Stepmonster

Imposter Syndrome & New Stepmom Advice

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 13:04:47 -0300

This episode is all about having imposter syndrome as a stepmom, and how to best deal with it. Spoiler alert: you DO BELONG IN THEIR LIVES, and you're doing great.

We also talk about our best advice for NEW stepmoms - things we wish we could have done differently, and our best tips to succeed as a stepmom.

Minisode | He Slept with His Ex Now We’re Back Together

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 13:13:55 -0400

Minisode submission: ...."Fast forward to 2021, six months in our new home, and my fiance lets it slip that he had actually slept with his ex-wife BEFORE coming over to my house to tell me he wanted to work on his marriage back in 2018. It hit me like a ton of bricks. Here I was thinking how he was such a good guy but all along he had cheated on me with his ex. The response I received was that this was three years ago so I just shouldn't worry about it and should be glad that we are together now since our relationship had been great up until this point. It is hard enough dealing with the ex but imagine if your man SLEPT with the ex during your relationship? I feel so torn and sad about this information and am really struggling.

Minisode | Tweens, Divorce Threats, & Should She Stick it Out?

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0400

This minisode talks through one stepmom's challenges with her 12-year-old stepkid who is particularly difficult. Refusing to get along, is annoyed by everything, and then on TOP of all of that, her hubs says if she can't figure out how to get along with his kid, he might want a divorce. Should she stick it out? Is it worth it? Hear our take.

Acceptance, Expectations & Finding Stepmom Support

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0300

As stepmoms, we constantly battle with the need to feel accepted. In this episode, we talk about:

The difference between acceptance and appreciation?
What should we expect in our homes, if anything?
Having certain expectations we may have had early in our stepmom journey and how to overcome them with or without the support of those around you.
Finding support as a stepmom is HARD! Who are the right people to vent to? Why or why not?

Minisode | Stepson Challenges & Learning to Disengage

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0300

This minisode covers a submission from one of our listeners surrounding her stepson, who has been increasingly disrespectful and ungrateful. Layered on top of an already complex situation involving false allegations, CPS, and losing custody of two kids already - this one is a challenge. Listen in as Bailey and Alyse give this stepmom advice on how to disengage and handle her specific situation.

Family Courts, Prenups & Catching Up

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0300

We're BACK! Spend the first 10 minutes catching up on life with us, but if you want to skip RIGHT to the meat of the episode, skip to minute 11.

In this episode, Bailey and Alyse talk through the challenges which come along with having to deal with family courts, or as Alyse calls it, "the clown show". We talk through ways to handle situations thrown your way and then dive in on prenups in a blended family situation.

**Disclaimer: This episode does not serve as legal advice. For legal advice applicable to your individual situation, please consult an attorney**

High Conflict Parenting & Alienation w/ Psycho-Legal Consultant Joseph Goldberg

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 15:03:34 -0300

We are so excited to have Joseph Goldberg as a guest on our show. His last three years have been devoted to the study of research that explains the causal factors of high conflict interpersonal disputes, and family relational problems. The new factors from the neurobiological research put a new spin on not only what causes these problems to surface, but what parents can now do to resolve their ruptured relationships with their children.

MORE ABOUT JOSEPH:

Joseph Goldberg is a recognized expert in parental alienation. He is a Psycho-Legal Education and Litigation Support Consultant, which means he provides continuing education to lawyers, mental health professionals, and to parents who are engaged in high conflict, complex custody disputes that involve parent-child relationship problems.

Visit his website to learn more: https://www.parentalalienation.ca/

Minisode | Are Apologies from BM Genuine?

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 13:41:20 -0300

In this minisode, we unpack a historically tumultuous situation between a stepmom, her partner, and his ex-wife, who has shown to be high conflict. She wants to apologize to the stepmom, but the question remains: is it genuine? And even if it is, are we obligated to accept?

Author & Board-Certified Educational Therapist Shawn Shares Her Stepmom Journey

Fri, 13 May 2022 13:02:00 -0300

Shawn Simon, MA, is a Board Certified Educational Therapist who works with children. Therefore, when she met the man of her dreams, who just happened to come with a couple of kids, she thought being a stepmom would be a breeze. She was wrong. However, as someone born with only one arm, she’s learned to overcome obstacles. Thus, she knew she could face the challenges of step-mothering. Shawn is published in the Association of Educational Therapists’ Journal and is an award-winning inspirational speaker in her field. She lives in Southern California with her husband, two step-kids, three rescue dogs, and one sixteen-year-old cat. Shawn is currently at work on more books for stepfamilies.

Follow Shawn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawncranesimon/

Visit her website: https://stepmomshawn.com/

Order her book "Stepping into a New Role: Stories from Stepmoms" here:

https://www.amazon.com/Stepping-into-New-Role-Stepmoms/dp/1940310954/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=stories+from+stepmoms&qid=1589780313&sr=8-1

https://www.4rvpublishing.com/shawn-simon.html

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/stepping-into-a-new-role-shawn-simon/1136816236?ean=9781940310954

Mother’s Day Prep: Expectations, Gifts, & Recognition for Stepmoms

Fri, 06 May 2022 04:00:00 -0300

Perhaps our most important episode of the year, this one is fully dedicated to talking about all things Mother's Day (after a brief 4-min awkward story from Bailey). We talk about how to set proper expectations for yourself, your partner, and your stepkids for the day. We share our own feelings around gift-giving, being a childless stepmom celebrating, and all things in-between.

Minisode | ”Game Over” for this BM Who is Trying to Out-Crazy Them All

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 13:02:37 -0300

In this episode, we review a story from stepmom "Mrs. M" who has dealt with more than her fair share of insanity during her stepmom journey thus far. From stalking to restraining orders, name-calling, and insane manipulation - how do you even survive this as a stepmom? We share our advice on how, despite all the crazy in her world, she can bond with her stepdaughter.

Also - even though it's marked explicit, we have a few f-bombs in this episode so if you're offended... skip it. :)

Grief & Shame as a Stepmom - Firsts, The Life You Didn’t Have w/ Guest Megan McLaren

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 05:00:00 -0300

In this episode we welcome guest, Megan McLaren. Megan resides in Alberta and is a mom to twins, stepmom, social worker, and certified life coach. We tlk through Megan's experience as a stepmom and how she overcame grief and grieving the life she never got to have. She missed out on being the first wife, the first birthing experience, and many other things with her now-husband, but Megan didn't let that stop her from finding joy and happiness through her struggles. We talk through that, and:

Changing dynamics when you have an "ours" baby
Feeling shame for having negative feelings as a stepmom
Not ever having alone time after marriage
Being the "non-favored" household
Schedule accommodations that we never agreed to

Follow Megan McLaren on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meganmclarencoach/

Minisode | Bad Behavior, Walking on Eggshells, & Resent

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0400

During this episode, we read a situation from one of our very own stepmom friends who is dealing with a tough situation all around. Between feeling like a stranger in her own home, constantly walking on eggshells, a High Conflict Bio Mom (HCBM) to deal with, and a stepdaughter who is lashing out behaviorally, she's drained. We walk you through her story and give our best advice on how to move forward.

Double Standards as a Stepmom

Sun, 27 Feb 2022 18:26:00 -0400

This episode is all about the hottest topic now in the stepmom community: DOUBLE STANDARDS. Why is it that we rally around a parent who says "I need a break" but criticize a stepmom for saying the same thing? Whether it's being able to say "mom things", attending doctor's appointments or sporting events, or simply being welcomed into a "mom" community - it's something we always deal with.

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stepmonsterpodcast/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stepmonsterpodcast/support

Minisode | How close is too close to the bio-mom?

Sun, 06 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we read a submission from a stepmom struggling with the relationship her husband has with his ex. We unpack her story and ask ourselves where the lines are: how close is TOO close? When do you have the right to feel uncomfortable (spoiler: you have the right to feel uncomfortable whenever you please)?

Disrespectful stepkids, a partner that doesn’t get it, & how to handle it all

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0400

This episode digs into all things disrespect-related. Maybe your stepkid makes your home a living hell. Maybe they talk down to you. Maybe they don't respect your boundaries. Hear from Bailey and Alyse how to handle this, how to prevent it, and how another stepmom has handled this herself.

Minisode | HCBM, Manipulation, and Stepmom Hate

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 09:00:00 -0400

This episode is a mini from a stepmom submission who is dealing with an extreme scenario. In this case, the biomom is actually a therapist (won't be referring anyone to her after hearing this), but is severely manipulating her kids to actively dislike the stepmom. Between inappropriate messages to her ex, saying things that aren't true, and actively trying to keep the stepmom away from the kids, this episode is packed with all the things.

Bailey and Alyse spend 6 minutes catching up on life, so if you want to skip directly to this part, head to 7:00, and find the rest of the episode based on this specific scenario.

Different houses & rules, being the strict house & long-distance custody with guest, Cheryl

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we welcome guest Cheryl (who also happens to be Bailey's momma). Cheryl has been what we'll call sandwiched right in the middle of a blended family - having been through a divorce herself, having full custody of her daughter, and dealing with what it's like to have a kid switch between two DRAMATICALLY different households. She also has an "ours" baby of her own and is re-married. Her perspective is one we found to be incredibly relatable to stepmoms dealing with different situations, specifically:

Having kids go between houses with different parenting styles
Long-distance custody and communication
Being the stricter household all around
& more.

Join us for a listen and let us know what you think on social media.

Minisode | (TW) Emotional Abuse, Protecting Your Stepkids, Should you Stay?

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 14:39:00 -0400

*TRIGGER WARNING: EMOTIONAL ABUSE*

In this episode, we read a submission from a stepmom in a tough situation. With a partner who struggles with addiction and often lashes out at the kids and her, and who tries to put the stepmom in a situation where she is a supervising party to court-mandated supervised visits. We try to pick through the information and give our best advice on how to handle this situation. It's worth noting that while we don't have ALL the information, we felt as though we had enough information to give sound advice.

If you are struggling or finding yourself in a potentially abusive relationship, please use the resources below to seek help.

https://www.thehotline.org/

Text "START" to 88788
Call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233)

Coparenting between Biomom and Stepmom: What you should know w/ Guest Angelina (BM), and Kelly (SM)

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 22:15:00 -0400

Kelly and Angelina are unlike any stepmom and biomom duo we've met to date. Their relationship didn't start out with hugs and mutual respect. It took a lot of self-awareness, work, and reflection from each of them to get to the point where they could successfully co-parent the same kids together. Sure, it could be awkward that Kelly is married to Angelina's ex-husband... but these two brilliant ladies have figured out a way to put the kids first, and build a bond together that is so incredible and unique. Hear from each of them in this episode what it was like to meet. what they would have done differently if they could rewind, and how they manage to lean on each other to ensure their kids have the best lives.

Minisode | In-Laws Still Close to BM, Chauffeur Duties for Kids

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 21:03:00 -0400

Our mini-episodes are entirely dedicated to sharing YOUR story. Each episode features one submission from our followers where we read the situation and give our take. Here is this week's submission:

So my main complaint for years now has been the fact that his family was so happy that I came into their son's life. They saw a light they had never seen in him. They were always unhappy with how hubby and bio mom treated each other and left early on several occasions. I felt like I was a breath of fresh air for them. Hubby’s sister moved here and is living with his parents. She came down and all of sudden she and bio mom are best friends. It drives me insane and it’s felt like a total lack of disrespect for my feelings. His family comments on all her Facebook posts, goes to her birthday parties and then comes to ours too, and the list goes on and on. I’m slowly learning there’s nothing I can do to control this issue but nevertheless hurts my feelings.

Then this week bio mom and me got into it. 15 year started high school. We are 50/50. We pay her child support. She is remarried. She has twin boys. She doesn’t work. We agreed she wanted 15 yo to go to a specific high school so we changed paperwork for us to be primary household. This means only 1 parent gets the bus. She knew it would be us and that there was no way he could go to the other high school across town because me and hubby work full time and it would be impossible. She texted me the other day complaining about how much she is in the car with her twins and how it’s not fair and how her husband said she should have never agreed for 15-year-old to go to the high school we agreed to and I lost it. I told her she doesn’t work and gets child support and to basically get over it. I help with the driving to sleepovers, doctor appts, orthodontics appts and I work full time an hour away. I have no sympathy. She told me she couldn’t believe I had the audacity to bring up HER child support and that things between us will never be the same. She reached out and things have seemed semi-normal. Very minimal about the kids.. which I am ok with. Just wondering any tips and tricks to navigate through these teenage years, split schedules living across town, driving kids to school or not? Should I apologize? What to do?

Finances, Clothes Debates, Expense-Sharing, & Stepmom Obligations

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 15:35:00 -0300

This episode is all about financial considerations in a stepmom role. We discuss everything from a stepmom's obligation to contribute financially (or not), sharing expenses such as clothing and extra-curricular activities, and even wills and estate planning with stepkids involved. Here's a full breakdown:

0:00 - 4:55 - Catch up, wine adventures, odd noises @ our airbnb
4:55 - 6:00 - Intro to Stepmom financial planning complexities
6:00 - 11:15 - Finance convos to have early in your relationship & accepting child and spousal support amounts
11:15 - 16:30 - general financial obligations of a stepmom
16:50 - 23:00 - School clothes & supplies financials
23:00 - 26:00 - Items disappearing at the other households
26:00 - 28:00 - Expenses for kids over 18
28:00 - 30:30 - Beneficiaries & Stepmom obligations if losing a spouse
30:30 - 35:45 - Powers of Attorney & Next of Kin, Medical Events
35:45 - The end - Instagram Q&A on Financials for Stepmoms (Earning more than your partner, Changes in Custody & Financial Obligations, Large Expenses, Room Decorations)

Minisode | Manipulative BM, No Court Order, Bed-Wetting, & Behavior Concerns

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 17:45:00 -0300

Our mini-episodes are entirely dedicated to sharing YOUR story. Each episode features one submission from our followers where we read the situation and give our take. In this episode, we unpack a complicated situation where there is no court order in place and a biomom who seems to want to make changes on the fly that are convenient for her. This situation is causing things like bed-wetting, behavior challenges, and schoolwork declines in the 8-year-old stepson.

Also, a little humble brag, we were recently featured on a "Top 15 Stepmom Podcasts" list, and we are so grateful! Check out the full list of other amazing resources as well here: https://blog.feedspot.com/step_mom_podcasts/

Parental Alienation & Always Feeling Defensive

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 19:12:00 -0300

Parental Alienation is defined as "something which primarily occurs during a high-conflict divorce in which the child identifies strongly with one parent, usually the custodial parent. The other parent is hated and rejected without any justifiable reason, such as abuse." (Source: WebMD). If you have ever found yourself asking any of these questions... this episode is for you; why does my stepkid dislike me so much? what is their parent actually saying about me that's untrue? or why does it seem like my stepkid is incapable of forming their own opinion?

We dig into the depths of what parental alienation actually is and then highlight many reasons why scenarios like this might cause a stepmom to feel as though she is constantly on the defense.

Source Material and Recommended Links:

https://www.socialworktoday.com/archive/102708p26.shtml
https://blendedfamilyfrappe.com/parental-alienation-resources-stepparents
Book Recommendation: The Subtle Art of not Giving a F*ck
Book Recommendation: Adult Children of Parental Alienation Syndrome: Breaking the Ties That Bind

Growing up w/ ADHD & Autism Spectrum Disorder: Inside the mind with guest, Austin

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 12:13:00 -0300

In this episode, we have a special guest! Bailey's 25-year-old brother Austin joins us. Austin was diagnosed with ADHD at age 7, and Asperger's Syndrome (now formally called Autism Spectrum Disorder) at age 14. He gives us all a glimpse into his childhood journey and discusses the challenges he had in school, making friends, and even now as an adult. We also talk about Bailey's stepson, who was diagnosed with ADHD and the role stepmoms could or should play in some of these larger medical decisions and management.

We also discuss:

IEPs
504
Different types of behavioral challenges

For more information on Autism Spectrum Disorder: https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/aspergers-syndrome

For more information on ADHD/ADD: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/index.html

For more information on getting an IEP for your child, we like: https://www.sheknows.com/parenting/articles/955753/how-to-get-an-iep-for-your-child-special-ed/, and https://www.verywellfamily.com/how-to-get-an-iep-for-your-child-3106880.

Back to School, Stepmom Involvement, Events, & Disengaging

Sun, 22 Aug 2021 20:49:00 -0300

We're discussing all things school-related for stepmoms in this episode. Here's a full list of topics covered:

Back to School
Stepmom Involvement
Stepmom School Rights
Registration
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Homework Management
School Events
Graduations
Disengaging

Being the Uncool House & Parallel vs. Co vs. Counter Parenting

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 22:48:00 -0300

In this episode, we talk a lot about being the strict house or the uncool house, and the major differences between parallel parenting, co-parenting, and counter-parenting. Here are some time-stamped topics:

0:00-6:00: Alyse & Bailey catch up, discuss this weekend's AZ stepmom happy hour, and discuss cocktails.
6:00-9:35:The differences between parallel, co-parenting, and counter-parenting
9:35-10:50: Bailey breaks down what type of parenting (ish) they have & being the strict household.
10:50-12:50: Intermission (LOL) Alyse shares a random sweet stepdad encounter that successfully co-parents.
12:50-15:38: Discussing tense parenting
15:38-19:15: Different houses, different rules, handling major household disagreements, crazy transition schedules, lack of consistency between households.
19:15-22:00: Rule communication with your spouse & unexpected rule changes
22:00-24:00: Article discussion: Counter vs. Coparents.
24:00-27:00: Is there such thing as avoidance parenting? And what about the chores? And different parenting styles?
27:00-End: Answering Instagram questions & expectations around how we should be treated. Get your boundaries right with your man

Custody, Child Support, Stepmom Rights & Advice w/ Family Law Attorney, Koryn Sheppard

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 13:07:00 -0300

Episode topic guide:

Custody & Evaluations [3:00]
Stepmom Involvement & Rights [5:34]
How Koryn's perspective as a family law attorney has changed since becoming a stepmom [9:30]
Schedule Changes, Schedule Rule Breakers [13:50]
Changing Custody Agreements [18:00]
Household & Value Differences vs. Legal Problems [23:50]
When Kids Can Give Input on Whom they Live With [26:50]
Manipulation & Alienation with the Kids [30:20]
Child Support - Determination & Changes [37:00]
Stepmoms & Social Media, Text Messages [41:00]

*DISCLAIMER* This episode is NOT legal advice and is not to take the place of any conversations with an attorney. This information is simply a perspective from a fellow stepmom. For advice on how to handle your specific situation, please contact a licensed attorney in your state.

Parenting Coordinators, HCBM Wisdom, & Handling Accusations

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 19:53:00 -0300

Now for the fun stuff: In this episode, we talk with Alex, a newly married, childless stepmom with THREE bonus kiddos. Alex has recognized a gap in the stepmom community around a particular topic: Parenting Coordinators. A parenting coordinator is appointed when two parties (parents) can't agree on how to manage the kids' lives. Their bedtimes, their haircuts, transition itineraries - you name it. Most of the time, a parenting coordinator is involved in the ultimate HIGH CONFLICT situation, so of course, you'll hear more about that, how to keep your composure, and Alex's take on how to be the best stepmom but putting the kids and their needs first without sacrificing your own sanity. Spoiler alert: your mindset is your most powerful tool.

Disengaging, Parenting Disagreements, & Tough Convos w/ your Partner

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 17:06:00 -0300

In this episode, we unpack the idea of disengaging (together in person for the first time!). The how, the why, the when. With the kids, with the bio mom, or even with parenting in your own house. We also touch on how to handle disagreements in parenting with your SO, and share how we have handled those conversations in the past (with care... and some bribes?).

Feeling Insecure & Compared, and Discipline vs. Respect

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 10:54:00 -0300

We've all dealt with some kind of insecurities in our lives, especially in a stepmom role. In this episode, we touch on feedback directly from followers on how they've felt uncertain and insecure. We give you our best advice on how to handle feeling compared, how to be more confident in your role, and how to earn the respect of your stepkids.

Inside a Stepdaughter’s Mind & Things to Avoid for Stepmoms

Mon, 17 May 2021 21:44:00 -0300

So many of us wish we knew what it was like to walk a mile in our stepkids' shoes or just hear raw and real feelings from the horse's mouth. What should we do? What should we avoid? What are things we do to make their lives harder or easier? What were the most awkward moments about being in a blended family growing up? Now, you get the chance. Meet Zoé, Bailey's 20-year-old stepdaughter in this episode. We asked her all the toughest and most awkward questions our audience had for her. She's been a "stepdaughter" officially for almost 3 years but has lived with Bailey for almost 7, in a 50/50 custody living arrangement.

Mother’s Day as a Stepmom & Unfiltered Feelings About It

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 19:48:00 -0300

Mother's Day gives us mixed feelings. For some of us, it's a day of celebration and time with our family. For others, it's a day filled with sadness and disappointment. With two diverse dynamics, Alyse and Bailey explore Mother's Day both as a stepmom with an "ours" baby and as a childless stepmom. Most importantly, we give YOUR feedback and feelings from Instagram their own light, by reading direct comments from our followers when asked "What does Mother's Day mean to you?"

Lastly, there were two products discussed in this episode, and you can find them here:

Bailey's Favorite Box of Assorted Cards: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08V1415XJ?pd_rd_i=B08V1415XJ&pd_rd_w=DAfz8&pf_rd_p=ee186ce0-6bf7-4893-85b9-f3368b019e0f&pd_rd_wg=kvjG7&pf_rd_r=M1QX6FP58J0SXZZVY3WN&pd_rd_r=e38a857a-4414-4969-a0dd-e1126e70cc31

Kendra Scott Necklace (Bailey's go-to gift for literally any woman who loves jewelry): https://www.kendrascott.com/products/tess-rsg.html?dwvar_tess-rsg_stoneColor=970#start=96

Choosing Happy, InstaMOM Challenges, Boundaries w/ BM, & Instagram Q’s

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 19:56:00 -0300

In this episode, a good friend and fellow stepmom Kali joins us to discuss how she dealt with becoming an InstaMOMMY to her 4 stepkids when she and her husband met, followed by having a child of her own. She also shares with us (and luckily all of you) how she has managed to have a great relationship with the bio mom in her life. Having a great relationship with a bio mom is what we all want, but are there challenges with that too? You betchya. Kali shares with us how she holds boundaries with her husband, stepkids, and biomom to feel peace and harmony in a very complex situation.

Woven throughout this episode are also answers to many of your questions submitted on Instagram. Including (but def not limited to):

Balancing your needs with your stepkids
How to handle disengaging and avoiding feelings of resent towards your stepkids, partner, or bio-parent
Dealing with high-conflict situations & staying sane
How our families embraced our stepkids & what that looks like
Outsider feelings from other "moms"
Avoiding becoming a full mediator between your partner and their ex
Saying "no" more often
The people who say "you knew what you were getting into"

Sneaky Teenagers, Cell Phones, Social Media & Maintaining Sanity

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 12:25:00 -0300

Being a parent to any kid is rewarding and hard all at the same time. But the teenage years? Buckle up, babes. In this episode, we share some of the best stories from our stepkids' teenage years, talk about the challenges with step-parenting and cell phones, social media, ETC. Join us for a few laughs, a few "oh my gosh she did not" moments, and our best tips on how to maintain sane during these years.

Discipline, resent, COVID homeschooling & outsider feelings w/ full-time stepmom Joslynn Flowers

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 23:32:00 -0300

We had the pleasure of having Joslynn Flowers, host of the Daily Stepmom Podcast on this episode, and it was wonderful! Joslynn is a full-time stepmom and brings a different perspective to our listeners. We let all our guards down and talked about disciplining your stepkids, feeling resent as a stepmom, homeschooling during COVID, feeling like an outsider, and just overall had a great chat.

A StepDAD’s Perspective on Love, Challenges, & Embarrassing Stories

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 14:09:00 -0300

This episode is packed full of fun. We'll start off by Bailey finally sharing what her step-daughter found in one of her tampon boxes (WOOPS! Parenting high over here...). Additionally, have you ever been curious as to whether or not being a stepDAD is just as hard as being a stepMOM? We were too! In this episode, you get the chance to meet Bailey's stepdad, Steve, hear about what it was like coming into a full-time step-parent role, and get to know his story a little more. He'll share tips for knowing your role in the house, talk through challenges during the teenager years, how he grew to love his step-daughter, what it was like having an "ours" baby, knowing when to "keep ya mouth shut", and setting boundaries with discipline, even in a full-time role.

Handling the Haters

Sat, 06 Mar 2021 20:40:00 -0400

Listen - haters are inevitable as a stepmom. It might be the bio mom who hates you simply for marrying her ex, it might be the kids who resent you for trying to be their new mom, it may even be your husband's family, or anyone in the world. They feel justified in their feelings and we are here to tell you how we handle it all. You can't please everyone, but we need to stay sane and support each other.

Boundaries, No Nips Rules, & ”Alone-time” Mishaps

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 20:00:00 -0400

How do you set boundaries with your stepkids? Your partner? The bio mom? We still aren't sure we have it 100% right, but our stumbles along the way are now for your entertainment. Hear how we set boundaries in our homes to keep sane.

Bio-Dad Perspectives on Having a Wife & Ex-Wife

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 16:00:00 -0400

There are two sides to every story, and this week, we invited our husbands to tell their side. We dig in with them on what it was like to bring another "mom" into the picture, what some of the challenges they had were, and what advice they might give to others.

Co-Parenting & Communication with the Ex, Birthdays & Holidays

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 15:00:00 -0400

In this episode we deep-dive into the different communication styles Alyse and Bailey have (or don't have) with the bio-mom. We talk through co-parenting challenges, how we handle birthdays, sporting events, and holidays... and most importantly: how we stay sane through it all.

Childless Stepmoms vs. Having an ”Ours” Baby

Sun, 24 Jan 2021 19:00:00 -0400

The decision to have a baby with your significant other is deeply personal and when you're blending into a family with children already, it can get complicated. In this episode, you'll get to hear two completely different perspectives and scenarios on having an "ours" baby.

Moving in Together and Blending Your Family

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 19:00:00 -0400

Moving into a blended home and building an environment for all to thrive can be... HARD. There's no getting around that. On this episode we discuss all the challenges that come along with blending a home, moving into the marital home, and eventually having a home you call "ours".

Meet Bailey and Alyse, The Stepmonsters

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 16:00:00 -0400

Bailey and Alyse are stepmoms to two kids each, and each with their own stories, challenges, laughs, and advice to give. Listen in as we discuss some of the most discussed topics between stepmoms and dads alike.