Stepmum Space

Episode 13: Stepping Back: Rejection, Fall Outs & the Pain of Feeling Out of Control as a Stepmum


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For stepmum support, tools, workshops and coaching, visit: https://stepmumspace.com

If you’ve ever felt rejected by your stepchildren, unsure how to “step back,” or stuck between two completely different versions of family life, this episode will speak straight to your experience. Lucy opens up about the emotional reality of raising her two “ours” babies while navigating complex dynamics with her stepchildren — including the fall outs, the guilt and the moments of feeling totally out of control.

In this episode, Katie speaks with Lucy about the differing feelings she has toward her stepkids and her two biological children. With her babies arriving very early in the relationship, Lucy reflects on how this shaped her stepchildren’s behaviour, the emotional climate in the home, and her own identity as both a mum and a stepmum.

They explore the two parallel family systems Lucy lives in — the “ours” family of four, and the “whole” family of six — and what it really feels like to move between them every week. Lucy shares her thoughts on stepping back when emotions run high, navigating rejection, managing house rules, and finding your way back after arguments.

This is an honest, relatable conversation for any stepmum feeling stretched, conflicted or unsure how to hold all the different versions of family life at once.

In This Episode We Explore:

  • The emotional difference between parenting your children vs. your stepchildren
  • How bringing babies into the relationship early impacts the stepfamily dynamic
  • The challenges of moving between a family of four and a family of six
  • What “stepping back” really looks like — and why it’s so hard
  • Feeling rejected by stepkids and how to navigate the hurt
  • Why stepmums often feel powerless or out of control
  • Coming back from arguments and rebuilding connection

If You Need Support
Book a free introductory coaching call: https://www.stepmumspace.com/booking

Learn more about Katie’s work: https://www.stepmumspace.com

Keywords:
struggling stepmum, stepmum rejection, stepping back as a stepmum, ours baby dynamics, mixed family feelings, stepmum fall outs, stepmum lack of control, blended family challenges, stepmum podcast, emotional support for stepmums

Helpful Links:
Stepmum Space website: https://stepmumspace.com

Instagram: @stepmumspace
1:1 Coaching & Couples Coaching: https://stepmumspace.com

You’re not wrong for finding this hard — you’re human, and you deserve support.

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Stepmum SpaceBy Katie South