Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast

Send us a textHello stepparents! As I reflect on the past year and consider my goals, I can’t help noticing how much I rely on tech day-to-day. It’s obvious that we live in a digital world that seems to be getting more digital and automated by the second. Don’t get me wrong, I love all the advancements and feel so grateful to live in this moment-in-time and its unlimited access to information at my fingertips. But I find myself burning out faster and more often. And nothing compares to the feeling of just being near a loved one. Even if we’re not saying a word. Lots of us are considering what is missing or could be better this year and creating new habits and goals. Today I’m doing a deep dive on habits around connection and technology. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticsteppaernting.com/20.Topics covered: - How Is Technology Impacting Your Blended Family?- Why Is It Hard To Break Away From Electronics?- How To Communicate With Your Stepchild About Their Technology Usage- Referenced Episode 17. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/17.- 5 Approaches To Try With Your Blended Family To Curb Technology UsagePlease drop me a line at maria@synergisticstepparenting.com and share your stories about your favorite ways to bond and spend time with your family! I’d love to hear about it and share with the audience of this show. Until next time, be well!* Notes: How to leave a review on Apple PodcastsOpen the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.

Send us a textHello Stepparents! With the new year upon us, and many of us re-assessing and making plans for the year to come I’m hearing that many of you are in throes of deciding whether your relationship is working for you or if it’s time to move on. So, I wanted to speak to that.We all know that becoming a stepparent and blending into a family is challenging and takes a lot of time and energy. It can take between 5 and 7 years before all the blending players start to find a grove with each other.Being in a blended family is clearly not for the faint of heart. Though there are undoubtedly some difficult and painful moments and even stretches, it’s important to distinguish whether these are temporary or whether you are just torturing yourself or your kids.Today I’m sharing 3 aspects to consider to help you assess your situation and gain clarity on which is the right choice for you. Find the show notes for this episode at syenrgisticstepparenting.com/19.Topics discussed:- Importance of being grounded and calmBefore you listen on, I strongly urge you to revisit and listen to episode 11 titled 7 Key Components of a Stepparenting Sanity Routine. You can find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/11.- Honor yourself and this stepparenting question with space and consideration.- 3 Aspects Stepparents Should Consider When Deciding Whether The Relationship Has Run Its Course.- How to effectively approach these questions in stepparenting?The answers to these questions can be hard to tease out and arrive at on your own. And you don’t have to! If you’d like to know how I might be able to help, grab a discovery call at synergisticstepparenting.com/work. Let's jump on a call and see if we're a good fit!I’d love to hear about your story and what your stepparenting journey has been like for you. I’d love to celebrate your wins with you and to hear what's been troubling and what would be helpful to hear discussed in a future episode.So please email me at maria@synnergisticstepparenting.com and let me know!Until next time, be well!* Notes: How to leave a review on Apple PodcastsOpen the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.

Send us a textHello Stepparents! Recently, I’ve spent several episodes discussing your stepchild’s loyalty conflict, their behavior, even the wiring of their brain and why some approaches work better than others in interactions with your stepchild. To that end, today I’d like to focus on my favorite technique that I think is one of the most important and effective. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/18.To be honest this technique works well across the spectrum of relationships – be it with your spouse, in-law, friend, or co-worker. It works well with kids too. And your stepchild needs you to have effective tools when interacting with them in challenging times and bad days. Topics Covered: - A powerful technique that helps your stepchild self-regulate.- How to respond when something's wrong in a way that won't make things worse - 4 Steps of Reflective Listening- What do avoid doing with little kids- Benefits of Reflective Listening- Do I have to do this alone?Doing this work is simple but not easy. And as a stepparent there are often additional considerations and particulars adding to the challenges.You don't have to go through this alone. In my VIP Breakthrough Program, I hold your hand every step of the way and guide you to a life of more ease, peace and joy. Curious about working together? Head on over to synergisticstepparenting.com/work to learn more about my VIP Stepparenting Breakthrough program and schedule a discovery call. I’d love to see how I can help you on your stepparenting journey and assess if we’re a good fit. Until next time, be well! * Notes: How to leave a review on Apple PodcastsOpen the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.

Send us a textHello stepparents! For the last 2 weeks I’ve discussed the loyalty conflict that occurs for a stepchild between you, their stepparent, and their other bio parent, your partner’s ex.Find the show notes for those episodes at synergisticstepparenting.com/15 and synergisticstepparenting.com/16. This week we’re delving deeper into the root cause of what effects your stepchild’s behavior. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/17.Topic Discussed:- Disruptive Communication Patterns in Stepparenting.- Why Blowing Up and Punishing Your Stepchild Doesn’t Work – Science.- Stepparents Want Connection Because as Humans We are Wired for It.- An Unexpected Response is More Effective at Improving Your Stepchild’s Behavior.- 5 Benefits of Responding Unexpectedly in Stepparenting and How to Do It.  - Dr. Dan Siege's hand model of the brain presentation. Found here. * Notes: How to leave a review on Apple PodcastsOpen the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.

Send us a textHello Stepparents! Last week I talked about the background of why kids have an inherent loyalty conflict when it comes to you, the stepparent and their other biological parent. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/15.And if you haven’t yet listened to that episode, I highly recommend you do so. I shared what’s going on for your stepchild during and after divorce. These insights help you as the stepparent, by understanding how your stepchild feels.I also reflected that when your stepchild is having big emotions towards you, it’s not personal. They are just trying to cope with what’s going on for them - which is A LOT!This is not to convince you to condone disrespectful behavior. But often for stepparents understanding the root cause and knowing you’re not being targeted helps you in maintain your cool and to move the dynamic in a productive direction.I also shared actionable tips you can implement right now to get out of the crossfire. So be sure to check those out.This week I want to continue this deep dive and move on to discussing the behavior. Find the FULL transcript for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/16.First of all, I want to clarify that when I say behavior, there is no judgement attached to it. It is not good or bad. It just is. And what I mean by behavior is something a person does or says.In this episode, we’re going to explore both the behavior of the child, but also the behavior of the parents, including you – the stepparent.Topics Covered:Several Stepparents Have Reached Out With Concerns About Their Stepchild’s Behavior- Case Study of a Stepmom to a 3-year-old StepdaughterI spoke with a stepmom about her 3-year-old who likes saying “no” and seems to enjoy being bad. The stepmom was worried about her young stepdaughter’s defiance and how much worse things will get if they don’t nip this in the bud.- Case Study of a Stepmom to a Tween StepdaughterI spoke with another stepmom who is concerned about her stepdaughter’s behavior at school. She is hitting peers, acting out, etc. The stepmom is worried that the issue is a lack of discipline and the child just needs to understand that this is not acceptable behavior.- All Behavior is Communication 4 tips for how to make your stepchild feel seen, heard, and lovedIn episode 7 I shared How to Stay Sane in Stepparenting. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/7. And in episode 11 I shared the components of said Stepparenting Sanity Routine. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/11.I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode. So please drop me a line to share them with me!Find the FULL transcript for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/16. Until next time, be well! * Notes: How to leave a review on Apple PodcastsOpen the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.

Send us a textHello Stepparents! In episode 6, I briefly mentioned that your stepchild is conflicted when it comes to you and their loyalties to you. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/6. Today we’re going to dig deeper and explore that conflict. Find the FULL transcript for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/15. Topics Covered:- Your Stepchild is Fighting Biology to Accept You- What’s Going on for Your Stepchild When You Enter the Picture- Tips to Get Out of the Cross FireIn the meantime, if you want some additional tips to create harmonious co-parenting in your blended family, download your copy of 4 Steps to Start Transforming Family Chaos into Harmonious Co-Parenting. You can get that at synergisticstepparenting.com/subscribe. Until next time, be well!* Notes: How to leave a review on Apple PodcastsOpen the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.4BYsHsCLAfU7lKx9SM53

Send us a textHey Stepparents! Today we’re exploring intentional living. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/14.For a large chunk of my life I functioned on auto-pilot. If right now you’re thinking “What!?!” I’ll explain.You might have had the experience where you drive somewhere but you don’t remember the drive. And seemingly in the blink of an eye you’re at your destination.That used to happen to me a lot, and in many areas of my life. Everyday had the same stale rhythm. And it felt lack-luster. I noticed that I was becoming resentful. Irritated with all the to do’s that held my days hostage.Something had to give. This had to stop! But how?I realized I had to get out of the routine of just responding to everyday needs and instead, be intentional with my time and responsibilities.So instead of the auto-pilot dance … I’d like to invite you to live intentionallyTopics Covered:- What is intentional living?- 4 steps of how to do live intentionallyFind the FULL episode transcript at synergisticstepparenting.com/14.* Notes: How to leave a review on Apple PodcastsOpen the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show. 4BYsHsCLAfU7lKx9SM53

Send us a textHello, Stepparents! If you’ve been listening to this podcast, you’ve probably heard me mention Rapid Resolution Therapy. And you might be wondering to yourself, "Ooh, what IS that?"First, you might be asking, “What makes you qualified to talk about it, Maria?” The answer is that I’m a Rapid Resolution Therapy Practitioner. And I’m so thrilled to be sharing with you about this revolutionary alternative approach to getting clear.   So today, I’m going to tell you more about RRT to help you wrap your mind around it. Because for me, Rapid Resolution Therapy is magical. It has positively changed my life! And it's been life-changing for members of my family and my clients' lives as well. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/13.What Stepparent Couldn’t Use More Clarity?Topics covered include: - What classifies as disturbing events - What is trauma - The definition of trauma (you'll want to hear this!)- 3 Main Ways That Rapid Resolution Therapy Differs from Traditional TherapyIf there’s something that hasn’t been serving you about the way you think, feel, act or react and you’re ready to shut it down, grab a Rapid Resolution Session with me at synergisticstepparenting.com/rr. I’d love to help you get clear!Until next time, be well!Find the FULL transcript of this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/13. * Notes: How to leave a review on Apple PodcastsOpen the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled “Ratings & Reviews.”Under one of the highlighted reviews, select “Write a Review.” If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating! And let us and others know what you like about the show.

Send us a textHello, beautiful stepparents! I want to lay a stake in the ground and tell you, you are amazing! The way you show up for your partner and your stepchild, is nothing short of incredible!The way you worry, and think about them, plan all the things, and make sure all the important stuff happens and is taken care of is nothing short of awesome! Simply put – you are a superhero!But sometimes even superheroes, need to call for reinforcements and get a little help. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into how to have difficult conversations with our beloved blended family. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/12.  You might not know how remarkable you are. And your blended housemates might forget to tell you … or might not even realize it. Because you’re so good at making it all happen smoothly behind the scenes. And you make it look so effortless.But all the things you do are not going unnoticed. They matter! And they make a big impact on your partner’s and stepchild’s lives.Feeling at Odds and Unappreciated by Your Blended FamilyRecently, I’ve been hearing from a lot of you that it’s hard to do the grind. You’re feeling like you are alone in disciplining your stepkid and you don’t feel that your partner has your back.You feel unappreciated by your stepchild. You hate to nag them all the time, but you feel like without it, they don’t do anything they are supposed to.It breaks my heart because so many of you tell me that you need to busy yourself with hobbies, outings with friends, and even take on MORE WORK just to get out of the house and escape the feelings of disappointment and negativity.Well, you don’t have to feel trapped in your own home! There is another way ...Key Take Aways:- What to Do About the Overwhelm of Disappointment and Hard Work of Stepparenting- 3 Steps to Having Difficult Stepparenting ConversationsReferences:- episode 7 - tips for how to stay grounded in stepparenting. Find the show notes here: synergisticstepparenting.com/7.- episode 11 - tips on how to get calm in stepparenting. Find the show notes here: synergisticstepparenting.com/11.Find the FULL episode transcript here: synergisticstepparenting.com/12.* Notes: How to leave a review on Apple PodcastsOpen the Podcasts app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.Navigate to the Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast.On Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast page, scroll down to find the subhead titled "Ratings & Reviews."Under one of the highlighted reviews, select "Write a Review." If you like what you hear – give us a 5-star rating and let us and others know what you like about the show!4BYsHsCLAfU7lKx9SM53

Send us a textHello Stepparents! Welcome back. In an earlier episode, How to Stay Sane as a Stepparent, I discussed developing a routine to sustain you through difficult times. Find the show notes for that episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/7.Today, I’m diving deeper into the key aspects to consider and include when creating such a routine. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/11.When developing practices and habits that help you to find the calm and stay there, here are some things to consider …Check out the FULL transcript here to learn about the 7 Key Components to keep in mind when working through challenging situations that highjack your emotions. If you put a routine into place and you're still struggling, book a Rapid Resolution Session with me at synergisticstepparenting.com/rr. It's a fantastic way to get out of emotional stuck-ness and move into clarity and peace by shutting down unhelpful thought tapes that drain your energy. 4BYsHsCLAfU7lKx9SM53