The Stepmom Side Podcast

As a stepmom, the holiday season can feel like you’re juggling everyone else’s needs—and there’s never enough time for you. In this episode, Alicia breaks down why self-care isn’t just a nice-to-have but a must-do during the holidays. From sneaking in “me-time” pockets to setting boundaries with your schedule (yes, it’s okay to say “I’m busy!”), she shares simple, powerful strategies for protecting your peace.

You’ll learn why stepping back from the comparison trap can be the best gift you give yourself, plus practical ways to create a holiday season that feels good for you, not just everyone else. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential to being the best stepmom, partner, and person you can be.

Tune in to hear about:

• Quick, effective self-care tips for busy stepmoms
• Setting boundaries on your time so you don’t burn out
• Why it’s okay to prioritize yourself during the holiday hustle
• Avoiding the holiday comparison trap and focusing on what matters
• Why a little self-care goes a long way in supporting your family

Take this as your permission slip to put yourself first (or at least higher up on the list) this holiday season!

FREE RESOURCE: 10 Tips To Get Through the Holidays

Here are the shower steamers Alicia mentioned. (Not an affiliate link...just something that she loves!)

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After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!
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Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.
All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com
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In this episode, Alicia dives into a classic struggle: surviving family gatherings without losing your mind (or your peace). Whether it’s Aunt Judy offering unsolicited advice or cousins asking uncomfortable questions about your role as a stepmom, family events can turn into an emotional minefield real quick.

Here’s what we’re covering today:

• Why Family Gatherings Attract Unsolicited Opinions: Is it the holiday spirit, or do people just forget their boundaries when they pass the gravy? We’ll explore why family gatherings tend to bring out all the “helpful” opinions.
• Prepping for Awkward Conversations: Learn how to identify potential landmine topics and decide in advancehow you’ll handle them. This is your guide to staying one step ahead of the awkward questions.
• Redirecting and Defusing Comments: Discover strategies for gracefully shifting conversations or using humor to dodge unwanted opinions. Think of it as your family gathering survival toolkit.
• Handling Questions About the Ex: Does everyone suddenly have an insatiable curiosity about your co-parenting situation? We’ll talk about ways to answer—or avoid—them while keeping things respectful.
• Navigating When Kids Bring Up Their Mom: Kids can be a wildcard, especially when they bring up stories about their mom. We’ll cover why it’s important to stay calm and supportive—and how to respond with grace.
• Setting a Time Limit and Knowing When to Leave: Family gatherings don’t have to be a marathon! We’ll talk about how to know when it’s time to take a break (or gracefully exit) to protect your peace.

This episode is all about showing up with confidence, setting boundaries, and handling tough situations without letting anyone get under your skin. So, grab a cup of tea (or wine), and let’s get ready to tackle those family gatherings like the confident stepmom you are (or want to be)!

Listen now to find out how to keep your peace intact—no matter how wild the family gathering gets!

10 Tips to Get Through the Holidays-FREE RESOURCE!

Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here.
After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!
Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.
Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.
All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com
Get on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

In this episode, Alicia is joined by a fellow stepmom, Lauren from Blended by Distance, to dive deep into the rollercoaster of emotions and challenges stepmoms face. They get real about some of the biggest hurdles that can make stepmoms question our sanity... 

Here’s what is covered:

• Losing Yourself: That feeling when you wake up and realize you’ve put yourself last for way too long. We talk about how easy it is to get caught up in being everything to everyone—your stepkids, your partner, their ex, and even the dog. (but seriously) We get into how to reclaim your identity without guilt.
• The Rabbit Hole of the Kids’ Past: Admit it. You've gone down the rabbit hole of comparing yourself to your partner’s past life. Whether it's obsessing over family vacations you weren't part of or analyzing photos on Facebook, we've all been there. We unpack the emotional exhaustion of living in the past and how to refocus on your present.
• Your Partner's Past: Speaking of rabbit holes... let's talk about thinking too much about your partner’s previous relationship(s). It’s a slippery slope to resentment. We chat about how to move forward with confidence instead of constantly comparing yourself to someone who’s not in the picture (but somehow feels like they still are).
• Adding an 'Ours Baby': How adding a baby together changes the dynamics of the family. Spoiler: It's not always as cute as the Instagram photos make it seem. We share tips on how to balance the excitement with the inevitable complexities it brings, from your stepkids' reactions to how your relationship with your partner shifts.
• Setting Boundaries with the Ex: This one’s a doozy. How do you set healthy boundaries with the ex without coming off like the wicked stepmom? We share personal stories and actionable tips on maintaining your peace and ensuring your relationship with your partner stays strong, even when the ex is… well, challenging.
• And More!: We also touch on some of those random stepmom moments that make you go, “Is it just me, or…?” Spoiler alert: It’s not just you. We cover everything from stepmom guilt to maintaining friendships outside of the family unit.

Tune in for a real, raw, and relatable conversation that will remind you—you’re not in this alone.

Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here.
After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!
Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.
Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.
All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com
Get on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

In this episode, I dive into the rarely discussed but very real phenomenon of stepmom-specific anxiety. If you’ve ever felt like you're constantly on edge, waiting for the next family drama to erupt—whether it's the stepkids, the ex, or just life in general—this episode is for you. I'm breaking down what makes this anxiety unique, why you might be feeling it, and, most importantly, how to manage it before it manages you.

Here's what I dive into:

1. Understanding Stepmom Anxiety: It's more than just "regular" stress. I talk about the invisible load of trying to please everyone and how that leads to feeling out of place or rejected.
2. Common Triggers: Fear of rejection, feeling like an outsider in your own home, and the pressure to be the perfect stepmom.
3. How It Shows Up: From hypervigilance to overthinking every interaction, we’re covering how this anxiety manifests in your daily life.
4. Coping Strategies: Real, actionable tips to help lower your expectations, let go of what you can’t control, and prioritize your self-care without guilt.
5. Community Matters: Why having a support system (like our online community!) is key to managing this unique stress.

Resources Mentioned:

• Stepmom Support Community: The Stepmom Side Community
• Podcast mentioned: What It's Like to Go From Single to Stepmom

Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here.
After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!
Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.
Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.
All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com
Get on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

In today’s episode, I'm diving into a topic that doesn’t get enough attention—Dad Guilt in a Stepfamily. You’ve probably heard a lot about stepmom guilt, but what about the dads? Many dads in stepfamilies feel torn between their kids and their new family. That guilt can impact everything from how they parent to how they show up in their marriage. I'll break down what dad guilt looks like, how it affects family dynamics, especially when it comes to disciplining kids, and what both partners can do to manage it together.

In this episode:

• What Dad Guilt is and why it happens in stepfamilies
• How guilt can lead to avoiding discipline and letting things slide
• The effects of dad guilt on bio kids, stepkids, and the marriage
• Why dads feel like they’re constantly torn between their old life and their new one
• How avoiding discipline actually backfires in a stepfamily
• Practical tips to break down dad guilt and find a healthy balance
• How stepmoms can support their partners without feeling left out or resentful

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show. Your support helps other stepmoms find this podcast, so we can all get through this wild ride together!

Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here.
After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!
Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.
Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.
All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com
Get on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

Is your home feeling more chaotic than calm? In this episode, I sit down with a decluttering expert Amy Slenker-Smith to tackle all things mess-related. Whether you’re drowning in toys, paperwork, or just stuff you can’t seem to part with, this episode is packed with practical tips and mindset shifts to help you reclaim your space—and your sanity. We dive into the emotional attachment to items, how decluttering can improve mental health, and how to get the whole family on board (yes, even the stepkids!). Plus, learn simple habits that will help you stay clutter-free for good!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The biggest mistakes people make when starting to declutter and how to avoid them.
• Expert tips for overcoming emotional attachment to things and finally letting go.
• Practical steps to start decluttering when you’re overwhelmed and don’t know where to begin.
• How to handle the influx of clutter that comes with kids or stepkids, and keep the chaos in check.
• The link between decluttering and improved mental health and well-being.
• How to declutter with limited time and make progress in small, manageable chunks...and more!

Amy Slenker-Smith is a Washington DC-based Decluttering Coach and author of countless living simply articles at Simply Enough. Through her coaching program and popular blog, Amy’s framework proves that even the most unmotivated can conquer the overwhelm of stuff, save hours in their day, and create a home they love.

Connect with Amy:

www.simplyenough.net
On Facebook
5 Clutter-free Habits FREE RESOURCE

Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here.
After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!
Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.
Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.
All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com
Get on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, we’re diving deep into the legal side of stepfamily dynamics with none other than Tracey J. Coates, Managing Partner of Coates Family Law, PLLC. Tracey is a powerhouse attorney who represents high-net-worth and high-profile clients in domestic relations cases, including divorce, child custody, and adoption, and estate planning. Tracey is the host of the popular podcast, The Tracey Coates Show, and has published numerous articles on family law topics. She is a frequent presenter and commentator at events and appears regularly on radio and television.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
- How you can better prepare before entering divorce or mediation.
- The impact of custody agreements on moving or changing living arrangements.
- Whether child support can be adjusted when an "ours baby" comes into the picture.
- Can judges and lawyers detect if someone has a mental health issue, and how does it affect your case?

Tune in for expert advice, real-life examples, and the legal tips you didn’t know you needed!

Connect with Tracey:
- Website: www.coatesfamilylaw.com
- Podcast: The Tracey Coates Show

**Don’t forget to subscribe to The Stepmom Side Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow stepmoms!**

Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here.
After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!
Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.
Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.
All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com
Get on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

Ever feel like your partner’s ex is always around—at every event, in every conversation, and all over social media? In today’s episode, we dive into the awkward and often frustrating reality of dealing with your partner’s ex and how to keep your cool when it feels like they’re *everywhere.*

I’m breaking down:
- Why it can feel like the ex is always around (even if they’re not!)
- How to communicate with your partner about boundaries without causing a fight
- Tips for handling social media when the ex is all over your feed (or seems to be!)
- What to do when the ex crosses the line and oversteps
- And, of course, self-care strategies to help you stay grounded through it all!

If you’re tired of feeling like a third wheel in your own relationship or just need some solid advice on how to navigate these tricky dynamics, this episode is for you!

**What You'll Learn in This Episode:**
1. How to approach conversations with your partner about the ex without it blowing up.
2. Why setting boundaries is essential and how to do it without feeling like the “bad guy.”
3. The best ways to protect your social media space—and your sanity!
4. How to recognize when the ex is overstepping and what you can do about it.
5. Self-care techniques to help you stay calm and collected when emotions run high.

Got a wild ex story or a question you want answered in a future episode? Send it my way here!

**Subscribe & Review:** 
If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any future episodes! And if you’re feeling generous, I’d love for you to leave a review on Apple. Your reviews help other stepmoms find the show and get the support they need too! 💖

Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here.
After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!
Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.
Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.
All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com
Get on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

So, your stepkid doesn't like you? Join the club, girlfriend. You aren't the only stepmom that's felt that. 

In this episode, I discuss:
-how it's really not something personal (promise!)
-how to deal with the disrespect
-why taking time for YOU is so important
-ways to build respect (little by little) and more!

Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here.
After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!
Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.
Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.
All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com
Get on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

Dr. Jakubowski is a well-respected international influencer on helping kids live happier, healthier lives. She has touched the lives of thousands of families in multiple states with her ability to connect and help kids experience success from challenging behaviors. With a doctorate in Educational Leadership, and nearly 20  years of experience in education as a teacher, assistant principal and principal, she is highly regarded as an educational gamechanger.

In this episode, we discuss:
-Co-parenting through the school system
-Believing that everyone is trying to do the best they can
-How emails can complicate things
-Asking “can you help you me understand….”
-Changing your delivery, changes the responses you get
-A question to kids when you think they are lying
-Problem solving with kids and more...!

Connect with Karin:
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Facebook

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Momnificent Podcast

Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here.
After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!
Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.
Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.
All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com
Get on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.