Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast

Send us a textHey Stepparents,I’m excited to bring to you Part 2 of my conversation with Allison Dagney, who is a covert abuse survivor, author of When Tears Leave Scars – her personal memoir – and a rapid reprogramming coach for others who have been through the painful experience of emotional abuse.  In this episode Allison shares why she never wanted to have a conversation with her ex, a key tactic to look out for, what happens when you’re in an unhealthy relationship, and the best thing to do if you or a loved one is being emotionally abused.  Get comfy and settle in for this penetrating conversation that is sure to give you more acumen about your intimate relationships. It’ll be worth the listen. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/60. Covered Topics:- Introducing Allison Dagney- Why Allison never wanted to have a conversation with her ex- A key tactic to look out for- What happens when you’re in an unhealthy relationship- The best thing to do if you or a loved one is being abused- The recap- Action Items- Links to AllisonClick here to listen!Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!

Send us a textHey Stepparents,I’ve been under the weather and lost my voice and therefore wasn’t able to record portions of my episode which is why I haven’t put out an episode for a couple of weeks. But I’m thrilled to be feeling better and to pick right up where we left off.In my last episode, I shared my story of covert abuse, discussing what I endured, how I got there, contributing factors, as well as what my realizations, takeaways and outlook has been since healing from this experience. Find the show notes at synergisticstepparenting.com/58.Today I’m thrilled to bring to you an interview with Allison Dagney, who is a covert abuse survivor, author of When Tears Leave Scars – her personal memoir – and a rapid reprogramming coach for others who have been through the painful experience of emotional abuse.In this episode we clarify what emotional abuse is, what keeps the victim in the relationship, how abusers find their victims, and specific examples of emotional abuse so that those going through it can identify if it’s happening to them.  I feel grateful to have had this conversation with Allison who so openly shared her experience of covert abuse and broke down the tactics and nuances in a tangible and easy-to-understand way.It was healing to discuss this subject matter with someone who deeply understands the experience on a personal level, has done the work to heal her own wounds and is wholeheartedly committed to helping others heal theirs too.Get comfy and settle in for this eye-opening conversation that is sure to give you new insights into yourself and your intimate relationships. It’ll be worth the listen.Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/59. Topics Covered:- Introducing Allison Dagney- What emotional abuse is- What keeps the victim in the cycle of abuse- How abusers find their victims- Specific details and examples of emotional abuse- What is a trauma bond- What is gaslighting- What is bread-crumbing- Talking to kids about Emotional Abuse- Action ItemsClick here to listen!Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!

Send us a textHi Stepparents,First of all, I want to apologize that I didn’t produce an episode last week. I got sick with a nasty cold, and decided to live what I preach, that self-care needs to be a priority. I often talk about how important it is to meet your own needs first so that you can better support others.So, I followed my own advice, unplugged from everything, and answered my body’s plea for rest.Since October is domestic violence awareness month, I am sharing a bit more about my 16-year long relationship that was riddled with covert abuse. The abuse was mostly emotional, though there were incidents of physical abuse as well.Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/58. Covered Topics:- Abuse Susceptibility- The Temptation Leading to Abuse- 5 Tactics of Abuse- The Wake Up Call of Abuse- The Aftermath of Abuse- Clear Hindsight- An Attitude of Gratitude- You can Heal and Have An Amazing Life After AbuseClick here to listen!Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!

Send us a textHi Stepparents, Have you ever put work into a relationship thinking, “I’m putting in so much, I’ve gotta be racking up some excellent relationship karma points. I’m bound to get some of this coming back around to me!” Maybe you’ve gotten upset that you’re not getting the same level of support in return, or you’re not being appreciated, or not even being given credit for all that you do. Does this sound familiar?And when this happens, do you feel frustrated, hurt, and depleted?This might be counter intuitive, but I invite you to think about whether you’re showing up in the relationship from your best self. This is what we’re exploring today. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/57. Covered Topics:- An Alternative to Overextending Yourself- Cleaning Up Your Relationship Energy- How Overextending Yourself Makes Your Partner and Stepchild Feel- How You Feel in Your Relationships as the Overextended Stepparent - How the Energy of Overextending Impacts Your Stepchild- How to Deal with the Overextended Stepparent Syndrome- Action ItemsClick here to listen!Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!

Send us a textRecently, I was reflecting on my early days as a stepparent, remembering many times when I felt uncomfortable in said role. Frustrated and consumed with tension, emotions and split decisions, I worried about what each stakeholder in the situation was thinking and wanting from me. So badly wanting to start off all interactions with my “best foot forward.”This is the cycle we’ll be exploring on the show today. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/56. Topics Covered:- The Stressful Worry Cycle- The Shift- The Challenge- Growing Up with Opposing Cultural Values- The Impact of Growing Up with Opposing Cultural Values - The Epiphany - My Purpose- The SolutionIf you’re ready to release the frustration and chaos and create aligned harmonious relationships that bring you peace and joy, book your free call with me at synergisticstepparenting.com/work to find out how you can create your dream life. Until next time, be well!Click here to listen!Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!

Send us a textHi Stepparents,This time of year where work gets busier with year-end initiatives and deliverables and school’s back in session. In some climates, like here in New England, the days are quickly getting shorter, and the busy holiday season is just around the corner. So, it’s no surprise that you might find yourself feeling more drained. Before you chalk it up to life’s busy day-to-day grind, I invite you to slow down to ponder, is that really all that’s operating here making you feel depleted? Or is it something else? Is it possible that you have an energy leak? If you’re finding yourself more tired than usual, stick around because this is exactly what we’ll be exploring today! Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/55. Topics Covered:- Do you have an energy leak?- Client Story- Why it's particularly damaging if and when you have an energy leak at home- Common mistakes people often make when trying to resolve an energy leak at home- How do you address these energy leaks?- So how do you get to the bottom of it?- 2 Big causes of energy leaks- 5 reasons for why you can't fix them on your own- How to resolve the energy leak?- Action ItemsIf you find yourself struggling and would like to learn more about what you can do, head on over to synergisticstepparenitng.com/work fill out a brief questionnaire and schedule a complimentary clarity call. I’d love to help you identify the next best step for you to start moving towards creating the life and relationships you dream of. Until next time, be well!Click here to listen!Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!

Send us a textHey stepparents,I know a lot of you have a school-aged child. This time of year can be chaotic with the start of a new school year, extra-curricular activities, drop-off and pick-up logistics, etc. You also might find yourself in a position of co-parenting with your partner and possibly their ex, and maybe even with their ex’s new partner as well. These extra cooks in the kitchen can add to the overwhelm and leave you feeling uncertain as to what your role is in supporting your beloved stepchild. So today we’re discussing some things to keep in mind as you consider co-parenting and ensuring the best environment and supports for your stepchild. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/54.Topics Covered:- Negotiating a Shared Schedule That Works for the Co-Parents and the Child (4 Elements)- Should Stepparents Share the Academic Responsibility- How Important Is It for Your Stepchild to Have a Reliable Schedule?- What if my Co-Parent and I Have Differing Parenting Styles on Education?- I don’t have enough Time in the Day to Work and Parent – how do I Communicate with the Other Parent(s)?- Action ItemsAnd finally, help me celebrate with you! DM me at synergisticstepparenting on LinkedIn or on FB at marianatapov to share how this went for you. Until next time, be well!Click here to listen!Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!

Send us a textAs the new school year is getting under way and things feel chaotic and busy, you might be feeling overwhelmed and like it’s virtually impossible to keep up. When this happens often you might feel like not doing anything because you don’t know where to even start. If you can relate, you’re definitely not alone. But stick around, because I have some great step-by-step tips for you to not only stay afloat, but flourish. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/53.  Topics Covered:- It Starts with You- What to Include- What to Exclude- Implement the Change- Your Stepchild- Your Partner- Your Work- Your Family- Action Items- *Pro tipI’d love to hear how this goes for you, so please be sure to email me, or DM me on LinkedIn or FB and let me know. Until next time, be well.Click here to listen!Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!

Send us a textHey Stepparents, With the academic school year already upon us, many stepparents worry about how to set their stepchild up for success.And to help with that concern by providing actionable tips and strategies, we are thrilled to be joined by Dominique Padurano, M.S., Ed., Ph.D. – aka “Dr. P” of Crimson Coaching to discuss academic success. Dr. P has extensive knowledge of and experience in the arena of education. Her love and passion for helping students of all ages and abilities access and crush their educational goals is instantly palpable. Grab a seat, take a load off and listen in as these strategies are sure to ease your worries while setting your child up for a successful school year. It’s well worth the listen. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/52. Topics Covered:- Introducing Dr. P- Dr. P.s journey to becoming a tutor and coach- Her teaching philosophy- The difference between students of divorced parents vs. whose parents are together - Setting a child from a blended family or a co-parenting situation up for academic success- Dr. P.'s resources and free gifts!- Action ItemsUntil next time, be well!Click here to listen!Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!

Send us a textHey Stepparents,Today we’re continuing our exploration of sex and intimacy by delving into polyamory with John Hoelle, a family law attorney and mediator, and co-founder of Conscious Family Law & Mediation. We cover what polyamory is, how polyamory can improve an otherwise monogamous relationship, the benefits of utilizing a coach in your relationship, and how to approach and discuss polyamory with kids. John has an easy warmth about him instantly making you feel comfortable. I feel honored that he offered to have this candid conversation and am thrilled to be sharing it with you all. John let us into his beautiful journey and courageous exploration of love, security, and connection. Get comfy and settle in for this amazing conversation that is sure to expand the way you think about relationships and trust. It’ll be worth the listen. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/51. Topics Covered:- Introducing John Hoelle- What polyamory is- How exploring polyamory can improve an otherwise monogamous relationship- The benefits of utilizing a coach in your relationship  - How to approach and discuss polyamory with kids - Recap- Action ItemsClick here to listen!Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts“Tons of value in this episode, love and appreciate your authenticity in all of your content.” If you like the show, please consider rating and reviewing us. This gives us the ability to reach and help more stepparents – like you – move towards the life and relationships that they desire with their blended clan.Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate us with 5 stars, and select “Write a Review” then be sure to let me know your favorite thing about the episode.Also if you haven’t done so yet, follow the podcast so you don’t miss a thing. Follow now!