In the blend

In this episode, we hear from repeat guest Ron Deal, a leading expert in blended family dynamics and co-author of Building Love Together in Blended Families with Dr. Gary Chapman. We explore how the Five Love Languages apply specifically to blended families, and the importance of these languages in building strong bonds.

Ron shares effective strategies for step-parents to bond with their stepchildren as well as common challenges blended families face in building love and connection.

The conversation also delves into tips for identifying and adapting to the different love languages of each family member, and offers valuable advice for new stepfamilies on implementing the Five Love Languages from the outset.

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In this favourite tips episode we rewind to a valuable conversation I had with stepmum specialist (aka The Stepmom Whisperer) Susan Haworth on setting boundaries with an ex-partner. Susan shared a strategy that emphasises the importance of evicting the third person from your marriage or partnership. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or simply unsure about handling ex-related dynamics, Susan's insights are sure to help you through.

For the full episode visit https://intheblend.com.au/podcast/susan-haworth-on-expert-advice-from-the-stepmom-whisperer/

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In this episode, we revisit a conversation I had with authors Daniella Rigon and Tracey Duff, creators of "Child-centred Co-Parenting." Tracy shared many valuable co-parenting tips during our chat, including how parenting plans made it easier for her to maintain a harmonious relationship with her ex.

If you're co-parenting, especially after a recent separation, Tracy’s insights will be incredibly insightful and practical.

Listen to the full episode: https://intheblend.com.au/podcast/tracy-duff-and-daniella-rigon-on-embracing-child-centred-co-parenting

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In this Favourite Tips episode we revisit a conversation I had with psychologist and author Rachel Brace, who has penned two children’s books relating to blended families: Harriet’s Expanding Heart and Max’s Divorce Earthquake. As part of our conversation she offered up some great ideas around how to use story to broach what can be ordinarily difficult conversations with your kids.

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During this chat, Caroline Neale shares her experiences and insights as a stepmother in a blended family. She emphasises some of her key learnings from over the years such as the importance of focusing on your partner and maintaining a strong connection, the challenges of balancing multiple roles and the need for clear communication and boundaries. Additionally, we cover the importance of supporting children with trauma and the value of emotional regulation.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

During this chat, Caroline Neale shares her experiences and insights as a stepmother in a blended family. She emphasises some of her key learnings from over the years such as the importance of focusing on your partner and maintaining a strong connection, the challenges of balancing multiple roles and the need for clear communication and boundaries. Additionally, we cover the importance of supporting children with trauma and the value of emotional regulation.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we hear from Jane Libbis, a lawyer and counsellor with experience in stepfamily issues. We cover children's living arrangements and visitation rights in blended families, factors considered by the courts, and the importance of the child's best interests. /the challenges of negotiating time with step-siblings and the impact of new partners on parenting arrangements is also explored. The conversation highlights the benefits of parenting plans and court orders, as well as the importance of effective communication and choosing battles wisely.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we hear from Jane Libbis, a lawyer and counsellor with experience in stepfamily issues. We cover children's living arrangements and visitation rights in blended families, factors considered by the courts, and the importance of the child's best interests. /the challenges of negotiating time with step-siblings and the impact of new partners on parenting arrangements is also explored. The conversation highlights the benefits of parenting plans and court orders, as well as the importance of effective communication and choosing battles wisely.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brittany Phillips shares her personal journey as a stepmum and certified step-family coach. She discusses the challenges of blending families, including sibling rivalry and different parenting styles. Brittany emphasises the importance of effective communication strategies and seeking support in blended families. She also highlights the impact of a new baby on the dynamic and offers advice for navigating co-parenting with exes. Despite the difficulties, Brittany believes that blended families can be a beautiful thing with effort and intentionality.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In tomorrow's episode: 

Brittany Phillips shares her personal journey as a stepmum and certified step-family coach. She discusses the challenges of blending families, including sibling rivalry and different parenting styles. Brittany emphasises the importance of effective communication strategies and seeking support in blended families. She also highlights the impact of a new baby on the dynamic and offers advice for navigating co-parenting with exes. Despite the difficulties, Brittany believes that blended families can be a beautiful thing with effort and intentionality.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.