The Stepmom Diaries Podcast

Have you ever realized that the things that make a family look different on the outside don't change what matters most on the inside? In this episode, I sit down with Jaimie Kelton and José Rolón to talk about LGBTQ families, parenting, belonging, and the many ways families are built. From infertility and surrogacy to stepfamily dynamics and family acceptance, we explore the challenges and joys of creating a family that may not fit society's traditional expectations. What stood out most in this conversation is how much LGBTQ families and blended families have in common. The desire to love, connect, belong, and create a safe home for our children is universal. In this episode, we cover: • The unique paths many LGBTQ families take to parenthood • Why representation and visibility matter for kids and families • The double standards faced by stepmoms, stepdads, and modern families • How to teach children about different family structures with openness and acceptance If this episode resonates with you, share it with a friend and help us continue creating conversations that celebrate all kinds of families. Resources Mentioned Follow Love Take Two Podcast The Queer Family Podcast Follow José Rolón on Instagram @NYCGayDad https://www.instagram.com/thequeerfamilypodcast/ Get our free Stepmom Scripts Guide with real-life scripts for common stepfamily conversations: https://stepfamilycertification.com/stepmom-scripts Love The Stepmom Diaries? Please consider rating and reviewing The Stepmom Diaries on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support helps us reach more blended families looking for practical guidance, validation, and encouragement.

Ever feel like you're carrying everyone else's responsibilities while somehow still feeling like you're failing? Yeah... you're not alone. In this episode, I'm chatting with organizational expert and Escaping Quicksand author Lisa Woodruff to talk about why so many overwhelmed stepmoms feel like they're drowning, even when they're doing everything right. We dive into the invisible load many women carry, the unique challenge of having responsibility without control in a blended family, and practical ways to create more peace, structure, and boundaries in your daily life. In this episode, we cover: • Why stepmoms often feel responsible for everything but in control of very little • The invisible mental load that contributes to stepmom burnout • How weekly planning conversations can reduce stress and resentment • Simple ways to reclaim control and prioritize your own self-care Resources Mentioned Get Lisa's book Escaping Quicksand: https://escapingquicksand.com Organize 365: Practical organization systems, planning tools, and resources designed to help busy women reduce overwhelm and create a more functional home and life. Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn: Follow Lisa Woodruff for insights on organization, productivity, household management, and personal development. Follow Organize 365 on Instagram Get our free Stepmom Scripts Guide with real-life scripts for common stepfamily conversations: https://stepfamilycertification.com/stepmom-scripts Love The Stepmom Diaries? Please consider rating and reviewing the show on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support helps us reach more blended families who need these conversations.

Anybody else look at the summer custody schedule and immediately feel their eye start twitching? 😅 In this episode, we're talking about why summer hits so differently in a blended family and why so many stepmoms head into this season already feeling overwhelmed, resentful, and exhausted before it even begins. From schedule changes and camp logistics to vacation drama and invisible labor, summer can bring out every existing stress point in stepfamily life. But you are not powerless in it. In this episode, we cover: Why summer creates so much stress for stepmoms The hidden mental load many stepmoms carry during this season How to protect your peace instead of trying to make summer "perfect" Simple communication and boundary strategies that actually help If summer in your blended family already feels chaotic before it's even started, this episode will help you feel less alone and a whole lot more prepared. Resources we mentioned in this episode: Get our free Stepmom Scripts Guide with real-life scripts for common stepfamily conversations: https://stepfamilycertification.com/stepmom-scripts Learn more about Stepfamily Coach Academy: [https://stepfamilycertification.com/] The Stepmom Retreat: [https://stepfamilycircle.com/retreat]

Ever felt like stepmom life isn't what you expected- and no matter how hard you try, you're carrying a weight you can't quite explain? If you've felt resentment, guilt, or even questioned your choices, this episode will hit home. In this episode, we're joined by Rachel Dunne, licensed counselor, certified stepfamily coach, and founder of Spiritual Stepmom. Rachel shares her personal journey into stepmotherhood and opens up about the stepmom grief no one talks about- the hidden sense of loss, emotional overwhelm, and internal conflict that so many women experience but rarely say out loud. She also brings her clinical expertise to help stepmoms understand what's really happening beneath the surface- and how to begin healing. Key takeaways from this episode: The stepmom grief no one talks about- and why it's completely normal How resentment and emotional shutdown happen when grief goes unprocessed Why stepfamily life triggers loss- not just love How repair (not perfection) can actually strengthen your relationship with your stepkids If you've ever thought, "This is harder than I expected," or felt alone in your experience as a stepmom, this episode will remind you- you're not broken, and you're definitely not the only one. Resources Mentioned: Rachel Dunne Coaching: https://racheldunnecoaching.com Follow Rachel on Instagram: @spiritualstepmom Get our free Stepmom Scripts Guide with real-life scripts for common stepfamily conversations: https://stepfamilycertification.com/stepmom-scripts Love The Stepmom Diaries? Please consider rating and reviewing The Stepmom Diaries on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps the show grow and reach more blended families who need honest conversations like this one.

Have you ever felt like you've lost yourself somewhere along the way in stepmotherhood—and no matter how hard you try, you can't quite find your way back? If you've been holding it all together on the outside but feeling overwhelmed, resentful, or invisible on the inside… this episode will hit deep. In this episode, we're joined by Christina Nelson, host of the Radical Stepmoms Podcast and a leading voice in honest, unfiltered conversations about stepmom life. Together, we dive into the stepmom identity crisis so many women experience, and what it really takes to be a stepmom without losing yourself in the process. Key takeaways from this episode: Why so many stepmoms feel like they've lost themselves (and why it's more common than you think) The hidden emotional load of stepmotherhood no one talks about How to start reclaiming your identity without guilt or burnout The role boundaries play in protecting your peace and your relationship A powerful reframe that helps you show up as yourself—not just "the stepmom" If you're tired of feeling like you're disappearing in your own life and ready to feel like you again, this is an episode you don't want to miss. Resources Mentioned Radical Stepmoms Podcast: Hosted by Christina with raw, honest conversations about stepmom life and blended family dynamics Get our free Stepmom Scripts Guide with real-life scripts for common stepfamily conversations: https://stepfamilycertification.com/stepmom-scripts Love The Stepmom Diaries? Please consider rating and reviewing The Stepmom Diaries on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps the show grow and reach more blended families who need honest conversations like this one.

Most stepmoms have a will. Almost none of them have a plan. And in a blended family, that gap can cost your stepkids their inheritance- or even cost you your home. Tara Yukawa- certified executor advisor, author, and stepdaughter- joins Cameron for a conversation that's equal parts wake-up call and practical roadmap. After navigating loss in her own blended family, Tara now helps others avoid the chaos, confusion, and conflict that happens when planning falls short. In this episode, she breaks down what actually happens when there's no plan- and how to make sure every child is protected. Key takeaways from this episode: Without a proper plan, stepchildren can legally inherit part of your home- and even force its sale "Everything goes to my spouse" can unintentionally disinherit your biological children A will alone isn't enough- you need a full plan (including trust and powers of attorney) to truly protect your family Resources shared: Tara Yukawa's Website Free Newsletter from Tara Before It's Too Late by Tara Yukawa Check out our YouTube channel where we share real-life stepfamily dynamics, expert advice, and practical tools you can actually use. Plus, you can watch full behind-the-scenes video episodes of the podcast. Subscribe and join us! Love The Stepmom Diaries? Please consider rating and reviewing The Stepmom Diaries on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps the show grow and reach more blended families who need honest conversations like this one.

When kids live in two households, education decisions can get complicated fast! In this episode, Houlie Duque, former teacher and founder of Homeschool to Go, shares a fresh perspective on how families can rethink learning when co-parenting is part of the picture. As both a biomom and stepmom raising kids in a blended family, Houlie brings real-life insight into how parents can create flexible education plans that support children across two homes. From navigating co-parenting dynamics to designing learning around a child's strengths, this conversation explores what it really looks like to prioritize a child's growth in a blended family. If you've ever wondered how education decisions work when multiple parents are involved, this episode will open your mind to what's possible. In This Episode You'll Learn: • How blended families can approach education decisions across two households • Creative ways co-parents can divide responsibilities while supporting their child • Why adaptability and communication are key when raising kids in blended families Resources Mentioned: Homeschool to Go [https://www.homeschooltogo.org/] An organization that helps families design personalized education plans tailored to each child and family structure Free Homeschool Masterclass (Homeschool to Go) [https://courses.homeschooltogo.org/freemasterclass-registration] A 30-minute class explaining how parents can explore alternative education options Houlie Duque Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/houlieduque/] sharing education insights and parenting perspectives Stepfamily Solutions [https://stepfamilysolutions.com/] Your single source of support for building and blending a thriving stepfamily Subscribe to the Stepfamily Solutions YouTube channel- your go-to resource for blended family life, where we're constantly dropping new videos packed with expert interviews, full podcast episodes, and everything you need whether you're navigating stepfamily life or thinking about becoming a certified stepfamily coach! Love The Stepmom Diaries? Please consider rating and reviewing The Stepmom Diaries on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps the show grow and reach more blended families who need honest conversations like this one.

AI isn't "coming." It's already here - in your kids' phones, in their homework, in their group chats, and maybe even in your marriage. And most stepmoms have no idea how deeply it's shaping their blended family dynamics. If you've brushed off AI as a tech trend or something you'll figure out later, this episode may completely shift your perspective. Because the reality is: kids are already using it, adults are turning to it for emotional support, and families are navigating new territory without even realizing it. In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Sarah Dooley, founder of AI Empowered Mom, to unpack what AI is really doing inside modern families - and how stepmoms can respond proactively instead of reactively. With nearly two decades in tech- including leading AI initiatives at Visa, Sarah brings both corporate expertise and real-life mom experience to this rapidly changing conversation. In Today's Episode, We're Talking About: The surprising statistics about how many kids are already using AI - and why parents can't afford to ignore it How AI relationships are showing up in marriages, therapy spaces, and teen lives (and the boundaries families need to discuss) Why AI is not private - and what every parent should know before sharing personal information Practical ways stepmoms can use AI right now to reduce your mental load This episode isn't about replacing human connection. It's about using technology intentionally - so you're not left behind, your kids are safer, and your mental load is lighter. If you've been hesitant, skeptical, or quietly curious about AI, this conversation will help you feel more informed, more confident, and more equipped to navigate this new reality inside your blended family. Resources Mentioned Check out Sarah's free private, 3-part mini podcast series with step-by-step instructions for using AI to reduce your mental load. Stepfamily Circle Membership – A supportive community for stepmoms who want help navigating conversations with stepkids, partners, and exes - without losing themselves in the process. Inside, you'll find coaching, real-life examples, and space to practice these conversations so you're not guessing anymore. Love The Stepmom Diaries? Please consider rating and reviewing The Stepmom Diaries on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps the show grow and reach more blended families who need honest conversations like this one.

No description provided.

Have you ever wondered why being a stepmom feels so much heavier than you expected-like no matter what you do, it still doesn't feel like enough? If social media leaves you questioning yourself or you're constantly comparing your stepmom life to impossible standards, this episode is going to feel very familiar. In this episode, I'm joined by Tara Clark, creator of Modern Mom Probs, to talk about stepmom pressure and comparison, why burnout is so common in blended families, and how unrealistic motherhood narratives make stepmomming even harder. We unpack why this pressure isn't personal, how misinformation thrives online, and what stepmoms actually need instead of more "do it all" advice. In Today's Episode, We're Talking About: Why social media comparison hits stepmoms especially hard How unrealistic expectations fuel stepmom burnout (and why it's not your fault) A lower-pressure way to show up as a safe adult for kids in a scary, noisy world Why stepmoms deserve evidence-based guidance, not loud, fear-driven advice If you're tired of feeling like you're falling short and ready to feel more grounded in your role as a stepmom, this conversation offers relief, validation, and perspective. Where to find Tara: Modern Mom Probs Modern Mom Probs Podcast Modern Mom Probs: A Survival Guide for 21st Century Mothers by Tara Clark Love The Stepmom Diaries?Please consider rating and reviewing The Stepmom Diaries on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Your support helps the show reach more stepmoms who need honest, supportive conversations like this one.

If January already feels heavy… if you're tired of trying to feel hopeful... or if you're sitting there thinking, "What is wrong with me?" this episode is for you. January can be hard for stepmoms. And there's a reason no one talks about it. In Today's Episode, We're Talking About: Why January hits so hard for stepmoms Why the 'try harder' culture and first family advice miss the mark - especially this time of year The patterns that come up every January What not to do in January if you're a stepmom How to reframe what's actually happening Resources Mentioned: For Stepmoms: Join the Stepfamily Circle for scripts, strategies, and community support For Aspiring Coaches: Learn how to help families navigate these dynamics with wisdom and expertise at stepfamilysolutions.com/stepfamily-certification Share This Episode: If this hit home for you, please share it with another stepmom who needs to hear it. Post it in that Facebook group where everyone's struggling with the same thing. Send it to that friend who's been texting you about her partner not getting it. The more we talk about this stuff openly, the more we normalize the struggle, and the more stepmoms realize they're not alone and they're not crazy. Love The Stepmom Diaries? Please consider rating and reviewing the show! It will help me reach more stepmoms just like you who need this support. Just click HERE and scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "write a review." Then just let me know what you like best! And the best part about leaving a review? If you send me a screenshot of your review, I'll send YOU my 20-minute Stepmom Self-Care Blueprint. For FREE. It's normally $49 and it's a great tool to quickly set up a self-care plan you'll actually use. Just head HERE to send me your screenshot and grab your blueprint! Connect with Cameron: Website: stepfamilysolutions.com Instagram: @stepfamilysolutions TikTok: @stepfamilysolutions

You're not broken. You're overwhelmed. This episode is for those moments when you're trying so hard to keep it together, but inside you're screaming. The mental load is crushing you, your patience is hanging by a thread, and even the dog's breathing feels like too much . . . If that rings a bell, let me reassure you that no, you're not broken. You're just overwhelmed. And there are tools to help you manage your stress. This week, I'm joined by licensed therapist and coach Kristin Cogan for a conversation every stepmom (and honestly, every woman) needs. We're diving into the truth about "mom overwhelm:" what it is, why it hits so hard in blended families, and how mindfulness can help you interrupt the spiral before it swallows you whole. This is the kind of episode you'll want to save and come back to - especially on the days when you feel like disappearing into the bathroom for a week. ABOUT KRISTIN: Kristin Cogan, MA, LPC, is a licensed therapist, coach, and mom of five based in Texas who helps high-achieving, overwhelmed moms break free from the cycle of stress and self-doubt so they can feel confident, calm, and in control again. With a down-to-earth approach and over a decade of experience, Kristin empowers women to stop surviving and start thriving - on their terms. Learn more about Kristin at imperfectlywonderful.com Follow her on Instagram: @imperfectlywonderfulmotherhood Are you enjoying The Stepmom Diaries? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show. It will help me reach more stepmoms just like you so they can get MORE out of stepmom life! It's super easy – all you have to do is click HERE and scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "write a review." Then just let me know what you like best! And the best part about leaving a review? If you send me a screenshot of your review, I'll send YOU my 20-minute Stepmom Self-Care Blueprint. For FREE. It's normally $49 and it's a great tool to quickly set up a self-care plan you'll actually use. Just head HERE to send me your screenshot and grab your blueprint! Connect with Cameron: Website: stepfamilysolutions.com Instagram: @stepfamilysolutions TikTok: @stepfamilysolutions

"You're not the problem. You're just doing it alone." If you attended the Stepmom Summit last weekend, you wrapped up in a high - feeling seen and understood. But it's over now, and you're back in a house that doesn't feel like yours with zero space to land. Today we're talking about why "trying harder" isn't the answer, and what you actually need to create lasting change in your stepfamily life. In This Episode, We Cover: Why Stepmom Life Feels So Isolating The myth of "trying harder" and the stepmom spiral of second-guessing your boundaries and interactions How "trying harder" leads to losing yourself in the effort That you're not actually failing - the system is failing you You don't need to try more - you need to be seen You weren't meant to navigate stepfamily life alone Resources Mentioned Join the Stepfamily Circle: Ready to stop navigating stepfamily life alone? The Stepfamily Circle offers ongoing support, group coaching calls, and a community that truly gets it. Learn more at stepfamilycircle.com If you missed The Stepmom Summit For a few more days, you can still grab a VIP ticket and access all of the presentations and $2,000 in bonuses. Don't wait because the opportunity to grab your ticket will expire on September 15th! For Aspiring Stepfamily Coaches: Ready to help other stepmoms through coaching? Or just want to dive deep into learning everything about stepfamily life and see what happens from there? Learn about the Stepfamily Coach Academy at stepfamilysolutions.com/stepfamily-certification Connect with Cameron: Website: stepfamilysolutions.com Instagram: @stepfamilysolutions TikTok: @stepfamilysolutions Are you enjoying The Stepmom Diaries? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show. It will help me reach more stepmoms just like you so they can get MORE out of stepmom life! It's super easy – all you have to do is click HERE and scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "write a review." Then just let me know what you like best! And the best part about leaving a review? If you send me a screenshot of your review, I'll send YOU my 20-minute Stepmom Self-Care Blueprint. For FREE. It's normally $49 and it's a great tool to quickly set up a self-care plan you'll actually use. Just head HERE to send me your screenshot and grab your blueprint!