Episode Details

Ever feel relieved when your stepkids go back to their other home, then immediately feel guilty about it? You're not alone. And it doesn't make you a bad stepmom.

In this episode of The Stepmom Diaries, Cameron Normand talks with Alyssa Kirk, founder of Stepmom Social Club, about stepmom guilt, impossible expectations, high-conflict co-parenting, and why taking care of yourself isn't selfish. From the pressure to treat your stepkids like your own to the judgment that follows when you do, Alyssa and Cameron get honest about the realities of blended family life.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Why it is okay to need a break when your stepkids leave.

• The double standards and unsolicited advice that can fuel stepmom guilt.

• Grounding yourself before reacting to high-conflict co-parenting situations.

• Why connecting with other stepmoms can make the role less lonely.

They also talk about the evil stepmother stereotype, dealing with online criticism, and finding friends who understand the realities of your family. You don't have to love every minute of stepmom life to care deeply about your family.

Resources Shared in This Episode:

• Find Alyssa: Stepmom Social Club on Instagram and Patreon.

• Want to find your people? Join us inside Stepfamily Circle, the supportive community for stepmoms navigating blended family life: https://stepfamilycircle.com/

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