The Nacho Kids Podcast: Blended Family Lifesaver

• 308: Graduations And Stepfamilies

  Welcome back to the Nacho Kids Podcast! In this heartfelt and relatable episode, hosts David and Lori dive into the annual struggle of graduation ticket allocations. With only a handful of coveted seats for high school and college ceremonies, blended and extended families are often left negotiating who gets a spot in the audience—and who doesn’t. Through personal stories and a bit of humor, David and Lori explore the emotional minefield that limited tickets can create for parents, step-parents, grandparents, and, most importantly, the graduates themselves. They emphasize the importance of keeping the celebration focused on the students and share creative ideas for making everyone feel included, even if they can’t physically be at the ceremony. Whether it’s planning an after-party or tuning in to a livestream, they remind listeners that graduation is about honoring the kids without piling on extra stress. Join them as they navigate one of the tricky realities of modern family life. In this episode, we discuss: Graduation Ticket Challenges Emotional Impact on Graduates and Families Solutions When Tickets are Limited Nacho Kids Academy Success Stories: "Before finding Nacho Kids Academy, I was on the verge of leaving my marriage. I loved my husband, but the constant tension with his kids and the drama with the ex was tearing me apart. I felt like I was walking on eggshells in my own home, trying to parent kids who didn’t want me there. Joining Nacho Kids Academy was a game-changer. I learned how to step back without stepping away, how to Nacho the things that weren’t my responsibility and focus on my relationship with my husband and myself. The coaching calls, the community, the step-by-step layers, it all gave me tools I didn’t even know I needed. Now, my home feels peaceful again. I can show up as a loving partner without feeling like I’m constantly battling for space or respect. And the best part? My relationship with my stepkids has actually improved because I’m no longer forcing something that wasn’t working. If you’re a stepparent feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or ready to give up, please, do yourself a favor and join Nacho Kids Academy. It saved my marriage and my sanity." - Sarah M., Stepmom of 2  

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• 307: Lisa Wilson ~ A History of Stepfamilies in Early America

  In this enlightening episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast, we explore the fascinating world of stepfamilies in American history with our special guest, Lisa Wilson, the esteemed author of "A History of Stepfamilies in Early America." Lisa shares her journey of uncovering the untold stories and patterns of stepfamilies, reflecting on her personal experiences as a member of such a family. Delving into historical dynamics, Lisa discusses how the perception and roles within stepfamilies have evolved over centuries, from the challenges of integrating into what was once an emotionally-focused family model to combating age-old prejudices against stepmothers. Lori and David, our hosts, invite listeners to a thoughtful conversation about the societal shifts that have affected family structures, highlighting the continuity of certain challenges stepfamilies face today, reminiscent of those from the 18th century. They touch on topics like the legal rights of step-parents, the economic considerations of remarriage, and even the portrayal of stepparents in popular culture. Join us as we navigate this intriguing historical landscape, uncovering insights that resonate with modern stepfamilies and fostering a greater understanding of how these blended households have always been a fundamental part of the American family fabric. In this episode, we discuss: Historical context of stepfamilies Stepparents' challenges and shifts in family dynamics Societal perceptions and misconceptions Modern Community and family structures Nacho Kids Academy Success Stories: “I thought I had tried everything. Books, blogs, even therapy, but nothing helped me feel less like an outsider in my own home. Then I found Nacho Kids Academy. Within weeks, the stress in our home dropped dramatically. I finally understood that I didn’t have to fix everything or be the 'bonus mom of the year.' I learned how to support my partner without losing myself. The daily tension? Gone. The constant guilt? Lifted. The relationship with my stepkids isn’t perfect, but for the first time, it’s not painful. Nacho Kids gave me my peace and my power back.”- Sarah M., Stepmom of 3 and Proud Nacho’er  

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• 306: Easter In Stepfamilies

  Welcome to this episode of the NK Podcast, where hosts Lori and David dive into the intricacies of celebrating Easter within stepfamilies. The holiday season can be a delightful time, but it also brings unique challenges when navigating custody schedules and traditions in blended families. In this episode, Lori and David share personal anecdotes and practical advice on how to manage these situations, offering creative solutions for celebrating Easter, even if it's not on the traditional date. They'll also discuss the importance of setting and respecting court-ordered holiday arrangements and the concept of life not always being 'fair' – a valuable lesson for kids in stepfamilies. Whether it's creating new family traditions or creatively handling gift-giving, Lori and David provide insightful tips for a harmonious holiday experience. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let's explore how to navigate Easter in a stepfamily with grace and flexibility. In this episode, we discuss: Challenges During Easter in Step Families Fairness in Gift Giving Traditions and Adaptations Handling Emotional Challenges Life Lessons  Nacho Kids Academy Success Stories: “Been There Done That”  "I thought I had this stepparenting thing down. My first blend was a breeze—we all got along, and everything just seemed to fall into place. So when I got into my current relationship, I assumed it would be the same. I was so wrong. From loyalty binds to feeling like an outsider in my own home, I was drowning in stress and resentment. That’s when I found Nacho Kids. Learning how to step back, redefine my role, and let go of what I can’t control has been life-changing. Nacho Parenting helped me breathe again. I’m no longer walking on eggshells or trying to fix everything. I finally feel peace in my home—and in my heart." ~ C.B. from NY    

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• 305: The Good Divorce Coach ~ Karen McNenny

  Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast! In today's episode, hosts Lori and David welcome the insightful Karen McNenny, also known as the Good Divorce Coach. Karen joins us to challenge the traditional narrative of divorce as a conflict-ridden process. She introduces the concept of a 'good divorce,' presenting it as a tool, rather than a weapon, to transform family dynamics positively. Karen shares her personal journey and the genesis of her coaching business, emphasizing the importance of reshaping the divorce experience to focus on protecting future relationships, especially for those who co-parent. Tune in as we explore how thoughtful, intentional divorce processes can lead to a more harmonious family structure, even across two homes. Get ready to shift your perspective on divorce and discover how this transformation can ease not only the divorce process but also foster a healthier blended family dynamic. Enjoy the show! In this episode, we discuss: Concept of a Good Divorce Parenting and Communication Post-Divorce Introduction of New Partners Maintaining Healthy Boundaries Nacho Kids Academy Success Stories: I Thought Divorce Was the Only Option "I thought my marriage was doomed. My wife and I couldn’t agree on anything when it came to her kids. Every argument ended with one of us saying, ‘Maybe this just isn’t going to work.’ Then we found Nacho Kids. I realized that my role wasn’t to discipline or fix anything - it was to support my wife as she parents her kids. The shift in our home was almost instant. The tension disappeared. The kids were happier, my wife wasn’t stuck in the middle, and I could actually enjoy being in my own home again. If we hadn’t found Nacho Kids, we wouldn’t be together today. It’s that simple.” - Mike R., Virginia, USA

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• 304: Nacho Parenting: It’s Not About Ignoring Step Kids

  In this episode of the Nacho Kids Podcast, hosts Lori and David dive into the often misunderstood concept of "nacho parenting." They start by addressing a common question: Does nachoing mean ignoring your stepkids? Lori shares her own journey of using nacho parenting to navigate difficult dynamics with her stepchildren, emphasizing that it's more about choosing not to engage rather than ignoring. Lori and David explain how this approach helped improve their family interactions. With anecdotes and guidance, Lori and David provide a deeper understanding of how nacho parenting can lead to healthier and happier blended families. Join them as they dispel myths and offer strategies to help stepfamilies thrive. In this episode, we discuss: Importance of Not Engaging Emotional Management Flexibility in Nacho Parenting Handling Disrespect from Stepkids You never Nacho safety Nacho Kids Academy Success Stories: I Was at My Breaking Point - Nacho Saved My Life "I don’t say this lightly—Nacho Parenting saved my life. I was drowning in anxiety and depression because I felt like a failure as a stepmom. No matter what I did, I was met with rejection, and it ate away at my self-worth. I started having thoughts that scared me. That’s when I found Nacho Kids. It completely changed how I saw my role. I stopped trying to be someone I wasn’t meant to be and learned to set healthy emotional boundaries. For the first time in years, I feel free. I feel like myself again. And because I took care of myself, my marriage and stepfamily relationships have improved naturally. Nacho Kids didn’t just save my marriage—it saved me.” - Jessica K.

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