On this episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast, Lori welcomes Daryl Potter, a Canadian banker and published author, for a conversation that takes us far beyond the typical stepfamily story. Daryl isn’t a member of a blended family himself, but his experience raising a child with two extremely rare medical conditions has given him a unique perspective on navigating “irregular” family dynamics and finding beauty in unexpected places.

Daryl opens up about his 28-year marriage, the cultural mosaic of his household, and the challenges and profound blessings of caring for his daughter, who is the only person in the world with her combination of diagnoses. He shares how his family has had to rewrite the script on everything from holidays to family vacations, and how his son has learned life skills and empathy far beyond his years.

Throughout the episode, Daryl and Lori delve into themes of grief, acceptance, reframing success, and the importance of not comparing pain, reminding us that everyone’s journey holds its own weight, no matter how “broken” it may appear from the outside. Daryl’s story is a powerful reminder that, whether you’re in a stepfamily or not, every family must find its own version of normal and discover joy, purpose, and connection along the way.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Coping with and Managing a Severely Disabled Child
• Grief and Adapting to a "broken" or Non-traditional Family
• Impact on Siblings: The "Leftover" Dynamic
• Finding Meaning and Perspective in Suffering and Difference
• Key Advice for Parents Facing Disability or Blended Family Challenges

Nacho Parenting Success Stories:

“The biggest surprise? The kids are actually happier now. I stepped back, let go of the pressure, and our entire home changed for the better.” ~  S.C., California, USA

Welcome back to the Nacho Kids Podcast! In today’s episode, Lori and David dive deep into the realities of sacrifice within stepfamilies. Lori shares a heartfelt personal story about giving up a long-awaited lunch with a friend to help her stepson, Ethan, navigate buying a car, a perfect example of the countless everyday choices stepfamilies make for each other. Together, Lori and David discuss how sacrifice isn’t just about doing things for your own kids, but often includes stepkids and even partners. 

They challenge the misconception that “nachoing” means not caring or refusing to help, and explain how setting boundaries can actually strengthen relationships and protect your mental health. The hosts also touch on stepfamily celebrations, like Stepmother’s Day, the importance of not keeping score, and why caring for your own well-being is essential. Join Lori and David as they get real about being kind, both to others and to yourself, and find out why sometimes, the healthiest choice is to Nacho.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Reflections on Sacrifice In Stepfamilies
• Nacho Parenting and Relationship Nuances
• The Importance (and Limits)of Sacrifice
• Emotional Realtities and Acceptance

Nacho Kids Academy Success Stories:

"Having my stepkids full-time was overwhelming. I felt like I had to step up and fill shoes that weren’t mine, and it nearly broke me. Nachoing showed me that I can support their mom without trying to be their dad. Now there’s less stress, more peace, and the start of real trust growing between us." ~ Todd, WI

On today’s episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast, Lori sits down with Chad Bignac, transformationist, consultant, author, and coauthor of the new book “Blend, Don’t Break.” Drawing from over 22 years of blended family experience, Chad opens up about the challenges he and his wife faced merging their families after personal tragedies, including the loss of his first wife and his current wife’s ex-husband.

Chad shares candidly about the painful missteps and valuable lessons learned along their journey, from clashing parenting styles and personal assumptions to the importance of unity, compassion, and self-growth. He details the turning point in his family’s story, catalyzed by his wife’s severe health crisis, and how choosing to respond rather than react helped heal deep family rifts.

Through heartfelt stories and practical wisdom, Chad emphasizes the power of compassion, influence over authority, and the need to unpack old emotional baggage before starting anew. Whether you’re in a blended family or looking for guidance on overcoming personal and family struggles, this episode offers honest insights and hope for healing and connection.

In this episode, we discuss:

- Early Challenges in Blending

- Authority vs. Influence in Parenting

- Becoming a “Student of Your Children”

- Creating Environments for Healing in Blended Families

- Advice for Prospective Stepfamilies 

Nacho Kids Success Story:

I thought stepping up meant stepping all the way in, but it was destroying me.

As a stepdad, I believed it was my job to take the lead and fix everything. I disciplined, managed homework, scheduled appointments… and got nothing but pushback. My wife and I were constantly arguing, and I felt like an outsider in my own home. Then we found Nacho Kids. Learning to Nacho helped me stop parenting by proxy and start supporting my wife as her partner, not as a replacement dad. The stress lifted, and surprisingly, my stepkids started warming up to me once I stepped out of the power struggle. Nacho Kids didn’t just change our home, it gave me my peace back. ~Mark T., Stepdad of 2

Welcome back to another episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast! In today’s show, Lori and David dive into a challenge faced by many blended families: What happens when one partner feels that their stepchild is being disrespectful, and the biological parent doesn’t step in? Kicking things off with a listener's heartfelt question, Lori and David unpack the complexities of stepkids shouting or insulting their stepparent and stepsibling, as well as the tension that arises when boundaries and respect are on the line.

Throughout the episode, they discuss practical strategies for handling disrespect without overstepping boundaries, the importance of focusing on your own responses, and how to talk to your partner about these challenging issues without stirring up more conflict. The hosts also highlight why sibling (and step-sibling) rivalry can sometimes be just as much about building bonds as it is about butting heads, and why letting kids work out their differences can lead to healthier relationships in the long run.

Whether you're a parent, stepparent, or somewhere in between, today's episode offers real-life insights and actionable advice on navigating respect and boundaries in a blended family. Grab your headphones and get ready to "nacho" your way to a happier home!

In this episode, we discuss:

• Nacho Parenting Philosophy in Conflict Scenarios

• Responding to Disrespect from Stepchildren

• Perceptions of Respect and Boundaries

• Stepparent vs. Biological Parent Discipline Dynamics

• Navigating Sibling and Stepsibling Relationships

Nacho Kids Academy Success Stories:

"Nacho Kids Academy saved my sanity and my marriage. It took a little while because my husband wasn’t happy with me Nachoing. He didn’t understand it. But once he saw the positive changes from my Nachoing, he couldn’t deny that Nachoing was changing things for the better.” ~ Ellison - Happy stepmom in TX

On today’s episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast, Lori sits down with  "Bookworm Stepmom," for a heartfelt and engaging conversation about navigating the highs and lows of blended family life. Stepmom opens up about her journey from single and childless to stepmom of two girls and mom to two more young children, one of whom is autistic. They dig into the realities of co-parenting with an ex, maintaining balance in a blended household, and how stepmom’s personal experiences as a stepchild shape her compassionate approach to stepmotherhood. From honest discussions about the challenges of special needs parenting and managing finances for the future, to candid stories about family dynamics, Bookworm Stepmom shares wisdom, humor, and practical tips for anyone in a blended family. Whether you’re a stepparent, bio parent, or just love an honest family story, this episode is packed with lessons and laughs you won’t want to miss!

In this episode, we discuss:

• Expanding the family with "ours" kids
• Dealing with high-conflict and jealousy
• Navigating divorce, affairs, and co-parenting
• Parenting Special Needs ("Ours") Child
• Financial planning and inheritance in Blended Families

Nacho Kids Academy Success Stories:

I Didn't Need to Leave - I Just Needed to Nacho

I was emotionally exhausted, constantly fighting invisible battles in my own home. My stepkids ignored me, my partner seemed stuck in the middle, and every day felt like I was losing a piece of myself. I thought the only way to find peace was to leave.

Then I found the Nacho Kids Academy.

At first, I was skeptical - how could not parenting actually help? But the step-by-step guidance, real-life examples, and support inside the Academy opened my eyes. I learned how to let go of the responsibilities that were never mine to begin with. I stopped trying to fix things I didn’t break. And I finally started healing.

The results? Less tension. More laughter. A stronger marriage. And oddly enough, a better connection with my stepkids now that I’ve stepped back.

Nachoing didn’t mean giving up. It meant choosing peace—and I’ll never look back. If you're struggling, this isn't just a course. It's a lifeline."

~ Jessica T. - A now happy stepmom! Thanks Nacho!

Welcome back to the Nacho Kids Podcast! In this heartfelt and relatable episode, hosts David and Lori dive into the annual struggle of graduation ticket allocations. With only a handful of coveted seats for high school and college ceremonies, blended and extended families are often left negotiating who gets a spot in the audience—and who doesn’t. Through personal stories and a bit of humor, David and Lori explore the emotional minefield that limited tickets can create for parents, step-parents, grandparents, and, most importantly, the graduates themselves. They emphasize the importance of keeping the celebration focused on the students and share creative ideas for making everyone feel included, even if they can’t physically be at the ceremony. Whether it’s planning an after-party or tuning in to a livestream, they remind listeners that graduation is about honoring the kids without piling on extra stress. Join them as they navigate one of the tricky realities of modern family life.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Graduation Ticket Challenges
• Emotional Impact on Graduates and Families
• Solutions When Tickets are Limited

Nacho Kids Academy Success Stories:

"Before finding Nacho Kids Academy, I was on the verge of leaving my marriage. I loved my husband, but the constant tension with his kids and the drama with the ex was tearing me apart. I felt like I was walking on eggshells in my own home, trying to parent kids who didn’t want me there.

Joining Nacho Kids Academy was a game-changer. I learned how to step back without stepping away, how to Nacho the things that weren’t my responsibility and focus on my relationship with my husband and myself. The coaching calls, the community, the step-by-step layers, it all gave me tools I didn’t even know I needed.

Now, my home feels peaceful again. I can show up as a loving partner without feeling like I’m constantly battling for space or respect. And the best part? My relationship with my stepkids has actually improved because I’m no longer forcing something that wasn’t working.

If you’re a stepparent feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or ready to give up, please, do yourself a favor and join Nacho Kids Academy. It saved my marriage and my sanity." - Sarah M., Stepmom of 2

In this enlightening episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast, we explore the fascinating world of stepfamilies in American history with our special guest, Lisa Wilson, the esteemed author of "A History of Stepfamilies in Early America." Lisa shares her journey of uncovering the untold stories and patterns of stepfamilies, reflecting on her personal experiences as a member of such a family. Delving into historical dynamics, Lisa discusses how the perception and roles within stepfamilies have evolved over centuries, from the challenges of integrating into what was once an emotionally-focused family model to combating age-old prejudices against stepmothers.

Lori and David, our hosts, invite listeners to a thoughtful conversation about the societal shifts that have affected family structures, highlighting the continuity of certain challenges stepfamilies face today, reminiscent of those from the 18th century. They touch on topics like the legal rights of step-parents, the economic considerations of remarriage, and even the portrayal of stepparents in popular culture.

Join us as we navigate this intriguing historical landscape, uncovering insights that resonate with modern stepfamilies and fostering a greater understanding of how these blended households have always been a fundamental part of the American family fabric.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Historical context of stepfamilies
• Stepparents' challenges and shifts in family dynamics
• Societal perceptions and misconceptions
• Modern Community and family structures

Nacho Kids Academy Success Stories:

“I thought I had tried everything. Books, blogs, even therapy, but nothing helped me feel less like an outsider in my own home. Then I found Nacho Kids Academy. Within weeks, the stress in our home dropped dramatically. I finally understood that I didn’t have to fix everything or be the 'bonus mom of the year.' I learned how to support my partner without losing myself. The daily tension? Gone. The constant guilt? Lifted. The relationship with my stepkids isn’t perfect, but for the first time, it’s not painful. Nacho Kids gave me my peace and my power back.”- Sarah M., Stepmom of 3 and Proud Nacho’er

Welcome to this episode of the NK Podcast, where hosts Lori and David dive into the intricacies of celebrating Easter within stepfamilies. The holiday season can be a delightful time, but it also brings unique challenges when navigating custody schedules and traditions in blended families. In this episode, Lori and David share personal anecdotes and practical advice on how to manage these situations, offering creative solutions for celebrating Easter, even if it's not on the traditional date. They'll also discuss the importance of setting and respecting court-ordered holiday arrangements and the concept of life not always being 'fair' – a valuable lesson for kids in stepfamilies. Whether it's creating new family traditions or creatively handling gift-giving, Lori and David provide insightful tips for a harmonious holiday experience. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let's explore how to navigate Easter in a stepfamily with grace and flexibility.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Challenges During Easter in Step Families
• Fairness in Gift Giving
• Traditions and Adaptations
• Handling Emotional Challenges
• Life Lessons 

Nacho Kids Academy Success Stories:

“Been There Done That” 

"I thought I had this stepparenting thing down. My first blend was a breeze—we all got along, and everything just seemed to fall into place. So when I got into my current relationship, I assumed it would be the same. I was so wrong. From loyalty binds to feeling like an outsider in my own home, I was drowning in stress and resentment. That’s when I found Nacho Kids. Learning how to step back, redefine my role, and let go of what I can’t control has been life-changing. Nacho Parenting helped me breathe again. I’m no longer walking on eggshells or trying to fix everything. I finally feel peace in my home—and in my heart." ~ C.B. from NY

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast! In today's episode, hosts Lori and David welcome the insightful Karen McNenny, also known as the Good Divorce Coach. Karen joins us to challenge the traditional narrative of divorce as a conflict-ridden process. She introduces the concept of a 'good divorce,' presenting it as a tool, rather than a weapon, to transform family dynamics positively. Karen shares her personal journey and the genesis of her coaching business, emphasizing the importance of reshaping the divorce experience to focus on protecting future relationships, especially for those who co-parent. Tune in as we explore how thoughtful, intentional divorce processes can lead to a more harmonious family structure, even across two homes. Get ready to shift your perspective on divorce and discover how this transformation can ease not only the divorce process but also foster a healthier blended family dynamic. Enjoy the show!

In this episode, we discuss:

• Concept of a Good Divorce
• Parenting and Communication Post-Divorce
• Introduction of New Partners
• Maintaining Healthy Boundaries

Nacho Kids Academy Success Stories:

I Thought Divorce Was the Only Option

"I thought my marriage was doomed. My wife and I couldn’t agree on anything when it came to her kids. Every argument ended with one of us saying, ‘Maybe this just isn’t going to work.’ Then we found Nacho Kids. I realized that my role wasn’t to discipline or fix anything - it was to support my wife as she parents her kids. The shift in our home was almost instant. The tension disappeared. The kids were happier, my wife wasn’t stuck in the middle, and I could actually enjoy being in my own home again. If we hadn’t found Nacho Kids, we wouldn’t be together today. It’s that simple.” - Mike R., Virginia, USA

In this episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast, hosts Lori and David dive into the often misunderstood concept of "nacho parenting." They start by addressing a common question: Does nachoing mean ignoring your stepkids? Lori shares her own journey of using nacho parenting to navigate difficult dynamics with her stepchildren, emphasizing that it's more about choosing not to engage rather than ignoring. Lori and David explain how this approach helped improve their family interactions. With anecdotes and guidance, Lori and David provide a deeper understanding of how nacho parenting can lead to healthier and happier blended families. Join them as they dispel myths and offer strategies to help stepfamilies thrive.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Importance of Not Engaging
• Emotional Management
• Flexibility in Nacho Parenting
• Handling Disrespect from Stepkids
• You never Nacho safety

Nacho Kids Academy Success Stories:

I Was at My Breaking Point - Nacho Saved My Life

"I don’t say this lightly—Nacho Parenting saved my life. I was drowning in anxiety and depression because I felt like a failure as a stepmom. No matter what I did, I was met with rejection, and it ate away at my self-worth. I started having thoughts that scared me. That’s when I found Nacho Kids. It completely changed how I saw my role. I stopped trying to be someone I wasn’t meant to be and learned to set healthy emotional boundaries. For the first time in years, I feel free. I feel like myself again. And because I took care of myself, my marriage and stepfamily relationships have improved naturally. Nacho Kids didn’t just save my marriage—it saved me.” - Jessica K.