They say when life gives you lemons you should make lemonade. Making lemonade is not always easy or possible. For us, we found ourselves single in our 40's with kids at home and starting life over again. Luckily we found each other, online no doubt. When we began blending families, schedules, traditions, and laundry, we discovered lots of lemons. Our podcast is a reflection on how we get through the hard times and enjoy the good times on our new journey together, all with ten kids in tow. So ...
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We're Mike and Kim Anderson and we believe in a world where blended families experience a future full of hope, connection, and peace. That's why we focus on helping couples in stepfamilies move from a place of confusion and conflict to a life of confidence and connection. Thanks for joining us to discover how you can live the blended family life you really want! If you've been following us for a while — yes, we recently changed the podcast name from "The Blended Family Coaching Show" to "Ble ...
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Welcome to the Blended Kingdom Families Podcast! If you are in need of resources that deal with remarriage, step-parenting, co-parenting, preparing to blend, or divorce-proofing your marriage, we are here to serve you! Blended Kingdom Families is a step-family ministry that is committed to providing resources for individuals, families, and churches by implementing biblical foundations and practical tips. Our mission is to break the generational cycle of divorce, equip marriages, and unite bl ...
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There are over 60 ways a family can become blended. It is not just from divorce and the navigation of these circumstances can be difficult in a time of beautiful healing and changes.
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After involvement with the same man, Wifey, Shun and Baby Mama, Shannon have formed a unique bond to keep their children and family united in spite of society norms that tend to pit one against the other.
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A blended family is such an important topic because it’s dealing with so many lives, not just that of you and your spouse. You have your kids and your spouses kids of course, but you also have the other sets of parents to contend with (if there is shared custody). With so many cooks in the kitchen, it can make sanity hard to come by on some days. We can lose our way in the midst of chaos, jealousy, insecurity, frustration, anger, confusion, miscommunication, and power struggles. This podcast ...
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In this blended family podcast, hosts Cody and Jen will discuss the ins and outs of parenting, stepparenting and navigating the tumultuous relationships that come with being blended. This podcast is for grown ups, so if you're a bio parent or a stepparent looking for someone to relate to, laugh with, or sometimes at, while learning something along the way, then this is the podcast for you! Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unqualified-parenting/support
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190. Where can you turn for help? Understand the Difference Between Counseling and Coaching
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I (Mike) have had so many moments of just feeling stuck. I wondered how we would ever move forward and I figured out pretty early on that I wouldn't be able to sort out all the complex chaos without some support. The problem was, I had no idea what kind of support we needed. And when we were stuck in unhealthy patterns that kept leading to disconne…
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Unhealthy Co-Parenting from a Teen's Perspective
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In this episode, Unhealthy Co-Parenting from a Teen's Perspective, Vanessa Martindale interviews Blended Kingdom Teens (BKT) ambassador Sidney Chaplin. Enjoy this encouraging discussion about common toxic co-parenting behaviors and how to avoid them. Sidney shares her experiences and offers practical tips for maintaining a healthy co-parenting rela…
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#6.12 Men are from Mars, Women from Venus Part 2
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On the latest episode of "Where's The Lemonade?", hosts Darren and Paige found themselves delving into the intricate terrain of gender differences, specifically relating to cognitive and behavioral attributes. Armed with a curious spirit and armed with an engaging quiz, they navigated the topic like explorers charting unknown waters. Tackling the T…
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Simple Step: How to Respond to a Child's Grief
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Suggest a Topic or Ask a Question Would you like us to discuss something specific or answer your question on the show? Let us know! We've made it easy. Just click here: https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/share Ready for some extra support? We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help. You can connect with us…
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Healthy Co-Parenting from a Teen's Perspective
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Join us in this insightful episode of the BKF Podcast, Healthy Co-Parenting from a Teen's Perspective as Vanessa interviews Sidney Chaplin, a Blended Kingdom Teens ambassador, about healthy co-parenting from a teen’s perspective. Sidney shares her experiences and offers valuable advice for parents navigating co-parenting relationships. From setting…
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189. Bringing Hope to the Realities of Grief: A Path to Understanding and Healing [with Krista St-Germain]
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It's hard to accept that grief is simply a part of every blended family's journey. But that's your reality because everyone in your family has experienced some kind of loss along the way. If you aren't able to acknowledge grief and create a safe space to process through it, you'll miss out on valuable opportunities that lead to healing. In this epi…
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Join us on this episode, Are you Co-Parenting with a Narcissist, as Scott and Vanessa discuss the complexities co-parenting relationships can have with a narcissist in blended families. They also provide insights into understanding narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and the impact it can have on co-parenting dynamics. They offer practical advi…
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Resources: Episode 20. 4 Big Myths About Parenting When an Ex Has Different Rules Episode 187. Basics for Blending: How to Tolerate and Manage Discomfort and Distress (Part 1) Episode 188. Basics for Blending: How to Tolerate and Manage Discomfort and Distress (Part 2) Suggest a Topic or Ask a Question Would you like us to discuss something specifi…
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How to Handle a Toxic Co-Parent: Practical Advice
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Welcome back to the Blended Kingdom Families Podcast! In this episode, How to Handle a Toxic Co-Parent: Practical Advice, we dive deep into the challenging world of co-parenting and discuss how to avoid toxic behaviors that can harm your blended family's dynamic. Join Scott and Vanessa as they share practical tips to help you navigate co-parenting …
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#6.11 Men are from Mars. Women from Venus Part 1
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Paige finds a Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus quiz online and Darren and Paige take the quiz and reveal some interesting differences between men and women. Revealing Our Distinctiveness Through A Lighthearted Lens It is often hard to understand what your wife or husband really wants, thinks, needs, feels or does. This quiz is light-hearted …
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188. Basics for Blending: How to Tolerate and Manage Discomfort and Distress (Part 2)
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Discomfort and distress are common experiences for those of us navigating blended dynamics. One key to learning to manage discomfort and distress well is practicing some simple strategies that acknowledge what you're actually experiencing and then choosing clear, healthy responses. Now, we know what you're probably thinking… …"I've done everything …
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Master Co-Parenting: Transform Conflicts into Cooperation with These Tips
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Discover the transformative power of effective co-parenting in our latest episode, Master Co-Parenting: Transform Conflicts into Cooperation with These Tips! Join us as we delve into practical strategies and encouraging truths for navigating the complexities of co-parenting with love and respect. Whether newly separated or looking to improve your c…
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187. Basics for Blending: How to Tolerate and Manage Discomfort and Distress (Part 1)
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What if every moment of blended family life felt fun, connected, and peaceful? It's pretty hard to imagine. We all know the struggles and challenges that barrage us each day. It might seem like there's way more discomfort and distress than there is fun and connection. We've navigated countless seasons of discomfort over the past couple of decades a…
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Co-Parenting with Love as a Verb: Strategies for Harmonious Parenting
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Unlock the secrets to successful co-parenting in our latest episode, Co-Parenting with Love as a Verb: Strategies for Harmonious Parenting! Learn practical strategies to foster a loving, supportive environment for your children and bonus children, even after separation or divorce. Scott and Vanessa discuss the importance of viewing love as an actio…
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Darren and Paige have 4 grandkids. 8, 5, 3 and 6 months. They are so fun to be around and it is so fun to see our kids be parents. They were just talking about how so much has changed since they had babies. From childbirth, what to feed your babies, how to raise them, parent involvement etc.. Let’s explore the differences and see if these differenc…
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Suggest a Topic or Ask a Question Would you like us to discuss something specific or answer your question on the show? Let us know! We've made it easy. Just click here: https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/share Ready for some extra support? We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help. You can connect with us…
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Summer Transitions and Best Practices for Blended Families
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Summer can bring new challenges for blended families as routines change and kids move between households. In this episode, Summer Transitions and Best Practices for Blended Families, Scott and Vanessa share valuable strategies and tips to help families navigate summer transitions smoothly. From planning quality time with all children to nurturing y…
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186. How to Build an Atmosphere of Trust and Influence as a Stepfather [with Gil Stuart]
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Hey Stepdads — ever wonder if you're "winning or losing" in your role at home? Most stepdads I meet genuinely want to build trust with their stepkids and influence them toward success in life. But sometimes it feels like there's a bit too much chaos in the home — or you're not quite on the same page with your wife. The typical challenges of blendin…
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In this episode, Finding Hope in the Storm, Vanessa, Kristen, and Dan have an inspiring roundtable discussion about finding hope and joy in the midst of life's challenges. They share powerful Bible verses that have encouraged them during difficult seasons and provide practical tips for staying grounded in God's truth. Whether you are facing a diffi…
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Darren and Paige celebrate summer with a house full of teenagers and young adults, which makes the summer busy and fun. As their kids transition into adulthood, scheduling and managing expectations can be difficult. Listen to their approach to this tricky time for parents and children. Paige and Darren just graduated, Sam. He will be headed off to …
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#6.8 Have fun on your work cruise!!! Without me!!
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Darren recently returned from a “work cruise” while Paige was left at home to hold down the fort. Darren frequently travels for work and, when not traveling, works from home, so it is all or nothing. How does this impact their relationship? How do they handle the separation? Does Paige party and look forward to Darren being gone?? Does Darren party…
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Simple Step: Where do you get sound advice?
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Join our Blending Together Community https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/blendingtogether Suggest a Topic or Ask a Question Would you like us to discuss something specific or answer your question on the show? Let us know! We've made it easy. Just click here: https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/share Ready for some extra support? We all …
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3 Tips for Better Stress Management in Blended Families
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Stress is a common challenge in blended families, but it doesn't have to control your life. In this podcast episode, 3 Tips for Better Stress Management in Blended Families, Scott and Vanessa share 3 practical tips for managing stress through spiritual intimacy, physical activity, and setting healthy boundaries. Enjoy this discussion as you learn h…
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185. Overcome Isolation and Loneliness By Plugging Into a Supportive Community
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Have the challenges of blending a family ever left you feeling alone? Maybe you've felt like you're the only one experiencing the unique realities of blended family life. Maybe you're struggling with parenting complexities and your friends just don't get it. Or communication is tense in your couple relationship and your extended family can't seem t…
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In this podcast episode, Sex and Intimacy - An Honest Discussion, Scott and Vanessa discuss the importance of physical intimacy in marriage and how to navigate challenges that can arise, such as stress, life transitions, and physical or emotional barriers. They encourage couples in blended families to prioritize open communication, cultivate intent…
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Simple Step: Celebration and Support for Stepmoms
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Resources Check out our Blending Together Community Episode 157. 3 Seasoned Stepmoms Share How They've Survived & Thrived in Their Blended Family Journey Suggest a Topic or Ask a Question Would you like us to discuss something specific or answer your question on the show? Let us know! We've made it easy. Just click here: https://www.blendedfamilybr…
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God's Grace: 20 Million Lives Changed Forever
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In this podcast episode, God's Grace: 20 Million Lives Changed Forever, Vanessa and Dan discuss the growth and impact of the Blended Kingdom Families (BKF) ministry over the past 4 years. They share their personal journeys, celebrate the impact of God through BKF for millions of blended families, discuss challenges of ministry work, and the excitin…
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This week, Darren and Paige join forces for the first cross-over episode of Embracing Digital Transformation and Where's The Lemonade. They talk about GenAI in the household and how it can help manage a big, complex family. Embracing the Future with Generative AI Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) is not a thing of the future but a present …
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184. The Heart of Motherhood: Navigating Messy Moments with Empathy and Love
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Hey Moms and Stepmoms! As this episode drops, I'm betting that Mother's Day is on your radar. If you're anything like me (Kim), you're looking forward to being celebrated. But as wonderful as it is to be appreciated on Mother's Day, it might just feel like a drop in the bucket… …because being celebrated and appreciated on this one day of the year, …
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Increasing Masculine and Feminine Energy in Your Marriage
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In this insightful podcast episode, Increasing Masculine and Feminine Energy in Your Marriage, Scott and Vanessa discuss the importance of embracing masculine and feminine energies in marriage and blended family life. They share personal experiences and provide practical advice on how couples can promote and nurture these God-given qualities within…
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Simple Step: Build Your Parenting Partnership
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Ready to join the Blending Together Community? Just click this link to get started: https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/blendingtogether Suggest a Topic or Ask a Question Would you like us to discuss something specific or answer your question on the show? Let us know! We've made it easy. Just click here: https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.…
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Breaking Your Phone Addiction: Reclaiming Intimacy in Your Blended Family Marriage
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In this episode, Breaking Your Phone Addiction: Reclaiming Intimacy in Your Blended Family Marriage, Vanessa and Scott discuss the challenges of cell phone usage and how screen time can impact blended family marriages and parenting. They discuss their own past struggles with managing screen time and provide thoughtful advice to help you manage scre…
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Shannon and Shun say goodbye to season three with gratitude, and give hints for season four and other projects in the pipeline.By Shannon Brazil
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#6.6 True Crime!!! Why do we love it so much???
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Darren and Paige delve into the topic of True Crime entertainment, including podcasts, documentaries, and books. They discuss the reasons behind the fact that women make up the largest demographic of listeners and viewers in this genre. Encountering Evil from Safety True crime stories echo our deepest fears and curiosities about the most disturbing…
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183. What's the difference between "coupleness" and "familyness" and why does it matter?
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Does it ever feel like you have a bit of a double life going? You have those moments when it's just you and your partner and it feels like all is right with the world… …but suddenly, when one or both sets of kids enter the scene — everything seems to fall apart! That's because when it comes to blended families, "coupleness" does NOT necessarily equ…
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In this episode, How to Overcome Infidelity in Marriage, Scott and Vanessa dive deep into the challenging topic of infidelity and blended family marriage. They share personal experiences and offer practical advice for couples seeking to rebuild trust and restore relationships after betrayal. This episode covers topics including the importance of tr…
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Shun and Shannon discuss the give/take, ups/downs, and ebbs/flows of relationships and keeping a balance.By Shannon Brazil
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#6.5 Embarking on an Adventure: Traveling with Teens
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Darren and Paige report on a trip with their 18 year old getting ready to graduate this spring. His last spring trip before we send him off to college in the Fall. Listen to their tips and tricks to travelling with teens in Europe. We all know that family vacations are meant to relax, unwind, and spend some quality time with our loved ones. But, ho…
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Simple Step: Collaborative Family Leadership
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Resources: When you and your partner hit a leadership bump in the road and you're struggling to stay connected and communicate effectively, pause and honestly ask yourself these 3 questions: Am I really listening to my partner and affirming their perspective…or am I quick to disagree? Am I curious about what my partner might be experiencing…or have…
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Navigating Complex Blended Family Dynamics with Faith and Patience
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In this episode of the Blended Kingdom Families podcast, Navigating Complex Blended Family Dynamics with Faith and Patience, Vanessa and Jessica have an honest and emotional conversation about Jessica's unique blended family experiences. After the unexpected loss of Jessica's sister-in-law, Jessica and her husband found themselves in an unexpected …
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#6.4 Co-parenting, Money, and Adult Children
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In the world of blended families, navigating issues related to co-parenting adult children can be complex and challenging. Some familiar questions might center on the financial responsibility of each parent in relation to costs like college fees, health insurance, and other unforeseen expenses. This post examines the convolutions faced by co-parent…
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Are we unfaithful out of greed or need? With returning guest James Harris, we break it down.By Shannon Brazil
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182. How to Lead Your Blended Family with Intentionality and Courage [with Mike Haney]
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I (Mike) take leadership very seriously. One of my desires, even in our current empty nest years is to be the kind of family leader that my children and stepchild want to connect with and listen to. But often I feel overwhelmed or frustrated as I lead my blended family. All the complexities can lead to confusion that robs me of the confidence and c…
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Dating Red Flags Revealed: Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
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In this episode, Dating Red Flags Revealed: Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore, Scott and Vanessa discuss the critical importance of recognizing pre-marriage red flags and determining non-negotiables in a potential spouse. They highlight common relationship red flags like differing spiritual foundations, unresolved past trauma, ongoing legal issues…
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Special guest Dee Dee joins us to discuss how to support your children in how they want to address the new bonus parent.By Shannon Brazil
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Simple Step: What to do when you're alone with your step-kids
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Resource Episode 25. How to Survive Time Alone with Your Step-Kids Suggest a Topic or Ask a Question Would you like us to discuss something specific or answer your question on the show? Let us know! We've made it easy. Just click here: https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/share Ready for some extra support? We all need some extra support along…
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How do you handle an ex-spouse who actively tries to undermine your new marriage? Scott and Vanessa Martindale tackle this topic in this week’s podcast. They provide proven strategies and tips for setting healthy boundaries, seeking professional counseling, fostering open communication with your spouse, and making your marriage a top priority. In a…
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Special guest Adria joins us to discuss the power of having a wonderful father in her life, who she doesn't refer to as "step".By Shannon Brazil
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181. Discover Insider Tips, Strategies, and Attitudes from One Dedicated Stepdad [with Special Guest Mike Haney]
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Stepdads need courage! Navigating all the complexities, confusion, and common frustrations is not for the faint-hearted. But it's not just courage stepdad's need, they also need community. Sure, lots of guys operate as if they can fix the challenges, untangle the complexities, and "be the hero" on their own — but most experience relief and reassura…
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Exposing Co-Parenting Traps: Narcissism & Alienation
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In this thought-provoking episode, Exposing Co-Parenting Traps: Narcissism and Alienation, Scott and Vanessa delve into the complex issue of Narcissistic Parental Alienation Syndrome (NPAS). They provide insights on recognizing the signs, confronting the situation, and finding healing for parents and children affected by this toxic form of co-paren…
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