Kids First Co-Parenting with Dr. Royster

Dr. Karalynn Royster
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Parenting

The podcast for moms raising secure kids after divorce & separation, even when their ex makes everything harder.

  1. May 29

    Season 1 Finale: Thank You and See You Soon

    Twenty-six episodes. Thousands of listeners. Moms sharing this podcast with their sisters, their friends, the woman down the street who just got served papers. Season 1 of this podcast has been one of the most meaningful things I have built and I built it for YOU. For the mom who is exhausted and scared and doing this mostly alone. For the mom who just needed someone to tell her she was not crazy. Thank you for being here. Thank you for listening. Thank you for sharing it with the people who needed it. We are taking a summer break and when we come back in the fall we are coming back with something more. New episodes, new topics, and a whole new level of co-parenting. Kids First Membership is open year round. If you are navigating high conflict coparenting and need expert guidance, community, and support while the podcast is on break this is where you want to be. Join here: https://www.learnwithlittlehouse.com/kids-first-membership Custody (PRE/CFI) Intensives (launching this summer, limited availability) available here: https://learnwithlittlehouse.myflodesk.com/skuza6g56a Keywords: high conflict divorce, coparenting, custody evaluation, parallel parenting, divorce coach, coparenting coach, family law, high conflict coparenting, divorced mom, protect your kids, kids first, custody battle, PRE, CFI, season finale, podcast break. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. The content shared by Dr. Karalynn Royster is not intended to be and should not be construed as mental health treatment, psychological services, or legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapist-client or attorney-client relationship. If you are in need of mental health support or legal guidance, please consult a licensed mental health professional or qualified attorney in your area.

    7 min

  2. May 15

    What custody evaluators do & What they are looking for

    If you have a custody evaluation coming up or you've just been told one has been ordered this episode is a must listen. Custody evaluations are one of the most high stakes (and stressful) moments in any family law case, and most moms walk in under-prepared and over stressed. In this solo episode, licensed clinical psychologist, Dr. Karalynn Royster, breaks down what happens inside a custody evaluation, what evaluators are trained to assess, and where moms can go wrong. You'll learn: What a PRE and CFI actually do and why they are not your advocateKey things every evaluator is watching for in every parent they meetWhy emotional regulation and child focused communication matter more than you thinkHow your documentation, emails, and texts are being evaluated before you even walk in the room Whether you are in the middle of a high conflict divorce, navigating co-parenting with a narcissistic ex, preparing for a custody evaluation, or working with families in the family court system, this episode will change how you think about preparation. Ready to stop leaving your custody evaluation to chance? This summer Dr. Royster is opening the Custody Eval Intensive a 90 day, high touch program for moms who are done walking into the most important evaluation of their custody case unprepared. Only 3 spots. Beta pricing available. Interest form closes June 15th. 👉 JOIN THE WAITLIST: https://learnwithlittlehouse.myflodesk.com/skuza6g56a Not facing an evaluation but need ongoing support? The Kids First Membership is a monthly coaching community for moms navigating high conflict coparenting led by a licensed clinical psychologist who has spent her career doing exactly this work. For $97/month you get expert guidance, live workshops, and a community of women who actually get it. 👉 JOIN KIDS FIRST MEMBERSHIP: https://www.learnwithlittlehouse.com/kids-first-membership Keywords: custody evaluation, parenting responsibility evaluator, child and family investigator, PRE, CFI, high conflict divorce, co-parenting, narcissistic ex, family court, custody battle, child custody, divorce attorney, GAL, guardian ad litem, co-parenting coach, custody preparation, family law, emotional regulation, high conflict coparenting Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. The content shared by Dr. Karalynn Royster is not intended to be and should not be construed as mental health treatment, psychological services, or legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapist-client or attorney-client relationship. If you are in need of mental health support or legal guidance, please consult a licensed mental health professional or qualified attorney in your area.

    23 min

  3. May 1

    Why You Are Not Bad With Money: with financial expert & best-selling author, Leah Hadley

    Money is one of the most powerful tools used in high conflict divorce and coparenting dynamics. For many women: the narrative that they are "bad with money" is not a personal failure: it is a story they have been told to keep them feeling small or stuck. In this episode: I am joined by Leah Hadley (a financial expert OG). We are dismantling the shame around finances and giving you the clinical and practical tools to reclaim your financial sovereignty. We dive deep into: Financial Mindset tools, including values & clarity around what you really want.The importance of sisterhood and support as you build intentional wealth.How to pick a good financial planning pro and what to watch out for. About Leah Hadley: Leah Hadley is a financial planner, Accredited Financial Counselor, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, and the founder of Intentional Wealth Partners and Intentional Divorce Solutions. She is the author of Intentional Money: The Modern Woman's Guide to Building Wealth, Purpose and Peace, and the creator of The Empowered Sisterhood, a community built to help women achieve lasting financial confidence. Leah's work is rooted in the belief that when women are financially empowered, everything changes. Leah's Links: Substack article on fees in financial planning.Watch her Thrive and Intentional Divorce Solutions on InstagramLeah Hadley on LinkedInIntentional Money: Modern Women's Guide to Wealth, Purpose & Peace Dr. Royster's Links: Join the Kids First Membership for only $97/monthFollow us on Instagram Important DisclosureThe information provided here is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute professional mental health: clinical: or legal advice. No Professional Relationship: Accessing this content does not create a therapist: patient or attorney: client relationship.Seek Professional Help: If you are in a crisis or require specific advice for your unique situation: please reach out to a licensed mental health provider or a qualified legal professional in your area immediately.Safety First: Your safety and well being are the highest priority. If you are in immediate danger: please contact local emergency services or a crisis hotline.

    46 min

  4. Apr 17

    The Stepfamily Reset with Alexandra Harrison, LCSW

    In this insightful interview, child psychologist & co-parenting coach, Dr. Karalynn Royster, and Licensed Clinical Social worker, Alexandra Harrison LCSW, explore the complexities of stepfamily dynamics, blending families, and effective coaching strategies. Discover practical tips, research-backed insights, and compassionate approaches to navigate the challenges of blended families and co-parenting. Keywords: stepfamilies, blending families, co-parenting, step-parent coaching, family dynamics, divorce, remarriage, parenting strategies, high conflict families, family therapy Key Topics: The timeline of blending families and the typical 2-7 year processLoyalty binds and how they affect children and parentsThe importance of balancing warmth and boundaries in stepfamily relationshipsThe role of coaching versus therapy in supporting stepfamiliesManaging relationships with high conflict ex-partners Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Professional Background 04:25 Navigating Step Family Dynamics 07:13 The Challenges of Repartnering 09:50 Understanding Step-Parenting 12:30 The Impact of Neurodiversity on Family Dynamics 15:13 Step-Parent Coaching: A New Approach 18:21 Core Challenges in Step Families 20:59 Loyalty Binds and Parenting Dynamics 23:56 Creating a Unified Parenting Approach 26:32 Values-Based Parenting in Step Families 30:11 Navigating Stepfamily Dynamics 32:59 The Balancing Act of Parenting and Partnership 37:13 Building Secure Connections in Stepfamilies 40:56 The Complexity of Ex-Spouse Relationships 43:27 Managing Co-Parenting Challenges 50:01 Finding Support and Resources for Stepfamilies 57:12 Introduction to Kids First Co-Parenting 57:40 Support and Resources for Co-Parents 57:54 Disclaimer Resources Step Family Reset Website: https://stepfamilyreset.com Alex Harrison's YouTube Channel

    58 min

  5. Mar 27

    Divorce Coaching: The Strategic Layer Between Therapy and Legal Counsel with guest, Andra Davidson

    In this episode, Dr. Karalynn Royster and divorce coach Andra Davidson explore the emotional landscape of divorce, effective co-parenting strategies, and how to turn challenging experiences into opportunities for growth. Whether you're in the thick of divorce or just contemplating it, this conversation offers practical advice and reassurance.Key Topics: The importance of emotional support during divorce and how it impacts conflict and costsStrategies for approaching co-parenting with intention, boundaries, and a focus on the long-term well-being of childrenThe role of divorce coaching in managing day-to-day stress, communication, and complex family dynamicsHow to define success and set goals for life post-divorce, including envisioning a fulfilling futureThe benefits of seeking early guidance before filing for divorce and how support teams collaborateDifferences between therapy, legal work, and coaching—knowing when and how to engage each professionalManaging high-conflict situations and deciding when parallel parenting might be the best approachThe importance of self-care, boundaries, and trusting your instincts in the divorce processPractical tips for organizational tools, communication strategies, and fostering resilience in childrenResources for ongoing support, including coaching, therapy, and community memberships Resources & Links: Better Than Before Divorce: Andra Davidson's coaching servicesKids First Co-Parenting Membership: Support community for co-parenting momsLearn with Little House on Instagram: Community connection Additional Notes:This episode emphasizes that divorce, while difficult, is an opportunity to rebuild and grow. Support from coaches, therapists, and a community can help you navigate the emotional and practical challenges, ensuring you and your children thrive beyond the separation. Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. This content does not constitute legal or mental health advice and does not establish a therapist patient relationship. Please consult with your own qualified legal or mental health professionals regarding your specific circumstances.

    48 min

  6. Mar 13

    Gaslighting in Co-Parenting: How to Anchor Your Child in Reality

    Dr. Karalynn Royster delves into the impact of gaslighting and manipulation on children in high-conflict co-parenting situations. The podcast introduces the Anchor Method as a framework for supporting children and reinforcing their self-trust in challenging family dynamics. Takeaways Gaslighting and manipulation impact children's sense of realityThe Anchor Method provides a framework for supporting children in high-conflict co-parenting situationsMistakes and areas where the anchor method goes wrongGaslighting and manipulation in co-parentingThe Anchor method for supporting childrenValidation techniques for kids in high conflictStrategies to build self-trust in children (the ANCHOR METHOD)Handling parental conflict and maintaining boundaries Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Gaslighting in Parenting 00:50 I was gaslit.... 02:42 The ANCHOR Method 04:15 What actually is gaslighting? 06:43 Strategies for Addressing Manipulation 07:38 Validation is important 08:58 The ANCHOR Method 09:38 A-Ask 12:01 N-Name 14:54 Kids First Membership 15:31 C-Confirm 20:14 H-Holding 21:37 O-offer 23:27 R-Reinforce Self-Trust 25:21 Common Mistakes in Implementing the Anchor Method 31:27 Introduction and Disclaimer Download the free ANCHOR Method guide to learn the five steps that help protect your child from gaslighting without putting them in the middle. If you want deeper support, join the Kids First Membership for tools, coaching, and practical strategies to navigate high conflict co-parenting. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health treatment, legal advice, or professional services. Listening to this podcast does not create a therapist client relationship. If you need individualized support, please consult a qualified mental health or legal professional.

    32 min

  7. Feb 27

    What is the National Association for Single & Divorced Families (NASDF) with co-founder Joy Read

    Send a text When the floor drops out after a separation, most parents don’t need platitudes; they need a lifeline. We sit down with Joy Reed from the National Association for Single and Divorced Families to unpack a practical, AARP‑style model built for families: national mediation you can trust, real childcare discounts with priority placement, mental health sessions that actually start the healing, and vetted financial advisors who understand the math of divorce. If you’ve ever stared at a co‑parenting app with a knot in your gut, this conversation hands you scripts, guardrails, and a way forward. We dig into the two‑generation model and why supporting parents and children together is the key to breaking cycles of stress and poverty. Joy shares examples of workforce training linked to daycare slots and employer hiring, turning education into paychecks instead of paperwork. We also talk frankly about the motherhood penalty, resume gaps, and the impossible calculus of paying lawyers, covering rent, and affording daycare at the same time. Layer in school supply and tech savings, plus safety tools like Noonlight, and you’ve got a toolkit that meets families where life is really happening. Emotions run alongside logistics. Even amicable divorces carry grief and identity shock, and high‑conflict situations can steal your peace one message at a time. We normalize therapy for adults and kids, break down how to access free and discounted sessions, and offer language for setting clear boundaries that keep children out of the middle. Joy’s north star is simple and fierce: people before profit. Every partner is vetted for mission fit so vulnerable families aren’t sold false hope. If you’re navigating separation, rebuilding solo, or supporting a friend, press play for resources you can use today and perspective that lightens the load. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs it, and leave a review to help more parents find solid ground. Check out the National Association of Single and Divorced Families BestInterest Co-Parenting App Join BestInterest App and get 22% off yearly subscriptions with code LITTLEHOUSE22 Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience. Kids First Co-Parenting Membership Social Links: FacebookInstagramYoutubeThe Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general education and not legal or mental health advice in any way.

    38 min

  8. Feb 13

    Why your kid won't become your ex (Even if you're terrified they will)

    Send a text We face the quiet fear many moms hold: will my child turn out like my ex. We explain why mimicry isn’t destiny, how processing experience shapes character, and how one steady adult can outweigh chaotic modeling, even in high-conflict homes. • naming the hidden fear without shame • modeling versus processing and why it matters • the role of one steady, safe caregiver • influence versus control in co-parenting • tech boundaries that reduce triangulation • mimicry, phases, and testing limits across ages • development facts about narcissism and identity • red flags that signal a child needs more support • practical scripts, repair, and home culture Podcast listeners can use the code POD10 for $10 off the Co-Parent Tech kit. Use code POD10. Leave us a review, share with a mama who needs to hear this If you’re tired of every conversation with your ex turning into a fight, the High Conflict Communication Bootcamp for Moms  is for you.  In this  self-paced 3 day online course, get scripts, strategies, and a workbook you can use right away, designed for moms in high-conflict co-parenting and parallel parenting. Enroll now for just $19 here.  BestInterest Co-Parenting App Join BestInterest App and get 22% off yearly subscriptions with code LITTLEHOUSE22 Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Kids First CoParenting System: The best membership for moms co-parenting in a high conflict dynamic. If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience. Get More Support How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access) Kids First Co-Parenting Membership (First Month $48.50--> $97 after that, cancel anytime) Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs. Social Links: Facebook Instagram Youtube The Kids First CoParenting podcast and all related content are provided for general educa...

    23 min
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5
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6 Ratings

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The podcast for moms raising secure kids after divorce & separation, even when their ex makes everything harder.

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