Claim OwnershipThe Stepmom Side Podcast
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Do you find yourself googling for "Stepmom help" or "Stepmom struggles" more than you'd care to admit?
If so, you're in the right place. The Stepmom Side Podcast is a conversational podcast about being a Stepmom and what that actually looks like. Host Alicia Krasko covers everything from part-time, full-time, to being an empty nester as a Stepmom.
Every week, you'll get a bit of humor, advice, and a conversation that will have you taking an objective look at how you're showing up. You can expect honest (and uncomfortable) conversations with perspective shifts mixed in to help you create the life you no longer have to google for help.
101 Episodes
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In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia Krasko gets real about the silent struggle so many stepmoms face: losing themselves in the chaos of blended family life. One day you’re living your carefree (ish) life, and the next, you're the emotional project manager of a household that runs on other people's schedules and drama. Sound familiar? Alicia breaks down how the gradual burnout happens—and why so many stepmoms feel like they’ve completely lost touch with what they enjoy. From fe...
In this episode, Alicia is here to lovingly snatch you out of your spiral with a bold-but-needed reminder: You’re not that special. (And yes, that’s the best news you’ll hear today.) Because if you’ve ever thought you were the only stepmom feeling like an outsider, overwhelmed by an ex, or questioning how the hell you ended up in this role—you’re absolutely not alone. Alicia shares her personal experience with outsider syndrome and challenges the toxic lies stepmoms tell themselves like: “No ...
Summer break in a stepfamily isn’t always sunshine and s’mores—it can be a whirlwind of transitions, mood swings, and scheduling chaos. In this episode, Alicia gets real about the emotional toll of summer break as a stepmom, especially when the stepkids are constantly going back and forth between homes. She breaks down the most common summer struggles (spoiler: you’re not alone if the custody schedule makes you cry), and shares tools to help you find rhythm, protect your time, and reset after...
In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia dives into a powerful truth that many stepmoms avoid: staying stuck in victimhood may feel safe—but it’s quietly stealing your joy, your voice, and your power. If you’ve ever thought, “No one gets it,” “Nothing I do matters,” or “I’m just done trying,” this episode is your wake-up call and warm hug in one. Alicia shares how victimhood becomes a comfort zone and why breaking free is the key to reclaiming your confidence, peace, and freedom as...
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 spo...
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: ...
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 frustrat...
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 fe...
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...
Alicia dives deep into a feeling many stepmoms know all too well—that gut-punch of jealousy or sadness when your stepkids talk about their mom. Whether it’s an innocent story, a glowing compliment, or yet another comparison, the emotional reaction can be real—and often comes with a heavy dose of guilt. Alicia gets real about where those feelings come from, why they’re completely normal, and how to stop judging yourself for them. She unpacks the emotional triggers, gives practical mindset shif...
Mother’s Day can be a tricky holiday for stepmoms, filled with mixed emotions and complicated dynamics. In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia offers stepmoms practical advice and emotional support for navigating the complexities of Mother’s Day. From managing expectations with co-parents to finding personal ways to feel appreciated, Alicia dives deep into how stepmoms can honor themselves on this special day. Listeners will hear her personal insights and actionable tips for bala...
Alicia dives deep into the emotional rollercoaster of comparing yourself to your partner’s ex. Whether it’s scrolling through social media or feeling like you don’t measure up in the stepfamily dynamic, Alicia talks about why comparison is so common (but totally toxic) for stepmoms. She uncovers how comparison affects your sense of identity, belonging, and energy—and shares actionable steps to break the cycle. Spoiler: It starts with being honest with yourself and embracing your unique role i...
In today’s episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, we dive into one of the most frustrating and emotionally-charged dynamics stepmoms face: when your partner sides with the kids and leaves you feeling unsupported. Ever find yourself thinking, "Wait, am I the problem here?" or "Why do I feel like I’m living in the emotional Hunger Games?" Trust me, you’re not alone. Here’s what we’re unpacking in this episode: 1: The Gut Punch of Being Sided Against We’ve all been there — you bring up your stepki...
Starting over financially can feel overwhelming—especially after divorce, debt, and career setbacks. In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Hampton, a financial expert and mom who transformed her life after hitting rock bottom. She shares practical strategies for budgeting, debt repayment, and estate planning—plus the mindset shifts that helped her take control of her future. If you’re feeling stuck financially, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you break free from debt, s...
In this episode, Alicia shares actionable strategies for navigating difficult conversations with your stepchild. From finding the right time to approaching sensitive topics with empathy, you’ll learn how to handle those awkward moments with confidence and grace. Whether you’re discussing rules, feelings, or family dynamics, this episode will help you build trust and create open, meaningful dialogue with your stepchild. Key Takeaways: Why timing and empathy are crucial in difficult conversatio...
In this episode, Alicia dives into a common struggle many stepmoms face: doing all the “mom” things but not getting the recognition or credit for it. As a stepmom, it can feel emotionally draining to pour your heart and energy into your stepkids, only to be seen as “just” the stepmom. Alicia discusses the disconnect between the work you’re putting in and the lack of acknowledgment, especially when your partner and the ex are in constant communication. Even in the most amicable co-parenting si...
In this candid episode, Alicia dives deep into the heartache and humor behind that gut-wrenching moment when your stepchild says, "You're not my mom."She unpacks the emotional roller coaster that comes with blended family life and shares practical tips to help you navigate those painful moments with grace and resilience. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Understanding the Impact: Discover why the words “You’re not my mom” hit so hard—even when they’re less about you and more about the child’s ow...
In today’s episode, we’re tackling a big one—happiness. More specifically, how YOUR happiness is an inside job, even when stepfamily stress is trying to bulldoze its way into your peace. If you’ve ever felt like your emotions are at the mercy of the ex, your stepkids, or the never-ending co-parenting drama, this episode is for you. Alicia breaks down: ⁃ How stepmoms unknowingly give away their power and happiness ⁃ Three practical ways to take back control (without the guilt) ⁃ Why boundaries...
What happens when a stepmom decides to leave her relationship—but she’s deeply connected to her stepkids? This is a heartbreak that no one talks about. Today, Alicia is diving into: How to break the news to your stepkids Whether you should stay in contact after the breakup How to deal with the overwhelming guilt and sadness Healthy ways to cope and move forward Leaving a relationship when stepkids are involved adds layers of pain, guilt, and uncertainty. But here’s the truth—you can love them...
In this episode, Alicia is tackling one of the most frustrating issues many stepmoms face: what to do when your partner isn't stepping up with their kids or your "ours baby." It's hard when you feel like you're doing it all on your own, especially when your partner's involvement with their stepkids or shared children is lacking. First, Alicia dives into the common reasons why dads may hold back when it comes to stepping up for their stepkids. From co-parenting guilt to emotional distance, she...
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