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The Stepmom Side Podcast

Alicia Krasko

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.

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24 episodes
weekly
Avg 36 min
English

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Tuesday · 1 hr 3 min
#165: It’s Not a Character Flaw: How Perimenopause Affects Memory, Mood and Stress with Jennifer Gularson
If you’ve recently found yourself forgetting appointments, waking up drenched in sweat at 2 a.m., struggling to concentrate, or feeling completely overwhelmed by things you used to manage without a problem, it may not be a character flaw. It could be perimenopause. In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia sits down with Jennifer Gularson, PA-C, IFMCP, to unpack what really happens to women’s bodies and brains during perimenopause and menopause. Jennifer explains why perimenopause symptoms can begin while a woman is still having regular periods—and why those symptoms may disappear for months before returning with a vengeance. They discuss estrogen fluctuations, brain fog, forgetfulness, hot flashes, night sweats, changing periods, anxiety, sleep disruption, fatigue, and the sudden feeling that your usual ability to handle life has packed a bag and left without notice. They also have an honest conversation about libido, painful sex, vaginal dryness, emotional safety, mental load, and why “just try to get in the mood” is deeply unhelpful advice. In this episode, they discuss: What perimenopause is and how early symptoms can begin Why symptoms can fluctuate from one cycle or month to the next How estrogen and progesterone changes affect memory, mood, sleep, and stress tolerance Lesser-known perimenopause symptoms women may not recognize Why women may wake up hot, sweaty, or wide awake at 2 or 3 a.m. How hormonal changes can make an already-full mental load feel unmanageable The difference between birth control and menopausal hormone therapy This conversation offers women language for what they may be experiencing, options to discuss with a qualified provider, and an important reminder: struggling with energy, memory, sleep, mood, or stress during perimenopause does not mean they are failing. Learn more about Jennifer and her services at Your Best Life with Jennifer. Join The Stepmom Side Community for support from stepmoms who understand the mental and emotional load of blended-family life. Explore coaching with Alicia for personalized support with boundaries, relationships, resentment, and finding relief at home. This episode is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 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.
September 1 · 53 min
#164: When Back-to-School Stress Turns Into Resentment Toward Your Partner
Back-to-school stress can expose an unequal division of labor in a blended family—especially when the stepmom is managing school supplies, schedules, transportation, meals, forms, and everyone’s emotions while her partner waits to be told what to do. In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia explains why resentment is rarely about one forgotten form or shopping trip. It often develops because the stepmom is carrying the invisible mental load: noticing what needs to happen, planning it, assigning tasks, answering questions, following up, and preventing anything from falling apart. Alicia explores the difference between completing a task and taking complete ownership of it, why “Just tell me what you need” still leaves one person managing the household, and how overfunctioning can unintentionally teach a partner to underfunction. In this episode, Alicia discusses: Why invisible labor increases during the school year How back-to-school responsibilities become a source of relationship resentment Why completing a task is different from owning it Why asking a stepmom to delegate still leaves her carrying the mental load How overfunctioning creates an unhealthy family pattern Why stepmoms often stay silent until they explode...and more! Resentment does not always mean a stepmom is ungrateful or controlling. It may be a sign that she has been carrying more responsibility than she can sustainably manage—and that the couple needs clearer roles, stronger follow-through, and a more honest division of labor. Explore couples coaching with Alicia for support with blended-family roles, resentment, communication, parenting stress, and partnership here. Join The Stepmom Side Community for practical support from women who understand the realities of stepfamily life here. 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.
#163
August 25 · 34 min
#163: Homework Battles in Blended Families: What Is the Stepmom’s Role?
What should a stepmom do when her stepchild refuses to complete homework—or when she cares more about missing assignments than her partner does? Homework battles in blended families are rarely only about schoolwork. Different expectations between homes, unclear stepparent roles, limited authority, and a lack of partner support can leave the stepmom managing assignments, checking the school portal, enforcing consequences, and becoming resentful. In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia shares her experience with unfinished homework, different academic expectations between households, and monitoring schoolwork more closely than her partner. Alicia explains why a stepmom’s homework role should depend on her relationship with the child, how involved she is in the child’s daily life, and whether her partner provides real support and authority. In this episode, Alicia discusses: Why homework becomes emotionally loaded in blended families The difference between helping with homework and owning the process What to do when a stepmom cares more about schoolwork than the parent Managing different homework rules between two households Giving children age-appropriate responsibility for schoolwork...and more! A stepmom can care about her stepchild’s education without becoming solely responsible for it. The healthiest role is one that is clearly discussed, supported by her partner, and appropriate for her relationship with the child. Join The Stepmom Side Community for practical support with blended-family roles, boundaries, relationships, and expectations: https://aliciakrasko.com/community Explore one-on-one stepmom 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.
#162
August 18 · 49 min
#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 wrong How to determine whether a difference is harmful or simply frustrating Why children compare rules between households Responding when a stepchild says, “But Mom lets me” Using “At our house…” without criticizing the other home Preventing 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.
#161
August 11 · 52 min
#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 stepmoms Deciding whether divorced parents and stepparents should sit together Why separate seating may sometimes be the healthiest option Planning for each school event individually What to do when a partner’s ex ignores or excludes the stepmom How 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.
#160
August 4 · 1 hr 8 min
#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 equipment Reviewing the parenting agreement before requesting reimbursement Dividing registration, forms, transportation, and school communication Choosing 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.
#159
July 29 · 27 min
#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 stepkids How societal expectations set stepmoms up for guilt Simple shifts to ease the tension when relationships feel strained How to release the pressure to force a bond This 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.
#158
July 21 · 1 hr 11 min
#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 life Stepmom guilt, stereotypes, and unrealistic expectations How self-protection can unintentionally create more distance Setting boundaries in high-conflict situations Responding instead of reacting during family conflict Letting go of what a stepmom cannot control Supporting stepchildren while protecting emotional well-being This conversation reminds stepmoms that they can remain loving and involved without sacrificing themselves to keep everyone else comfortable. Connect with Darlene: Instagram TikTok Facebook Find more support: Join The Stepmom Side Community Explore private coaching with Alicia 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.
#157
July 14 · 51 min
#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 families How to help stepchildren feel more comfortable and at home The importance of asking kids what they need during family transitions How routines and structure create stability for children in two homes Why teenagers' attitudes aren't always personal How to stop seeking validation from your stepchildren Why perfection isn't required to be a good stepmom The surprising ways small moments and traditions build connection over time Whether 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.
#156
July 7 · 14 min
#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.
#155
June 30 · 12 min
#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.
#154
June 23 · 14 min
#154: The Hidden Reason You're So Angry as a Stepmom
Do you feel resentful as a stepmom and then immediately guilty for feeling that way? You're not alone. In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia dives into one of the most common but least talked about experiences in blended families: stepmom resentment. The truth is, resentment usually isn't about the kids. It's often the result of carrying too much emotional responsibility for too long. From managing everyone's feelings to carrying the mental load and constantly putting your own needs last, many stepmoms become overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, and disconnected from themselves. In this episode, you'll learn: ✔️ Why resentment develops in blended families ✔️ The hidden emotional labor many stepmoms carry ✔️ Common signs of stepmom burnout and emotional exhaustion ✔️ Why feeling trapped or unsupported creates resentment ✔️ How resentment affects your marriage and family relationships ✔️ Practical ways to ask for support and start meeting your own needs ✔️ How to stop feeling guilty for having hard emotions If you've ever thought, "I love my husband, but I hate this life," or "I don't even recognize myself anymore," this episode is for you. You are not broken. You are likely overwhelmed, unsupported, and carrying more than anyone realizes. 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.
#153
June 16 · 11 min
#153: Why Belonging Feels So Hard in Blended Families
Feeling like an outsider in your own home as a stepmom? You're not alone. In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia explores why so many stepmoms struggle with belonging in blended families. She shares why outsider syndrome happens, the common traps stepmoms fall into, and practical ways to stop trying to earn your place and start feeling more secure in your role. Key takeaways: Why feeling left out is normal in blended families The hidden cost of overfunctioning and people-pleasing Why belonging can't be earned through doing more How to build meaningful relationships with your partner and stepchildren Simple ways to create your own place within your family Join The Stepmom Side Community: https://aliciakrasko.com/community Explore Coaching: 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.
#152
June 9 · 26 min
#152: Stepmom Confidence: Stop Auditioning for Belonging
Do you ever feel like you're constantly trying to prove yourself as a stepmom? If only you could just be more patient, more understanding, more involved, or more helpful, then maybe you'd finally feel accepted in your blended family? In this episode, Alicia dives into a struggle many stepmoms silently carry: the belief that they have to earn their place in their own home. Whether you're dealing with outsider syndrome, people-pleasing, perfectionism, or feeling invisible in your stepfamily, this episode will help you understand why belonging cannot be earned through sacrifice and exhaustion. Alicia shares the mindset shift that changed everything for her—the moment she stopped auditioning for acceptance and started recognizing her own worth. She also breaks down the common traps stepmoms fall into when they tie their value to their partner's approval, their stepkids' behavior, or the overall success of the family dynamic. If you've ever felt like you're working harder than everyone else just to feel like you belong, this conversation will remind you that your worth is not something you have to prove. 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.
#151
June 2 · 18 min
#151: When Your Stepkids Disrespect You: What Every Stepmom Needs to Know
What should a stepmom do when her stepkids are disrespectful? Few things trigger a stepmom faster than being ignored, talked back to, rolled eyes at, or treated like she doesn't matter. When you're already questioning your role in the family, disrespect from a stepchild can feel deeply personal—and it can quickly create resentment, frustration, and conflict in your marriage. In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia dives into one of the most common challenges stepmoms face: dealing with disrespectful stepkids. She explains why disrespect from stepkids often hurts more than people realize, how feelings of uncertainty and lack of belonging can amplify those interactions, and what stepmoms can do instead of reacting from anger or hurt. Whether you're dealing with eye rolls, backtalk, being ignored, or feeling completely unsupported, this episode will help you respond with confidence instead of resentment. If you've ever found yourself wondering whether your stepkids respect you—or if you've questioned whether you even belong in your family—this episode is for you. 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.
#150
May 26 · 16 min
#150: Why Setting Boundaries Feels Mean (And How to Stop Feeling Guilty)
Does setting boundaries make you immediately feel guilty? Do you finally decide to say no, ask for space, or stop carrying everyone else's emotions… and then immediately wonder if you're being selfish? You're not alone. In this episode, Alicia is diving into why boundaries can feel so uncomfortable—especially for stepmoms who are used to people pleasing, over-functioning, and carrying the emotional weight of everyone around them. If you've ever felt responsible for keeping the peace, fixing everyone's feelings, or making sure nobody is disappointed, this episode will help you understand why boundaries can feel "mean" even when they're healthy. You'll learn why guilt doesn't always mean you're doing something wrong, how people pleasing can quietly fuel resentment, and practical ways to start setting boundaries without feeling like the villain in your own home. Because boundaries aren't about pushing people away. They're about protecting your peace. Resources Mentioned: Download your free boundaries resource: Aliciakrasko.com/boundaries Join The Stepmom Side Community: The Stepmom Side 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.
#149
May 19 · 23 min
#149: Why Stepmoms Confuse Peace With Perfection in Blended Families
Are you constantly chasing peace in your blended family… but secretly defining peace as “everything going perfectly”? In this episode, Alicia dives into one of the biggest mindset traps high-achieving stepmoms fall into: believing that peace and perfection are the same thing. From overthinking conversations to trying to control transition days, co-parenting dynamics, schedules, emotions, and everyone else’s reactions, many stepmoms end up emotionally exhausted trying to create a version of family life that simply doesn’t exist. If you’ve ever thought: “I’ll relax when things settle down.” “If everyone would just cooperate, THEN I’d feel calm.” “Why can’t I stop overthinking everything?” …this episode is for you. Alicia breaks down: Why so many stepmoms equate peace with perfection How childhood conditioning and high-achiever tendencies fuel perfectionism Why blended families trigger hypervigilance and emotional burnout The difference between emotional control and emotional flexibility How to stop spiraling when conflict, stress, or awkward moments happen Practical mindset shifts to help you feel calmer and more grounded as a stepmom This episode is a reminder that peace in a blended family does NOT come from everyone behaving perfectly. It comes from learning how to stay grounded when life gets messy. Because real peace? It’s not perfection. It’s resilience. 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.
#148
May 12 · 23 min
148: Summer Break Is Chaos for Stepmoms—Here’s How to Take Back Control of Your Home
Summer break sounds fun… until your house turns into chaos, the routines disappear, and you feel like you’re running a summer camp you never signed up for. In this episode, Alicia breaks down how stepmoms can create structure, maintain control, and protect their sanity during summer break—without turning into the “strict” or overwhelmed one in the house. If you’re already dreading the lack of routine, constant transitions between homes, and the mental load of managing it all… this episode is your game plan. You’ll learn how to create a flexible daily structure, set expectations that actually stick, and navigate summer transitions without feeling like you’re starting over every week. Because summer doesn’t have to feel like survival mode. You don’t need a perfect summer. You need a plan that creates just enough structure to keep your home calm, predictable, and manageable. Resource mentioned: Summer Routine Plan 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.
#147
May 5 · 29 min
#147: Stepmom Struggles: Why Kids Pull Away in Front of Their Other Parent
Alicia dives into one of the most confusing and emotionally triggering experiences for stepmoms: why stepchildren suddenly act distant, avoidant, or completely different when their other parent is around. If you’ve ever felt ignored at pickup, brushed off in public, or like your relationship disappears the moment their other parent enters the picture… you are not imagining it. And more importantly—it’s not rejection. This episode breaks down the concept of loyalty binds in stepfamily dynamics and explains why children may feel torn between showing love to their stepmom and protecting their relationship at the other house. Even in healthy, connected relationships, kids can shift their behavior depending on the environment, leaving stepmoms feeling confused, hurt, and questioning everything. Alicia walks you through: What a loyalty bind is and why it happens in blended families Why your stepchild’s behavior changes between homes The why behind emotional “switching” and adaptive behavior What stepmoms often take personally—but shouldn’t How to respond in a way that builds trust and emotional safety This episode will help you stop overanalyzing your stepchild’s behavior and start understanding what’s actually happening beneath the surface. Because it’s not rejection. It’s emotional survival. If you’re a stepmom navigating complex family dynamics, co-parenting stress, or feeling like an outsider in your own home, this episode will give you clarity, relief, and a completely new perspective. If this episode resonated with you, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure this out by yourself. Come join us inside The Stepmom Side 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.
#146
April 28 · 12 min
146: Stepmother’s Day Emotions: Feeling Invisible, Seen, and Everything In Between
Stepmother’s Day—did you even know it existed? In this episode of, Alicia dives into the emotional complexity of Stepmother’s Day—a holiday created in 2000 a nine year old to honor her stepmom. While the intention behind the day is meaningful, the reality for many stepmoms is… complicated. Alicia unpacks the mixed emotions stepmoms experience around Stepmother’s Day and challenges stepmoms to rethink how they approach this day. Instead of waiting for others to get it right, Alicia encourages listeners to take ownership of what Stepmother’s Day means to them—whether that’s celebrating, setting expectations, or choosing to ignore it altogether. If you’ve ever felt invisible in your role, questioned whether you “count,” or wished your partner understood what you do—this episode will make you feel seen, validated, and empowered to speak up. 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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