The Stepmom Side Podcast

Alicia Krasko
  • 4.9 (55)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Weekly

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.

  1. 1d ago

    #162: Different Rules at Each House: How to Create a School Routine That Works

    What should a stepmom do when the rules are completely different at each house? Different bedtimes, screen limits, homework expectations, chores, and consequences can make school routines especially difficult in blended families. Children may resist the rules, struggle on transition days, or repeatedly remind the stepmom that things are different at their mom’s house. In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia explains how blended families can create consistent school routines within their own homes—even when consistency between homes is impossible. Drawing from her experience with different expectations around devices, sleep, homework, chores, and discipline, Alicia discusses how she became the strict one, overfunctioned, experienced conflict with her partner, and began feeling resentful. In this episode, Alicia covers: Why different household rules do not automatically mean one home is wrongHow to determine whether a difference is harmful or simply frustratingWhy children compare rules between householdsResponding when a stepchild says, “But Mom lets me”Using “At our house…” without criticizing the other homePreventing the stepmom from becoming the strict one...and more!The two homes do not need identical rules. What matters is creating clear expectations in your own household and ensuring the stepmom is not left to enforce everything alone. Download the free House Expectations resource: https://aliciakrasko.com/expectations Join The Stepmom Side Community: https://aliciakrasko.com/community Explore one-on-one coaching with Alicia: https://aliciakrasko.com/coaching Support the show Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think! Get all the FREE RESOURCES here. Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside. All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com Get on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

  2. Aug 11

    #161: School Events When Your Partner’s Ex Will Be There: How Stepmoms Can Handle the Awkwardness

    School events can trigger outsider syndrome for stepmoms. Especially when their partner’s ex and extended family will be there. Where should everyone sit? Should divorced parents and stepparents attend events together? What happens when a partner acts differently around their ex? And does a stepmom need to attend parent-teacher conferences to prove she cares? In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia shares her experience of feeling ignored, displaced, and unsure where she belonged during school events. She also explains why she sometimes chose not to attend parent-teacher conferences when her role felt unclear. Alicia helps stepmoms prepare for school concerts, sporting events, open houses, conferences, and other activities without forcing an uncomfortable version of “happy co-parenting.” In this episode, Alicia discusses: Why school events can intensify outsider syndrome for stepmomsDeciding whether divorced parents and stepparents should sit togetherWhy separate seating may sometimes be the healthiest optionPlanning for each school event individuallyWhat to do when a partner’s ex ignores or excludes the stepmomHow to respond when a partner acts differently around their ex...and more.There is no universal rule that says every blended family must sit together or attend every event as one group. The healthiest arrangement is the one that reduces tension, supports the child, and allows each adult to behave respectfully. If school events leave you feeling like an outsider, you do not have to work through those feelings alone. Join The Stepmom Side Community: https://aliciakrasko.com/community Explore one-on-one coaching with Alicia: https://aliciakrasko.com/coaching Support the show Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think! Get all the FREE RESOURCES here. Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside. All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com Get on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

  3. Aug 4

    #160: Back-to-School Planning in a Blended Family: Who Is Responsible for What?

    Back-to-school planning can get complicated quickly in a blended family. Who buys the school supplies and clothes? Who completes registration forms, manages transportation, receives school updates, and pays for extracurricular activities? And how involved should a stepmom be when she is affected by these decisions but may not have decision-making authority? In this episode, Alicia shares how back-to-school responsibilities changed when her stepson moved into her home full time—and why responsibility, access, and authority need to be discussed individually. She explains how stepmoms and their partners can divide the workload, prepare for different routines between homes, and prevent one person from silently becoming responsible for everything. Alicia discusses: Deciding who purchases school supplies, clothes, shoes, and equipmentReviewing the parenting agreement before requesting reimbursementDividing registration, forms, transportation, and school communicationChoosing whether a stepmom wants to be an emergency contact or approved for pickup....and more!There is no universal formula for dividing back-to-school responsibilities in a blended family. Some stepmoms want to be highly involved, while others prefer school logistics to remain primarily with the parents. What matters is that the arrangement is discussed, agreed upon, and supported. Download the free House Expectations resource to begin a clearer conversation with your partner: https://aliciakrasko.com/expectations Join The Stepmom Side Community for practical support from women who understand blended-family roles, boundaries, and expectations: https://aliciakrasko.com/community Support the show Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think! Get all the FREE RESOURCES here. Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside. All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com Get on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

  4. Jul 29

    #159: What If I Don’t Like My Stepkids? The Truth No One Talks About (re-release)

    What if you don’t like your stepkids? It’s the question that stepmoms whisper to themselves and rarely admit out loud. In this episode, Alicia unpacks why these feelings show up, why they don’t make you a “bad stepmom,” and how to move through them without shame. You’ll learn: Why it’s normal to not always like your stepkidsHow societal expectations set stepmoms up for guiltSimple shifts to ease the tension when relationships feel strainedHow to release the pressure to force a bondThis is your permission slip: you don’t have to like your stepkids 24/7 to be a good stepmom. Support the show Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think! Get all the FREE RESOURCES here. Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside. All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com Get on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

  5. Jul 21

    #158: The Emotional Reality of Stepmom Life with Darlene Sparks

    In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia Krasko sits down with certified stepfamily coach Darlene Sparks for an honest conversation about the realities of stepmom life—because “just love them like your own” is not exactly a complete instruction manual. Darlene shares her experience navigating identity loss, rejection, complicated family relationships, and feeling like an outsider in her own home. Together, Alicia and Darlene discuss how stepmoms can protect their peace without disconnecting from their stepchildren. In this episode: Why many stepmoms feel unprepared for blended family lifeStepmom guilt, stereotypes, and unrealistic expectationsHow self-protection can unintentionally create more distanceSetting boundaries in high-conflict situationsResponding instead of reacting during family conflictLetting go of what a stepmom cannot controlSupporting stepchildren while protecting emotional well-beingThis conversation reminds stepmoms that they can remain loving and involved without sacrificing themselves to keep everyone else comfortable. Connect with Darlene: InstagramTikTokFacebookFind more support: Join The Stepmom Side CommunityExplore private coaching with AliciaSupport the show Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think! Get all the FREE RESOURCES here. Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside. All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com Get on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

  6. Jul 14

    #157: Family Meetings, Chore Battles, and Teenagers: Real Talk About Blended Family Life with Ashley Noelle

    Blended families don't become connected overnight—and honestly, nobody hands you a roadmap. In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia sits down with Ashley from The Blended Bond to talk about what actually helps blended families feel more connected. From awkward first family meetings and navigating transitions to chore systems, parenting teenagers, and learning to stop taking everything personally, this conversation is filled with practical strategies and reassuring reminders for stepmoms. Ashley shares how intentional family conversations transformed their blended family dynamic, why asking kids what they need can change everything, and how creating routines and structure helps everyone feel more secure. They also discuss the emotional shift from part-time parenting to full-time parenting, the pressure stepmoms often place on themselves to "get it right," and why your stepchildren's moods and reactions are not always a reflection of you. In this episode, you'll learn: Why family meetings can improve communication and trust in blended familiesHow to help stepchildren feel more comfortable and at homeThe importance of asking kids what they need during family transitionsHow routines and structure create stability for children in two homesWhy teenagers' attitudes aren't always personalHow to stop seeking validation from your stepchildrenWhy perfection isn't required to be a good stepmomThe surprising ways small moments and traditions build connection over timeWhether you're newly blending, parenting teenagers, or simply trying to feel more confident in your role, this episode will remind you that blended families don't need perfection—they need intentional connection, communication, and grace. Connect with Ashley: Website: blendedbond.com Instagram: @blendedbond TikTok: @playblendedbond ****Promo code: STEPMOMSIDE20 (for 20% off any BB products)**** Support the show Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think! Get all the FREE RESOURCES here. Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside. All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com Get on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

  7. Jul 7

    #156: The Truth About Happy Blended Families

    Are you constantly wondering why your blended family doesn't feel like the happy, picture-perfect family you imagined? You're not doing anything wrong. In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia shares why so many stepmoms struggle because they're chasing unrealistic expectations about what blended family life should look like. From instant love and immediate connection to perfectly blended relationships, many of us were sold a version of stepfamily life that simply doesn't exist. In this episode, you'll learn: ✔️ Why blended families often feel harder than expected ✔️ The unrealistic expectations many stepmoms carry into stepfamily life ✔️ How perfectionism creates disappointment and frustration ✔️ Why awkwardness, grief, and loyalty conflicts are normal in blended families ✔️ What healthy blended family relationships actually look like ✔️ How to stop comparing your family to everyone else's ✔️ Why peace comes from accepting reality instead of fighting it If you've ever asked: "When will we finally feel like a family?" "Why isn't this easier?" "Are we doing something wrong?" This episode is for you. Because success in a blended family isn't about everyone instantly loving each other or acting like they've been family forever. Real success is built through respect, safety, trust, communication, and thousands of small moments that create connection over time. Support the show Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think! Get all the FREE RESOURCES here. Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside. All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com Get on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

  8. Jun 30

    #155: In Blended Families, The Real Problem Isn't Always the Kids

    Feeling unsupported by your husband or partner can make blended family life feel incredibly lonely. In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia talks about why partner support is one of the biggest predictors of stepmom satisfaction and blended family success. Many stepmoms don't necessarily need perfection from their partners. They need partnership. They need to feel heard, valued, and like they're part of a team. Key takeaways: ✔️ Why partner support matters so much in blended families ✔️ Why feeling unsupported creates anxiety, resentment, and loneliness ✔️ What emotional safety looks like in a marriage ✔️ Common ways partners unintentionally make stepmoms feel alone ✔️ How dad guilt and fear of conflict affect blended family dynamics ✔️ How to communicate your needs without starting an argument ✔️ Why the issue often isn't the kids—it's feeling like you don't have a teammate If you've ever thought: "My husband never backs me up." "I feel completely alone in this." "I don't know where my partner stands." This episode will help you understand why those feelings run so deep and how to start creating more teamwork in your relationship. You deserve to feel like the two of you are on the same side. Support the show Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here. After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think! Get all the FREE RESOURCES here. Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside. All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.com Get on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

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4.9
out of 5
55 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Alicia Krasko
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    162
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Stepmom Side Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Stepmom Side Podcast