Discover what happens when a blended family actually flourishes. Yes, it’s possible! In this episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast, Lori sits down with a remarkable teenage stepkid who shares his rare, positive perspective on navigating life with divorced parents, stepfamilies, and even step-siblings.

Listeners will get an inside look at what healthy co-parenting looks like through the eyes of an easygoing stepkid who has strong, drama-free relationships with his stepmom and stepdad. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of adapting to living in two homes, forming real bonds with step-siblings, and what happens when boundaries and respect are mutual between parents and step-parents. He opens up about the hardest parts of his parents’ divorce, how therapy helped, and why he recognizes his stepparents on Mother’s and Father’s Day (yes, really!).

This episode reveals not only practical tips for parents and stepparents, like the importance of strong communication, setting boundaries, and letting kids emotionally process big changes, but also offers hope that peaceful blended families do exist. Plus, you’ll hear touching anecdotes about handling holidays, family traditions, and even what to do if your parents get along so well their new partners become friends!

What you’ll learn:

• What helps stepkids develop strong bonds with stepparents

• How living arrangements impact stepkid/stepparent dynamics

• The importance of boundaries, communication, and therapy after divorce

• Handling holidays and traditions in blended families

• Real stories of stepkid/stepfamily relationships that actually work

Links:

• Check out our website and blogs: nachokids.com

• Follow Nacho Kids on Facebook: Nacho Kids Facebook

• Join the Nacho Kids Academy: Nacho Kids Academy

Listen to NKP325 for an inspiring dose of hope, and a reminder that peace and love are possible in stepfamilies. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to support more real-life blended family stories!

Nacho Kids Testimony:

Coaching with Lori pulled us back from the edge of divorce. ~ J.F., Chicago, IL USA

Laugh your way through the ups and downs of blended family life in Episode 324 of the Nacho Kids Podcast! Hosts David and Lori bring their signature humor and honesty to a fresh discussion about the realities of stepfamily dynamics—proving it’s always a hot mess, but never without a laugh.

In this episode, you’ll:

• Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into David and Lori’s relationship as they share candid moments and jokes about married life in a blended family.

• Hear how they transform challenging topics—like issues around stepkids and “family sucking otherwise”—into opportunities for connection and laughter.

• Feel validated if you’ve ever struggled with tough family topics, as the hosts keep things real while still making space for joy and fun.

Although there’s no featured guest in this episode, David and Lori’s chemistry and honest banter will make you feel like you’re sitting at the kitchen table with old friends. This episode is perfect for anyone navigating the stepparent journey or looking for a little comic relief in the midst of family chaos.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share your favorite moment, and leave us a review so we can keep spreading the laughter!

Find more episodes and resources:
Website: nachokids.com
Facebook: Nacho Kids
Instagram: @nachokids

Join the Nacho Kids community and turn your “hot mess” into your happy place!

In this episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast, host Lori welcomes back Michaela Bucchianeri to explore emotional regulation, a crucial skill for every stepmom and stepfamily member. Michaela breaks down the myth that emotions are the enemy and shares actionable tips for managing stress responses like fight, flight, and fawn. Discover practical tools for building emotional vocabulary, reframing negative thoughts, and intentionally choosing which situations to engage in. Learn why emotional awareness is vital in step-parenting, how to avoid people-pleasing traps, and ways to protect your mental and physical health from chronic stress. Perfect for stepmoms seeking healthier relationships, self-regulation, and a happier blended family life.

Key elements:

• Emotions aren’t the enemy - learn to work with them, not suppress them.

• Stress responses (fight, flight, freeze, fawn) and their impact on stepfamily life.

• Ways to expand emotional vocabulary for better self-awareness and communication.

• Tips for reframing situations to reduce conflict and emotional overwhelm.

• The importance of intentionally choosing situations to protect your emotional energy.

• How people-pleasing and over-functioning can cause long-term burnout.

• Actionable self-regulation techniques to support your health and stepfamily dynamics.

Perfect for stepmoms and blended families seeking actionable advice on emotional wellness, setting boundaries, and strengthening relationships.
#stepmomlife #emotionregulation #blendedfamilytips

Resources Mentioned

• NachoKids.com

• NachoKidsAcademy.com

Nacho Parenting Testimonial:

I stopped crying in the bathroom after coaching with Lori. I finally feel like “ME” again. Forever Grateful! S.B., Nashville, TN, USA