The Stepmom Side Podcast

• #97: Not a Stepmom Yet… But Kinda? Navigating the Awkward In-Between

  Alicia tackles the unspoken phase of stepmom life—the before. You’ve met the kids. You’re dating the dad. You’re not a stepmom technically, but you're already feeling all the weird, confusing emotions that come with blending families.This “in-between” season is messy, emotional, and full of what the actual efffff moments. Alicia breaks down how to ease into your role, communicate expectations before moving in, handle the third-wheel vibes when your partner and his ex still do holidays or sports events together, and why it's okay to feel overwhelmed before you're even officially in it.Whether you're brand new to stepmom life or standing at the edge wondering if you're about to dive into bonus mom territory—you’ll walk away from this episode with clarity, tools, and that classic Alicia real talk.Inside this episode:What to consider before moving in with your partnerHow to handle feeling like an outsider at kid events and family momentsTips for integrating into the kids’ lives in a way that actually feels good for everyoneThe importance of early conversations around parenting roles, boundaries, and expectationsWhy getting support before you’re a full-time stepmom is a game-changerWant a community that gets it?Join The Stepmom Side Community here.Ready to actually work through your stepmom stressors?Schedule 1:1 coaching with Alicia.Resources mentioned:Set Your Stepfamily Up for Success: How to Create House Expectations that Work for Everyone!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.comGet on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

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• #96: Documenting for Court: Protecting Your Peace in High-Conflict Co-Parenting with Nika Chadwick

  In this powerful episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia Krasko is joined by Nika Chadwick, an expert in navigating high-conflict co-parenting situations. They dive deep into understanding what high-conflict actually means, how to recognize it, and how to protect your peace and sanity while managing it. Whether you’re facing constant drama, navigating court battles, or just trying to keep your home a safe and stable space for your family, this episode has you covered.Key Topics Covered:What High-Conflict Really Means: Understanding the difference between typical disagreements and true high-conflict situations.The Role of Personality Disorders: How traits like black-and-white thinking and an obsession with conflict can signal a high-conflict personality.Effective Documentation for Court: Tips for documenting incidents that actually matter in court and making your case stronger.The BIFF Communication Strategy: How to communicate with a high-conflict co-parent using messages that are brief, informative, friendly, and firm.Mental Health Protection: Why having a support system outside of family is crucial for your well-being.Real-Life Strategies and Tools: Practical methods like using a color-coded binder, leveraging apps for secure communication, and setting boundaries.Who This Episode Is For:Stepmoms dealing with a high-conflict ex.Anyone navigating a challenging co-parenting relationship.Parents preparing for a custody or court case.Those wanting to protect their mental and emotional health while co-parenting.Connect with Nika Chadwick:Instagram: @nikachadwickcoachingWebsite: NikaChadwick.comTikTok: @nikachadwickcoachingWant 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.comGet on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

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• #95: Ask Me Anything from Instagram-Stepmom Life Unfiltered: Tackling Disrespect, Boundary Issues, and Bio Mom Drama

  In today’s episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia answers questions from her broadcast channel and "Ask Me Anything" from Instagram. She dives deep into some of the toughest struggles stepmoms face—like dealing with disrespectful stepkids, managing the emotions of bio kids, handling the drama from bio moms, and navigating tricky boundaries with your partner. It’s a tough ride, but guess what? You’re not alone.Alicia will be sharing actionable tips to help you work through these frustrations, keep your sanity intact, and build stronger, more connected relationships with your stepkids and partner. From setting realistic house expectations to learning how to handle boundary-pushing situations with love and patience, this episode is packed with advice that will help you feel seen, supported, and empowered.Whether it’s trying to make your stepkids feel comfortable at your house while they miss their mom, dealing with manipulative bio moms, or feeling the resentment creep in, she's got your back. We’re talking about the importance of connection over correction, setting boundaries that actually work, and how to stop feeling like a doormat in the “best interest of the kids.”If you’re ready to let go of the frustration, let go of resentment, and finally get the support you need, I’ve got some resources for you to dive into—plus a free guide on setting house expectations that changed the game for my family.So take a deep breath, tune in, and let’s get real about this stepmom life. You’ve got this.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Set Your Stepfamily Up for Success: How to Create House Expectations That Work for Everyone - Free guide at aliciakrasko.com/expectations.Join The Stepmom Side Community - For support, coaching, and real-time feedback with other stepmoms who get it. aliciakrasko.com/communityCoaching with Alicia - Ready to take your stepmom journey to the next level? Book a session today at aliciakrasko.com/coaching.Instagram Broadcast Channel - join here.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.comGet on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

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  32:19
• #94: How To Handle It When Your Partner Just Doesn’t Get It and You're A Stepmom

  Ever poured your heart out to your partner, only to get blank stares or the dreaded “You’re overreacting”?In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia breaks down the emotional disconnect so many stepmoms feel in their relationship — and how to get your partner to finally understand your experience (without it turning into World War III).From validation to communication shifts, Alicia shares the mindset tweaks and scripts that help you feel seen instead of silenced.If you’ve been feeling emotionally isolated, unsupported, or like you’re living in a completely different world than your partner — this episode is your permission slip to stop carrying it all alone.Key Highlights:Why your partner struggles to understand your experience as a stepmomThe real goal of communication (it’s not just about being right)Scripts that open conversations instead of starting fightsWhat to do when you’ve said it all… and they still don’t get itHow to protect your emotional peace while staying connected📣 Share the Love:Know a stepmom who's constantly saying, “He just doesn’t get it”? Share this episode with her—she’s not 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.comGet on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

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• #93: Different Parenting Styles = Step Hell: How to Parent as a Team in a Blended Family

  Are you stuck being the only one enforcing structure while your partner hands out snacks and screen time like it’s Halloween?Listen in as Alicia dives into one of the most frustrating parts of stepmom life — the moment you realize you’ve become the “bad cop” in your own home… and your partner is just vibing with chaos.You’ll learn why this dynamic happens in blended families, how it affects your mental load and relationship, and what you can actually do to fix it. Hint: It’s not about being stricter—it’s about being smarter with boundaries, communication, and emotional self-preservation.Key Highlights:Why you’re always the one enforcing rules (and why it’s not your fault)How guilt and avoidance shape your partner’s parenting styleScripts for conversations that shift the dynamic back to a team effortWhat to do when your partner refuses to step upWhy stepping back doesn’t mean giving upResources + Links:Join The Stepmom Side Community and never feel alone again.Work through resentment and boundaries in 1:1 coaching. 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.comGet on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

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