FamilyLife Blended® Podcast

81: Bonus Moms: Refined for Good May 09, 2022

God loves the work of refining our character, particularly as we engage in family relationships. We become more and more like Christ as we learn how to love, forgive, show kindness, and be family to one another. In this episode, Ron Deal talks with Summer Butler and Gayla Grace about the value of God's refining fire for stepmoms.

Show Notes and Resources

Gayla Grace
Summer Butler and her book
Please call and leave us a message! 407-826-2606
The Smart Stepmom
Summit on Stepfamily Ministry
Searchable map

80: From Toxic Competitors to Business Partners Apr 25, 2022

Show Notes and Resources

Stepfamily Network
The Smart Stepmom
Send us a topic you want us to cover, a question you want to ask, or a comment you want to share
Women and Blended Families Livestream – May 3
Send support to the Blended podcast

79: Advice to Children: What Experts Might Say to Your Kids Apr 11, 2022

Would you like your kids to hear helpful advice from several experts about their blended family struggles? This podcast is for you! Listen for yourself first, then with your child—young or old—to encourage dialogue about their feelings that can help build a bridge for long-term relationship building.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Lauren Reitsema.
Get Lauren's book, In Their Shoes.
Learn more about Gayla Grace.
Get Gayla's book, Step Parenting with Grace.
Stepfamily Therapy Providers
Leave us a voicemail review; you might hear it on a show! 407-826-2606
Get the Blended & Blessed Digital All-Access Pass

78: From Our Perspective Mar 28, 2022

Kids in stepfamilies often lose control over many aspects of their lives after their parents remarry. In this episode, Ron Deal talks with two stepsiblings about their own experiences, their hard adjustments to stepfamily life, and how parents can give children a voice and open lines of communication to aid relationship building in their home.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Blended & Blessed live event and livestream

Say “Thank you” with a donation

Learn more about Blendistry.

Send us your questions for a future podcast. Call us at 407-826-2606 or send an email to blendedquestions@familylife.com

Learn more about FamilyLife Blended.

77: Grace-filled Parenting in Blended Families Mar 14, 2022

Blended & Blessed is a marriage event specifically designed for couples in a blended family. This podcast episode features a dynamic speaker from Blended & Blessed 2021, author and stepmom Laurie Short, with nuggets of wisdom and real-life stories from her stepfamily journey.

Show Notes and Resources

Blended and Blessed All Access Pass

Email us / Call us: 407-826-2606

Laurie Short

FamilyLife Blended

Donate to FamilyLife Blended

76: Moving from Roommates to Soulmates in Marriage Feb 28, 2022

Life has a way of moving us into roommates in marriage when we want to be soulmates. Ron Deal talks with Dr. Greg Smalley about how to stay deeply connected with one another, even during seasons of exhaustion or busyness, with intentional behavior that includes protecting sacred moments, guarding against distractions, working through conflict, and connecting in small ways every day.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Greg Smalley
Get Greg's book, Reconnected
Learn more about Blended and Blessed live event and livestream
Give us a review of this show or ask us a question. We may answer it on an upcoming the podcast. Contact us at blendedquestsions@familylife.com or 407-826-2606
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended
Support FamilyLife Blended

75. Dancing in the Bedroom Feb 14, 2022

The subject of sexuality and sexual desire in marriage brings up lots of questions. In this episode, Ron Deal interviews Dr. Michael Sytsma, a pastor and sex therapist, who talks about how to pursue the heart of intimacy with one another. You'll hear teaching on how to manage differences in sexual desire in marriage, how we can reflect who Christ is in our sexual lives, and how to form deep intimate connections in the process.
Show Notes and Resources

The (Nearly) Complete Guide to Better Married Sex online course
Listing of Certified Christian Sex Therapists
Give us a review of this show or ask us a question. We may answer it on an upcoming podcast. Call (407) 826-2606 or email BlendedQuestions@familylife.com
Learn more about Blended and Blessed Live Event and Livestream
Listen to previous podcasts #30 and #66 for more insight into this topic.
Learn more about The Smart Stepfamily Marriage book
Building Intimate Marriages
Sexual Desire in Marriage course

74: You ask, We answer Jan 31, 2022

Do you have stepfamily questions? We have answers! Listen to Ron Deal's discussion with Gayla Grace on important topics like finding your place as a stepparent, being a childless stepmom, reasonable parenting standards, adding a new baby to a stepfamily, coping with a narcissistic bio parent in the other home, and more.
Show Notes and Resources

Send us your questions for a future podcast: blendedquestions@familylife.com or 407-826-2606
Learn more about Blended & Blessed live event and livestream
Listen to Sandi Patty and Ron, episode 27
Stepfamily Therapy Providers
The Smart Stepfamily (from RightNow Media)
Well-blended and the Certificate in Blended Family Ministry

73. Waiting to Be Wanted in Your Blended Family Jan 17, 2022

Are you good at waiting? What about waiting to be wanted by someone you care about in your blended family? That's a hard reality for many in the early years of stepfamily life. In this episode, listen to Ron Deal's conversation with stepmom Cheryl Shumake on how to persevere through the waiting during the wilderness years.

Show Notes and Resources

Cheryl Shumake and Stepmom Sanity

Free Ministry Map

Blended and Blessed

Online courses

Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast.

72: Ridding Your Soul of Shame Jan 03, 2022

Shame is a common theme in blended families, perhaps stemming from a previous divorce, failed relationship building in your current stepfamily, or the negative stigma associated with a non-traditional family. Learn how shame develops and what you can do to release your shame as you listen to Ron Deal's interview with Dr. Curt Thompson.
Show Notes and Resources

Curt Thompson
Get free downloads to Curt's books, and order his book.
Give us a review of this show or ask us a question. We may answer it on the podcast in the new year! Leave a message at (407) 826-2606, or send an email to blendedquestions@familylife.com
FamilyLife Blended
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast.

71: Have Serious Fun, And Make Each Day Count Dec 20, 2021

The benefit of "fun" is often overlooked when we consider how to build healthy stepfamily relationships. But Ron Deal's podcast guest, Dr. Jim Burns, says it's an important piece that can help connect relationships.. Listen to their conversation about why and how intentional play can benefit your family.
Show Notes and Resources

Jim Burns, his ministry & his new book, Have Serious Fun
Stepfamily Resources
Give us a review of this show or ask us a question. We may answer it on the podcast in the new year! Call (407) 826-2606, or email us at blendedquestions@familylife.com
Ministry Leaders, access Ron Deal’s new Certificate course.
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast.

70: Having an Ours Baby Dec 06, 2021

Many stepcouples want to have a baby together. Is it a good idea? Are there negative implications? In this episode, Ron Deal talks with Heidi Farrell about how an "ours" baby impacts the family and other children, what research shows on this important topic, and what dynamics should be considered before making a decision.

Show Notes and Resources

Heidi Farrell

How to Add an Ours Baby to Your Stepfamily…Without Resentment Getting in the Way

The Smart Stepfamily

Send us a topic idea for next year

Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast.

Call us to submit a review or a question: (407) 826-2606

69: Good Co-Parenting: Conflict and Cooperation with Your Ex Nov 22, 2021

Children need healthy relationships with both parents after divorce, which requires good co-parenting. Listen to Ron Deal's conversation with Dr. Mary Jeppsen on how co-parent anger dramatically impacts a child and how former spouses can keep conflict at a minimum and cooperation at a maximum in order to co-parent well.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Dr. Jeppsen.
Stepfamily Resources
Certificate in Blended Family Ministry course for ministry leaders
Well Blended: Growing Unity and Character in your Stepfamily – a self-paced course
Send us your questions: blendedquestions@familylife.com
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast.

68: Preparing to Blend: Getting ready for life after the wedding Nov 08, 2021

Preparing to blend a family can be a daunting endeavor. But you can—and should—get smart about stepfamily living ahead of time to create a strong family. Listen to Ron Deal talk with two stepcouples about what they did during their pre-married season that helped them prepare to blend their families.
Show Notes and Resources

JonathanPitts.net
Preparing to Blend + FREE resources.
Send us your questions for Ron.
FamilyLife Blended
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast.
To submit a review or question, call us at: 407-826-2606

67: Blended with Grit: Widowhood and Forming a New Family Oct 25, 2021

Remarriage after widowhood creates unique struggles. Listen to Ryan and Jess Ronne, parents and stepparents to 8, share with Ron Deal about how insecurities can create conflict in a new marriage after widowhood and how they found beauty from ashes as they worked through their struggles and insecurities.

Show Notes and Resources

JessPlusTheMess.com
Blended with Grit and Grace.
Sunlight Burning at Midnight.
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast.
Smart Stepfamily Therapy Providers.
FamilyLife Blended resources.

66: A Healthy Sex Life: What Couples Should Know Oct 11, 2021

What does a healthy sex life really look like? How do you find healing if you've experienced sexual brokenness? Listen to Ron Deal's conversation with Dr. Juli Slattery on what makes a good lover, the importance of bringing God into that equation, and how sexuality is a tangible way of helping us understand God at a deeper level.
Show Notes and Resources

Authentic Intimacy – Dr. Juli Slattery's website
Preparing to Blend by Ron Deal.
Episode 30: Re-Sex: The Challenges of Sex for Blended Family Couples.
FamilyLife Blended.
Get a certificate in Blended Family ministry.
All access pass to The Summit.

65: Turn Your Season and Your Life Around Sep 27, 2021

Pro baseball player Darryl Strawberry has experienced fame, fortune, and notoriety. But he's also walked through addiction, divorce, and anguish. Today, he's far more interested in talking about Jesus than baseball as he and his wife Tracy, parents of 9 kids in their blended family, share with Ron Deal about the importance of keeping Jesus at the center to find healing and redemption.
Show Notes and Resources

Finding Your Way – Darryl and Tracy's website
Preparing to Blend by Ron Deal
YouTube interview with the Strawberrys
Summit on Stepfamily Ministry
FamilyLife Blended
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast.

64: Seasons and Rhythms: Strengthening Your Family Throughout the Year Sep 13, 2021

Special days give families an opportunity to honor each other, celebrate one another, and strengthen their identity as a stepfamily. Ron Deal and his guests present ideas on how to creatively take advantage of your family calendar in ways that will strengthen family relationships throughout the year.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/.
Listen to episode 21: Stepfamilies and The Holidays https://www.familylife.com/podcast/familylife-blended-podcast/21-stepfamilies-and-the-holidays/.
Get Ron's newest book: Preparing to Blend. https://shop.familylife.com/p-6133-preparing-to-blend.aspx.
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=DesktopHeaderNav&cru_campaign=Blended.
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/blended-families/.

63: Growing up in a Blender: Shelby Abbott Aug 30, 2021

Sometimes in stepfamilies, we take things out on each other that really are about someone or something from the past. We have something to say to a parent from the past, but instead fight that battle with a child—or spouse—in our present. Listen to Ron Deal talk with Shelby Abbott on how to keep unresolved issues of the past from damaging relationships in the present.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Shelby Abbott. https://shelbyabbott.com/.
Get Shelby's books. https://shop.familylife.com/search.aspx?ProductType=Product&SearchType=Any&SearchText=Shelby+Abbot#results.
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/blended-families/.
Listen to other Growing up in a Blender episodes:

51: Growing up in a Blender: Play the Long Game with Jim Ramos – https://www.familylife.com/podcast/familylife-blended-podcast/51-growing-up-in-a-blender-play-the-long-game/
43: Growing Up in a Blender: Who's my Daddy? with Ray and Robin McKelvy – https://www.familylife.com/podcast/familylife-blended-podcast/43-growing-up-in-a-blender-whos-my-daddy/
28: Growing up in a Blender with Ryan Guinee and David Bowden – https://www.familylife.com/podcast/familylife-blended-podcast/28-growing-up-in-a-blender/

Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=DesktopHeaderNav&cru_campaign=Blended.
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended's annual Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/.
Get blended family resources. https://shop.familylife.com/Products.aspx?categoryid=171.

62: Pressure to Perform: When it Feels Like the World is Watching Aug 16, 2021

The end of your marriage doesn't mean the end of God's favor. But when you're in ministry, it can feel that way. Drs. Bobby & Janice Love speak with Ron Deal about how to manage the spotlight of ministry and the pressure that follows when you walk through divorce and remarriage, offering personal stories and suggestions to help.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Rev. Dr. Bobby and Dr. Janice Love. http://www.stepwithlove.org.
Get Dr. Janice's book, One Plus One Equals Ten: A First Lady's Survival Guide for Stepmoms. https://www.amazon.com/One-Plus-Equals-Ten-Survival/dp/0615695388/.
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=DesktopHeaderNav&cru_campaign=Blended.
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended's annual Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/.
Get downloadable tip sheets for ministering to blended families. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/resources/.
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/blended-families/.

61: Love Mercy: Divorce & Remarriage in the Bible Aug 02, 2021

What does the Bible teach about divorce and remarriage? How do we consider Truth and Grace when we apply it to God's people? Listen to Ron Deal's conversation with Dr. Rubel Shelly on a subject that's hard to understand in Scripture and often disagreed upon in Christian circles.

Show Notes and Resources

Get Dr. Rubel Shelly's book, Divorce & Remarriage: A Redemptive Theology. https://www.amazon.com/Divorce-Remarriage-Redemptive-Rubel-Shelly/dp/0891123628.
Read Ron's article, "Loving Mercy." https://www.familylife.com/articles/topics/blended-family/loving-mercy-a-theological-basis-for-blended-family-ministry/.
Get the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry Digital All-Access Pass. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5938-all-access-pass-summit-2020.aspx.
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended's annual Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/.
Get downloadable marriage ministry tip sheets. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/resources/.
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/blended-families/.

60: Grace-filled Stepparenting Jul 19, 2021

Stepparenting is a marathon, not a sprint. And getting to the finish line with strong relationships requires a lot of grace, personal strength, and wisdom as you accommodate people's grief and feelings along the way. Listen to Ron Deal talk with Jere and Laurie Short on this important topic.

Show Notes and Resources

60: Grace-filled Stepparenting https://laurieshort.com/.
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended's annual Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/.
Check out Laurie on the Blended & Blessed All-Access Pass https://shop.familylife.com/search.aspx?searchterm=Blended+%26+Blessed&searchtype=Any.
Drop us an email and let us know what you would like to hear on future podcasts or send us a review. blendedquestions@familylife.com.
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=DesktopHeaderNav&cru_campaign=Blended.
Pre-order Ron's new book Preparing to Blend https://www.amazon.com/Preparing-Blend-Couples-Becoming-Stepfamily/dp/0764237934/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=preparing+to+blend&qid=1622129394&sr=8-2.

59: Conversations to Improve Your Family Jul 05, 2021

Little things can create big changes in blended family homes. In this episode, Jed and Jenny Jurchenko share with Ron Deal how they created positive change in their home by taking small, positive steps to grow their most important relationships and give examples in their book, 131 Conversations for Stepfamily Success.

Show Notes and Resources

Get your copy of Jed and Jenny's book. https://www.amazon.com/131-Conversations-Stepfamily-Success-Intimacy/dp/1543236731.
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/blended-families/.
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=DesktopHeaderNav&cru_campaign=Blended.
Get Ron's book, Daily Encouragement for the Smart Stepfamily. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5224-daily-encouragement-for-the-smart-stepfamily.aspx.
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended's annual Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/.

58: Investing for Life After Kids Jun 21, 2021

We could spend 1/3 of our lives without a paycheck since it's expected we can live into our mid-80's and beyond. How do we know if we're preparing adequately for retirement? Ron Deal talks with financial planner Greg Pettys on this topic and how to account for blended family variables.

Show Notes and Resources

Get your copy of The Smart Stepdad https://shop.familylife.com/p-5664-the-smart-stepfamily-guide-to-financial-planning.aspx.
Listen to Ron and Greg's other podcast: "Financing Togetherness in Blended Families" https://www.familylife.com/podcast/familylife-blended-podcast/19-financing-togetherness-in-blended-families/
Get the free download, 10 Tips to Avoid Money Drama and Plan Your Blended Family Future. http://www.blendedfamilyfinances.com
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended's annual Summit on Stepfamily Ministry https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/blended-families/
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=DesktopHeaderNav&cru_campaign=Blended
.

57: The Smart Stepdad Jun 07, 2021

How do you know if you're ready to be a stepdad? Ron Deal gives insight into the stepdad role as he talks with Bob Lepine and Dennis Rainey about this important position that can be daunting, but rewarding. Listen to his encouragement about the realities of being a stepdad and the value of stepping out in faith and relying on God's wisdom when ready to take the risk.

Show Notes and Resources

Get your copy of the Smart Stepdad. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5666-the-smart-stepdad.aspx.
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/blended-families/.
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=DesktopHeaderNav&cru_campaign=Blended.
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended's annual Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/.

56: Adult Stepfamilies May 24, 2021

Blended families that form when children are in their late teens or adult years are adult stepfamilies. We often mistakenly think these families have few adjustments to make. Listen to Ron Deal's conversation with Terry & Carol Moss, Brandon Moss, and Nina Thomas on how they've navigated multiple transitions in their adult stepfamily.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about blended family resources. https://shop.familylife.com/Products.aspx?categoryid=171.
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended's annual Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/.
Learn more about Terry & Carol and their ministry, One Flesh Ministries. https://www.onefleshministries.info/.
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=DesktopHeaderNav&cru_campaign=Blended.
Check out the stepfamily ministry map. http://www.familylife.com/blendedmap.

55: The Smart Stepmom May 10, 2021

What does it mean to be a smart stepmom? Laura Petherbridge answers that question as she speaks with Dennis Rainey, Bob Lepine, and Ron Deal on how to navigate a role that can be confusing, lonely, and frustrating. She offers principles to help stepmoms feel encouraged and empowered in the important role they play.

Show Notes and Resources

Get The Smart Stepmom book. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5665-the-smart-stepmom.aspx.
Subscribe to the FamilyLife Blended newsletter. http://familylife.com/blendedsubscribe.
Learn more about Laura Petherbridge and her ministry. http://thesmartstepmom.com/.
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/blended-families/.
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=DesktopHeaderNav&cru_campaign=Blended.

54: The Power of God at Work in Stepfamilies Apr 26, 2021

Marriage, while typically a two-person dance, gets complicated when couples try to manage a stepfamily maze with multiple lives around them. Ron Deal talks with Dave and Ann Wilson about how to navigate stepfamily struggles that create marital stress by sharing life with other stepfamilies and holding onto God's hand, relying on Him for answers and help to persevere.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about our Blended & Blessed Livestream Event. https://www.blendedandblessed.com/.
Get Ron's Smart Stepfamily Video series for FREE. https://www.familylife.com/the-smart-stepfamily
Buy The Smart Stepfamily Participant's Guide and book. https://shop.familylife.com/p-3640-smart-stepfamily-couples-set.aspx
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/blended-families
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/blended/

53: Managing Yourself in the Midst of the Unknown Apr 12, 2021

If self-control is a fruit of the Spirit, how do we allow the Spirit to cultivate that fruit in our lives? Pastor Rob Bugh answers that question and speaks with Ron Deal on the value of self-control, particularly in blended family relationships, and how his lack of it contributed to much heartache in the early years of his blended family.

Show Notes and Resources

Get Rob's book: When the Bottom Drops Out: Finding Grace in the Depths of Disappointment. https://www.amazon.com/When-Bottom-Drops-Out-Disappointment/dp/1414363494.
Learn more about our Blended & Blessed Livestream Event. https://www.blendedandblessed.com
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/blended
Learn more about FamilyLife Blended. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/blended-families

52: Blended and Blessed Backstage Mar 29, 2021

Blended and Blessed® is a one-of-a-kind annual event for stepfamily couples, single parents, dating couples with kids, and those who care about blended families, with valuable teaching by trusted and respected experts. Get a glimpse of the upcoming event as you listen to fun and informative interviews from previous speakers including Ron Deal and Shaunti Feldhahn.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about our Blended & Blessed Livestream Event. https://www.blendedandblessed.com/.
Get Rob and Rhonda Bugh's book. https://www.amazon.com/When-Bottom-Drops-Out-Disappointment/dp/1414363494
Get Lauren Reitsema's book. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5706-in-their-shoes.aspx
Learn about Joneen Mackenzie. https://www.myrelationshipcenter.org/services/speakers/joneen-mackenzie
Learn more about Shaunti and her resources. https://shaunti.com/
Listen to the Battle of the Moms podcast episode. https://www.familylife.com/podcast/familylife-blended-podcast/40-battle-of-the-moms
Learn about FamilyLife Blended. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/blended-families/

51: Growing Up in a Blender: Play the Long Game Mar 15, 2021

When blended family variables create tough dynamics to parent through, we might consider giving up on those relationships. But Jim Ramos, raised in a blended family, speaks with Ron Deal about he was impacted by his parents and stepparents and the value of playing the long game in our stepfamilies.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Jim Ramos and Men in the Arena. https://meninthearena.org/
Read Ron's Article: What Do We Do Now? When Step-siblings Have Sex. https://smartstepfamilies.com/smart-help/learn/parenting-stepparenting/what-do-we-do-now-when-stepsiblings-have-sex
Get your copy of Building Love Together. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5763-building-love-together-in-blended-families.aspx
Learn more about our Blended & Blessed Livestream Event. https://www.blendedandblessed.com/
Get The Smart StepMom. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5665-the-smart-stepmom.aspx
Get Daily Encouragement for the Smart Stepfamily. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5224-daily-encouragement-for-the-smart-stepfamily.aspx

50: Parenting Troubled Children in Stepfamilies Mar 01, 2021

How do you help a child or stepchild who feels lost, or angry, or who really fights against the family? And what if their anger or hurt is justified—and you deserve it, but everyone else doesn't? In this episode, Ron Deal speaks with Danny Huerta, Vice President of Parenting and Youth at Focus on the Family, about parenting troubled children in a stepfamily.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Focus on the Family's parenting resources. http://focusonthefamily.com/parenting
Check out Danny's book 7 Traits of Effective Parenting. https://store.focusonthefamily.com/7-traits-of-effective-parenting#refcd=869302
Take the FREE 7 Traits Assessment to learn more about your parenting. https://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/the-7-traits-of-effective-parenting/
Help strengthen stepfamilies by donating to FamilyLife Blended.https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=DesktopHeaderNav&cru_campaign=Blended
Learn more about our Blended & Blessed Livestream Event.https://www.blendedandblessed.com/.
Learn about FamilyLife Blended. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/blended-families/

49: Blended Kingdom Families podcast Feb 12, 2021

People of faith want their family to be a Kingdom family—centered in God's Word and rooted in truth and grace. Listen to Ron Deal's conversation with Scott and Vanessa Martindale, founders of Blended Kingdom Families, on how to create a blended kingdom family and why that's important.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Scott and Vanessa Martindale and their ministry, Blended Kingdom Families. https://www.blendedkingdomfamilies.com/
Get Life in a Blender Living in a Stepfamily: a Guide for Kids. https://shop.familylife.com/p-2672-life-in-a-blender.aspx
Find ministries and events in your area on the Blended Family Ministry Map. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/find-an-event/
Help strengthen stepfamilies by donating to FamilyLife Blended. https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=DesktopHeaderNav&cru_campaign=Blended
Learn about FamilyLife Blended. https://www.familylife.com/blended
Learn more about our Blended & Blessed Livestream Event. https://www.blendedandblessed.com/
Donate to FamilyLife Blended by phone 1-800-358-6329.

48: Sending & Receiving Kids Between Homes Feb 01, 2021

Stepfamily life often includes kids with two homes. Moving between those homes is not just physical for kids, but emotional, psychological, and relational. Ron Deal's panel discussion on this episode gives valuable tips on how to create smooth transitions and a secure environment when kids move between homes.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn about Joel Hawbaker and his resources. https://reallifeleading.com/blended-families
Get David and Claudia Arp's book: "Suddenly Their Thirteen." https://www.amazon.com/Suddenly-Theyre-David-Claudia-Arp/dp/0310227887
Learn more about Billy and Yolanda Jackson. https://www.liveinpeaceministries.org/
Visit Gayla Grace's website. https://stepparentingwithgrace.com/
Learn more about our Blended & Blessed Livestream Event. https://www.blendedandblessed.com/
Learn about FamilyLife Blended. https://www.familylife.com/blended
Learn more about Bethany House. http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/bethanyhouse
Donate to FamilyLife Blended by phone 1-800-358-6329.

47: Lessons From the School of Hard-Knocks Jan 18, 2021

The journey into a blended family is full of bumps and bruises—for someone anyway. Unpacking those for yourself, your kids, your new spouse is part of readying yourself and your family for stepfamily living. In this episode, Craig and Gina Morgan talk with Ron Deal and unpack some of their baggage and invite you to do the same as you listen.
Show Notes and Resources

Get Craig and Gina's book, "Building Blocks to Making the Family WHOLE Again." https://www.amazon.com/Building-Blocks-Making-Family-WHOLE/dp/1733804013
Visit the Morgan's ministry, Blended Together Forever. https://blendedtogether.org/
Get Ron's book, The Smart Stepfamily. https://shop.familylife.com/p-3625-the-smart-stepfamily.aspx
Get Ron's Daily Encouragement for the Smart StepFamily. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5224-daily-encouragement-for-the-smart-stepfamily.aspx
Learn more about the April 2021 Blended & Blessed Livestream event. https://www.blendedandblessed.com/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended
Help strengthen stepfamilies by donating to FamilyLife Blended. https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=DesktopHeaderNav&cru_campaign=Blended

46: Autism and the Blended Family Jan 04, 2021

Did you know that 1 in 6 children have some form of learning disability and some form of developmental disability, according to the CDC? Dr. Stephanie Holmes is a professional counselor and mom to a child with autism and talks with Ron Deal to give tips, understanding, and perspective on raising kids with autism in a blended family.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Stephanie Holmes and her ministry. counselorstephanieholmes.com
Read Ron and Stephanie's article: Autism and the blended family. https://www.familylife.com/articles/topics/blended-family/stepparents/multiple-home-realities/autism-and-the-blended-family/
Get Ron's book, The Smart Stepfamily. https://shop.familylife.com/p-3625-the-smart-stepfamily.aspx
Get Ron's Daily Encouragement for the Smart StepFamily. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5224-daily-encouragement-for-the-smart-stepfamily.aspx
Get the 2020 Summit on Stepfamily Ministry All-Access Pass. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5938-all-access-pass-summit-2020.aspx
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=Podcast&cru_campaign=Blended

45: Adult Stepfamilies: Joys and Challenges with the Holidays Dec 21, 2020

Blended family Christmases with adult children don't always go so well, especially in the early years. Adult children bring their own needs, wants, opinions, and agendas to the family and when those wants clash with the wants of the parents, conflict erupts. In this powerful episode, Ron Deal speaks with Bob and Vicki Maday and two of their adult daughters about their holiday challenges and how they worked through their differences to find a win-win for both the parents and the children.

Show Notes and Resources

Read various articles on Adult Stepfamilies with topics including: money, dating, and the holidays. https://www.familylife.com/articles/topics/blended-family/
Read Ron's article: Second-Half Stepfamilies. https://www.familylife.com/articles/topics/blended-family/stepparents/developing-a-relationship-with-stepchildren/second-half-stepfamilies/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended
Get the all new FamilyLife App! https://www.familylife.com/app/
Join the FamilyLife Blended Christmas Match and help expand stepfamily ministry! https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=DesktopHeaderNav&cru_campaign=Blended
Donate to FamilyLife Blended by phone 1-800-358-6329.

44: Overcoming Emotional Abandonment in Marriage Dec 07, 2020

Do differences in your marriage ever make you feel disconnected? Blended family couples have so many things related to step-ness that they need to manage, the last thing you need is to be irritated with one another about differences-or drift away from each other. In this episode, Neil and Sharol Josephson speak with Ron Deal and offer valuable tips on managing and overcoming a drift in marriage.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Neil and Sharol and FamilyLife Canada. https://www.familylifecanada.com/
Read Neil's Article - Differences & Drift: Wisdom for the Challenges Every Marriage Faces. https://www.familylifecanada.com/marriage/differences-drift/
Learn more about The Smart Stepfamily Marriage book. https://shop.familylife.com/p-4114-the-smart-stepfamily-marriage.aspx
Get the all new FamilyLife App! https://www.familylife.com/app/
Join the FamilyLife Blended Christmas Match and help expand stepfamily ministry! https://donate.familylife.com/blended/?cru_source=D000BLENDG&cru_medium=DesktopHeaderNav&cru_campaign=Blended
Donate to FamilyLife Blended by phone 1-800-358-6329.

43: Growing Up in a Blender: Who’s my Daddy? Nov 23, 2020

Imagine you have a relationship with your father for many years, then find out there are family secrets that will dramatically change your relationship and life. Stepfamily instability can bring confusion and shame to both children and adults. But God works in and through imperfect people and families. Listen to Ron Deal's conversation with Ray and Robin McKelvy and how God's love and grace brought resilience and redemption to their stepfamily story.

Show Notes and Resources

Episode 2: Life in a Blender with Dave and Ann Wilson. https://www.familylife.com/podcast/familylife-blended-podcast/2-life-in-a-blender-dave-and-ann-wilson/
Episode 14: In Their Shoes with Lauren Reitsema. https://www.familylife.com/podcast/familylife-blended-podcast/14-in-their-shoes/
Episode 28: Growing Up in a Blender with David Bowden and Ryan Guinee. https://www.familylife.com/podcast/familylife-blended-podcast/28-growing-up-in-a-blender/
Learn more about Robyn McKelvy and her ministry. https://robynmckelvy.com/
You can get the poem Ray quoted, The Secret, in Robyn's book SOS: Sick of Sex. https://robynmckelvy.com/books/
Check out the Blended Family Ministry Map to find ministries and events in your area. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/find-an-event/#blendedmap
Learn more about the online courses FamilyLife has to offer. https://www.familylife.com/learn
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/familylife-blended/

42: Military Stepfamilies: Mission Ready Nov 09, 2020

Did you know the military has a high-rate of couples in stepfamilies? Did you know that military personnel marry, divorce, and remarry at a younger age and more frequently than civilians do? Todd Gangl, co-founder of Military Ready Stepfamily, talks with Ron Deal about the added stressors military stepfamilies experience and how these families can create a healthy stepfamily culture that gives everyone the opportunity to bond, even amidst the challenges.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about The Military Ready Stepfamily and how to create a Stepfamily Care Plan. https://www.themilitaryreadystepfamily.com/
Learn about the resource When War Comes Home. https://shop.familylife.com/p-1559-when-war-comes-home.aspx
Learn more about the Restored & Remarried resource. https://gilandbrenda.com/restored-remarried/
Learn about the Combat Trauma Healing Manual. https://crumilitary.org/product/combat-trauma-healing-manual/
Resources from Tammy & Jay Daughtry. http://modernfamilydynamics.com/about/
Learn more about the online courses FamilyLife has to offer. https://www.familylife.com/learn
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/familylife-blended/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended

41: Raising Kids in a Toxic Culture Oct 26, 2020

We can't help but live in a social culture. For blended families, that culture often includes multiple homes, ambiguous roles of parents and stepparents, and lots of moving parts. Listen in while Ron Deal talks with pediatrician Dr. Meg Meeker on how parents and stepparents can protect their kids from the culture and make a lasting impact on those in their home.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Dr. Meg Meeker's book: Raising a Strong Daughter in a Toxic Culture: 11 Steps to Keep Her Happy, Healthy, and Safe. https://www.amazon.com/dp/1621575039/
Check out Dr. Meg Meeker's podcast. https://www.meekerparenting.com/podcast
Podcast #26: Two Homes, Two Sets of Values: From a Child’s Point of View. https://www.familylife.com/podcast/familylife-blended-podcast/26-two-homes-two-sets-of-values-from-a-childs-point-of-view/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended
Learn more about FamilyLife's Art of Parenting®. https://www.familylife.com/parenting/register/
Watch blended family parenting tips from Ron Deal. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-1r30g9sMm4&list=PLoZ3uqAYX8EHZjGMdaSq55x93sOyetX7c

40: Battle of the Moms Oct 12, 2020

Our world expects moms and stepmoms to be against each other. The social media club of "let's bash the mom or stepmom and commiserate together" is alive and well. But when a mom and stepmom don't play that game-when they find a way past resentment and appreciate what each offers the children, and cooperate on behalf of the child-people take notice and the world celebrates a small victory. In this episode, Ron Deal speaks with Jessica Patterson, a licensed counselor and mom and stepmom about how to mitigate the battle of the moms.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Jessica Patterson. https://www.newlifecounselingcenter.com/
Article: Battle of the Moms in a Blended family. https://www.familylife.com/articles/topics/blended-family/stepparents/multiple-home-realities/battle-of-the-moms-in-a-blended-family/
The Smart Stepmom by Ron Deal and Laura Petherbridge. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5665-the-smart-stepmom.aspx
Listen to episode "21: Stepfamilies and The Holidays". https://www.familylife.com/podcast/familylife-blended-podcast/21-stepfamilies-and-the-holidays/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended

39: Grandparenting and the Blended Family Sep 28, 2020

For most of us, grandparents are fabulous! They are the adults who love us, but don't have to discipline us, and because they don't have to take us home, relish the chance to spoil us. Stepgrandparenting can be all that if everyone agrees that it can-and everyone wants it to happen. Listen in on this episode while Ron Deal talks with Gordon and Carrie Taylor about the unique aspects of grandparenting in blended families.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Gordon and Carri Taylor's ministry Opportunities Unlimited. http://www.cgtaylor.com/
Read about stepgrandparenting and how to bring the outsider in. https://smartstepfamilies.com/smart-help/learn/special-topics/stepgrandparenting-bringing-the-outsider-in
Learn more about blended family resources. https://shop.familylife.com/Products.aspx?categoryid=171
Learn more about the Legacy Coalition. https://legacycoalition.com/
Learn more about the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended

38: Daily Practices for Happy Stepcouples Sep 14, 2020

Whatever we invest ourselves on a regular basis-our habits-not only become commonplace, but actually shape our decisions and our relationships. What are the habits-the daily practices-of your marriage? And how can they make your blended family marriage stronger? In this episode, Ron Deal talks with marriage and family therapist and stepfamily coach, Jayna Haney, and her husband Mike about intentional daily habits that have strengthened their marriage and stepfamily relationships over time.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Mike and Jayna Haney. https://www.thebridgeacross.com
Check out Jayna's blog. https://www.jaynahaney.com/2020/05/15/feeling-left-out-make-more-time-with-your-spouse/
The Smart Stepfamily Marriage by Ron Deal. https://shop.familylife.com/p-4114-the-smart-stepfamily-marriage.aspx
Learn more about the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended

37: Co-Parents, Teachers, and Your Child’s Education Aug 31, 2020

Parents, stepparents and school representatives (teachers, counselors, and administrators) all play a role in helping school-home relationships thrive. But not everyone knows how to play that role. Ron Deal is joined by school counselor Allison Weatter, principal Steven Helmick, and teacher Nan Deal, along with stepmom and author Gayla Grace, for a panel discussion on this important subject. As a parent or stepparent, how can you help teachers understand your unique stepfamily dynamics and relate to your child better? As a teacher or school counselor, how can you better advocate for and look out for your students who live in stepfamily or single parent homes? Kids wear different backpacks to school with baggage they're carrying from life experiences. Listen in for some great ideas on how to help lighten their load as a parent, stepparent, or school representative.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended

36: Crisis Counselor Tips for Managing Crisis Aug 17, 2020

Stepfamily life often includes a variety of crises, some big, many small. How do you effectively manage those crises and come out on the other side with connected relationships and renewed commitment? Crisis counselor Jennifer Ellers became a stepmom and had to survive her own crisis of expectation. She and her husband, Kevin, join Ron Deal in this episode and offer tips and tools they've learned from their years in a stepfamily.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Kevin and Jennifer Ellers. http://institute4compassionatecare.com/ and http://www.crisisresponse.org/Our-Instructors/
International Critical Incident Stress Foundation. https://icisf.org/ellers-m-a-jennifer/
ARTICLE: Coaching for Resilience: An Interview with Jennifer. (8 min. read) https://www.aacc.net/2017/09/20/coaching-for-resilience-an-interview-with-jennifer-cisney-ellers/
Blended Family Ministry Map. https://www.familylife.com/familylifeblended/find-an-event/
Find stepfamily resources in the online store. https://shop.familylife.com/products.aspx?categoryid=171&page=1&pagesize=all
Learn more about the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/

35: Second Wife, Second Life Aug 03, 2020

As a second wife or husband, have you ever felt second best? Or treated as second class by others? How can you be first in your spouse's heart when you're not the ONLY? In this episode, Ron Deal talks with Lore Ferguson Wilbert about how to combat your insecurities that naturally arise in second marriages. Perhaps there's a lack of trust, shame, or feelings of competition with your partner's former spouse. Whatever the reason, insecurities dissipate when we look to God as our source of love for our identity. We can respond from His wellspring of love even in the midst of hard emotions, offering compassion for our spouse instead of competition with someone who isn't even in the picture anymore.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Lore Wilbert at Sayable.net.
ARTICLE: Second Wife, Second Life. (8 min. read) https://www.fathommag.com/stories/second-wife-second-life
Handle With Care by Lore Wilbert. https://www.handlewithcarebook.com/
Dating and The Single Parent by Ron Deal. https://shop.familylife.com/p-2487-dating-and-the-single-parent.aspx
Building Love Together in Blended Families by Dr. Gary Chapman and Ron Deal. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5763-building-love-together-in-blended-families.aspx
Daily Encouragement for The Smart Stepfamily by Ron Deal. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5224-daily-encouragement-for-the-smart-stepfamily.aspx
Learn more about the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/

34: Finding Support for Your Family Jul 20, 2020

Are you looking for support for the unique dynamics and challenges that stepfamily life brings? Have you wondered where you can go to get help? Then this episode is for you! Ron Deal talks with Gil and Brenda Stuart on how to find a church that will support you as a stepcouple, how to know if you need counseling and where to go, and what to do if not everyone is willing to go. It might be as simple as attending a small group at your church with other couples on a similar journey. But you must commit to go! Listen in as we talk about the value of finding the right support for your stepfamily and your part in making it happen.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Gil and Brenda Stuart. https://gilandbrenda.com/
Blended Family Ministry Map. https://www.familylife.com/blendedmap
Learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
How to Find a Competent Christian Stepfamily Therapist. https://www.smartstepfamilies.com/smart-help/learn/sharing-hope-finding-help/how-to-find-a-competent-christian-stepfamily-therapist
Trusted Counselor List https://smartstepfamilies.com/smart-help/marriage-therapy-intensives
Encouragement for the couples in a stepfamily. https://gilandbrenda.com/restored-remarried/
Building Love Together in Blended Families by Dr. Gary Chapman and Ron Deal. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5763-building-love-together-in-blended-families.aspx

33: Bonus Parenting Jul 06, 2020

If you had your pick, what term would you use for the stepparent in your family? Some people are perfectly fine with “stepparent”, but others prefer “bonus parent” or “Smom” if you’re a stepmom. And, does the label really matter? Or is it how you conduct yourself as a stepparent that matters? Ron Deal will get into all that and more on today’s FamilyLife Blended podcast with guests, Steve and Misty Arterburn.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Steve and Misty Arterburn http://www.stevearterburn.com/
The Smart Stepfamily by Ron Deal. https://shop.familylife.com/p-3625-the-smart-stepfamily.aspx
Blended & Blessed- Digital All-Access Pass https://shop.familylife.com/p-5838-all-access-pass-blended-blessed-2020.aspx
Learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Books by Steve and Misty Arterburn http://www.stevearterburn.com/books/mediterranean-love-plan/
Daily Encouragement for The Smart Stepfamily https://shop.familylife.com/p-5224-daily-encouragement-for-the-smart-stepfamily.aspx
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/familylife-blended/

32: The Essentials of Co-parenting May 11, 2020

If you've ever had frustrations dealing with between-parenting issues, today's conversation will provide you practical help. We're going to wrestle with the every day hiccups of co-parenting and the stressful, ultra frustrating challenge of dealing with a difficult former spouse. Healthy co-parenting truly works. Jay and Tammy Daughtry talk with Ron Deal about how they have thrived in this area and how you can do the same.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Jay and Tammy Daughtry's ministry http://modernfamilydynamics.com/
Co-Parenting Works! by Tammy Daughtry https://coparentinginternational.com/resources?olsPage=products%2Fco-parenting
One Heart, Two Homes Digital Resource https://coparentinginternational.com/resources?olsPage=products%2Fhome-study
Cooperative Co-Parenting article https://www.smartstepfamilies.com/smart-help/learn/ex-spouses-co-parenting-multiple-home-realities/cooperative-co-parenting
Learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended

31: Mother’s & Father’s Day in Blended Families May 04, 2020

For stepparents, biological parents, and children, Mother's Day and Father's Day seem to have tons of swirling emotions. How do you manage this so the day doesn't work against you? Our panel of guests today react to the challenges that all members of a stepfamily can feel on these special days. Previous podcast guests have shared their experiences and tips for you. Additionally, Ron Deal talks with Bryan Stell, Jennifer Walker, Tanisha Johnson and Shannon Simmons about how they each have lived and learned through the many Mother's Days and Father's Days they have celebrated.
Show Notes and Resources

The Smart Stepmom by Ron Deal and Laura Petherbridge. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5665-the-smart-stepmom.aspx
The Smart Stepdad book by Ron Deal. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5666-the-smart-stepdad.aspx
Learn More about Building Love Together in Blended Families by Dr. Gary Chapman and Ron Deal. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5763-building-love-together-in-blended-families.aspx
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/familylife-blended/

30: Re-Sex: The Challenges of Sex for Blended Family Couples Apr 27, 2020

Should you ask your spouse about their previous sex life? What if you find yourself thinking about sex with your former spouse-is that a problem? And, what if your spouse is thinking about sex with their former spouse-should you be concerned? What if there are clear differences in your sex life now and then-what do you do with that and how do you keep it from being a problem? Healthy marital sexuality is important to the vitality of any marriage. More and more, married couples are engaging in re-sex, that is, a second or subsequent sexual relationship. Whether the story is death, divorce, or relationship dissolution, one or both partners has had a sexual relationship with at least one other person prior to the current marriage. Dr. Juli Slattery joins Ron Deal to have a conversation about sex.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Dr. Juli Slattery. https://www.authenticintimacy.com/
Get the book Rethinking Sexuality. https://shop.authenticintimacy.com/products/rethinking-sexuality
Sex as Sacrament? Learn more... https://www.authenticintimacy.com/resources/2756/is-sexual-intimacy-a-sacrament
Sexual differences CAN build intimacy. Check this out... https://www.authenticintimacy.com/resources/12334/sexual-differences-can-make-us-better-lovers
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended

29: When A Parent Goes M.I.A. Apr 20, 2020

If a parent dies, it is devastating to a child and the other parent has to carry the load of parenting. But what if one parent is there, but absent. Many people think life would be easier if the other parent was "missing in action". It's not. That kind of ambiguity is confusing for everyone. And, how does that impact a blended family, kids, and a parent and stepparent who have to pick up all the pieces? Despite their strong faith and good intentions, Andy and Heather Hetchler were blown away by how hard it was to bring their two families together when one former spouse was an MIA parent. Eventually they made some headway and began sharing what they learned with others. This is their conversation with Ron Deal.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Andy and Heather's ministry Learn2Step. https://www.learning2step.com/
Read the Where's Mom article. https://www.familylife.com/articles/topics/blended-family/stepparents/multiple-home-realities/wheres-mom/
Article Helping Children Cope With Loss: Practical Emotional Coaching. https://www.smartstepfamilies.com/view/emotional-coaching
Learn more about the Blended & Blessed® livestream. https://www.blendedandblessed.com
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended

28: Growing Up in a Blender Apr 13, 2020

Many times the voice of the child in a blended family is drowned by the conflict and loss associated with how the couple entered the stepfamily journey. In this episode, Ron Deal invites children of divorce, Ryan Guinee and David Bowden, to share how they grew up in a stepfamily blender. They offer perspective on their experiences and progress as adult men with wives and children of their own.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about David Bowden's ministry. https://www.spokengospel.com/
Changes that Heal by Dr. Henry Cloud. https://www.christianbook.com/changes-four-practical-steps-happier-healthier/henry-cloud/9780310351788/pd/351788?event=ESRCG
Learn more about the Blended & Blessed® livestream. https://www.blendedandblessed.com
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast
Hear episode 2 of the FamilyLife Blended Podcast with guests Dave and Ann Wilson called Life in a Blender. https://www.familylife.com/podcast/familylife-blended-podcast/2-life-in-a-blender-dave-and-ann-wilson/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/familylife-blended/

27: Beyond Broken Apr 06, 2020

We sometimes hear the term "broken" when people describe families that have gone through a divorce. However, Ron Deal suggests that we not refer to stepfamilies, as broken families because all of humanity is broken due to sin. Today's guests Sandi Patty and Don Peslis share how brokenness was a starting point for their relationship and how God has redeemed their story beyond broken.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Sandi and Don. https://www.sandipatty.com/
Hear I Am They's song Scars. https://www.iamtheyband.com/#official-audio
Learn more about the Blended & Blessed® livestream. https://www.blendedandblessed.com
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast
Building Love Together in Blended Families by Dr. Gary Chapman and Ron Deal. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5763-building-love-together-in-blended-families.aspx
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/familylife-blended/

26: Two Homes, Two Sets of Values: From a Child’s Point of View Mar 30, 2020

What if you were hearing conflicting messages about moral values-from two people you loved and respected-and very much wanted to please? That is what a child who lives in two different homes and is part of a blended family often feels. Melody Fabien joins Ron Deal for a conversation about her experience learning to navigate between the homes, hearts, and faith of her divorced parents. Her stance to remain sexually abstinent before marriage was not supported by one of her parents and caused much heartache. Learn how she eventually reconciled how to live between two homes and how God redeemed her story and continues to use it to help other couples.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Melody Fabien. http://www.cdandmelody.com/
Learn more about the Blended & Blessed® livestream. https://www.blendedandblessed.com/
Check out all that's available on the FamilyLife Podcast Network. https://www.familylife.com/familylife-podcast-network/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/familylife-blended/

25: Building Love Together in Blended Families Mar 23, 2020

Dr. Gary Chapman has spread the message of love languages to millions of people. In this episode, Dr. Chapman and Ron Deal discuss their new book, Building Love Together in Blended Families, and how couples can navigate love languages in stepfamilies. Through stories, research, and practical tips, they encourage families to help build love together in: marriage, stepparenting, sibling relationship, and grandparenting.

Show Notes and Resources

Building Love Together in Blended Families by Dr. Gary Chapman and Ron Deal. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5763-building-love-together-in-blended-families.aspx
To take a quiz to find out your love language. https://www.5lovelanguages.com/
Learn more about the Blended & Blessed® livestream. https://www.blendedandblessed.com/
Check out all that's available on the FamilyLife Podcast Network. https://www.familylife.com/familylife-podcast-network/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/familylife-blended/

24: Blending Despite Betrayal Mar 16, 2020

As a first-marriage, blended family, Darryl and Gwen Smith had good intentions when they wed over thirty years ago. However, their immaturity and emotional baggage led to a divorce. Utlimately, after spending time in prison and losing his family, Darryl became a Christian. God restored him and began to soften Gwen's heart toward him. They discuss with Ron Deal their remarriage and how God is helping them to unpack their baggage and continuing to heal their family.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about the Blended & Blessed® livestream. https://www.blendedandblessed.com/
Building Love Together in Blended Families by Dr. Gary Chapman and Ron Deal. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5763-building-love-together-in-blended-families.aspx
Check out all that's available on the FamilyLife Podcast Network. https://www.familylife.com/familylife-podcast-network/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/familylife-blended/

22: The Clutter-Free Home, the Clutter-Free Family Mar 02, 2020

Many stepcouples know that they will be merging families, but most don't realize that they are merging their belongings, as well. Maybe you combined two families and didn't have room for everything. Who decides what goes and what stays? Author and speaker, Kathi Lipp, helps people de-clutter their homes. She and Ron Deal will discuss how we all need to purge things from our relationships as well.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Kathi Lipp, her books, and events. https://www.kathilipp.com/
Learn more about the Blended & Blessed® live event and livestream. https://www.blendedandblessed.com/
Check out all that's available on the FamilyLife Podcast Network. https://www.familylife.com/familylife-podcast-network/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/familylife-blended/

21: Stepfamilies and The Holidays Nov 11, 2019

It's that time of year again when you not only need to plan for the holidays but need to prepare for the co-parenting issues that inevitably arise. Ron Deal and guests share their wisdom and blunders of navigating holidays through the years. We'll also hear holiday tips and ideas for stepfamilies from previous podcast guests.
Show Notes and Resources

The Smart Stepfamily by Ron Deal. https://shop.familylife.com/p-3625-the-smart-stepfamily.aspx
To learn more practical tips for handling stepfamily holidays, 13 Ideas to Manage Holiday Step-Stress. https://www.familylife.com/articles/topics/blended-family/stepparents/stepfamily-living/13-ideas-to-manage-holiday-step-stress/
Learn more about the Blended & Blessed® live event and livestream. https://www.blendedandblessed.com
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended

20: About to Blend Nov 04, 2019

Whether you are dating, engaged or single hoping to marry one day, there are preparations to make if you or your significant other have children. How do you get ready to blend? Drs. Jeff and Judi Parziale discuss with Ron Deal how they coach couples in pre-stepfamily work and the wisdom they have learned in their 20 year marriage.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Blended & Blessed®. www.blendedandblessed.com
"Marrying With Children" resource. http://instepministries.com/books/marrying-with-children/
InStep Ministries. www.instepministries.com
Check out all that's available on the FamilyLife Podcast Network. https://www.familylife.com/familylife-podcast-network/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/familylife-blended/

19: Financing Togetherness in Blended Families Oct 28, 2019

The topic of money matters can be a pain point in any marriage and family. However, blended families can produce monetary minefields! Debt, child support payments, and inheritance conundrums influence couples' decisions in stepfamilies. Instead of blowing up, Ron Deal, Greg Pettys, and David Edwards offer a better way to handle your money as they discuss financial planning and how blended families can finance togetherness.

Show Notes and Resources

The Summit on Stepfamily Ministry All-Access Digital Pass gives you the best content from the 2019 Summit, including all of the breakout sessions. PLUS, bonus backstage interviews and messages from previous Summit's. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5675-all-access-pass-summit-2019.aspx
Buy the book "The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning." https://shop.familylife.com/p-5664-the-smart-stepfamily-guide-to-financial-planning.aspx
Download Dave Edward's "10 Tips to Get Started: Avoid Money Drama and Plan for Your Future" containing 10 action steps you can take to put your blended family on the path to financial stability. https://edwardsgroupllc.lpages.co/blended-family-finances/
More from David Edwards at blendedfamilyfinances.com.
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast

18: The Blessing and Your Blended Family Oct 21, 2019

For each of us, regardless of our age, the acceptance of our parents and significant others in our life is incredibly important. Many people spend a lifetime searching for something the Bible calls, The Blessing. John Trent and his daughter, Kari Trent-Stageberg, join Ron Deal for a conversation about how the principle of blessing has affected their lives and how it can be applied to parenting and blended families.

Show Notes and Resources

Take The Blessing Challenge. https://www.theblessing.com/
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/familylife-blended/

17: Grief and the Blended Family Oct 14, 2019

If death or divorce is part of your stepfamily journey, then you know the pain and obstacles that can come when blending a family. In this episode, Ron Deal talks with Brian and Diane Fromme. They have been married 25 years-a second marriage for both of them. Diane was divorced with no children, and Brian, with two children, lost his first wife to cancer. They share stories and wisdom from their experience, and Diane gives insight on the challenge of entering a family that is grieving the death of a parent.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Diane Fromme. http://www.dianefromme.com/
Learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast
Your generous support of FamilyLife helps create podcasts like the FamilyLife Blended® Podcast. https://donate.familylife.com/familylife-blended/

16: The Childless Stepmom Oct 07, 2019

Whether by choice or chance, the stepmom who hasn't birthed children of her own can find loneliness in her role with her stepchildren and her relationship with her husband. Ron Deal talks with Laura Petherbridge, The Smart Stepmom, has over twenty years of experience, as a childless stepmom who has helped countless women redefine what it means to mother and love children who don't share their DNA.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Laura Petherbridge. http://www.laurapetherbridge.com/
Learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Buy the book "The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning." https://shop.familylife.com/p-5664-the-smart-stepfamily-guide-to-financial-planning.aspx
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast
The Smart Stepfamily DVD: An 8-Session Guide to a Healthy Stepfamily. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5643-the-smart-stepfamily-dvd-10th-anniversary-edition.aspx

15: Navigating Your Custody Battle Sep 30, 2019

One of the unfortunate and sometimes ugly results of a divorce is a custody battle. How do you sift through the murky waters of lawyers, legalities and loss while parenting your children? Throw in sustaining a healthy marriage will cause even more challenges. Ron Deal talks with Willie and Rachel Scott about their perspective and how God walked them through their individual stories of custody matters.

Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Better than Blended. https://betterthanblended.com/
Learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Buy the book "The Smart Stepfamily Guide to Financial Planning." https://shop.familylife.com/p-5664-the-smart-stepfamily-guide-to-financial-planning.aspx
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast
The Smart Stepfamily DVD: An 8-Session Guide to a Healthy Stepfamily. https://shop.familylife.com/p-5643-the-smart-stepfamily-dvd-10th-anniversary-edition.aspx

14: In Their Shoes Sep 23, 2019

Have you ever wondered what's really going on inside a child of divorce? Or what their experience of your blended family is? Lauren Reitsema, is a wife and mother, and grew up a child of divorce and living between two stepfamilies. On this episode Ron Deal and Lauren address common questions parents and stepparents ask about kids-and share insights that will help you love and lead them well.

Show Notes and Resources

Lauren Reitsema's lastest book "In Their Shoes." https://www.christianbook.com/helping-parents-understand-connect-children-divorce/laren-reitsema/9780764233012/pd/233015?event=ESRCG
Learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Shop Ron's newest resources: https://shop.familylife.com/Products.aspx?categoryID=171
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended

13: Calming Angry Kids Sep 16, 2019

Does your childhood, or previous relationships, ever creep into your current ones? If you've ever noticed that certain themes tend to repeat in our relationships you are not alone. And you'll want to listen if you've ever had an angry kid in your home and you've wondered what to do about it. Ron Deal is talking about that and much more with USA-Today Best-selling author Tricia Goyer.
Show Notes and Resources

Tricia Goyer's latest book "Calming Angry Kids." https://www.triciagoyer.com/
Learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Shop Ron's newest resources: https://shop.familylife.com/Products.aspx?categoryID=171
Learn about FamilyLife's other podcasts. https://www.familylife.com/podcast
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, and resources for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended

12: Overcoming Betrayal Jun 10, 2019

Betrayal in marriage can be devastating. Kyle and Sheri Keffer have both experienced betrayal in previous marriages and have seen how the effects can carry over into a new marriage. They join Ron to discuss what betrayal can do to a person, the shame that sexual betrayal can produce, and how they're finding healing. Kyle and Sheri are both marriage and life therapists as well as sex addiction therapists. Sheri is a frequent co-host on the radio program New Life Live! with Steve Arterburn and has written the book Intimate Deception: Healing the Wounds of Sexual Betrayal.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Dr. Sheri Keffer. https://drsherikeffer.com/
Read Sheri's book Intimate Decption: Healing the Wounds of Sexual Betrayal. https://www.christianbook.com/intimate-deception-healing-sexual-betrayal-paperback/sheri-keffer/9780800735050/pd/735056
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, resources, for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended
To learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry visit. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/

11: Undone: Making Peace With the Life You Have Jun 03, 2019

Michele Cushatt has experienced divorce, blended family life, adoption, and is a three time cancer survivor. In this episode Michele and Ron discuss the unexpected journey of her life and the hard work of parenting hurting kids.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Michele Cushatt. https://michelecushatt.com/
Read Michele Cushatt's story in her book Undone. https://www.christianbook.com/undone-story-making-peace-unexpected-life/michele-cushatt/9780310339786/pd/339786
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, resources, for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended
To learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry visit. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/

10: A Battle for Your Child and a Fight For Your Marriage May 27, 2019

What would you do if the night before your wedding one of your children comes to you and says, "Please don't get married tomorrow?" On this episode, Mike and Kim Anderson discuss how they handled that as well as how they dealt with losing their daughter to her biological father's control.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn about Mike and Kim's ministry. https://www.mikeandkimcoaching.com/
To learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry visit. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, resources, for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended

9: Stepparenting With Grace May 20, 2019

How do you give grace to a teenager? To a stepteenager, at that? And, how do you give each other grace as parents, when it comes to how they react to your teenager? Ron discusses these questions and more with Randy and Gayla Grace.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Gayla and her ministry at http://stepparentingwithgrace.com/
To learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry visit. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Gayla's book Stepparenting with Grace provides wisdom and comfort from a veteran stepmom. https://www.christianbook.com/stepparenting-with-grace-devotional-blended-families/gayla-grace/9781683972686/pd/972686
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, resources, for blended families. https://www.familylife.com/blended

8: Parenting After Divorce May 13, 2019

All parenting is difficult, but when you add in divorce, the challenge multiplies. Staying connected is harder than ever, and fragile and shifting co-parenting structures and relationships put pressure on everyone. Navigating even the most routine parental responsibilities can become difficult. This episode brings help and hope to those parents who may be struggling.
Show Notes and Resources

Are children you know angry, hurt, and confused about their parent's separation or divorce? Check out Divorce Care 4 Kids and how they can help. https://www.dc4k.org/
To learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry visit: https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Linda Ranson Jacobs new book The Single Parent. https://www.christianbook.com/the-single-parent-confident-and-successful/linda-jacobs/9780764232848/pd/232848
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, resources, for blended families. https://www.FamilyLife.com/blended

7: Eternity Is Now in Session May 06, 2019

When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be." What about now? Pastor and theologian John Ortberg provides a fresh perspective on the nature of eternity and our own connection to an eternal creator.
Show Notes and Resources

As believers, we're waiting for eternal life. But what is it? John Ortberg dispells the myths in his new book Eternity Is Now In Session.
To learn more and register for the Summit on Stepfamily Ministry visit. https://www.summitonstepfamilies.com/
Learn more about John Ortberg and his ministry on his website. http://www.johnortberg.com/
Visit FamilyLife Blended® online for articles, videos, resources, for blended families. http://www.FamilyLife.com/blended

6: Challenging Co-Parent Situations and Parent Alienation Apr 29, 2019

Stepcouples hope and pray they can have peaceful relations with their former spouses, and it is possible. But for some couples, no matter how much they try, the venom and vitriol of the former spouse drowns out all reason and compromise. Rodney and Lisa Webb, and counselor and therapist Helen Wheeler share their difficult blended journey.
Show Notes and Resources

Whether married or soon-to-be married, The Smart Stepfamily will help you discover how to communicate effectively and solve the everyday puzzles of stepchildren relationships. An 8-session DVD curriculum and participant's guide is also available.

5: Daily Bread for the Starving Stepmom Apr 22, 2019

Stepmoms bear a unique burden, and they often neglect their own care. Melanie Anthony offers hope for balance in the midst of the burden.
Show Notes and Resources

Learn more about Melanie Anthony's ministry StepMoms Alive. A one day faith-based event designed to equip stepmoms to be strong and steadfast for the journey.
Learn more and register for the 2019 Blended & Blessed® live event and livestream. It's the only livestream event for couples in stepfamilies.
In today's complicated stepfamily, the stepmom often doesn't know where to turn for help. Let stepfamily expert Ron Deal and experienced stepmom Laura Petherbridge show you how to survive and thrive as a stepmom in The Smart Stepmom.

4: Caught Between Your Spouse and Your Family Apr 15, 2019

She may have been in love with Lamar, but as a strong self-confident woman, Ronnie wasn't that interested in Lamar's help raising her two children from a previous relationship. Exploring the complex nuances of blended relationships.
Show Notes and Resources

Ronnie and Lamar Tyler are the founders of blackandmarriedwithkids.com, the largest African American marriage and parenting site on the web.
Learn more and register for the 2019 Blended & Blessed® live event and livestream. It's the only livestream event for couples in stepfamilies.
Feeling caught in the blender's swirl? Life in a Blender will help you learn how to handle the “Big Five” challenges—loss, sadness, fear, guilt, and confusion—and dilemmas kids in blended families often experience.

3: The Good News About Marriage Apr 08, 2019

Fifty percent of marriages end in divorce, right? WRONG. In this encouraging exploration of the real state of marriage, researcher and author Shaunti Feldhahn teams up with Ron Deal for a deep look at the facts behind the statistics.
Show Notes and Resources

What if these “facts” are actually myths? In The Good News About Marriage, best-selling author Shaunti Feldhahn, presents groundbreaking research that reveals the inspiring truth.
If you want answers to questions every wife is asking, listen to Shaunti Feldhahn on the FamilyLife's Married With Benefits podcast.
Ron Deal and Shaunti Feldhahn are both featured speakers at this year's Blended & Blessed®. Learn more and register for the only livestream event for couples in stepfamilies.
Whether married or soon-to-be married, The Smart Stepfamily will help you discover how to communicate effectively and solve the everyday puzzles of stepchildren relationships.

2: Life in a Blender: Dave and Ann Wilson Apr 02, 2019

Understanding the long-term effects of divorce and remarriage on kids is difficult. A good way to start is to ask an adult who experienced life in a blended family. Ron talks with "FamilyLife Today" host Dave Wilson about his childhood blended family experience.
Show Notes and Resources

To learn more about Dave and Ann Wilson, their ministry, and their new book Vertical Marriage check out their website.
Learn more and register for Blended & Blessed®, the only livestream event for couples in stepfamilies.
Feeling caught in the blender's swirl? Life in a Blender will help you learn how to handle the “Big Five” challenges—loss, sadness, fear, guilt, and confusion—and dilemmas kids in blended families often experience.

1: Blended Families, Identity, and Different Last Names Apr 01, 2019

When Dave was growing up his father told him over and over, "You're a Bondeson and a Christian." That helped shape his identity. But as a father himself, Dave finds it challenging to translate that into a blended family situation with a step-daughter whose last name is not Bondeson.
Show Notes and Resources

The Parent's Summit is a one day livestream experience for all parents. It is built on the idea that local churches equipping local parents make the community a stronger, better place for families to thrive. https://parentssummit.com/
Learn more and register for Blended & Blessed®, the only livestream event for couples in stepfamilies. https://www.blendedandblessed.com/
Whether married or soon-to-be married, The Smart Stepfamily will help you discover how to communicate effectively and solve the everyday puzzles of stepchildren relationships. https://shop.familylife.com/p-3625-the-smart-stepfamily.aspx

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