about what you can do, head on over to synergisticstepparenitng.com/work fill out a brief questionnaire and schedule a complimentary clarity call.
I’d love to help you identify the next best step for you to start moving towards creating the life and relationships you dream of.
Until next time, be well!
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hey stepparents,
I know a lot of you have a school-aged child. This time of year can be chaotic with the start of a new school year, extra-curricular activities, drop-off and pick-up logistics, etc.
You also might find yourself in a position of co-parenting with your partner and possibly their ex, and maybe even with their ex’s new partner as well.
These extra cooks in the kitchen can add to the overwhelm and leave you feeling uncertain as to what your role is in supporting your beloved stepchild.
So today we’re discussing some things to keep in mind as you consider co-parenting and ensuring the best environment and supports for your stepchild. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/54.
Topics Covered:
- Negotiating a Shared Schedule That Works for the Co-Parents and the Child (4 Elements)
- Should Stepparents Share the Academic Responsibility
- How Important Is It for Your Stepchild to Have a Reliable Schedule?
- What if my Co-Parent and I Have Differing Parenting Styles on Education?
- I don’t have enough Time in the Day to Work and Parent – how do I Communicate with the Other Parent(s)?
- Action Items
And finally, help me celebrate with you! DM me at synergisticstepparenting on LinkedIn or on FB at marianatapov to share how this went for you.
Until next time, be well!
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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As the new school year is getting under way and things feel chaotic and busy, you might be feeling overwhelmed and like it’s virtually impossible to keep up.
When this happens often you might feel like not doing anything because you don’t know where to even start.
If you can relate, you’re definitely not alone. But stick around, because I have some great step-by-step tips for you to not only stay afloat, but flourish. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/53.
Topics Covered:
- It Starts with You
- What to Include
- What to Exclude
- Implement the Change
- Your Stepchild
- Your Partner
- Your Work
- Your Family
- Action Items
- *Pro tip
I’d love to hear how this goes for you, so please be sure to email me, or DM me on LinkedIn or FB and let me know.
Until next time, be well.
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hey Stepparents,
With the academic school year already upon us, many stepparents worry about how to set their stepchild up for success.
And to help with that concern by providing actionable tips and strategies, we are thrilled to be joined by Dominique Padurano, M.S., Ed., Ph.D. – aka “Dr. P” of Crimson Coaching to discuss academic success.
Dr. P has extensive knowledge of and experience in the arena of education. Her love and passion for helping students of all ages and abilities access and crush their educational goals is instantly palpable.
Grab a seat, take a load off and listen in as these strategies are sure to ease your worries while setting your child up for a successful school year. It’s well worth the listen.
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/52.
Topics Covered:
- Introducing Dr. P
- Dr. P.s journey to becoming a tutor and coach
- Her teaching philosophy
- The difference between students of divorced parents vs. whose parents are together
- Setting a child from a blended family or a co-parenting situation up for academic success
- Dr. P.'s resources and free gifts!
- Action Items
Until next time, be well!
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hey Stepparents,
Today we’re continuing our exploration of sex and intimacy by delving into polyamory with John Hoelle, a family law attorney and mediator, and co-founder of Conscious Family Law & Mediation.
We cover what polyamory is, how polyamory can improve an otherwise monogamous relationship, the benefits of utilizing a coach in your relationship, and how to approach and discuss polyamory with kids.
John has an easy warmth about him instantly making you feel comfortable. I feel honored that he offered to have this candid conversation and am thrilled to be sharing it with you all. John let us into his beautiful journey and courageous exploration of love, security, and connection.
Get comfy and settle in for this amazing conversation that is sure to expand the way you think about relationships and trust. It’ll be worth the listen.
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/51.
Topics Covered:
- Introducing John Hoelle - What polyamory is
- How exploring polyamory can improve an otherwise monogamous relationship
- The benefits of utilizing a coach in your relationship
- How to approach and discuss polyamory with kids - Recap
- Action Items
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hi Stepparents,
Welcome back to the finale of my conversation with Rose Schlaff, a Pelvic Physical Therapist, Intimacy Coach, and founder of Be Well with Rose, LLC as we wrap up our discussion about sex and intimacy.
Rose and I quickly bonded from the get-go over our passion about the need to shed light on issues that most of us struggle with but feel uncomfortable discussing. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/50.
Get comfy, grab your favorite beverage and join us for this convo. It’ll be worth your while.
Topics Covered:
- Introducing Rose Schlaff
- Today’s explicit landscape
- The key to opening to door and creating safety
- How to safely explore sexuality
- How to encourage self-advocacy while adhering to expectations
- The Do’s and Don’ts of what to say when talking to your kids about sex
- Action Items
Click to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hi Stepparents,
Welcome back to part 2 of the conversation with Rose Schlaff, a Pelvic Physical Therapist, Intimacy Coach, and founder of Be Well with Rose, LLC. This week we are continuing our discussion about sex and intimacy.
We cover:
- Introduction of Rose Schlaff
- why and how your body image plays a role in intimacy
- how to love your body
- the surprising gift of sharing your whole truth
- why and how to talk to your kids about sex
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/49.
Be sure to check out Rose’s links below. She has some amazing free resources to help you on your journey of having these conversations and reclaiming your sexuality.
One powerful way to sustain knew knowledge is to share highlights from what you’ve learned. So shoot me a DM on LinkedIn @synergisticstepparenting or on FaceBook @marianatapov and share your biggest takeaways and “Aha”s.
Until next time, be well!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hi Stepparents,
We are continuing our conversation about sex and intimacy this time with an expert on this topic. Rose Schlaff is a Pelvic Physical Therapist, Intimacy Coach, and founder of Be Well with Rose, LLC.
I’m so excited to share this conversation with you. When Rose and I first met, we quickly found that we were both passionate about the need to underscore and shed light on issues that aren’t often discussed and often feel uncomfortable to talk about.
Having more of the dialogue around gender norms and societal expectations and conditioning around these norms, expectations around sex and what keeps people from having a healthy and vibrant sex life.
Stick around, it’s going to be a good one.
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/48.
Topics Covered:
- Introducing Dr. Rose Schlaff
- Societal messaging and conditioning about gender norms
- Expectations about sex
- The medical system’s approach to sexual health and well-being and why it falls short
- What holds most people back in from having healthy and vibrant sex lives
- How you can start allowing pleasure to unfold in your life
- Action Items
This actually ended up being a 3-part conversation. So, be sure to tune it next week as we share more wisdom about increasing your pleasure and intimacy in your relationships and how to set your kids up for success in this area as well.
And shoot me a DM on LinkedIn @synergisticstepparenting or on FaceBook @marianatapov to let me know how it goes and your biggest “Aha”s and takeaways.
Until next time, be well!
Click here to listen!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hi Stepparents,
Today we are continuing our conversation about sex. And I’m thrilled to welcome back my partner and Lilah’s dad, John to the show.
John was a great sport! He was very transparent about why he had several talks with his daughter about sex and why you should be doing this too. He shared the key to navigating those conversations. He also shared his 4 tips for making those conversations as productive as possible.
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/47.
I’m so excited to share this conversation with all of you, so here we go …
Let me know how it goes! You can DM on LinkedIn @synergisticstepparenting or on FaceBook @marianatapov.
Remember it just takes practice. Which starts with choosing and committing to a small action that will move you towards your goal. From there it’s just rinse and repeat. You can do this!
Until next time, be well!
Click here to listen!
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“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
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Hi Stepparents,
Today we are continuing our conversation about sex. And I’m thrilled to welcome back to the show my step-daughter, Lilah.
Who generously let me pick her brain about the sex talk. In our case there were multiple which I strongly encourage all parents to do. Which is to have multiple sex talks and not just one throughout a child’s development.
Lilah and I will discuss why that is in this show so stay tuned. We also discuss what was most helpful about our talks, how we curbed the awkwardness, and what are the biggest issues facing teens are facing right now related to sex. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/46.
During this conversation there are times when Lilah refers to me as step-mom and other times that she refers to me as mom. I realize this may be a little bit confusing.
She shared why that is during our conversation in Episode 33 entitled Confessions of a Stepdaughter – Broken Silence: Part 1. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/33. Check that out if you’re want to learn more about that.
I’m thrilled to share this conversation with all of you, so here we go …
Topics Covered:
1) Why it’s best to have multiple conversations about sex with your child and to start when they are young
2) 8 Things to do to ensure that your child is comfortable, engaged and is getting value from the conversation
3) What issues tweens and teens are dealing with most right now
4) What parents can do to best support kids when it comes to sex
Please DM on LinkedIn @synergisticstepparenting or on FaceBook @marianatapov.
I’d love to hear what you found valuable and if you have any other questions that I can address for you.
Until next time, be well!
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hi Stepparents,
Today we’re talking about something different than what we’ve discussed on the show before …
So let’s talk about sex baby, let’s talk about you and me… yes, that's me doing a little nod to Salt-N-Pepa.
We are definitely going to talk about “all the good things and the bad things”. There are lots of misconceptions about sex, both for parents and certainly for children. So today we’re talking about some of them. Find the Show Notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/45.
I’m excited to have this conversation because it’s so important. And don’t worry because of course I have other perspectives to share with you on this topic in upcoming episodes. Including an interview with my step-daughter, her father, and an intimacy expert.
But today we’re talking about why this is such an important topic and why you want to be paying attention to it and not overlook it.
Topics Covered:
- My Childhood Experience with Sex Talks
- Why Having Sex Talks With Children is Important
- Start Early
- Figure it Out Together
- 4 Steps for How to Begin
- Should Stepparents Take the Lead to Have Sex Talks with Their Step-child?
- Your Action Steps
Until next time, be well.
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hi Stepparents,
I’m excited to be joined by Debra Doak and Tracy Callahan of Divorce Coaches Academy. And if you don’t know what a divorce coach is, don’t worry friend, you’re not alone. They will share all about it so just keep listening. Find the show notes at synergisticstepparenting.com/44.
Debra and Tracy are rockstar divorce coaches dedicated to their profession and ensuring quality, competence, and success within it. To that end they founded Divorce Coaches Academy to create quality training, community, and professional development for up and coming as well as established divorce coaches.
They are disruptors in the best sense of the word. And now I’m thrilled to introduce them to you …
Topics Covered:
We’re going to be diving into why they started the Divorce Coaches Academy, what to look for and look out for when hiring a divorce coach, and why doing divorce right is so important.
I know this will be a valuable conversation so let’s dig in …
- What is a divorce coach?
- Why they started the Divorce Coaches Academy
- What to look for and look out for when hiring a divorce coach
- The biggest casualty in a bitter divorce
- Opportunity created through divorce
- Top 3 things that a divorce coach can help with during your divorce process
- Action Steps
Thanks for joining us for this jam-packed conversation! Aren’t Debra and Tracey just fantastic? I know, it’s clear they are experts in their field. I love how they laid out all the important aspects to consider as one navigates divorce.
Things that probably don’t occur to most of us off the top of our head. But these considerations make such a huge impact on the outcome of the divorce and the family created on the other side of it.
Was this episode helpful? I’d love to hear from you. You contact me here or find me on LI or FB and shoot me a DM. I always love to hear from you!
Ok my friend, thanks for listening and wishing you a wonderful week!
Until next time, be well.
Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts
“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.
Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.
Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!
Hi, Step-parents!
I am so excited to bring to you Part 2 of my conversation with the fabulous Leks Vucko in this week's episode. Leks is a health and fitness coach and what I love about her work is that she brings a lot of mindset and emotional awareness to her work and how she talks about health.
Last week she gave us the low-down on the complicated and confusing health & fitness industry, the do's and don'ts of eating healthy and how to nourish your body. And she breaks down the body’s response to foods.
She once and for all answers all of your burning questions and puts to rest the myths. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/43.
I'm incredibly excited for Part 2 of this amazing conversation. So, without further ado, I introduce to you Leks Vucko.
After 20 years in the health and fitness industry, Leks has created a unique program where she helps high-performing business owners who, although successful, are feeling on the verge of burnout and are not sure how to get back on track.
Her unique program taps into biohacking, physical health, mental strength, etc. and helps her clients feel focused, impactful, and successful reaching their peak performance daily to build their business and thrive on energy and passion. Day in and day out for years to come.
Her passion comes from her own experience with training, mindset and burnout. That passion is to help others become the best version of themselves no matter where their starting point may be.
Topics Covered:
-
How food codes the body
-
Best advice for making healthier changes to your eating habits
-
What sabotages your ability to stick to healthy eating habits
-
Common misconceptions preventing most from eating healthy
-
Fasting Do’s and Don’ts
Thank you so much for tuning into this episode. I hope you got a ton of value from this one, I know I did.
I love how frankly and boldly Leks speaks about all things nutrition and healthy habits. I don’t know about you, but I’m certainly feeling inspired to take action on adopting some of the strategies that Leks shared with us.
I suggest you listen to last week’s and this week’s episode again and think about what little tweaks or changes you can start to make to improve your health and the health of your family. And maybe it simply starts with just noticing which choices you’re currently making.
Remember every journey starts with just one small step.
If you haven’t yet, consider subscribing to the Synergistic Stepparenting podcast so you don’t miss a thing. I have a great perk for you, when you do. You can find out more about that at synergisticstepparenting.com/subscribe.
I would love to continue to be a resource and make sure that I am providing value and valuable
Content, so, please, drop me a line!
You can find me on LinkedIn or Facebook and just shoot me a DM. Or feel free to email me at Maria@synergisticstepparenting.com anytime!
I'm always happy to hear from you and would love to hear any questions that you might have or any topics you would like to hear me discuss on the show. Thank you again, my friends, and I hope you have a fantastic week.
Until next time, be well.
*Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
- Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Revi
Hi, Step-parents!
I am so excited to bring to you this week's episode. We have a special guest named Leks Vucko who is a health and fitness coach, and she is a complete powerhouse. We speak frankly in this interview.
She gives us the low-down on the complicated and confusing health & fitness industry and the do's and don'ts. And she breaks down how our body responds to foods and why it responds the way that it does. She once and for all answers all of your questions and puts to rest the myths.
I'm incredibly excited for this amazing conversation. So, without further ado, I introduce to you Leks Vucko. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/42.
After 20 years in the health and fitness industry, Leks has created a unique program where she helps high-performing business owners who, although successful, are feeling on the verge of burnout and are not sure how to get back on track.
Her unique program taps into biohacking, physical health, mental strength, etc. and helps her clients feel focused, impactful, and successful reaching their peak performance daily to build their business and thrive on energy and passion. Day in and day out for years to come.
Her passion comes from her own experience with training, mindset and burnout. Her passion is to help others become the best version of themselves no matter where their starting point may be.
Topics Covered:
- What makes our relationship with food complicated?
- How has food changed in the last 100 years?
- How does food impact our emotional state?
- How can one develop a healthy relationship with food?
Thank you so much for tuning into this episode. I hope that you found this conversation with Leks as enlightening as I did. It was such a fantastic conversation that we ended up going into Part 2, which will be released for you guys next week.
So be sure to stay tuned and tune in to get those nuggets!
I would love to hear from you about how it's going so far. What are some of your favorite episodes, what themes and things are coming up for you in your lives on your step-parenting and blended family journeys.
I would love to continue to be a resource and make sure that I am providing valuable
content so please drop me a line! You can reply to the emails, for those of you who have subscribed.
You can also feel free to find me on LinkedIn or Facebook and just shoot me a DM. Or feel free to email me at Maria@synergisticstepparenting.com anytime!
I'm always happy to hear from you and would love to hear any questions that you might have or any topics you would like to hear me discuss on the show. Thank you again, my friends and I hope you have a fantastic week.
Until next time, the well.
*Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
- Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hi Stepparents,
I’m so excited to share this week’s episode with you where I had the pleasure to interview Christine Luken who is a financial dignity coach helping high earning professionals, pay off staggering amounts of debt and massively increase their net worth through her financial coaching.
She is a the author of several books including Money is Emotional and Financial Dignity After Divorce where she blends wise money management with emotional intelligence.
This week, Christine shares her best tips for how to optimize finances in a blended family for individuals going through a divorce or co-parenting post-divorce. We tackle whether it’s best for blended families to handle their money together or separately, how to diffuse emotions around money to prevent mistakes you’ll later regret, and the #1 thing blended couples can do to reduce money disagreements.
You don’t want to miss this episode! So here we go …
Find the Show Notes at synergisticstepparenting.com/41
Thank you so much for tuning into this episode and thank you to Christine for her priceless actionable tips!
To recap we discussed the following ...
1) Whether blended families should handle money together or separately.
2) Financial trauma, what it looks like and what the individual healing through it needs.
3) How to diffuse emotion around money to prevent mistakes you'll later regret.
4) Having your own back in your financial decisions.
5) How blended couples can reduce money disagreements.
Check out all of Christine’s links in the show notes and check out her work and her fantastic books, including the new one titled Financial Dignity After Divorce.
I hope you found as many golden nuggets in this conversation as I did. Please share this episode with 1-3 people you know who are going through a divorce or are co-parenting after a divorce. Because one of my goals is to support individuals touched by divorce to live their best lives.
Thank you so much, if you enjoyed this episode, please rate us and leave us a review. We’ve got the steps for how to do in the show notes.
Until next time, be well!
*Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
- Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Get the Full Transcript at synergisticstepparenting.com/40.
Episode Covers:
-
How to make sense of catastrophic events?
-
Signs that you need help
-
How to talk to your stepchildren about difficult events
-
When and how to ask for help
-
How to heal through difficult life events
Resources:
https://www.tamaraashley.com/qards/about/
https://www.rapidresolutiontherapy.com/specialist
Hi Stepparents,
Let’s face it there is lots up in the air right now, which is part of the times we’re living in. And things have been going this way for a while now. Change in many facets of our lives is accelerating forcing us to adapt quicker. This causes feelings of overwhelm and stress.
If the pandemic hasn’t been overwhelming enough, the fact that a senseless war recently broke out in Europe with crimes against humanity being carried out on peaceful civilians, has sent many into a downward spiral of feeling helpless and wondering …
What is it all for? and What’s next?
To answer the call of this reality, I’m sharing some strategies to help you and your stepchild cope with all the uncertainty, fear, and stress. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/39.
Covered Topics:
-
Acknowledging Your Feelings
-
Creating Positive Habits
-
Fostering Calm
-
What Stress Looks Like
-
Staying In Gratitude
Incorporating these strategies is sure to help your family navigate challenges while nurturing deeper bonds to each other. And you’ll be teaching your kids powerful life lessons in the process.
For more tips to go synergisticstepparenitng.com/subscribe to sign up for my email list making sure you don’t miss a thing! As a thank I’ll send you my 4 Step Guide to Transform Family Chaos into Harmonious Co-Parenting.
Until next time, be well!
Related Episodes:
Synergistic Stepparenting podcast titled 7 Components Of A Stepparenting Sanity Routine
Misconceptions About Consistency In Stepparenting
Stepparent's Crippling Dirty Little Secret
*Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
- Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hey Stepparents!
Let’s face it stepparenting is not the easiest job. And although it’s rewarding, it can be overwhelming. And when it comes to your partner and stepchild, it can take a while to find your groove with each other.
Did I mention the many stakeholders with strong opinions about you, and your relationship with your stepchild? There is the ex-partner also known as the other bio-parent, aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins, best friends, etc. It’s no wonder that the anxiety is starting to set in.
Have you ever had doubts about whether or not being a stepparent right for you? This is the exact question we’re talking about this week. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/38.
When I first started my stepparenting journey, I definitely wasn’t ready! At least I didn’t feel like I was. I took lots of time to think about it and came up with many good reasons for not having children.
Many of my “reasons” came down to fear.
Fear of uncertainty. Fear of the tremendous responsibility. Wondering …
Topics Covered:
- Questions to Ask Yourself
- Safety
- Quality Time
- Discipline
- Co-Parenting
- Giving Up Control
If you want more tips and strategies to help you on your stepparenting journey, download my FREE 4 Step Guide to Transform Family Chaos into Harmonious Co-Parenting at synergisticstepparenting.com/subscribe.
Through showing up, staying grounded and being responsive to the needs that arise during these interactions, you are earning your place in your blended family.
The rewards are well worth it!
Until next time, be well.
Related Episodes:
1 Obstacle to Achieving Your Stepparenting Goal
1 Cause of Disconnect in Your Stepparenting
Building Your Blended Family Dream Team
*Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
- Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hey stepparents! Maria Natapov here, stepparenting coach and strategist. I am excited to present to you the rest of my conversation with Dr. Dr. Bushman, with whom we talked about eating disorders. This interview was inspired by my recent conversation with my stepdaughter where she delved into her trauma story touching on her issues with eating. Those episodes can be found at synergisticstepparenting.com/33 and synergisticstepparenting.com/34.
In Part 1 of our conversation with Dr. Dara Bushman we clarified the difference between eating disorders and disordered eating. We discussed how the key perspective is in evaluating whether something we are noticing is truly problematic or whether it’s just a natural developmental change that may be temporary in nature.
We also identified how to notice our own mindset around food and body shape. Because as we’ve discussed on the show before, kids are noticing everything you do and are deeply influenced by your behavior.
This week we’re going to learn what’s at the heart of food related issues, what the precursors are to eating disorders, and how to have critical conversations with your stepchild to prevent these issues. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/37.
Again, without further ado, I introduce you to the fabulous Dr. Dara Bushman!
Who is Dr. Dara Bushman, Eating Disorders Specialist?
Here’s a refresher on Dr. Dara Bushman’s background. She's a licensed psychologist who specializes in rapid transformation, helping people move from crabby to happy from ordinary to extraordinary from surviving to thriving. She's an author and featured psychologist in the media and a mom of two energetic school kids and two dogs.
Her clinical background includes working with individuals, couples, families and even groups to dissolve trauma triggers and eliminate recurring traumatic experiences license in the states of North Carolina and Florida. She was a lead therapist for 10 years at milestones and recovery, a comprehensive eating disorder treatment center, where she introduced a comprehensive approach to healing that involves mind body healing, she has cracked the code to the language of disordered eating and the secret to eating disorders through the language of foodenese.
Early in the pandemic, she saw a picture of a healthcare worker hugging an elderly patient in isolation and immediately felt a calling and recently began working in assisted living facilities in the Asheville area. She also works with aspiring professional athletes, as well as Olympians to break mental blocks and achieve peak performance, getting them out of their heads and onto the winner's platform.
I can't wait for you guys to get all the goodness of this incredible conversation. Here we go...
Topics Covered:
- Food Related Issues Often Center Around Shame
- Noticing Problematic Patterns around Eating
- Precursors to Eating Disorders
- How to Approach Your Stepchild’s Behavior around Food
- How Can You Get to the Root of Your Stepchild’s Eating Behavior?
- How to Start “Planting Seeds” for the Necessary Conversation
- How to Begin the Difficult Conversations
- Allow Yourself to Be the Novice and Your Stepchild to Be the TeacherThis was such an important conversation full of soundbites that I’m taking away and hope you are too. To sum it up we learned what’s at the root of food related issues and the precursors signifying food issues. We identified how critical it is to start planting seeds and how to begin the difficult conversations with your stepchild.
We also discussed the benefits of being a novice and letting your stepchild be the teacher around what’s going on for them regarding any con
Hi stepparents!
Welcome! I’m your host, Maria Natapov, Stepparenting Coach and Strategist.
Today we have a very special episode for you. We’ll be discussing Mother’s Day for Stepmothers.
This is a loaded episode, both emotionally and literally because we have lots to cover. We’ll be delving into several areas. Like, why this is a particularly challenging holiday, what this holiday feels like for many stepmoms, and how to ensure you have an amazing Mother’s Day holiday.
You’re going to want to share this info with your loved ones, so grab your spouse and step-kids and be sure to share it with your family, bestie, and friends.
This episode is designed to shed light on the stepmom’s experience and challenges around Mother’s Day so that you feel seen and heard and know that you’re not alone.
And to help the rest of the world, and most importantly members of your inner circle, gain awareness and understanding to support you during this holiday and time of year.
Topics Covered:
-
The Stepmom Experience
-
Why is Mother’s Day Difficult for Stepmoms?
-
How to Ensure You Have a Special Mother’s Day
-
How to Enjoy Your Mother’s Day Regardless of Your Stepfamily
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed out, go to synergisticstepparenting.com/work to see how I can help you transform family chaos into meaningful and harmonious co-parenting.
Ok step-mommas, happy celebrating and wishing you a very happy Mother’s Day!!!
Until next be well!
Related Episodes:
7 Key Components of the Stepparenting Sanity Routine
How to Have Difficult Stepparenting Conversations
Feeling Out Your Blended Families’ Traditions and Beliefs
*Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
- Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hey stepparents!
Maria Natapov here, stepparenting coach and strategist. I am so excited to introduce you to Dr. Dr. Bushman. With whom we had the pleasure of having a conversation this week talking all about eating disorders and disordered eating.
Recently, I did an interview with my stepdaughter, who is incredible. Where she delved into her trauma story of abuse and neglect and trauma recovery. And we touched on her issues with eating. Those episodes can be found at synergisticstepparenting.com/33 and synergisticstepparenting.com/34.
I'm never quite sure whether to say eating disorders or disordered eating. Which is one of the many things that I'm hoping Dr. Bushman would clarify for us today. And get some really good tips around how to identify and help ourselves and our children with disordered eating. And how to have conversations about it and how to navigate that very complex world. Because, as we know, food is all around us. It is such an enormous part of our culture and our everyday.
So I can't wait to delve into this conversation. Without further ado, I introduce you to Dr. Dara Bushman!
Episode Covers:
- Dr. Dara Bushman and her background as an eating disorders specialist
- The Difference Between Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating- Perspective is Key In Identifying Eating Disorders
- How to Identify Your Mindset Around Food and Body Shape Links to Dr. Dara Bushman and her S.H.I.F.T. Planner and Journal
Dr. Dara Bushman's Website
Dr. Dara Bushman's S.H.I.F.T. Powerful Planner and Journal
*Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
- Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hi Stepparents!
Welcome to the show, I’m your host Maria Natapov, Stepparenting Coach and Strategist. I am very excited to bring you this special episode that is near and dear to my heart.
This week we conclude the conversation with Lilah as she shares more of her story, what that was like for her, how she learned to heal and what that has looked like and continues to look like. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/34.
In spite of some unpleasant details, I’m so excited to share this interview crammed with robust soundbites with you all – and despite her tender age, she has many.
So, let’s dive in …
Topics covered:
- What was helpful and what wasn’t
- What helped her feel safe
- What she now steers clear of
- What the hardest thing was
- How she moved forward
- Why things got harder after she left the abusive household
- The breakthrough moment
Related content:
Episode 33 - Confessions Of A Stepdaughter - Broken Silence: Part 1
Episode 29 - Confessions of A Stepdaughter
*Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
-
Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
-
On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
-
Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hi Stepparents!
Welcome to the show, I’m your host Maria Natapov, Stepparenting Coach and Strategist. I am very excited to bring you this special episode that is near and dear to my heart. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/33.
I had the sheer pleasure to again interview my incredible stepdaughter for this week’s episode. But I have to warn you that there will be some details shared and discussed that will be uncomfortable if not straight up stomach-turning.
So please remember that this episode is not for the faint of heart and if you have children around, please put on some headphones or wait until you’re alone to listen.
This way you give yourself space to decide whether and if it’s the right time to introduce this subject matter to them and to discuss these issues with them.
This week Lilah dove into more of the background of her story of abuse, what that was like for her, how she learned to heal and what that has looked like and continues to look like.
In spite of some unpleasant details, I’m so excited to share her powerful story and pearls of wisdom with you all – and despite her tender age, she has many.
So here we go ….
Topics covered:
- Why Lilah calls me - her stepmom - "mom"
- The story of her abuse and neglect and what the day to day was like for her
- Her trauma and disordered eating
- How she navigated it all
- What empowered her along the way
- What helped and what made things worse
- What she's learned to do to combat the negative and judgement voices that have taken residence in her head
- How to not numb out the feelings, even the painful ones
*Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
- Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello stepparents!
Welcome back to another episode of the Synergistic Stepparenting podcast, I’m your host Maria Natapov, Stepparenting Coach and Strategist.
A few weeks ago I shared on social media that the Synergistic Stepparenting podcast celebrated its half birthday. And in celebration of this fact, this week we’re sharing our most downloaded episode. Find the FULL transcript at synergisticstepparenting.com/32.
For our new listeners who haven’t gotten the chance to catch up on some of the earlier episodes yet, we wanted to make sure that you don’t miss out on this gem.
And if you’ve been with us for a while, we wanted to make sure to highlight this value-packed episode by giving you a chance to re-listen. Because who couldn’t use a reminder to ask for what we need and how to do it?
I am sincere grateful to you for listening and spending your precious time with us! I’m so touched by this gesture, that I would like to give you something in return.
So, I invite you to head over to synergisticstepparenting.com/subscribe to get your FREE guide called 4 Steps to Start Transforming Family Chaos into Harmonious Co-Parenting including several powerful tools to get you immediate results!
I also inviting you to hit like and subscribe to this podcast on your favorite streaming app so you don’t miss a thing.
And it would be amazing if you leave us a review and share some of your favorite aspects of the podcast so that other stepparents who could benefit from this advice, these tips and strategies can also find us and join you on this journey.
Now, without further ado, I present to you our MVP episode – How To Have Difficult Stepparenting Conversations. Enjoy!
Topics Covered:
- How to have difficult conversations with our beloved blended family members
- Feeling at Odds and Unappreciated by Your Blended Family
- What to Do About the Overwhelm of Disappointment and Hard Work of Stepparenting
- How to ask for help
- How to stay grounded in stepparenting
- 3 Steps to Having Difficult Stepparenting Conversations
Resources:
- synergisticstepparenting.com/7
- synergisticstepparenting.com/11
*Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
- Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled "Ratings & Reviews."
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select "Write a Review." If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello stepparents!
Welcome back to another episode of the Synergistic Stepparenting podcast, I’m your host Maria Natapov, Stepparenting Coach and Strategist.
A few weeks ago I shared on social media that the Synergistic Stepparenting podcast celebrated its half birthday. And in celebration of this fact, we’d love to share with you 2 of our most downloaded episodes. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/31.
For those of you who are new listeners haven’t gotten the chance to catch up with some of the older episodes yet, we wanted to make sure that you don’t miss out on these gems.
First, I would like to share a sincere thanks to you for listening and spending your precious time with us! And I’m so touched by this gift you’ve given me, that I would like to give you something in return.
So, I invite you to head on over to synergisticstepparenting.com/subscribe to get your FREE e-book called 4 Steps to Start Transforming Family Chaos into Harmonious Co-Parenting which has several powerful tools to get you immediate results!
The other thing I’m inviting you to do is hit like and subscribe to this podcast on your favorite streaming app so you don’t miss a thing.
And now, without further ado, I present to you our runner up MVP - #1 Cause Of Disconnect In Your Stepparenting. Enjoy!
Topics Covered:
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showing up
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For a long time, I thought showing up meant just that - physically getting myself somewhere.
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I wasn’t showing up by bringing ALL of me to the table.
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What does it take to fully show up?
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2 major factors of showing up
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
For this episode I had the pleasure of interviewing my partner, John Swain as we dug into the challenges and common misconceptions of my stepparenting journey and our road of "blending".
Find the FULL transcript for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/30.
Topics covered:
<<[2:35]>>What was the experience like realizing that your child is going to have a stepparent?
<<[4:52]>> The bio-parent's biggest fears
<<[7:36]>> The stepparent's biggest fears, top priorities and mis-steps
<<[10:42]>> The bio-parent's top priorities
<<[13:19]>> The hardest part of blending or the step-family dynamic for the bio-parent
<<[16:03]>> bio-parent's reflections on how we handled discipline
<<[19;43]>> bio-parent's advice for stepparents
<<[21:44]>> Bio-parent's reflection on what he would change if he had a do-over
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
In this episode I interview with my stepdaughter.
See the FULL transcript at synergisticstepparenting.com/29.
Topics covered:
- What was it like for her to be getting a stepparent?
- Helpful things her dad did to prepare her for meeting her stepparent (yours truly!)
- Did she have any say in getting a stepparent?
- Her biggest fears about getting a stepparent
- What it was like for her when I came into the picture
- Her advice to stepparents to be successful when dealing with their stepkids and how to best create those opportunities
- If she could do it all over again, what would she do differently?
Until next time, be well!
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hey stepparents!
Given the unpredictability of the times we’re living in I hear many parents getting advice to create consistency and routines because they help to reduce a child’s anxiety and help them adjust to changes.
And while this is true, I want to point out the other side of the coin – inflexibility.
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticsteppaernting.com/28.
Covered in this episode:
- How parents common think of consistency
- Why flexibility is important
- What is really at the heart of consistency and why it's critical you, stepparent, know it!
- The importance of self-regulation
- 5 strategies to help stepchildren to cope with expected changes
Resources:
For suggestions for how to self-regulate or find calm even during upsetting situations, please check out episode 7 at synergisticstepparenting.com/7 and episode 11 at synergisticstepparenting.com/11 on Stepparenting Sanity Routines.
I truly hope that this episode has been helpful and that you share it with a stepparenting or blended family buddy, sports mom, or book club bestie you know who could benefit from it. I would so appreciate it!
Until next time, be well!
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello, stepparents and welcome. I am delighted to have you join me today because I had the special privilege of interviewing the fabulous Dr. Patricia Papernow, who is the world’s leading expert in step parenting and blended family dynamics. Today’s episode will be just part 1 of my interview with her. I’m so excited to have you join me. Without further ado, here we go … Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/27.
MARIA NATAPOV: Hi, everybody. Thank you for joining us. We are here with the fantastic Dr. Patricia paper now. Welcome. We’re so excited to have you. Dr. Paper now is an internationally recognized expert on stuffy Emily’s she integrates a deep understanding of the research with four decades of clinical practice and a wide variety of clinical modalities including psycho educational, systemic and trauma informed the recipient of the award for distinguished contribution to family psychology from the APA couple and family division. Dr. Papernow is the author of one of the classic books in the field Surviving and Thriving in Step Family Relationships: What Works and What Doesn’t. And with Karen Bonnell, The Stepfamily Handbook: From Dating, to Getting Serious, to Forming a Blended Family as well as dozens of articles and book chapters. Dr. Papernow is a psychologist in private practice in Hudson, MA and director of the Institute for Stepfamily Education. We are so excited to speak with you! Clearly, without a doubt you are an expert in this field. And it’s such a pleasure to get to pick your brain and have you share your wisdom with us. If you could speak a little bit more to, I believe you've mentioned there's step families and there's blended families.
Topics Covered:
[2:15] Difference between step families and blended families
[2:36] Difference between families who struggle vs. those who have success
[5:08] What stepparents can do when they are having a hard time bonding with the stepchildren
[6:21] Home is usually a safe space but with blended family tensions it starts to not feel safe for stepparents. Dr. Papernow shares advice for what to do about that.
[7:37] How to build connection in stepfamily relationships
[11:18] A deeper dive into the concept of "blending" and how to think about it.
[13:19] Building family traditions.
[16:20] How to approach stepparenting mistakes
Links for this show:
Patricia Papernow
Patricia Papernow LI
Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships: What Works and What Doesn’t
The Stepfamily Handbook: From Dating, to Getting Serious, to Forming a “Blended Family”
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello, stepparents and welcome. I am delighted to have you join me today because I had the special privilege of interviewing the fabulous Dr. Patricia Papernow, who is the world’s leading expert in step parenting and blended family dynamics. Today’s episode will be just part 1 of my interview with her. I’m so excited to have you join me. Without further ado, here we go …
Find the FULL transcript for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/26.
[2:05] I’d love to delve into the challenging aspects to consider during the journey towards blending the family and how to navigate that successfully particularly around the not physically present other parent with regard to the children. If you could speak a little bit to the critical things to absolutely not do.
[2:49] couples have to slow it down.
[3:56] keep that physical expression low.
[4:30] Affects on kids when the other parent is bad-mouthing their re-coupling.
[6:15] Dr. Papernow's advice for dealing with a child who's other parent is bad-mouthing their parent's re-coupling or if you're the stepparent in that re-coupling.
[8:49] Easy wrong turns and big booboos to avoid in parenting - how to handle discipline. Identifies 3 types of parenting styles
[13:22] "plant the seed."
[13:55] we need to sit new ideas before we can embrace them.
Links for this show:
Patricia Papernow
Patricia Papernow LI
Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships: What Works and What Doesn’t
The Stepfamily Handbook: From Dating, to Getting Serious, to Forming a “Blended Family”
-
Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
-
Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
-
On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
-
Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello, stepparents and welcome. I am delighted to have you join me today because I had the special privilege of interviewing the fabulous Dr. Patricia paper now, who is the world's leading expert in step parenting and blended family dynamics.
Today's episode will be just part one of my interview with her. I'm so excited to have you join me. Without further ado, here we go ...
Find the FULL transcript for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/25.
We are here with the fantastic Dr. Patricia Papernow who integrates a deep understanding of the research with 4 decades of clinical practice and a variety of clinical modalities including psycho-educational, systemic and trauma informed. The recipient of the award for distinguished contribution to family psychology from the APA couple and family division, Dr. Papernow is the author of one of the classic books in the field, Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships: What Works and What Doesn’t. And with Karen Bonnell, The Stepfamily Handbook: From Dating, to Getting Serious, to Forming a “Blended Family”. As well as dozens of articles and book chapters. Dr. Papernow is a psychologist in private practice in Hudson, MA, and director of the Institute for Stepfamily Education. We are so excited to speak with you. Clearly, without a doubt you are an expert in this field.
[2:12] Dr. Papernow shares her story that brought her to her work.
[3:50] What is different about the step family vs. the first-time family?
[7:04] In your book you mention noticing cycles for establishing these new connections and rhythms. Can you elaborate on the timeframes for this and the blending of the families?
>>[14.34] StepFamilies Face 5 Key Challenges:
- Insider/Outsider Challenge – When I turn to my partner, my child feels like an outsider. When I turn towards my child, my partner feels like an outsider.
- Kids Feel Differently Than Adults About the Blended Family – kids experience the new relationship as a loss of the parent’s attention. And have a natural loyalty bind – if I like my stepparent, I’m betraying my mom or dad.
- Parenting - tasks in a stepfamily pretty routinely divide parents and stepparents.
- How do we become an us in the presence of Us and Them?
- How do you make it okay for kids to love both of their parents?
[15:36] Parental tension and conflict are the biggest predictors of poor well-being in kids.
Links for this show:Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast
Patricia Papernow
Patricia Papernow LI
Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships: What Works and What Doesn’t
The Stepfamily Handbook: From Dating, to Getting Serious, to Forming a “Blended Family”
-
Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello stepparents!
Recently, I was watched an inspirational talk about sharing your story. It was a TED talk, which I love, because there's always something valuable in them.
In that moment, I realized that sharing my story completely, might help to shed light on this kind of experience and possibly help someone else in a similar situation, to see that they too can get on the other side of it and have a full life.
This goes out to you who find yourself in a bad situation or a bad relationship. Know that you are not alone. You are worthy, you are beautiful and you can achieve absolutely anything you set your mind to. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/24.
Finding Stepparenting Strength In Moments Of Unworthiness
- How to start shifting your thoughts
- Maria's story of being a domestic abuse survivor
- How Maria's experience helped her forge a relationship with her stepdaughter
- Her message to others who might want to be a stepparent but feel they have nothing to offer a child
It will be okay and it's okay to reach out for help. Help is here and available to you. Please reach out to me at Maria@synergisticstepparenting.com. If nothing else just to share your story with me. I’d so love to hear it!
You’re not alone. There are people who care. I am one of them. You can and will get through it. That's what I'll leave you with.
Until next time, be well!
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello Stepparents!
Find the FULL transcript of this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/23.
- What makes a great leader in stepparenting?
- 4 qualities of a great leader
- The Final Stepparenting Lesson
I’d love to hear and celebrate your stories of leadership in your stepparenting so please email me at maria@synergisticstepparenting.com and share them!
Are you struggling to develop your leadership skills in your stepparenting role? If so, book a discovery call at synergisticstepparenting.com/work to find out how I can help you transform family chaos into meaningful and harmonious co-parenting.
Until next time, be well.
-
Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello Stepparents!
It can be challenging to stand by while someone is saying things that are blatantly negative about you. Or things that can be perceived as such. It’s particularly painful when you learn of someone saying something negative about you to your stepchild.
Especially when the child is little. Since little kids are more impressionable than older children who can discern more of the truth for themselves. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/22.
Topics Covered:
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How not To lose yourself when facing a negative situation
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An Effective Approach for Stepparents Caught in Challenging Relationship Dynamics
1. Identifies how best to respond strategically.
2. You’ll get the peace of mind of a clear conscience.
If you find yourself struggling with resentment, guilt, shame, anger, or any other disturbing emotions, go ahead and book a Rapid Resolution Session at synergisticstepparenting.com/rr.
I’d love to help you get clear and move forward with ease and joy in all of your stepparenting relationships! And I know it’s possible for you.
Until next time, be well!
-
Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hey stepparents! I need to level with you ...
Topics Covered:
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Today we’re delving into exploring how perfectionism gets in the way. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/21.
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Stepparenting Support And Connection Create Courage
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Testimonial from Pamela that reads: "I have listened to all the episodes thus far. Well done! Quite honestly, I think most people can relate well to the content without being a step-parent. It's very relevant! Great job! Thank you for sharing! Keep them coming."
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Stepparents Support Others More Than Themselves
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If you’re ready to find out how I can help you, head over to synergisticstepparenting.com/work and fill out the questionnaire for a discovery call. There's a lot of beauty out there. And yes, it IS for you.
Until next time, be well!
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello stepparents! As I reflect on the past year and consider my goals, I can’t help noticing how much I rely on tech day-to-day. It’s obvious that we live in a digital world that seems to be getting more digital and automated by the second.
Don’t get me wrong, I love all the advancements and feel so grateful to live in this moment-in-time and its unlimited access to information at my fingertips.
But I find myself burning out faster and more often. And nothing compares to the feeling of just being near a loved one. Even if we’re not saying a word.
Lots of us are considering what is missing or could be better this year and creating new habits and goals. Today I’m doing a deep dive on habits around connection and technology. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticsteppaernting.com/20.
Topics covered:
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How Is Technology Impacting Your Blended Family?
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Why Is It Hard To Break Away From Electronics?
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How To Communicate With Your Stepchild About Their Technology Usage
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Referenced Episode 17. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/17.
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5 Approaches To Try With Your Blended Family To Curb Technology Usage
Please drop me a line at maria@synergisticstepparenting.com and share your stories about your favorite ways to bond and spend time with your family! I’d love to hear about it and share with the audience of this show.
Until next time, be well!
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello Stepparents! With the new year upon us, and many of us re-assessing and making plans for the year to come I’m hearing that many of you are in throes of deciding whether your relationship is working for you or if it’s time to move on. So, I wanted to speak to that.
We all know that becoming a stepparent and blending into a family is challenging and takes a lot of time and energy. It can take between 5 and 7 years before all the blending players start to find a grove with each other.
Being in a blended family is clearly not for the faint of heart. Though there are undoubtedly some difficult and painful moments and even stretches, it’s important to distinguish whether these are temporary or whether you are just torturing yourself or your kids.
Today I’m sharing 3 aspects to consider to help you assess your situation and gain clarity on which is the right choice for you. Find the show notes for this episode at syenrgisticstepparenting.com/19.
Topics discussed:
- Importance of being grounded and calm
Before you listen on, I strongly urge you to revisit and listen to episode 11 titled 7 Key Components of a Stepparenting Sanity Routine. You can find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/11.
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Honor yourself and this stepparenting question with space and consideration.
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3 Aspects Stepparents Should Consider When Deciding Whether The Relationship Has Run Its Course.
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How to effectively approach these questions in stepparenting?
The answers to these questions can be hard to tease out and arrive at on your own. And you don’t have to! If you’d like to know how I might be able to help, grab a discovery call at synergisticstepparenting.com/work. Let's jump on a call and see if we're a good fit!
I’d love to hear about your story and what your stepparenting journey has been like for you. I’d love to celebrate your wins with you and to hear what's been troubling and what would be helpful to hear discussed in a future episode.
So please email me at maria@synnergisticstepparenting.com and let me know!
Until next time, be well!
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello Stepparents! Recently, I’ve spent several episodes discussing your stepchild’s loyalty conflict, their behavior, even the wiring of their brain and why some approaches work better than others in interactions with your stepchild.
To that end, today I’d like to focus on my favorite technique that I think is one of the most important and effective. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/18.
To be honest this technique works well across the spectrum of relationships – be it with your spouse, in-law, friend, or co-worker. It works well with kids too. And your stepchild needs you to have effective tools when interacting with them in challenging times and bad days.
Topics Covered:
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**A powerful technique that helps your stepchild self-regulate.
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How to respond when something's wrong in a way that won't make things worse**
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4 Steps of Reflective Listening
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What do avoid doing with little kids
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Benefits of Reflective Listening
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Do I have to do this alone?
Doing this work is simple but not easy. And as a stepparent there are often additional considerations and particulars adding to the challenges.
You don't have to go through this alone. In my VIP Breakthrough Program, I hold your hand every step of the way and guide you to a life of more ease, peace and joy.
Curious about working together? Head on over to synergisticstepparenting.com/work to learn more about my VIP Stepparenting Breakthrough program and schedule a discovery call.
I’d love to see how I can help you on your stepparenting journey and assess if we’re a good fit.
Until next time, be well!
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello stepparents! For the last 2 weeks I’ve discussed the loyalty conflict that occurs for a stepchild between you, their stepparent, and their other bio parent, your partner’s ex.
Find the show notes for those episodes at synergisticstepparenting.com/15 and synergisticstepparenting.com/16.
This week we’re delving deeper into the root cause of what effects your stepchild’s behavior. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/17.
Topic Discussed:
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Disruptive Communication Patterns in Stepparenting.
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Why Blowing Up and Punishing Your Stepchild Doesn’t Work – Science.
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Stepparents Want Connection Because as Humans We are Wired for It.
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An Unexpected Response is More Effective at Improving Your Stepchild’s Behavior.
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5 Benefits of Responding Unexpectedly in Stepparenting and How to Do It.
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Dr. Dan Siege's hand model of the brain presentation. Found here.
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello Stepparents! Last week I talked about the background of why kids have an inherent loyalty conflict when it comes to you, the stepparent and their other biological parent. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/15.
And if you haven’t yet listened to that episode, I highly recommend you do so. I shared what’s going on for your stepchild during and after divorce. These insights help you as the stepparent, by understanding how your stepchild feels.
I also reflected that when your stepchild is having big emotions towards you, it’s not personal. They are just trying to cope with what’s going on for them - which is A LOT!
This is not to convince you to condone disrespectful behavior. But often for stepparents understanding the root cause and knowing you’re not being targeted helps you in maintain your cool and to move the dynamic in a productive direction.
I also shared actionable tips you can implement right now to get out of the crossfire. So be sure to check those out.
This week I want to continue this deep dive and move on to discussing the behavior. Find the FULL transcript for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/16.
First of all, I want to clarify that when I say behavior, there is no judgement attached to it. It is not good or bad. It just is. And what I mean by behavior is something a person does or says.
In this episode, we’re going to explore both the behavior of the child, but also the behavior of the parents, including you – the stepparent.
Topics Covered:
Several Stepparents Have Reached Out With Concerns About Their Stepchild’s Behavior
- Case Study of a Stepmom to a 3-year-old Stepdaughter
I spoke with a stepmom about her 3-year-old who likes saying “no” and seems to enjoy being bad. The stepmom was worried about her young stepdaughter’s defiance and how much worse things will get if they don’t nip this in the bud.
- Case Study of a Stepmom to a Tween Stepdaughter
I spoke with another stepmom who is concerned about her stepdaughter’s behavior at school. She is hitting peers, acting out, etc. The stepmom is worried that the issue is a lack of discipline and the child just needs to understand that this is not acceptable behavior.
- All Behavior is Communication
4 tips for how to make your stepchild feel seen, heard, and loved
In episode 7 I shared How to Stay Sane in Stepparenting. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/7. And in episode 11 I shared the components of said Stepparenting Sanity Routine. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/11.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode. So please drop me a line to share them with me!
Find the FULL transcript for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/16.
Until next time, be well!
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
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Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello Stepparents! In episode 6, I briefly mentioned that your stepchild is conflicted when it comes to you and their loyalties to you. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/6.
Today we’re going to dig deeper and explore that conflict. Find the FULL transcript for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/15.
Topics Covered:
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Your Stepchild is Fighting Biology to Accept You
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What’s Going on for Your Stepchild When You Enter the Picture
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Tips to Get Out of the Cross Fire
In the meantime, if you want some additional tips to create harmonious co-parenting in your blended family, download your copy of 4 Steps to Start Transforming Family Chaos into Harmonious Co-Parenting. You can get that at synergisticstepparenting.com/subscribe.
Until next time, be well!
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
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Hey Stepparents! Today we’re exploring intentional living. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/14.
For a large chunk of my life I functioned on auto-pilot. If right now you’re thinking “What!?!” I’ll explain.
You might have had the experience where you drive somewhere but you don’t remember the drive. And seemingly in the blink of an eye you’re at your destination.
That used to happen to me a lot, and in many areas of my life. Everyday had the same stale rhythm. And it felt lack-luster. I noticed that I was becoming resentful. Irritated with all the to do’s that held my days hostage.
Something had to give. This had to stop! But how?
I realized I had to get out of the routine of just responding to everyday needs and instead, be intentional with my time and responsibilities.
So instead of the auto-pilot dance … I’d like to invite you to live intentionally
Topics Covered:
- What is intentional living?
- 4 steps of how to do live intentionally
Find the FULL episode transcript at synergisticstepparenting.com/14.
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
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Hello, Stepparents! If you’ve been listening to this podcast, you’ve probably heard me mention Rapid Resolution Therapy. And you might be wondering to yourself, "Ooh, what IS that?"
First, you might be asking, “What makes you qualified to talk about it, Maria?” The answer is that I’m a Rapid Resolution Therapy Practitioner. And I’m so thrilled to be sharing with you about this revolutionary alternative approach to getting clear.
So today, I’m going to tell you more about RRT to help you wrap your mind around it. Because for me, Rapid Resolution Therapy is magical. It has positively changed my life! And it's been life-changing for members of my family and my clients' lives as well.
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/13.
What Stepparent Couldn’t Use More Clarity?
Topics covered include:
- What classifies as disturbing events
- What is trauma
- The definition of trauma (you'll want to hear this!)
- 3 Main Ways That Rapid Resolution Therapy Differs from Traditional Therapy
If there’s something that hasn’t been serving you about the way you think, feel, act or react and you’re ready to shut it down, grab a Rapid Resolution Session with me at synergisticstepparenting.com/rr. I’d love to help you get clear!
Until next time, be well!
Find the FULL transcript of this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/13.
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.
Hello, beautiful stepparents! I want to lay a stake in the ground and tell you, you are amazing! The way you show up for your partner and your stepchild, is nothing short of incredible!
The way you worry, and think about them, plan all the things, and make sure all the important stuff happens and is taken care of is nothing short of awesome! Simply put – you are a superhero!
But sometimes even superheroes, need to call for reinforcements and get a little help. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into how to have difficult conversations with our beloved blended family. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/12.
You might not know how remarkable you are. And your blended housemates might forget to tell you … or might not even realize it. Because you’re so good at making it all happen smoothly behind the scenes. And you make it look so effortless.
But all the things you do are not going unnoticed. They matter! And they make a big impact on your partner’s and stepchild’s lives.
Feeling at Odds and Unappreciated by Your Blended Family
Recently, I’ve been hearing from a lot of you that it’s hard to do the grind. You’re feeling like you are alone in disciplining your stepkid and you don’t feel that your partner has your back.
You feel unappreciated by your stepchild. You hate to nag them all the time, but you feel like without it, they don’t do anything they are supposed to.
It breaks my heart because so many of you tell me that you need to busy yourself with hobbies, outings with friends, and even take on MORE WORK just to get out of the house and escape the feelings of disappointment and negativity.
Well, you don’t have to feel trapped in your own home! There is another way ...
Key Take Aways:
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What to Do About the Overwhelm of Disappointment and Hard Work of Stepparenting
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3 Steps to Having Difficult Stepparenting Conversations
References:
- episode 7 - tips for how to stay grounded in stepparenting. Find the show notes here: synergisticstepparenting.com/7.
- episode 11 - tips on how to get calm in stepparenting. Find the show notes here: synergisticstepparenting.com/11.
Find the FULL episode transcript here: synergisticstepparenting.com/12.
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Notes: How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts
-
Open the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.
- On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled "Ratings & Reviews."
- Under one of the highlighted reviews, select "Write a Review." If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating and let us and others know what you like about the show!
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Hello Stepparents! Welcome back. In an earlier episode, How to Stay Sane as a Stepparent, I discussed developing a routine to sustain you through difficult times. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/7.
Today, I’m diving deeper into the key aspects to consider and include when creating such a routine. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/11.
When developing practices and habits that help you to find the calm and stay there, here are some things to consider …
Check out the FULL transcript here to learn about the 7 Key Components to keep in mind when working through challenging situations that highjack your emotions.
If you put a routine into place and you're still struggling, book a Rapid Resolution Session with me at synergisticstepparenting.com/rr. It's a fantastic way to get out of emotional stuck-ness and move into clarity and peace by shutting down unhelpful thought tapes that drain your energy.
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Hi Stepparents! With November already underway … and the holidays just around the corner, it’s a busy time for all of us.
The holiday season is exciting but also nerve-wrecking because of the long to do lists on your plate. There’s the day-to-day obligations, getting your home ready and holiday shopping – both of which are stressful and time consuming.
On top of that, there are family obligations – which often involve traveling or hosting family from out of town – planning big meals and events, and of course … traditions. Well, it’s no wonder that your stress level is through the roof.
You might be thinking to yourself “I’d rather just hibernate through the holidays. Wake me up next year.”
But, before you call it quits on the things you actually enjoy about the holiday season, I’d like to invite you to explore another approach.
Today I’m taking a deep dive into traditions and beliefs in your blended family and why it’s worth a closer look. Show notes for this episode can be found at synergisiticstepparenting.com/10.
You hold your traditions and beliefs close to your heart. For a lot of us, there are nostalgic memories tied in to traditions where it might not feel like Thanksgiving, for example, without x,y or z.
My family and I go to La Salette Shrine and walk the grounds taking in the lights and decorations at Christmas time. For us, it doesn’t feel like the end of the year without this family outing.
Similarly, you might not be able to remember a time when you didn’t hold the beliefs you have today. I recently did an episode about how your beliefs and mindset can hold you back. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/9.
The truth is, that living in a blended family requires coming together and finding agreement.
Why Integrate Traditions and Beliefs with Your Blended Family?Unifying your beliefs with your partner’s provides a more solid foundation from which to make parenting decisions. This creates consistency and stability for the kids.
Integrating aspects of traditions you hold dear with your partner’s and your stepkid’s ensures that you are meeting each other’s needs and filling your emotional buckets.
Change, even when it’s for the better, takes a toll. It takes energy to make adjustments and get used to new routines. In a blended family there are already lots of changes happening all around.
So, it’s great if at least SOME of the most cherished aspects can stay the same.
I look at it like moving.
Moving is an invitation to:
- Take inventory of all your stuff
- Intentionally decide what is serving you and what is of value
- Find a new home for the things that aren't
It’s a useful exercise to go through once in a while.
It’s even more powerful when you have this conversation – maybe even share this episode! – with your partner to discuss the idea. Have them go through this activity with you … and have the kids join in too.
Regardless of whether your partner joins you in this or not, going through the exercise will help you gain clarity on what’s important to you.
Including your partner in the process, helps get their buy-in. If you both approach this task with an open mind, you’ll get to know each other on a deeper level and will get to share more of yourself with each other.
Having heartfelt conversations and going through experiences together are the seeds of meaningful connection building.
This cathartic process is a powerful opportunity to ask questions and share thoughts to really understand each other. Which builds closeness.
It’s a great time to clarify WHY you have certain traditions or hold particular values as a family.
How Can You Create Common Beliefs and Traditions that Work for Your Blended Family?
Hello stepparents! Recently I’ve done several episodes relating to wellness.
Like finding a sanity routine, find the show notes for that episode at www.synergisticstepparenting.com/7. And the benefits of yoga and how it led me to finding my stepparenting superpower, find the show notes for that episode at www.synergisticstepparenting.com/8.
In this episode I’d like to explore the most common obstacle that I’ve seen prevent stepparents from achieving their goals. Find the show notes for this episode at www.synergisticstepparenting.com/9.
Recently I’ve been doing intermittent fasting. The way I do it is I eat relatively healthy during an 8-hour window and only drink liquids the rest of the time. During the first month of this lifestyle change, I became aware of my eating habits.
The Destructive Long Term Habit I Didn't Realize I HadI realized that what I had been doing prior was akin to hoarding food. Eating much larger portions than my body needed, past the point of hunger. Eating when I was bored or when I thought I was supposed to eat. Not just when my body needed to eat.
It was interesting to suddenly become aware of this habit that I had been practicing for decades without realization.
It also became apparent that a large contributing factor to developing this habit were my caregivers. Don’t get me wrong, my grandparents were remarkable people. But learning about their history, it was clear why food was how they showed love and why it was such a big deal.
My grandfather was on the front lines during WWII enlisting just before his 20th birthday. He walked from Kiev, Ukraine, to Trosiny, Poland on foot. He accomplished many heroic feats during those last 11 months of the war, among them freeing a concentration camp.
During that year he also became intimately familiar with hunger.
My grandmother evacuated Moscow, Russia fleeing to Omsk, Russia with her mother and sister at 14 years old. They lived there for 4 years, the remainder of WWII. The available rations of food were very small and in spite selling off family possessions for extra bits of food, they were starving.
Rumor has it some days her mother, my great grandmother, had to choose which child to feed.
How Your Thoughts, Beliefs and Actions Keep You StuckSo, it’s no wonder I remember my grandmother cooking all the time and feeding everyone who chanced to stop by for a visit.
My grandparents raised me for most of my early life. They were truly magical people ... full of love, a zest for life, a love for travel, erudite and exceedingly generous.
It’s not surprising given their history, though, that from an early age I had to finish everything on my plate. And when I was particularly resistant to it, I was bribed with sweets to do so.
You see the nuances of our caregivers’ thoughts, beliefs, and actions seep into us at a very young age when we’re absorbing knowledge like sponges. When we’re little, we take on their thoughts as our own. Beliefs are just thoughts we think for a long time.
And our beliefs affect and inform our actions.
#1 One Thing in the Way of Achieving Stepparenting Goals for My VIP Clients is Their MindsetIn my work with my VIP clients in the Stepparenting Breakthrough program - learn more about that at www.synergisticstepparenting.com/workwithmaria - I noticed that the number one thing in the way of reaching their goals is their mindset.
Find the FULL episode and show notes here.
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Hello Stepparents! In last week’s episode I talked about how to stay sane as a stepparent. Find the show notes for that episode at www.synergisticstepparenting.com/7. I mentioned several different strategies that I tried throughout the years to help me connect with a place of calm.
I advised that it’s important to stick with something for a while before moving on. This idea of sticking with something for a while is what I’d like to explore in this week’s episode. Find the show notes for this episode at www.synergisticstepparenting.com/8.
Finding Calm – Stepparent’s Key Resource
There are many options and suggestions for how to connect with and find calm inside of your body and your mind. And let’s face it, as stepparents the need for calm is in high demand.
With today’s climate of screens and variety of technology in this digital age and add to that the limited personal space not taken over by your partner or your stepchild, it can hard to find a quiet place to unplug.
Unplugging feels so foreign that it’s downright uncomfortable. For lots of folks it’s anxiety inducing, especially if you live in North America.
Take yoga for example, a practice that is about going inward and connecting to your body through your breath. Sounds amazing – right?
The Benefit of Calm for Working StepparentsHowever, if you’re the type of person who’s been living life in the fast lane and constantly rushing to do All. The. Things., the idea of yoga sounds scary if not straight up terrifying.
When I was in corporate, I prided myself on my work. Because I was good at it, my reward was that I got more tasks and projects assigned to me. At the time, I wore that as a badge of honor.
Being an immigrant from a family of hard-working accomplished over-achievers, I thought that pushing and doing was not only necessary and normal but that it was a triumph.
But, I quickly slipped into workaholism. I loved to feel productive when I’d put in lots of long hours on projects. I would feel proud of my achievements and my work ethic for being able to work that hard. In reality, I was ignoring myself.
I wasn’t taking time to think, breathe, or tune-in. Instead, I was distracting myself from what I was actually feeling and from making sense of my experience. I was just hoping everything would work out one day, instead of intentionally leading and creating my life.
One day I tried a yoga class at the gym. And over time, it completely changed my life.
Find the FULL episode transcript here.
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Hi, Stepparents! I know that for me, it hasn’t always been easy to get support in my stepparenting role. And more accurately, it’s been downright challenging. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisiticstepparenting.com/7.
Most of the people in my world couldn’t relate or even fully understand what I was going through.
They didn't know about the constant juggle I was experiencing. Not only the physical juggle but the emotional one as well. In addition to my stepparenting responsibilities, there was work, day-to-day essentials and doing something to keep my sanity.
The Key to Stepparenting SanityI realized over the years that keeping my sanity and even a bit of calm was the most important component that would make or break my day. I had to learn to be present if I was going to effectively take care of the many To Do’s on my list without starting World War III.
Learning how to find and stay connected to that calm was essential in relieving the many needless fights. Fights that started over tiny things, like washing your hands when you come home, and quickly turned into blow outs between my partner and me.
After the storm had settled and I had reflected on how and why things escalated so quickly to such a drastic point, I realized that there were moments where I was triggered or jumped to a conclusion and made an assumption.
Those things didn’t actually exist. They weren’t said or even implied, but I read them as such in the moment. I’m not saying that the misunderstanding only happened on my end, my partner contributed to things as well.
But, I focused on my end of things because that was the quickest path to getting results and lessoning the chance of these situations happening again in the future.
Develop a Stepparent Sanity RoutineI started to develop a morning routine. It’s changed quite a bit throughout the years and now I’m able to be pretty fluid with it because I’m relatively in touch with what I need. But, in the beginning and over the years I tried a lot of different things.
The key for me was consistency and sticking with each one for a good while before moving on. I tried things like yoga, running, exercising, meditation, journaling, dancing, listening to music, reading, just to name a few.
I realized that creating sustainable habits was the key. Whatever I did to get myself to that calm place, was how I was able to find it. And by establishing that initial connection every day through healthy habits, I was able to re-connect to that grounded place throughout my day.
As I built these habits and utilized them regularly, that connection with feeling grounded strengthened. And I was able to access that deep ocean instead of flailing in the choppy waters at the surface.
My VIP clients also tell me that the key to stability and calm, is not waiting until something challenging takes place to find a way to calm down and maintain your cool.
Instead, the key is to create supportive routines and learn go-to tools that you can rely on for support during those inevitable moments.
If you’re struggling to maintain your cool due to anxiety, anger or fear, grab a Rapid Resolution Session with me to get unstuck and create more energy and resources for your stepparenting role. You can book that at synergisticsteparenting.com/rr.
I hope you found this episode helpful. Give these suggestions a try and reach out to let me know how it goes. I’d love to hear your feedback! Until next time, be well.
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Hey Stepparents! As most of you have probably experienced, being a stepparent is different than being a biological parent.
In today’s episode I’ll be exploring some of these differences. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/6.
Differences Between a Stepparent and a Biological ParentYou probably remember the beginning of your stepparenting journey. For many of us it’s an abrupt transition with no time to prepare.
It felt a bit like plunging into a lake where the temperature was a lot colder than you were expecting. And maybe you didn’t see the rocks beneath the surface. And didn’t know that the lake is full of snapping turtles and piranhas.
At least this is how it was for me. Maybe some of you can relate. My relationship with my partner was pretty new so we were still getting to know each other. We were finding our groove and not yet on solid ground.
On top of all that there was this other little person thrown into the mix with her own personality, needs, and wants. It was a big adjustment for me.
A blended family doesn't have the typical rhythm that a bio family does. In a bio family the couple meet and start to build a life together first then later bring a child into the picture.
Additionally, there isn’t the benefit of time during the pregnancy phase. When you know the human addition is coming soon but you have about 9 months to get ready. Time to adjust yourself, the dwelling, and your life.
Stepparenting Felt Like a Culture ClashMy partner and I discovered early on that we had similar values. In spite of that, there were massive differences between how we did things.
The dynamics were reminiscent of my early days as a Russian immigrant coming to America. I didn't fully understand the culture and was unsure of my readings of situations and how to respond.
As a stepparent, you are often the only one in this situation within the family. Certainly you're the only one in your household in this position since your partner already has a long-standing connection with the child, not to mention the rest of the family.
Everything back then felt like a new adventure. It was fun but took a lot of energy at times. I felt cared for and supported. But I also experienced lots of moments of real isolation. Feelings of strong belonging were far and few in those days.
It was hard.
The Challenges of Belonging in a Blended FamilyIt makes sense that connecting wouldn’t be easy because it takes time to learn who people are and all their tells.
Let’s face it as human beings we all have generally the same emotions. But what triggers or initiates emotions varies for each of us.
How we express emotions looks different for many of us too. Someone might laugh when they are upset. Someone else cries when upset. A third person carefully hides any trace of being upset. When a fourth person gets upset they suddenly get quiet.
We each respond in our unique way and it’s only natural that the code to correctly interpret these nuances won’t be cracked from just spending a few hours together.
It’s natural to be protective of your feelings in vulnerable states. And common to be uncomfortable being transparent with someone you don’t know well.
Children often have mixed emotions because you are here and not their other parent. There is inherent conflict for them because their loyalties are split between the two of you. And they might be feeling guilty about liking you.
Your partner feels pressured because of the high stakes. They are probably constantly weighing the pros and cons worrying how their child is adjusting to the new arrangement.
As a stepparent it’s easy to accidentally put your foot in your mouth ...
Find the FULL transcript for this episode here.
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Hello stepparents! In episode 4 I discussed what it means to fully show up. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/4. Today I’m going to explore this concept a bit further and discuss what gets in the way of showing up fully. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/5.
In the beginning of my stepparenting journey there were lots of events and new players in the cast of characters that I had to meet.
I remember being really nervous because it was very important to me to get off on the right foot with family and close friends.
For years I would show up with mixed results.Sometimes, I would show up and it seemed like I would get infected by this energy that lifted me up and took me on a ride of being present where everything felt easy, effortless, and smooth. I felt confident and comfortable.
After this type of experience, I would feel rejuvenated. It felt almost like a zing of life pulsating throughout my entire being. Like I could feel the source of vitality coursing through me.
And then there were other times when everything felt like a chore. The timing of my interactions just felt off – either forced or awkward. I felt tense. And there was a lurking frustration that something about the environment was bringing on a low-grade headache.
Interestingly, I noticed that when I didn’t want to attend something because I felt drained or wasn’t feeling well, but attended anyway, things often worked out well and I had a wonderful time.
I would walk away feeling renewed and energized, finding value in the interactions and experiences and generally grateful for the impressions I was taking away with me.
After years of observations, I wondered … what contributes to whether I have a great experience or a negative one?I thought about this carefully for a while. I realized that what it boils down to is commitment. And there are 3 major components to making decisions with commitment ...
1. Be IntentionalMake the choice with intention. Meaning, don’t ignore your reservations, negative feelings and worries and simply push them aside. Instead, take your time to work through them.
While making your decision, consider and weigh the pros and cons.
2. ChooseYou can make yourself crazy thinking about all the What If's. STOP.
I realized that even though I wasn’t feeling well, or was too tired, or had too much going on to attend an event … when I would attend anyway, I was making a choice to let go of resistance. And it felt liberating.
Making a choice is powerful because with that you choose to surrender. And when you surrender, you are no longer bogged down by mixed feelings and emotions about the options and which one is best.
With that comes clarity which frees up your energy and creates ease because you’re no longer caught in the swirl of choices.
Once you've made up your mind, make peace with what you discovered and your decision.
3. Don't Wait to DecideMake the decision with time to spare. The benefit is you'll have time to mentally prepare for what's coming which relieves anxiety and overwhelm. This way you can spend your precious time on creating a plan rather than wasting it floundering.
If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed about a big decision, schedule a Rapid Resolution Session at synergisticstepparenting.com/rr to break free of the thought patterns that aren’t serving you and gain clarity.
Remember, it starts with getting rid of the resistance by making the commitment to move towards ease and joy.
Give these steps a try as you make an important choice in your stepparenting journey and please let me know how it goe
Hello stepparents! In this episode I’ll be delving into a topic that I’ve found to be the cornerstone of most things in life. I call it showing up. Find the FULL show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/4.
Have you ever felt like you can’t seem to say or do the right thing?
Like everything you say is causing more conflict and aggravation?
Maybe it seems like there’s a disconnect with your spouse, your stepchild, or with members of your blended family. When this happens it feels so frustrating, painful, and isolating.
Well, it maybe that you’re not showing up.
I know what you’re thinking … GASP. How dare you?But, before you shut off your radio, computer, iPhone or whatever device you’re listening on – please, let me explain …
For a long time, I thought showing up meant just that - physically getting myself somewhere.
I’m sure many of you have probably heard of showing up. You might have heard the famous quote by Woody Allen who said, “Eighty percent of success is showing up.” Or perhaps have seen other iterations of it, such as “Showing up is half the battle.”
But after years of trying that, I noticed that my results weren’t good. As if something was missing. Even though I was physically present, things weren’t quite landing in conversations and the meaningful connections I craved weren’t being made.
My desire to understand and figure it out swelled. I built more awareness of these instances and reflected on my actions and outcomes. And a light bulb went off ...
Though I was physically present, I wasn’t actually showing up. Not the way I wanted to.
I wasn’t showing up by bringing ALL of me to the table.I began to deepen my knowledge and understanding of this concept. I discovered that everything in our world is energy, including you and me. And I believe that energy is really powerful when it’s activated and directed towards a specific purpose and goal.
When you intentionally concentrate your energy towards something, whether wanted or unwanted, it influences the results you achieve.
So, when I was struggling to communicate a proposed solution for a new project at work or helping my stepdaughter problem-solve an issue with a friend, the reason I was having a hard time was because I wasn’t fully engaged in the experience … I’m talking mind, body and soul.
Typically, I tend to be a very passionate person. People have often told me how magnetic I am when I’m in my element and speaking about a topic that is close to my heart. My energy has even been described as contagious.
But I’ll admit, I have trouble conjuring up that much fervor for topics I’m not as devoted to. Such as, offensive foot odor and fashion tips on braiding back-hair.
And when you’re not completely engaged are the times you tend to go into autopilot – which your brain is naturally wired to do.
What does it take to fully show up?I learned that there are 2 major factors …
First … approaching every opportunity with curiosity. Prioritize the goal of understanding. Whether it’s understanding the other person more or understanding where your own feelings about the situation are coming from.
Second … responding from the heart with your entire being to the whole situation. This requires vulnerability and a willingness to be open.
It’s not surprising that you don’t often show up this way because it requires more of your already taxed energy. Especially so at the beginning, when you’re starting to train yourself to do things in a new way.
For the rest of the show notes go here.
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Hello, stepparents. I’m thrilled to be spending this time with you. Today I’d love to explore some common fears in stepparenting. Find the Show Notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/3.
I’m sure you probably have a million things running through your mind right now. Perhaps you are reminiscing about the beginning of your stepparenting journey and remembering what that was like for you.
Talk about being thrown into the deep end! Am I right?
My partner and I dated for a few months, quite seriously, before I ever met my kiddo.
And all along I remember thinking what a serious responsibility it would be if I were to be a part of her life.
I had millions of questions and worries.
At the top of the list was …
Am I really READY to Be a Stepparent?There was the responsibility and relationship with my future stepchild to consider. But, also, the dynamics of my then boyfriend and his ex - my stepdaughter’s bio-mom. Not to mention the extended family members. Everyone adored my stepdaughter. And, I knew, each has opinions and ideas about what to do and how to do it.
If those considerations weren’t significant enough, I had to confront my own demons of parenting misses I had experienced in childhood. I wanted to be sure to do things differently during my turn at bat.
Repeating my Parents’ Mistakes in My Stepparenting - My Biggest Fear … and What I Did about It.This fear was so great, in fact, that … I’m a little embarrassed to admit this, but …
I actually pointed out to my then boyfriend all my flaws and reasons why he should go and find a good role model for his daughter who is better suited for the challenge, instead of wasting his time with me.
Yup … I actually said those words exactly.
And to my surprise in response, he gave me the most encouraging and best piece of advice that I’ve ever received. He looked me earnestly in the eyes and said, “Because you’ve experienced what was painful and what you didn’t like, is exactly why you will be a great parent. Because you already know what not to do.”
Upon hearing that and letting it wash over me for a few days, I made a choice to not only accept the role, but I promised myself to really show up. I will do another episode on what it means show up soon.
My road with stepparenting has had many twists, turns, certainly tons of challenges. But I have not only learned so much about myself and life lessons, I’ve also gained incredible relationships along the way and discovered deeper and more fulfilling happiness than I thought was possible.
The truth is that, yes, the responsibility is great. But if you’re up for truly showing up … the rewards, growth, impact, and lessons are incredible and will very likely be some of the most powerful lessons you’ll experience.
And look, you don’t have to do it alone or suffer years of frustration and heartache!
Grab a Rapid Resolution Session at www.synergisticstepparenting.com/rr to clear up the pesky fears holding you back and powerfully step into your right role creating harmony and joy for you and your blended family.
After all, it all starts with just taking the first step and saying “yes”.
I hope you found this episode helpful. Drop me a line and tell me what you think, I’d love to hear from you!
Until next time, be well!
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Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast is hosted by me, Maria Natapov, Stepparenting Coach and Strategist.
I am excited about helping stepparents transform family chaos into meaningful and harmonious co-parenting.
I get it. Being a stepparent can be terrifying as well as amazing!
I’ve been a stepparent for over 8 years. I built a rapport from scratch and 5 years in, she revealed that she was being abused and neglected by her mom and stepdad. She came to live with us full-time so I was jolted into full-time mom mode in the blink of an eye.
I’ve learned first-hand the vital importance of preventing further harm by acquiring the right tools and establishing smart parenting support systems.
I’m also a certified parent coach, a trained Behavioral Technician and a Rapid Resolution Therapy Practitioner.
Podcast episodes will center on how to develop meaningful connections and create a stepparenting role that feels good to you without the stress.
We’ll dig into how to set boundaries, get out of overwhelm, create connection and all the elements crucial to stepparenting success. Some episodes will have guests to provide a joint learning experience.
For more information go to synergisticstepparenting.com/podcast. Subscribe on your favorite podcast app so you don’t miss a show and share this podcast on social media to help other stepparents get out of overwhelm and create more peace and joy.
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Hello stepparents and thank you for joining me. In episode 1 I spoke about the long list of demands that stepparents are constantly juggling. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/1.
Today I’d like to discuss a related topic that many of you are also very familiar with … competing priorities. Find the show notes for this episode at synnergisticstepparenting.com/2.
These might involve having to pick up or drop off your stepchild and attend an important work meeting or event in 2 separate locations … at the same time! Or vice versa, having to attend a work event or dinner and missing a stepchild’s important game, concert, performance, or celebration.
Situations like this can be very stressful and anxiety-provoking. When I’ve been faced with these kinds of conflicts, I felt practically paralyzed as to what to do and how to choose.
Naturally, the technology doesn’t yet exist to allow you to be in two places at the same time. And, even if it did, mental health practitioners would probably advise that it’s not a good idea to spread yourself so thin anyway. And that it gets in the way of being truly present at either event.
So, how do you decide which is the priority and where to invest your energy?
There are a few important aspects to consider.
First, before drawing iron-clad lines in the sand such as “family always comes first” or “work always comes first” … consider the following.
What is the state of your relationship with the involved players?
For example, if you’ve already been at your job for a while, have a great rapport with your colleagues and boss and know the ins and outs of the job, projects and clients really well, you will know whether this meeting or event is critical to attend.
Conversely, if you know your stepchild and the other family members involved with the event, you’ll know how critical the event is for them and whether your presence is non-negotiable because of their feelings towards it.
Secondly, I invite you to consider which of these conflicting commitments is most important to you?
Take some time and space to think through and get clear on why you feel this way and where that feeling is coming from. Make sure you are being true to how you actually feel.
Once you take the time to consider these important aspects you will have much more clarity on how you might want and need to proceed.
What do you do once you decide which priority and action to take?
The key as always with many sensitive situations is communication.
Keeping open lines of communication and keeping each player in the loop is critical.
I encourage you not to just tell one person and expect them to spread the word for you but to communicate to each person that’s impacted with whom you have a relationship directly.
This simple step will mean so much to the individual - that they matter, that you are thinking about them, considering them and giving them a heads-up so that they don’t feel blink-sided. Whether it’s your stepchild, your significant other, the stepchild’s other bio-parent or another family member, your boss, colleague, vendor, or client, just the step to communicate with them directly goes a long way to preserving mutual respect and an open dialogue.
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Hello stepparents, and welcome. Thanks for spending some of your time with me today. Let’s talk about constant demands, especially the physical demands your stepchild makes of you. They can take over your life! Find the Show Notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/1.
We’ve all been there. I know I have. There’s work, work and school meetings and events, school and extracurricular pick-ups and drop-offs of step-kids (not to mention the extra pick-ups and drop-offs if you’re sharing custody with the other bio-parent), grocery shopping, making dinner, laundry, just to name a few.
Before you know it, the day is over. And you’re exhausted and frustrated that you were just putting out fires all day and handling the absolute essentials without getting to the many other have to’s. Not to mention the nice-to-do’s.
This kind of day-to-day stress is overwhelming and unsustainable.
What can you do about the never-ending list of things that need doing?
Well, for me and for my clients the first step is to step away from the hectic busy-ness.
Go somewhere quiet. Maybe it’s the bedroom or maybe the bathroom … or your car. Just being somewhere without noise. Without someone needing your attention or needing something from you. And without something to have to do. After a few moments you start to notice more of what’s going on within you.
What sensations do you notice?
Are you feeling achy in your body? Is there pain or tension in your lower back, neck or shoulders?
Do you feel exhausted? Can you barely keep your eyes open?
Maybe there is tension in your chest or a knot in your stomach.
Just notice. You see, if you’re like me, so often you are running around like a chicken with its head cut off doing ALL. THE. THINGs. which takes away the space and keeps you from noticing how you’re feeling and what you might need at any given moment. So, I strongly urge you to take just a few minutes to:
1. Stop.
2. Get away.
3. Get curious and notice.
It’s a gift!
Do this for just a few minutes each day. Better still … find a few minutes 2-3 times a day to do this.
Creating this space for yourself not only allows you to be more aware of what is going on within you, but it allows you to form a great habit as well.
By giving yourself a few moments of intentional reprieve, you are also creating a better relationship with yourself.
I’ll leave you with this …
You give your time, energy and attention to so many things and people on an everyday basis. Don’t you deserve just a tiny bit of that yourself? How can you forge a relationship with anyone if you never take the time to listen to them?
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