#147: Stepmom Struggles: Why Kids Pull Away in Front of Their Other Parent

About this episode

Alicia discusses why stepchildren may act distant in the presence of their other parent and explores the concept of loyalty binds in stepfamily dynamics.

Alicia dives into one of the most confusing and emotionally triggering experiences for stepmoms: why stepchildren suddenly act distant, avoidant, or completely different when their other parent is around. If you’ve ever felt ignored at pickup, brushed off in public, or like your relationship disappears the moment their other parent enters the picture… you are not imagining it. And more importantly—it’s not rejection. This episode breaks down the concept of loyalty binds in stepfamily dynamics...

People in this episode

Host: Alicia Krasko

Topics covered

• stepfamily dynamics
• loyalty binds
• stepmom struggles
• parenting challenges
• child behavior

Keywords

• stepmom
• stepchildren
• parenting
• loyalty binds
• family dynamics
• emotional triggers
• child behavior

More episodes of The Stepmom Side Podcast

• #152: Stepmom Confidence: Stop Auditioning for Belonging · June 9, 2026 · 27 min
• #151: When Your Stepkids Disrespect You: What Every Stepmom Needs to Know · June 2, 2026 · 19 min
• #150: Why Setting Boundaries Feels Mean (And How to Stop Feeling Guilty) · May 26, 2026 · 17 min
• #149: Why Stepmoms Confuse Peace With Perfection in Blended Families · May 19, 2026 · 24 min
• 148: Summer Break Is Chaos for Stepmoms—Here’s How to Take Back Control of Your Home · May 12, 2026 · 23 min
• 146: Stepmother’s Day Emotions: Feeling Invisible, Seen, and Everything In Between · April 28, 2026 · 12 min