The Nacho Kids Podcast: Blended Family Lifesaver

Lori Sims & David Sims
  • 4.8 (266)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Stepfamilies and blended families are very challenging. With a failure rate of over 70%, it's clear that blended families need help. Nacho Kids founders and blended family coaches, Lori and David Sims, are here to help blended families save their sanity and relationships. You'll hear the hosts and guests discuss the struggles and successes of blended family life and learn how the Nacho Kids Method is changing lives and saving relationships around the world.

  1. 1D AGO

    357: Estate Planning In Stepfamilies

    Discover crucial insights into estate planning, divorce mediation, and the complexities of blended families in this heartfelt episode featuring attorney Tamara Arnold. Learn why preparing legal documents for life's unexpected turns is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family. Listeners will hear Tamara's powerful personal story that led her to a career in estate planning, from her mother's tragedy to her mission of helping families ensure their voices and wishes are honored. She delves into why healthcare directives matter, how trusts work (especially for stepfamilies), and the importance of clear communication to avoid family conflict over inheritance. Tamara also explains her compassionate approach to divorce mediation, helping couples navigate separation without escalating hostile battles. Highlights include: The real-life impact of a lack of estate planning and healthcare directives How to set up trusts and wills that honor everyone, especially in blended families The pitfalls of probate and how to avoid them Tips on guardianship decisions for children in stepfamily situations How mediation offers healthier outcomes in divorce and custody disputes Tamara's practical advice for step-parents seeking balance, trust, and clarity Her story of integrating into a blended family, earning stepchild trust, and finding harmony Special guest: Tamara Arnold, founder of Truce Resolutions and creator of the Divorce Wave app. Follow her on Instagram @tamaraesq.

    1 hr

  2. MAR 27

    356: Who Pays For College In A Stepfamily

    Curious how blended families navigate the tricky question of paying for college? Lori and David tackle financial planning, family dynamics, and the reality of college costs in stepfamilies with honesty and humor. In this episode, you'll hear candid discussions about college expenses, scholarships, military paths, and what happens when one parent or stepparent has set aside funds for their child. Lori and David share their own experiences, like how military service and scholarships shaped their children's education, and what tough conversations arise if only one child has college savings. They dive deep into blended family finances, including inheritance, trusts, and what "fairness" really means when handling money for kids and stepkids. You'll also get practical advice on when to start talking about finances, why it's essential to plan early, and how to manage uncomfortable conversations (with tips for mediators and financial advisors). The hosts read comments from their Facebook group, providing real-life perspectives on who pays for college. Want more Nacho Kids wisdom? Visit https://nachokids.com for resources, join their Facebook group, and stay connected on social media. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and catch upcoming episodes for support and advice on stepfamily life! Subscribe & Review: Help us grow and serve more stepfamilies!

    33 min

  3. MAR 20

    355: Family Court Don'ts ~ Whitney Antoniono Family Law Attorney

    Struggling with family court drama or high-conflict co-parenting? In this eye-opening episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast, host Lori sits down with seasoned family law attorney Whitney Antoniono to reveal the common mistakes people make in family court, and how to avoid them. What to Expect: You'll learn the crucial dos and don'ts of communicating with your co-parent, why documenting everything (with more than just your phone!) matters, and how emotional responses can sabotage your case. Whitney Antoniano shares real-world stories from inside and outside the courtroom, highlighting how little things, like your tone in emails, or rolling your eyes in court, can sway a judge's opinion. The episode also dives into: How to protect yourself from common pitfalls before, during, and after court The ins-and-outs of self-representation versus hiring an attorney The realities of step-parent involvement in custody cases When and how kids' preferences are considered Why relying on AI tools like ChatGPT for legal filings could backfire How to keep your cool (and keep your costs down) if things get heated Guest Info: Whitney Antoniano is a multi-state family law attorney (DC, NY, MD, TX). She's known for her straight talk, practical strategies, and deep empathy for clients caught in high-conflict cases. Find her on Instagram and TikTok @WLAFamilyLaw, or visit wlafamilylaw.com for educational content and resources. Don't miss this essential episode for any parent, step-parent, or partner navigating the family court maze. Hit subscribe to hear more, leave us a review, or join the Nacho Kids community for extra support!

    58 min

  4. MAR 13

    354: Stepkids Don't Disappear at 18

    Ready for some laughs, real-life blended family moments, and practical advice? In Episode NKP354 of the Nacho Kids Podcast, Lori and David go deep on navigating relationships with adult stepkids - messy bathrooms, emptied fridges, and all! Tune in to hear Lori recount a jaw-dropping real-life story from a Nacho Kids Academy member who returned home to a ransacked kitchen and disaster-zone bathrooms after leaving her adult stepkids in charge. David and Lori unpack what to do (and NOT do) when your adult stepkids act more like kids than adults, and how applying Nacho parenting strategies can save your sanity, and your marriage. You'll learn the difference between stepping in and stepping back, how to address stepkid messes without drama, and why your words (and tone!) matter more than you think. This episode also dives into the long game: how today's choices affect future relationships with your partner, stepkids, and even step-grandkids. Plus, hear tips for emotional regulation, clear communication, and picking your battles so minor annoyances don't become major rifts. Love the show? Subscribe, leave a review, or join the Nacho Kids Academy for more tools to make your blend less stressful and more joyful! Follow Nacho Kids: Website: nachokids.com

    29 min

  5. MAR 6

    353: Don't Do This & Big Announcement

    Ready for some real talk about stepfamily life? In this episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast, hosts Lori and David dive into the hot topic of whether stepkids should be pushed to move out at 18, and why the answer is rarely so simple. Tune in to hear Lori and David share both personal stories and practical advice about navigating expectations around adult children in blended families. You'll hear them discuss everything from financial realities facing today's young adults to the emotional impact of pushing (or not pushing) kids out of the house. The hosts break down common misconceptions, such as the idea that kids are automatically ready at 18 or assuming that birth order or biological connection determines readiness. They even roleplay typical conversations (with humor and honesty) to illustrate the complicated dynamics at play. Listeners will learn: Why "just move out at 18" isn't always realistic or fair for stepkids The importance of planning, open communication, and leading rather than pushing How economic realities have changed since Lori and David were young Practical strategies for preparing kids for independence, including decision-making tools and honest conversation No special guests join this episode—it's all the witty, relatable wisdom you've come to expect from Lori and David. Love the show? Visit nachokids.com for more resources, join the Nacho Kids Facebook group, and follow Nacho Kids on Instagram and Facebook. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, or share with someone navigating the blended family journey! Nacho Kids Podcast—real talk, real families, real solutions.

    27 min

  6. FEB 27

    352: Apartnering Because Of Stepkid

    Get ready for a powerful and deeply honest conversation in Nacho Kids Podcast Episode 352! This week, our returning guest Laura, a stepmom from Oklahoma, shares her emotional journey navigating difficult stepfamily dynamics, personal boundaries, and the realities of "apartnership" - staying married while living separately. Tune in to hear Laura provide a raw behind-the-scenes look at what led her and her husband to start living apart, including challenges with her teenage stepson, navigating sensitive situations, and the struggle for support and understanding in her marriage. Lori dives deep, asking the tough questions about why Laura chose to stay and work on her marriage despite major obstacles, and together, they discuss how stepfamily life creates unique struggles and growth opportunities. Listeners will gain insights into: The complexities of stepfamily relationships and boundaries How personal safety, mental health, and resentment play roles in blended family life Why living apart can sometimes bring clarity and healing The importance of communication, therapy, letting go of control, and self-care How to avoid the comparison trap when it comes to other stepfamilies Don't miss Laura's candid takeaways and tips for struggling stepmoms, along with relatable, real-life confessions from the host, Lori. This episode is a valuable listen for anyone in a blended family or considering alternative ways to nurture their relationship.

    1 hr

  7. FEB 20

    351: Losing Yourself In The Blend

    Feeling lost in your stepfamily journey? In Nacho Kids Podcast episode 351, Lori and David get real about what it's like to lose yourself in the chaos of blending families, and how to find your way back to "you." In this deeply relatable conversation, Lori opens up about her personal experience of losing her sense of self after joining families with David, taking on new roles, and navigating quadrupled responsibilities. David shares insights from a male perspective, highlighting the common pitfalls of stepfamily roles and why both partners can end up feeling like strangers to themselves. Together, they break down how cultural expectations, communication gaps, and a lack of boundaries can fuel resentment and exhaustion. You'll learn: Why stepmoms (and stepdads) often feel "lost" in the blend How responsibility overload happens and tips to prevent it The importance of alone time, hobbies, and open conversations with your partner Real-life examples of boundary-setting, self-care, and mutual support Actionable advice to reclaim your happiness without guilt If you're craving practical wisdom, moments of humor, and encouragement to put yourself back on your own priority list, this episode is for you.

    38 min

  8. FEB 18

    350: Your Partner Can Be The Problem

    Blending families isn't for the faint of heart—and losing yourself in the process is all too common. Tune in as Lori and guest Jackie Faber get real about boundaries, guilt, and reclaiming your identity in stepfamily life. In this raw and relatable episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast, Lori welcomes former stepmom Jackie Faber to discuss what it's really like to blend families, navigate unfair expectations, and fight back against the emotional traps that so many stepfamilies fall into. Jackie shares her personal story of discovering Nacho Kids, recognizing patterns of self-abandonment, and ultimately choosing her own well-being over staying in an unhealthy relationship. Listeners will learn: How stepmoms and stepdads often lose themselves trying to "do it right" in a blended family. Why resentment and guilt are so common, and how to recognize who's really responsible for family problems. The difference between partner problems and parenting problems. The power of boundaries, self-care, and not letting others' expectations dictate your happiness. Strategies for managing "fairness," finances, and emotional labor in blended family life. How to communicate your needs (and why most of us were never taught how!). Eye-opening insights about stepfamily love, parental alienation, and not repeating unhealthy patterns from the past. Whether you're in the trenches of a stepfamily or still considering blending, this candid conversation will help you find your way back to yourself.

    53 min
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4.8
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About

Stepfamilies and blended families are very challenging. With a failure rate of over 70%, it's clear that blended families need help. Nacho Kids founders and blended family coaches, Lori and David Sims, are here to help blended families save their sanity and relationships. You'll hear the hosts and guests discuss the struggles and successes of blended family life and learn how the Nacho Kids Method is changing lives and saving relationships around the world.

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