Blended Family Breakthrough

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 disconnection and pain, it was challenging to sort out how to move forward.

That's a frustrating place to be.  It can sometimes feel confusing or even hopeless.

In this episode, we'll share some painful moments where we felt stuck and how we discovered the difference between engaging in counseling and coaching and the benefits of each at different seasons of our journey.

The great news is there wasn't anything "wrong" with us that we couldn't work through with a little help!

If you're feeling stuck in the complex realities of blending, you aren't alone and you don't have to stay stuck either.  Listen in to discover the best approach for getting the help you need today!

You'll Discover:

• Distinct benefits and differences between counseling and coaching 
• How Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE's) from the past might be impacting your present reality
• How to get unstuck and move toward positive growth
• Personal questions to help determine the best support for you

Resources from this Episode:

• Article from Cleveland Clinic:  Adverse Child Experiences (ACEs)
• Counselors & Coaches with Stepfamily Training 
• Episode 165. How important is your mindset when it comes to blended family life?

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 for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

Subscribe or Follow the Show 

Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  

Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Click here to follow on Spotify

Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts

If you’re feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they’re fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

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 for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/free-call

Subscribe or Follow the Show 

Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  

Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Click here to follow on Spotify

Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts

If you’re feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they’re fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

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 episode, you'll discover a few truths about grief that you probably haven't considered before — plus the positive impact of allowing yourself and your kids to embrace your unique grief journey. 

Our special guest, Krista St-Germain, shares her personal experience of unexpected loss and critical realities that she's discovered about grief.  

Krista's traumatic circumstances eventually led her on a journey of hope and healing.   As a life coach, she now devotes herself to equipping others with powerful tools to manage grief and love life again — and to help their kids do the same. 

Understanding the impact of loss and grief and creating opportunities to heal together is essential for blended families.  That's why we're excited to welcome Krista to the show!

You'll Discover:

• How to normalize what's normal about loss and grief 
• The reality of grief being a natural human response to a perceived loss
• How to help your kids acknowledge and process grief
• What is trauma and post-traumatic growth

Resources from this Episode:

• Click this link to Connect with Krista St-Germain
• Episode 168. Actionable Steps for Helping Kids Navigate Through Difficult Emotions and Problem Solve
•  Episode  132.  How Does Loss and Grief Impact Blended Family Integration?

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 for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

Subscribe or Follow the Show 

Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  

Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Click here to follow on Spotify

Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts

If you’re feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they’re fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

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 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 for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/free-call

Subscribe or Follow the Show 

Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  

Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Click here to follow on Spotify

Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts

If you’re feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they’re fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

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 possible to cope with my discomfort and distress, but when it comes to this specific person or certain challenging circumstance, I just get so frustrated, hurt, or angry!"

We've both felt that way along our journey as well.

That's why we're continuing our discussion in this 2 part series.  In this episode, we're offering practical ways to withstand 'Opposing Obstacles' — those people or circumstances that leave you feeling powerless, overwhelmed, hopeless, or defeated.

We'll share some challenges we experienced with our biggest Opposing Obstacle and effective ways to approach difficult interactions and painful situations — which can ultimately help you tolerate and manage your discomfort and distress too!

You'll Discover:

• The value of 'Radical Self-Care' (it's not what you might think)
• How to guard yourself from other people's bad moods - and not allow their problems to become yours
• Practical ways to withstand 'Opposing Obstacles' and respond well to  criticism, rejection, and hostility
• How to hold onto your power in challenging situations - and experience more joy 

Resources from this Episode:

• Click here for episodes that focus on impactful strategies and best practices with Co-Parenting
• To learn more about our RelateStrong Program, click and schedule your FREE coaching call

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 for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

Subscribe or Follow the Show 

Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  

Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Click here to follow on Spotify

Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts

If you’re feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they’re fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

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 and struggled through intense moments of distress as well.  One thing we've discovered is that these difficult experiences don't have to rob us of the peace and satisfaction we really want.

Discomfort and distress are simply part of the journey — and they're hard to cope with.  But even in the midst of these moments, we each have the power to choose how we will respond.

In this episode, you'll discover a few mindsets and approaches to dealing with discomfort and distress so that you can be free to enjoy the good moments with more confidence and peace.

You'll Discover:

• Why it's critical in blended dynamics to tolerate and manage discomfort and distress 
• How to move away from avoidance and  unhealthy reactions that perpetuate underlying issues 
• A practical approach to reduce your discomfort and distress  

Resources from this Episode:

• Take the Blended Family Breakthrough QUIZ
• Check out the Blending Together Community
• Episode 107. 3 Disheartening Realities That No Couple Wants To Go Through - But We All Have To
• Episode 184. The Heart of Motherhood:  Navigating Messy Moments with Empathy and Love
• Episode 168. Actionable Steps for Helping Kids Navigate Through Difficult Emotions and Problem Solve
• Episode 172. 2 Key Elements to Resolve Your Parenting Style Differences - And Get United
• Episode 59. Why are you stuck in a parent-child allegiance? (Part 1)

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 for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

Subscribe or Follow the Show 

Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  

Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Click here to follow on Spotify

Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts

If you’re feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast.  Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

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 for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/free-call

Subscribe or Follow the Show 

Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  

Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Click here to follow on Spotify

Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts

If you’re feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they’re fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

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 blending families often feel like they get in the way of you making the impact you really want to make.

I get that feeling, and so does Gil Stuart, our guest for this episode.  Gil is a dad and stepdad who has experienced the ups and downs of blending 7 kids along with his wife, Brenda.  Gil is a counselor, author, speaker, and down-to-earth guy.

If you want to discover new ways to build trust and influence in your home, this episode is for you.

You'll Discover:

• A healthy mindset around commitment, influence, trustability, and connection
• How to create emotional safety and avoid relational damage
• Understanding the 'Rock-and-A-Hard-Place' dilemma - and navigating it well
• The importance of unity and flexibility
• Practical tips for loving well in challenging situations 

Resources from this Episode:

• Click here to connect with Gil
• For more information on Unsung Heroes

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 for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

Subscribe or Follow the Show 

Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  

Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Click here to follow on Spotify

Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts

If you’re feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they’re fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

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 need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/free-call

Subscribe or Follow the Show 

Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  

Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Click here to follow on Spotify

Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts

If you’re feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they’re fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!

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 to understand why.

Maybe the kids are acting out or shutting down and it's hard to explain to everyone around you.  Or maybe there's ongoing chaos stirred up by a difficult Ex and everyone's "advice" doesn't seem to be helpful.

The truth is, regardless of the challenges you're facing — you are NOT alone! 

In this episode, we're connecting with a couple from our blended family support community.  Chris and Nicole are one of our founding members who felt "isolated" and "horrible" before getting connected to our community.

Listen in to discover how a community of other blended couples can empower you to make a difference in your home — just like Chris and Nicole who didn't stay stuck in their pain and confusion.  

if you've ever felt alone in your blending journey, this is the episode for you.  And who knows, you might discover that a community focused on growth, practical tools, and genuine support could be exactly what you're looking for.

Resources from this Episode:

• JOIN the Blending Together Community 
• 166. Empowering Benefits of A Blended Family Community — and How to Get Plugged In
• Episode 139. The Most Common, Challenging Pain Point  Every Blended Couple Experiences (Trapped Teammate & Stranded Stranger Dynamic)

 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 for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence, and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

Subscribe or Follow the Show 

Are you subscribed or following the podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you do that today so you don't miss a single episode.  

Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Click here to follow on Spotify

Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts

If you’re feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they’re fun for us to read too! :-)  Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and then select “Write a Review” — let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Thank you, we really appreciate your feedback!