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The Stepparenting Network

The Stepparenting Network

By: Lina Shine
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About this listen

The Stepparenting Network is a podcast dedicated to honest, meaningful conversations about the realities of stepparenting and blended family life; the parts that are rarely talked about, yet deeply felt.


Hosted by Lina Shine, this show creates space for stepparents, parents, and thought leaders to explore the emotional, mental, and personal growth that often comes with stepping into a blended family. From navigating complex family dynamics and unspoken expectations to building emotional intelligence, resilience, and self-awareness, each episode is rooted in empathy, reflection, and real-life experience.

Whether you’re a stepparent in the thick of it, considering becoming one, or simply passionate about emotional growth and healthy relationships, The Stepparenting Network offers connection, validation, and thoughtful conversation, reminding you that you’re not alone and that growth is possible even in the most challenging seasons.


New episodes explore real stories, practical insights, and the inner work that helps stepparents become grounded, confident, and emotionally supported in their journey.

© 2026 The Stepparenting Network Parenting & Families Relationships
Episodes
  • I Wish I Learned About Boundaries and Gaslighting as a Child

    I Wish I Learned About Boundaries and Gaslighting as a Child
    Feb 27 2026

    What is the real sacrifice that childless and childfree stepmoms make? And why is it something few people truly understand?

    In this episode, I’m joined by author Tyra Juliette Schwartz, a passionate advocate for children’s emotional well-being and healthy boundaries. Tyra is the acclaimed author of The Sky is Red, a powerful children’s book that addresses gaslighting and manipulation in a child-friendly way and has been praised by parents, therapists, and educators worldwide.


    Links to our community
    Tiktok - http://www.tiktok.com/@UCiE9Xaaf9NlhTAHLgO2xVoQ

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thestepparentingnetwork


    #blendedfamily #stepparenttips #stepmomlife #stepdadlife #blendedfamilyadvice #stepparentstruggles #stepparentingtips #coparentinghelp #stepparentjourney
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    47 mins
  • The Hidden Sacrifice of Childless & Childfree Stepmoms

    The Hidden Sacrifice of Childless & Childfree Stepmoms
    Feb 24 2026

    What is the real sacrifice childless and childfree stepmoms make? And why does no one talk about it openly?

    In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Mindy Kyle, a Certified Parenting with Purpose Coach and Certified Stepfamily Coach with over 15 years of experience specializing in the stepparent journey. Having become a stepmom to four children in her 20s, Mindy understands firsthand the emotional, relational, and identity shifts that come with entering a blended family.

    Together, we unpack the hidden sacrifices childless and childfree stepmoms make from grieving motherhood expectations, to navigating invisibility, to redefining identity and purpose inside a family that already existed.

    Whether you are a childless stepmom, childfree stepmom, or navigating complex blended family dynamics, this conversation offers validation, clarity, and real strategies to help you feel seen and supported.

    Links
    Tiktok - http://www.tiktok.com/@UCiE9Xaaf9NlhTAHLgO2xVoQ

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thestepparentingnetwork


    #blendedfamily #stepparenttips #stepmomlife #stepdadlife #blendedfamilyadvice #stepparentstruggles #stepparentingtips #coparentinghelp #stepparentjourney
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    1 hr
  • Imposter Syndrome in Stepmotherhood: The Emotional Truth

    Imposter Syndrome in Stepmotherhood: The Emotional Truth
    Feb 11 2026

    Imposter syndrome doesn’t just show up at work—it shows up at home too, especially in stepmotherhood. In this episode, I’m joined by guest host Lauren Weeks, a long-distance stepmom, to have an honest, validating conversation about imposter syndrome as a stepmom and the quiet doubts so many stepmothers carry.

    We explore what it feels like to love children you don’t live with full-time, question your role in a family you joined later, and wonder if you truly belong. Lauren shares her experience navigating long-distance stepmotherhood, emotional distance, comparison, and the pressure to “get it right” when you’re not always physically present.


    Links
    Tiktok - http://www.tiktok.com/@UCiE9Xaaf9NlhTAHLgO2xVoQ

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thestepparentingnetwork
    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
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