Welcome to NK Podcast 277, where we dive deep into the complexities of blended families, co-parenting, and everything in between. In today's episode, Lori has the pleasure of speaking with esteemed guest Bradley S Craig, a Licensed Master Social Worker and Certified Family Life Educator, known for his insightful book Between 2 Homes. Today’s conversation ranges from the nuanced roles of stepparents to the intricacies of custody modifications, all the way through effective co-parenting techniques and the societal impact of blended family dynamics. This interview was so full of information we had to split it up into two parts!

We explore the often misunderstood influence of stepmoms, the implications of custody change requests post-remarriage, and the significance of terminology with terms like "bonus mom" and "nesting." Bradley shares his wisdom on maintaining consistent family dynamics, avoiding common pitfalls in high-conflict co-parenting situations, and adopting a professional mindset for better child welfare.

We'll also discuss practical tools like the "Our Family Wizard" app, the pressures societal norms place on stepfamilies, and Bradley’s recommendations for effective co-parent communication.

This is not just a theoretical discussion; Bradley also brings in his personal experiences and professional insights, making it a must-listen for anyone navigating the challenges of blended families.

Stay tuned for a thought-provoking conversation that offers valuable strategies, empathy, and a fresh perspective on stepfamily complexities.

Let's dive in!

In this episode, we discuss:

• Stepmom Influence

• Trust and Boundaries

• Court System and Legal Procedures

• Parenting Facilitators

• Business Mindset in Co-parenting

• Terms and Perceptions

Nacho Kids Academy Success Story:

“I have never seen anyone care so much about helping others. Lori goes above and beyond for her clients. You can tell she and David both do this to truly help others. They are a blessing to the world of stepparents!” ~ K.H.

Welcome to Episode 276 of the Nacho Kids Podcast! In this episode, hosts David and Lori discuss some of the complexities of stepfamily dynamics with special guests Will and his stepmom Jo. Jo, who has no biological children and has been in a relationship with Will’s father for four years. They explore Will’s transition from living with his mother to moving full-time with his father and Jo, discussing how responsibilities and structure have positively impacted his life. Will opens up about the emotional challenges he faced, including dealing with depression and adjusting to new household routines.

We’ll also delve into Jo’s role in Will’s life, how cool of a stepmum she is, and the importance of building trust and friendship between stepparents and stepchildren. Jo and Will share a story of being blessed to have each other in their lives.

This episode is filled with heartfelt stories, practical advice, and relatable experiences that provide valuable insights into stepfamily relationships. Whether you're part of a stepfamily or just interested in family dynamics, you’ll find something meaningful in today’s conversation. So sit back, relax, and join us for a candid discussion on navigating life in a blended family!

In this episode, we discuss:

• Adjusting to New Living Arrangements

• Building Trust and Friendship

• Influence of a Stepparent:

• Stepfamily Challenges and Integration

• Celebrating Milestones

Nacho Kids Academy Success Story:

“As a family court attorney, I have had several of my client’s partners, who are stepparents, of course, mention Nacho Parenting over the past several months. Being curious about this method, I decided to look into it. I read the blogs but wanted to know more about these people and what they were teaching people. After reviewing the content, I’m convinced the family court system should mandate a class on the Nacho method!” ~ W.O.

Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast! This is Episode 275, and we have a jam-packed show for you today. I'm your host, David, and as always, I'm joined by the wonderful Lori. We have some thrilling updates and announcements and an insightful conversation about expectations in blended families.

We'll kick things off with our upcoming events—starting with a meet and greet in Denver, Colorado. If you're in the area, don't miss this chance to connect with us! Plus, we have a podcast review contest running until the end of September, where you can win a $100 Amazon gift card. And don't forget about the 5th annual Step Family Summit from September 11th to 13th, hosted by Claudette Chenover, and our very first guided "Change Your Stinking Thinking Challenge."

In this episode, Lori and I will be diving deep into the complexities of expectations within blended families—from unspoken assumptions to the importance of clear communication. We'll share our personal experiences, challenges, and the valuable lessons we've learned along the way. And of course, we'll also touch on some lighter moments, like David's ongoing battle with the Amazon delivery driver.

So sit back, relax, and join us as we explore the highs and lows of blending families and managing expectations. Let's get into it!

In this episode, we discuss:

• Scope and Importance of Expectations

• Personal Experiences and Misconceptions

• Household and Parental Roles

• Expectations of Family Dynamics

• Disciplinary Expectations

Nacho Kids Academy Success Story:

“My husband and I used to make fun of the Nacho method. We thought it was stupid. The name, the principals behind it, everything. One day we were fighting about his kids and he told me I needed to Nacho. I looked at him like he was crazy. He told me we could join the Academy together and try it for thirty days to see if it helps with the stress in the blend. I agreed to try and I can not explain to you the difference it made in our lives! We are staying in the Academy a while longer to digest more of the content and get more tools to help us. This stepfamily stuff is hard and Lori and David make it a lot less traumatizing.” ~ M.M.

Welcome back to the Nacho Kids Podcast! In this enlightening episode, hosts David and Lori dive deep into the complexities of blended family dynamics just in time for the holiday season. Tune in as they share insights on upcoming events like the 5th Annual Step Family Summit with Claudette Chenevert and the release of exciting challenges such as the Nacho Guided "Change Your Stinking Thinking" Challenge, and a special opportunity for our podcast listeners.

Lori and David discuss navigating family gatherings, the intricacies of gift-giving, and managing expectations within stepfamilies. They share practical tips on handling holiday schedules and ensuring no one feels left out, even in financially tight situations. Plus, they address the emotional challenges children in blended families face and emphasize the importance of equipping them with resilience tools.

Don't forget to check out the Nacho Kids Academy for resources to improve your blended family relationships. Join us for an episode packed with valuable advice and heartwarming stories, and remember—life is good when you Nacho!

In this episode, we discuss:

• General Challenges of Holidays in Blended Families

• Rotating Schedules

• Gift Giving in Blended Families

• Grandparents and Fixed Incomes

• Balancing Fairness and Realistic Expectations

Nacho Kids Academy Success Story:

“I wish I would have signed up for one-on-one coaching with Lori sooner. I’ve been going to therapy for years because of the blended challenges. My most recent therapist relocated and only has in-person meetings, so I decided I’d see what the Nacho people had to offer while trying to find a new therapist. In just one hour with Lori, just one, and I learned more than I had learned in two years from my therapist! I’m still in shock! Thank you, Lori, you are the best!” ~ B.A.

Welcome to Episode 273 of the NK Podcast, "Nacho Parenting Really Works!" Today, Lori dives into the fascinating dynamics of blended families with her special guest, Mikel Van Cleve, a certified financial planner with a unique personal story. Mikel opens up about embarking on a whirlwind romance that led to marriage just three months later. We explore their challenges with differing parenting styles, their impact on their children, and the innovative Nacho Parenting technique that transformed their family life.

Join us as Michael shares the ups and downs of blending families, including feeling as if he had to choose between his wife and kid and the eventual reconciliation between his wife and daughter. We discuss the importance of modeling healthy relationships for children and the inherent favoritism towards biological kids.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Stepdaughter stepmom relationships

• Relationships within the blend

• Biological child goeing to live with the “other” biological parent

• Choosing between your partner and your kid

• Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting method for the win. Again!

Nacho Kids Academy Success Story:

“I joined the Nacho Academy after reading about it in the Atlantic magazine. My partner and I were about to split up because of the kids. I watched one of the video courses in the Academy and told my partner she had to watch it! I was so excited!! After she watched it, we agreed that we would give this crazy Nacho Parenting a shot. Life is so much better in only two months! We still have much to learn, but we are both hopeful about our relationship and future. We will forever love the creators of Nacho Parenting!” P.E.

Welcome to NK Podcast! In today's episode, we dive deep into the intricate world of blended families with our special guest, Matthew Steiner. As a Christian stepdad who has navigated the complexities of step-parenting and the "Nacho" method, Matthew shares his journey of balancing faith, family dynamics, and the emotional challenges that come with being a stepparent.

Matthew opens up about his personal experiences, including the frustrations of not being able to control decisions and timelines related to his stepchildren, and the eventual harmony achieved through improved co-parenting and understanding roles.

Join us for an honest and heartfelt conversation that promises to offer valuable insights for any parent or stepparent navigating similar waters.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Realizing the limitations of a stepparent's role.

• Tensions due to discipline and shared finances.

• Frustration with lack of control over decisions and timelines related to stepchildren.

• Household rules and chores expectations.

• Effective co-parenting

Nacho Kids Academy Success Story:

“I am so appreciative of all Lori and David do to help stepfamilies. They treat you like family and honestly care about you and your blend! They changed our lives! Rock on David and Lori and fellow Nachoers!” ~ O.T.

Welcome to another episode of the NK Podcast! Today we’re diving into a compelling and deeply personal conversation with an anonymous stepmom, who shares her experience navigating the complex dynamics of blended family life. In this episode, anonymous stepmom discusses her struggle with being overprotective, and the challenges posed by her partner’s high-conflict ex. We’ll explore how she juggles being a step-parent, dealing with traumatic events, and maintaining her mental health through counseling. Join host Lori as she unpacks the nuances of setting boundaries, dealing with disrespect, and finding balance in a stepfamily after this stepmom’s decision to step back from certain responsibilities. This episode promises to shed light on the trials and triumphs of blended families and offers valuable insights into creating harmony amidst chaos.

In this episode, we discuss:

• When to Nacho

• Adding an Ours kid

• High-conflict bio-mom

• Overwhelmed stepmom

Nacho Kids Academy Success Story:

"This method is absolutely amazing! I had worked with other stepfamily coaches about disengaging and it never worked, so I decided to give this a try. Thank goodness I did! This is so much more than disengaging, that's why it didn't work before! Thank you Lori and David for teaching us how to better our blended lives. I will be forever grateful!" ~ G.V.

In this episode, Lori talks with Keri, a stepmom of four years who has one bio kid and two stepkids, well technically one stepkid. The other stepkid is not her partner’s biological child and stopped coming for visitation about two years ago. This is her second blended family. Her first blend lasted eight years, and Keri was very involved in her stepdaughter’s life. After swearing to never date anyone else with kids, she met her now husband and yep, ended up in another blend. And guess what? This blend isn’t the same as her first one!

In this episode, we discuss the following:

• Moving to be with your partner and their kids

• Being a high school teacher and stepmom

• Asking your partner to change their visitation schedule

• Stepparent communicating with partner’s ex

• Super stepmom crashes

• Finding Nacho!

• Adding an ours baby to the blend

Nacho Kids Academy Success Story:

“Coming from a blended family, I thought I wouldn’t struggle like most stepmoms do. After all, I have had three stepmoms and two stepdads. I had lots of “experience”. Little did I know that my world would be turned upside down two years after our marriage. I found the Nacho Academy through a friend who is a therapist and suggested it after telling her I was ready to give up and that I couldn’t do this anymore. I was hesitant at first because of some of the negative stuff I heard, but after listening to one of the courses and crying my eyes out, I knew this was my tribe! I knew the negative I had heard about the method was not accurate and this is what I needed. I needed to Nacho and my husband and his kids needed me to Nacho too! It has made a tremendous difference in our blend and I’m excited to continue learning in the Academy from Lori & David.” ~ L.G.