The Nacho Kids Podcast: Blended Family Lifesaver

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, speaks with Krista St-Germain about navigating grief as a stepparent. As a widow, stepkid, and stepparent, Krista shares her journey and wisdom. Her stepdad stayed in his lane and her stepmom was a little more authoritative. In this episode, we discuss the following: Supporting a partner when you have different parenting views Secondary losses Five stages of grief Time in relation to grief Respecting previous relationships Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I can't believe how much better our lives are because of Nacho Parenting!" ~ E.V.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, speaks with family law attorney Rachel King. Rachel has been practicing family law for over 10 years. Her parents divorced when she was very young. Rachel shares her story of being a stepkid with us. In this episode, we discuss the following: Bashing the other parent Being forced to call stepmom "mom" Differences in parenting in different homes Parentification Co-parenting Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "As a child of divorce, I thought I would have an easy time being a stepdad. I was so wrong. Being a stepdad is the hardest thing I've ever had to work on. I thought I'd come in and be "dad," which resulted in many fights. I heard about Nacho through a lawyer friend. They recommended I join the Nacho Academy. I'm so glad I listened to them! Through the Nacho Academy, I learned what I did wrong. I worked on repairing my relationship with my stepson, and we are now in a much better place. Thank you, Nacho, for saving our blend!" ~ E.W.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talks to Anthony J. Mohr. Anthony's father, Gerald Mohr, was a well-known radio actor before slipping to the Hollywood B-list thanks to the advent of television. Accepting the lead in a dying Swedish TV series, he fell for the script girl and divorced Mohr's mother, who went on to meet and marry another divorced person, credit card industry pioneer Stanley Dashew. As his stepfather's career rose and his biological father's eased downward, Anthony tried to find his place. One weekend, he was sailing on his stepfather's fifty-eight-foot catamaran; the next, his Swedish stepmother told him that they were poor. Coming of age in a time when divorce was rare and viewed as shocking, Anthony lived at the edges of what others regard as a dream world, a place where reality and fantasy blend, maps lead to the homes of the stars, and obstacles abound. In this episode, we discuss the following: Being a child of divorce Two different lives Fighting in front of the kids Building bonds Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "As a licensed therapist, a patient mentioned Nacho to me. I was intrigued. I looked into this Nacho method, and I must say it is genius! I am now referring all my stepfamily clients to the Academy!" ~ T.G.

In this episode, Lori and David Sims, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talk to Lisa Johnson. Lisa is co-author, along with her partner Chris Barry, of "Been There Got Out." Like Lori and David, Lisa and Chris use their first-hand experience to help others. In this episode, we discuss the following: Toxic relationships High conflict divorce Legal abuse Coercive control Jennifer's Law Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I am a family law attorney. I kept hearing about this Nacho parenting from clients and in the courtroom. I decided to join the Nacho Academy to see what it was all about. Man, this stuff is gold! I'm referring all my clients to the Nacho Academy even if they aren't currently in a blend, they will most likely be in one soon! I love what Lori and David are doing and can't express how much the world needs this!" ~ M.L.B.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talks to stepmom Tikeetha. Tikeetha has one child, and her partner has two children, one of which is an adult and no longer living at home. Both of their teenage children have lost their other parent. Tikeetha and her partner decided to get married but have not moved in together yet but plan to in the future. In this episode, we discuss the following: Choosing to get married but live sep Having an autistic child in the blend Partner wants family to blend When a bio parent dies Friction between the stepkids Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I have been a member of the Nacho Academy for two years and plan to be a life-long member. The support Lori & David give is worth the membership to me! I know I can get their advice on anything that comes up in our blend, as there are always changes and challenges." ~ J.R.

In this episode, Lori and David Sims, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talk about struggles blended families often face when it comes to Graduation ceremonies. Unfortunately, most kids are given a limited number of tickets and it can often cause issues within the family, even a nuclear family! But you add the blend… and whew! Hang on! In this episode, we discuss the following: Graduation Tickets One upping your ex Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I joined the Nacho Kids Academy just out of sheer curiosity. I am also a stepfamily coach and wanted to see what Lori had in her Academy. I have to tell you, I am so impressed with the Academy, that I am now referring my clients to take her courses! It helps me because I can focus on stuff outside the Nacho method with them and I get to see the transformation that happens within one month of them joining. Makes my job easier and saves them money!" ~ L.T.

In this episode, Lori and David Sims, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talk about some of the struggles stepmoms have with Mother's Day. Mother's Day is hard for a lot of people. Whether it be stepmoms, those who could never have children or have lost children, bio moms, or those who don't have good relationships with their bio moms. In this episode, we discuss the following: Stepmom expectations Mother's Day recognition for stepmoms Stepmom's Day but no Stepdad's Day Hallmark Holiday Mental Health Wellness Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I asked my husband to get me a one month subscription to the Nacho Academy for one month so I could do the Bootcamp Challenge. After the first group call, I quickly realized I was going to need more than a one month membership! There is so much great content! I was really surprised at the amount of content and the interaction on the call considering the cost was so low. Thank you David & Lori! See you on the next call!" ~ B.K.

In this episode, Lori Sims, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talks to stepmom Veronica Andrews. Veronica is the author of "Heal Stepmom Burnout". She has been blending for 15 years, has two stepkids, and is child-free by choice. In this episode, we discuss the following: Changes in custody time Losing yourself Finding the balance Stepmom burnout Wanting what is best for the kids Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "My stepkid is 20 years old. Does nothing but lay on the couch playing on their phone all day. It was driving me crazy. Like, really. I lost my composure several times. An attorney recommended Nacho Kids to me. They were friends of my husbands and my husband told them I was going crazy. I joined the Academy and immediately started doing the bootcamp. It wasn't easy and I understand why it's a 30-day course, there's a lot to it. Day 7 I was finally seeing that things could be different. I finished the bootcamp and said what the heck and did the thinking challenge next. I thought the bootcamp was good, but wow! That thinking one is mind blowing! And I definitely know now why Lori says to do the bootcamp first and to do them separately. I've learned through Lori and David's nacho academy that I can choose to be a part of the solution or a part of the problem. I chose to be a part of the solution." ~ R.R.

In this episode, Lori and David, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talk about stepfamily vacations. If you have ever been on a blended family vacation, you know how stressful they can be! Lori & David talk about challenges and tips to help have a good blended family vacation. In this episode, we discuss the following: Preparing for stepfamily vacations Expectations Separate vacations with kids Separate vacations adults only Length matters Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I love Lori and David! You can tell they truly care about you and your blend. They want you to succeed! They cheer you on and support you through your journey. I've never felt like someone cared about me so much. Their caring made me want to work harder because I felt like I had someone in my corner!" ~ N.W.

In this episode, Lori and David, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talk to stepcouple Jenn and Zeb. They have been blending for three years, and married six months. The hardest part of the blend for Zeb is establishing and maintaining stepmom's role within the blend and Jenn's hardest part is figuring out her place and role within the blend. In this episode, we discuss the following: What's the stepparent role Who is responsible for the stepkid Stepkid calling stepmom "Mom" Feeling pushed out of your bio kid's life When the stepkid gets an arrow through his head Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I was skeptical of how much this Academy would benefit me/us. I was willing to put the work in, but my partner was against it. I did the bootcamp and within two weeks, my partner was on board because she could not deny the positive changes that were occurring. We love Nacho!" ~ R.S.

In this episode, Lori and David, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, answer some Nacho questions. You have questions, we have answers! Please note, these are top level answers to questions and in the Nacho Kids Academy Lori and David delve deeper into the questions you may have and provide guidance to help you Nacho properly. In this episode, we discuss the following: Triggers Nasty Stepkids Summertime stepkids Stepparent responsibilities Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "This Nacho stuff is gold! I wish we would have found it sooner. My husband and I decided to join because we were really struggling in our blend. Something had to give. This was the best decision we could have made! We have started healing from our past hurts, and are rebuilding our blended relationships every day! Thank you Dave and Lori! You saved our marriage!" ~ J.F.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talks to bio dad Chris. Chris has experienced parental alienation with his daughter. Chris shares his story and because of his alienation is working to help other alienated parents. In this episode, we discuss the following: Parental alienation Boundaries Legal issue versus mental health issue Divorced parents and school Psychological abuse Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I had decided to leave my partner. A friend at work was watching the Guilty Parent Syndrome course in the Nacho Academy during our lunch break and I heard something that clicked with me. I asked him what he was listening to and he told me it was one of the video courses in the Nacho Parenting Academy. I immediately signed up and have decided my relationship is worth working for and that I'd rather make things work with my partner than to start over with someone else." ~ M.W.

*** DISCLAIMER *** Mention of attempted suicide in this episode. In this episode, Lori and David Sims, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talk to stepmom Jo and bio dad Ben! They have been blending for five years and married two. Ben has two bio kids, one of which lives with him full-time and wants Jo to be his mom! Jo pushed for the oldest stepson to come live with them full-time and feels she has emotionally adopted him. Jo and Ben's journey has not been easy, in fact there was a time where Jo attempted suicide. In this episode, we discuss the following: The importance of getting help Stepmom burnout Emotional adoption Setting boundaries with bio mom Having a "golden child" stepkid Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I don't normally write reviews, but I had to because I want others to know there truly is help out there! This Nacho Academy stuff is gold! Even if you aren't in a stepfamily, it teaches you tools you can use in everyday life to help lower your stress. I recommend it for everyone!" ~ L.J.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, and Claudette Chenevert ~ The Stepmom Coach, talk about ruminating. Rumination is something everyone does. It's natural . But is it healthy? In this episode, we discuss the following: Ruminating Setting Boundaries as a stepmom/stepdad… heck, as a person 7 Sins of Memory How to handle rumination if it is affecting you negatively Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: ***** 100+ STARS ***** This Nacho stuff works guys! I was ready to walk away. I was losing my mind. I was grumpy all the time. I was not happy!. One morning on the way to work I was thinking about going ahead and signing the lease on this apartment I had looked at the previous week. But I got this weird feeling, and felt something was telling me to just wait until Monday since it was already late Friday. Walking into work and clocking in, I heard two co-workers talking and one said, "Yeah girl, my therapist told me to join this Nacho Academy" and they started laughing.When I got to my desk, I googled Nacho school. Nothing came up, Then I remembered she said Nacho Academy. I found it and read some of the blogs and testimonials, and I cried. These people were me! So, if people like me were improving their lives with this Nacho thing, I was willing to give it a try. LET ME TELL YOU! By day 15 my partner asked me if I was high because I was so relaxed. I laughed and told him that I was trying to do some self-development stuff. He told me he knew something was up. If this is what da 15 feels like, I can't wait to finish the bootcamp and start the next challenge!"

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talks to a guest who was on the Nacho podcast before. This guest, the Canadian Stepmom was on episode 109 if you'd like to listen to it prior to this one. We reached out to Canadian Stepmom to get an update from her after a few years. She has three stepsons and four bio sons. Yep, all boys! In this episode, we discuss the following: Having triplets and father is not home 95% of the time Being a boy mom/stepmom Things change with bio mom Sharing Nachoing with bio mom Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting Academy Success Story: "I have listened to your podcast for years. I never thought I'd need the Nacho Parenting Academy, but one day I heard a podcast with someone who had been in the academy. I decided to join to see if it would help me with some of the issues I was having. I had just received my tax money and decided to spend $100 of on two months of the Nacho Kids school as an investment to my marriage and myself. The money I saved from drinking alcohol after the first month of being a nacho member was enough for me to buy another month membership! My husband has even said he'd pay for two more months for me for Valentine's Day. This Nacho stuff works!" ~ N.B.

In this episode, Lori and David, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talk about things she would have done differently in regards to how she reacted when the stepkids angered her. This episode was inspired by one of Lori's stepkids asking her this question recently. In this episode, we discuss the following: Feeling your bio child is bullied by the stepkids Wanting to beat up your stepkid Yoohoo gate Vacations Accuracy of memories Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I hated my life. I actually had thought about ending my life several times. I felt everyone was against me. My husband and I fought all the time, my stepkids hated me, my in-laws hated me. I figured everyone would be better off without me until one day I heard the Nacho Kids Podcast a friend was listening to. I started crying and realized I wasn't alone! Hearing Lori telling another stepmom not to give up and helping her through some of her challenges made me realize I needed help. I joined the Nacho Kids Academy that day during my lunch and I can honestly say it's the best decision I ever made! Thank you Lori for everything you do for stepfamilies!" ~ K.G.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talks to stepmom Chyna. Chyna has been blending for two years, she has two stepkids and two bio kids. Her partner adopted her bio kids that she brought into the relationship. The hardest part of blending for her is dealing with bio mom. Her best advice is to let it come naturally. In this episode, we discuss the following: Being assaulted by bio mom Differences in stepkid relationships Calling your stepkid your own Court order not allowing stepkid to call stepmom "mom" Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I just joined the Nacho Academy three days ago and have been binge watching the courses. They are helping me so much. I no longer feel like I'm evil for not loving my stepkids as my own and I no longer feel alone! Thank you Lori and David for doing all you do to help people like me!" ~ J.V.

In this episode, Lori and David, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talk about different fears in a blended family experience. Not only do stepparents experience fears, so do the bio parents, and the kids. In this episode, we discuss the following: Fears of a bio parent in a blended family Fears of a stepparent in a blended family Fears of a bio kid in a blended family Fears of a stepkid in a blended family Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I started the Nacho Academy two months ago. I am not kidding you when I tell you it changed my life! I no longer avoid going home when the stepkids are there. I don't have anxiety days before I know they are coming. My partner and I no longer fight about the kids. Lori and David aren't kidding when they say Life Is Good When You Nacho! It really is!" ~ C.S.

In this episode, Lori and David, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talk with one of David's sons, and Lori's stepsons, Ethan. Ethan was a guest on episode 83 a little over three years ago. Listen as they talk about how things have changed in the past few years. In this episode, we discuss the following: Step grandparents Relationships between stepmom and stepkids Different types of love When the stepkid boomerangs Relationships between bio and stepkid Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I felt so alone. I had no one that understood what I was going through until I found Nacho Kids. I listened to the first podcast and immediately joined the Nacho Kids Academy because I knew they were my people! Lori & David really care about other people and it shows. They go above and beyond in their Academy to help you achieve success in Nachoing! ~ K.F.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talks with a stepmom who has been blending for five years. She has two stepkids, three bio kids, and one ours kid. The father of her bio kids passed away a few years ago and that has created new challenges in the blend. In this episode, we discuss the following: Having all the kids, all the time High conflict bio mom Equality in the blend Boundaries Feeling you are giving up control Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "I thought this Nacho stuff was a bunch of crap when I heard about it years ago. Who would say their stepkids weren't their kids? Only horrible people! Well, I turned into this person. I didn't turn into a horrible person, but was slapped in the face with the reality that they weren't my kids, I then understood why people Nacho. I didn't need this the first eight years, but then things changed. Thankfully I decided to try to hear what this nacho stuff was about, and joined the Academy. You all will not believe how awesome this stuff is! It is pure gold! It has helped me with the blended challenges, with issues at work and within my relationships with my own biological mother and father! Nacho on my fellow Nacho Tribe! " ~ R.H.

In this episode, Lori and David Sims, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talk about communication. Specifically what you say versus what you mean and what you hear versus what was said. Communication is vital to every relationship, and it's important to make sure you are clear in what you are saying and that you aren't misunderstanding what is being said. In this episode, we discuss the following: What you say What you don't say What they say What we hear Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "If I could, I'd fly to Lori and David and hug their necks! They are the reason my partner and I are still together. They are the reason we fought for our relationship instead of giving up when things were hard!. They are just awesome! I love them!" ~ S.M.

In this episode, Lori and David Sims, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talk about wills and estate planning in the blend. Should a stepparent be expected to leave their stepkids something in their will? Should a stepparent be expected to leave their stepkids the same thing they leave their bio kids? What is fair? In this episode, we discuss the following: Expectations of stepparents to put stepkids in their wills. How bio kids would feel if stepkids were put in bio parents will. Does it need to be equal between step and bio kids? Talking to an estate planning attorney. Should you purchase life insurance to just have something to leave your kids/stepkids? Nacho Kids Academy Success Story: "My life sucked so bad. I hated waking up every day. I ran across the Nacho Kids podcast and heard about the Academy. I joined immediately. It was the best decision I ever made. I feel like the old me and love myself and my life again. I can't thank Lori and David enough for what they do for stepfamiies." ~ C.N.

In this episode, Lori and David Sims, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talk about how stepparents often feel they have no control in their blended home. In this episode, we discuss the following: No control over the stepkids. No control over how your partner parents. No control over the other parent. The ultimate control is letting go of things you can't control, but instead controlling how you let things affect you. Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting Success Story: "I recently heard about Nacho Kids from my therapist. She told me to join the Academy and give it 30 days. Boy what a difference taking the Nacho Boot Camp made in our blend! My therapist is even amazed at how things improved so quickly in our blend!" ~ R.H.

In this episode, Lori and David Sims, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, share some Nacho rules with listeners. In this episode, we discuss the following: You can't expect your significant other to parent like you think they should. You can't control what happens at the "other parent's house". You can't discipline them like your own. You can't expect the stepkids to treat you with respect if your significant other doesn't make them. You can't feel guilty for not loving them like your own. Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting Success Story: "I would like to start off by saying how blessed I am to have stumbled upon your podcast a couple of months back. You all have not only saved my marriage but also played such an important role in my life as a stepmom and mom of an ours baby." ~ S.A.

In this episode, Lori and David Sims, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, share some Nacho rules with listeners. In this episode, we discuss the following: You can't say anything negative to or about the stepkid. You can't expect more from the stepkid than their own bio parents do. You can't care more about the stepkids than the bio parents do. You can't parent them like your own. You can't expect them to treat you as their parent, because you're not. Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "I never thought I would need help with blending. After all, I am a marriage counselor! I'm not supposed to need help. Well, I did. I needed help navigating this blend and am so thankful for Lori and David's Nacho program! Now I can enjoy my blend and not feel like I'm a failure as a marriage counselor.." ~ S.Y.

In this episode, Lori Sims, co-founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talks to a stepmom who has been blending for seven years. She has two bio kids, whose fathers are not in the picture, and she has four stepkids with three different bio moms. She considers one of the stepkids as her own. In this episode, we discuss the following: Being a stepkid and a stepmom Loving one stepkid as your own When your bio kids other parent is absent When the bio parent remarries quickly Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "This blended family stuff about took me out. It's the hardest thing I've ever had to deal with. Thankfully, I found the Nacho Kids Academy and it gave me the tools to lower my stress and focus on my relationship with my partner." ~ H.W.

** Disclaimer- Accusation Of Abuse ** In this episode, Lori Sims, co-founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talks to a full-time childless stepmom. This stepmom has been blending for fourteen years, and has three adult stepkids. After one of her stepkids accused her of abuse, stepmom moved out of the home. She did not return to the home until after the stepkid had moved out. In this episode, we discuss the following: Being a childless stepmom Accused of abuse by stepkid Moving out of the blended home Living separately because of the stepkids Never being mom even though bio mom is not in the picture Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "I've been on this blended family journey for three years. It is the hardest thing I have ever done. I decided to join this Nacho Academy to see if it would help. Honestly, I didn't have much hope that it would. Boy was I shocked! Within 2 weeks, I noticed a positive change in our blend. Here we are 6 months later and are happier than I ever thought we'd be. It took work, but it was so worth it!" ~ A.K.

** Disclaimer: Mention of alcoholism and miscarriage ** In this episode, Lori Sims, co-founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talks to Nick Rothwell. Nick is a stepdad to three stepkids. Nick realized he needed to change the way he interacted with his stepkids in order to have a better blend. In this episode, we discuss the following: Being a stepdad and not a bio dad When the stepkids dad loses visitation Seeing the blend as a family Feeling the need to save your partner and their kids Apologizing Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "It's crazy how this Nacho stuff changed our blend! We are finally happy! Thanks Dave and Lori for all you do to save blended families like ours!" ~ F.R.

In this episode, Lori and David Sims, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talk to Jeanette Soltys a divorce and custody attorney, and also a stepmom! The hardest part of her blend is dealing with what the kids say to their other bio parent and assumptions being made about their home. She works to help couples have a more amicable and less costly divorce and custody agreement. In this episode, we discuss the following: Being a stepmom and a Divorce and custody attorney Co-parenting relationships Differences in parenting Family court systems shortcomings Needing your own space as a stepparent Joint family rules for the blend Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "As a relationship therapist, I had to check out this Nacho thing my clients kept mentioning. I read the stuff online on the website and the Facebook pages and the Facebook group. I decided to be fair about my assessment, so I joined the Academy. I can't tell you how much I learned in the Academy! As a relationship therapist I don't know everything and appreciate this resource for me to help my clients." ~ G.W.

In this episode, Lori and David Sims, founders of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interview Kari Kling. Kari grew up in blended families and shares her story about the differences she experienced in her blends. In this episode, we discuss the following: Having divorced parents when it wasn't the norm Learning to have a stable committed relationship after having divorced parents Not all blends are the same for the stepkid It's not always fair between bio and stepkids Stepkids feel they have no say Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "I was miserable and thinking of leaving my wife. I was tired of fighting about the kids. We found the Nacho Method and joined the Academy three months ago, and our lives are so much better! Thank you Nacho!" ~ R.M.

*** DISCLAIMER: Mention of sexual abuse In this episode, Lori Sims, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews stepmom Terra. Terra has been blending for 10 years, has two stepkids and no biological kids. Although she considers her stepkids her kids, she still uses the Nacho Kids method. Stepparenting isn't easy, as we know, and Terra also had to fight breast cancer! In this episode, we discuss the following: Dealing with a bi-polar bio mom Having breast cancer while blending Importance of having your own space Considering the stepkids your own Stepkids calling you mom Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "I was suicidal when I came across the Nacho Kids stuff. I am not kidding when I tell you it saved my life." ~ C.H

In this episode, Lori Sims, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talks with Alison O'Mahony of Be Step Wise about expectations. We have expectations every day from almost everyone we encounter. Why do we have these expectations? What expectations should we have in the blend? Are these expectations realistic? In this episode, we discuss the following: Feeling different towards kids Can't love people on demand Expectations = Disappointment Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "My life will forever be better because of Lori and David's Nacho Academy!" ~ T.P.

In this episode, Lori Sims, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews a stepmom from Pennsylvania. This stepmom has been blending for five years, has four bio kids ages nineteen to thirty, and has four stepkids ages twelve to twenty three. Her kids' bio dad is not in the picture, and her stepkids' bio mom is two-faced. In this episode, we discuss the following: Being ignored by the stepkid Coming to terms you'll always be an outsider as the stepmom Parental Alienation Expectations Boundaries Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "When a licensed therapist with 30+ years experience refers you to the Nacho Academy, it just goes to show you how good this Nacho thing is! It's a game changer!" ~ J.F.

In this episode, Lori Sims, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews Jason Kreidman with Dad University. Jason struggled with the transition from being single to a married dad with kids. He found himself overwhelmed and stressed out with the increase in responsibilities and demands. He was taking his stress out on his young children and recognized that he needed to change the way he was doing things in order to be a successful father. In this episode, we discuss the following: Being a recovering yeller Taking responsibility for self Empathy Parenting out of guilt Expectations Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "My attorney recommended the Nacho Academy to me. It completely changed how I interacted with my ex and saved me a ton of money in attorney's fees! Thank you Nacho creators!" ~ R. M.

In this episode, Lori Sims, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews Dr. Tracy Dalgleish. In this episode, we discuss the following: Boundaries Negative relationship cycles Expectations vs reality Wise mind vs reactive mind 4 C's - Curiosity, Compassion, Connection, and Collaboration Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "The Nacho Kids Academy changed my life! " ~ E.P.

In this episode, Lori Sims, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talks to stepmom Kim. Kim has been blending for nine years, has two bio kids, three stepkids, and one ours kid. The stepkids are with her and her husband full-time. The first few years of the blend, the kids got along great! Things got difficult. Kim's bio daughter clashed with Kim's husband. Things got so bad, her daughter decided to go live with her bio dad. In this episode, we discuss the following: Having the stepkids full-time When your bio kid and partner clash Playing tit for tat When your bio kid decides to live with their other parent What her parents said versus what she heard Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "When I became part of the Nacho Academy, it wasn't out by choice. My wife would play the courses aloud so I couldn't help but hear them. I tell you what, I've never heard anyone in my life make more sense about why stepfamilies struggle so much. I started looking forward to hearing the courses. One day, it t clicked with me and my wife why we were struggling so much! We hadn't grieved our "nuclear dreams" as Lori calls them. With guidance from Lori & Dave, we grieved those nuclear dreams and set realistic blended family dreams, which are none. Lori always says, you need to let go of those blended family expectations, they are only causing you disappointment. We can't recommend the Academy enough! It really is life changing!" ~ B.C.

DISCLAIMER: Mention of abuse and suicide in this episode. In this episode, Lori Sims, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, welcomes a previous stepmom back to share her story of being a stepkid versus being a stepmom. Stepmom had a lot of resentment towards her dad for not being a part of her life. She would visit her dad in the summer, until she chose to go live with him and her stepmom. She expected her blend as a stepmom to be like the blend she grew up in. And it was not. In this episode, we discuss the following: Being a stepkid Seeing bio dad in summer to living with bio dad Blended expectations Stepmom given the parental authority The power of words Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "Being a therapist, I thought I would know how to "blend" and make our family be like a nuclear family. I had no clue! I joined the Nacho Kids Academy and was able to get the help I truly needed. There is no shame in therapists needing help too!" ~ A.B.

In this episode, Lori Sims, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, talks to a stepmom who has been blending for ten years, has three stepkids, three bio kids, and one ours kid. She did not go in expecting to be the stepkids mom. Nor did she expect bio mom would be a stalker! The preacher at the church they all attended even told Bio Mom she couldn't sit behind her ex, stepmom, and the kids. Like many stepmoms, she wishes she would have found Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting sooner. In this episode, we discuss the following: Importance of incorporating similar rules in homes prior to blending Putting your own kids on the back burner Bio mom leaves Bio mom returns About to split up because of the kids Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "My life sucked. Blending sucked. I was miserable. A guy at work told me about this Nacho thing. I joined their school because the Facebook group was not teaching me anything. Within two weeks, I was singing the Nacho praises. If you are on the fence, do it! My life doesn't suck anymore." K.B.

In this episode, Lori Sims, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews a stepmom who has been blending for three years, has three bio kids 50/50, and two stepkids 50/50. Struggling with differences in parenting, she looked for information and found the Nacho Kids podcast. Something that was said in that podcast clicked! That's when her Nacho journey began! And now she and her husband Nacho each other's kids! In this episode, we discuss the following: Differences in parenting Nachoing each other's kids Feeling second Negative thinking Co-parenting dreams versus reality Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "I felt as if I had made the biggest mistake of my life after I married my husband. Things changed in our home, and not for the better. It didn't make sense. I read about Nacho Parenting a few months before in the Atlantic and decided it couldn't hurt to join their Academy. At their recommendation, I started the Nacho Kids Bootcamp and was truly shocked when I immediately saw positive changes in our home! My husband was shocked! I kept doing the work and I got so much out of the bootcamp, I decided to stay a member for at least another month. I enjoy the anonymous community and I want to take their Change Your Stinking Thinking Challenge. I just love that name! ~ J.S.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews a stepmom who has been blending for four years, has one stepdaughter 50/50, and is struggling with fertility issues. Despite the relationship with bio mom not being as smooth as before stepmom moved in, stepmom is very involved with stepdaughter and said she considers her as her own daughter. In this episode, we discuss the following: Infertility as a stepmom When your partner wants you to co-parent the stepkid Feeling like a nuclear family when you are in a blend When bio mom lies about your partner Moving into the home your partner shared with their ex Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "I don't normally leave reviews but felt I had to leave one for the Nacho Parenting Academy. I had just met a guy that had kids and really liked him when I heard about the Nacho Parenting stuff and found it very interesting. When our relationship got more serious, I asked him to join the Academy with me so we could educate ourselves more on the method and other methods prior to physically moving in together. He agreed. After watching several of the courses, we both looked at each other and said, "This is genius!". Needless to say, things have progressed in our relationship and we are planning to get married, and we both agree that once we get married, my role will not change. I will continue to be supportive of my partner, but I won't parent his kid. Thank you Nacho for giving us a great start to our blend!" ~ E.H.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews a stepmom from California! Being a stepkid herself, she thought her blend with her husband would be like the one she had as a stepkid. Of course, this blend was nothing like the one she knew. Her partner and his ex had a casual schedule regarding visitations and stepmom thought it should be more defined visitation and pushed her partner to get more time with his kids. This is something she regrets. In this episode, we discuss the following: Stepkid turned stepmom Partner feeling in the middle of step and other bio parent Coming in as super stepmom Food issues Some relationships are strained from the beginning Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "I had decided to leave my husband. I heard a friend mention the Nacho Kids podcast. I chose an episode at random to listen to. In that episode, the host said, "If you leave this blend, the likelihood of ending up in another blend is very high. Unless you work on the issues in your current blend, you're going to have the same struggles in the next blend." This hit me like a ton of bricks! I loved my husband, I was just tired from the blended stress. After hearing this and thinking a lot about it, I decided to work on our marriage! Thank you to the Nacho Kids podcast for reminding me my marriage was worth fighting for!" ~ C.S.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews a stepmom from Idaho. She has two stepkids, with two different bio moms, and one child of her own. To add to the stress of blending, three months before this stepmom and her partner married, he had an affair with one of his kid's bio moms. Stepmom chose to forgive him and work on healing from the affair. When stepmom became depressed from the blended stress, she started researching and found the Nacho Kids Academy! In this episode, we discuss the following: Healing after an affair Things changed after marriage Complaining about the stepkids Fighting amongst the bio and stepkids The art of re-engaging Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "When my husband and I got married, we thought we would be one big happy family like the Brady Bunch. We tried our best to nourish the relationships in the blend between the stepparents and kids and between the kids. Nothing worked. It was horrible. Thankfully, I heard of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting and joined their Academy. I cannot tell you how much the Academy helped us! We might not be like the Brady Bunch, but we finally have a blend everyone is happy in! If you are struggling in your blend, do not hesitate to join the Nacho Academy! You won't regret it." ~ R.N.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews stepmom Jenn. Jenn has been blending for 5 years, has three stepkids, and two "ours" kids. Like many stepmoms, Jenn came in gung ho ready to win stepmom of the year! As with every blend, the relationships have changed in her blend over time. In this episode, we discuss the following: Adding an "ours" kid to the blend Learning from Nacho Letting go of the nuclear family dreams Ebbs and flows of relationships in the blend Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "I'm a marriage counselor who is in a blended family. I found out about Nacho and decided to look further into it. I was amazed at what all is taught in the Nacho Kids Academy! There are so many tools to help you with your blend and in other areas of your life! I'm definitely referring the Academy to some of my clients and friends! One of them will be my wife!" ~ J.Q.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews stepmom Ashley. Ashley has been blending for five years, has two stepkids and two ours kids. Ashley was also a stepkid herself, and considers her stepdad her dad. In this episode, we discuss the following: Different parenting styles Stepparent is with the kids more than the bio parent Your partner is still close with their ex Stepparent dealing with the ex more than their partner does Trying to be fair between the kids Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "I truly hated my life before I found Nacho. I was depressed, anxious and felt completely alone. By joining the Nacho Academy, I met people just like me! I was not alone! Not only was I not alone, but I now had friends with a common goal of learning to Nacho and better our blends! It has been awesome seeing all of us grow together and find happiness in the blend." ~ A.N.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews stepmom Alison with Be Stepwise. Alison, who was a stepkid herself, has been blending for 28 years, has two stepkids and two bio kids. Her stepkids' mom was deceased and their grandmother took on a mothering role. Alison's mother also passed away, so Alison felt she could relate to her stepkids' loss of their mother. In this episode, we discuss the following: When the grandmother takes over the mothering role Stepparents finding fault with stepkids Kids still grieving when parent re-partners Stepparents should not assume their role as a parent Personal growth as a stepmom Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "Because of Nacho Parenting, I was able to come off my depression medicine! I never thought I'd be able to do that! Even my doctor is impressed with the results of Nacho Parenting. After seeing the change it made in me, she said she's going to refer patients to the Nacho Academy!" H.H.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews bio dad Eric. Eric was alienated from his kids by his ex. Thankfully, the family court system recognized the alienation and ruled in Eric's favor. But unfortunately, there was no support for him to rebuild those relationships after being alienated and therapy seemed to make things worse. In this episode, we discuss the following: Dealing with parental alienation The family court system and parental alienation Partner needing to Nacho Therapy can make things worse The effects of parental alienation Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "I was to the point I hated my stepkids. I never said it out loud, but my husband knew. A coworker mentioned Nacho Parenting to me when she saw how miserable I was after getting the stepkids. I figured it couldn't hurt to look into it. Thank goodness I did! It has changed my life! Thank you Nacho for saving us!" F.W.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews Monica Chaney of The Worthy Stepmom. Monica is childfree by choice, has been blending for eleven years, and has three stepkids. Recently Monica gained a stepmother herself when her dad, who is 81 years young, got remarried! In this episode, we discuss the following: Being a childfree stepmom Becoming a stepkid as an adult Different kinds of love Being second wife Taking things personally Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "This step family journey is not for the weak. We have been struggling for so long and we were tired. We decided to check out this Nacho Parenting thing we heard about on Headline News when Lori and David were guests. We cannot believe the change Nachoing has had on our step family in just a few weeks! We are so glad we decided to join the Nacho Academy instead of continuing to live in a state of unhappiness and stress." L.Q.

In this episode, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews Christine Miles, author of "What Is It Costing You To Not Listen?". One of the biggest struggles couples have, in nuclear and blended families, is communication. Listening plays an integral part of communicating, and unfortunately not many have been taught how to listen. . In this episode, we discuss the following: Enemies of listening Compass questions Flashlight tool Knowing where you are in the story Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "I wish I could hug Lori and David's necks! They never gave up on me, even when I wanted to give up on myself. They told me some hard truths that I had been denying for years. Accepting these truths put me on the path to healing and learning to Nacho!" A.H.

In this episode of Nacho Kids, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews stepmom Jane. Jane has been blending for over seven years, has one stepdaughter, and two ours kids. Jane's stepdaughter's bio mom was diagnosed with cancer and didn't make it, unfortunately. However, something amazing happened while bio mom was ill. In this episode, we discuss the following: Things change when stepmom gets pregnant Bio mom gets cancer Bio mom passed away Stepmom steps up for bio mom Feeling unsafe around your stepkid Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "When I first heard of Nacho Parents, I thought it was crazy. It was the opposite of everything we had heard about stepfamilies. We got to the point a few years later when we were not doing well. In fact, we were talking about living separately. I heard Lori say on her podcast that living separately doesn't fix things and you will have stepfamily challenges even after the kids move out. So I talked to my wife and she agreed to give it a try. Six months later and we are happier than we have ever been!" J.D.

In this episode of Nacho Kids, Lori, founder of Nacho Kids Nacho Parenting, interviews David Shubert. David has experienced parental alienation and decided to write a book titled "Parental Alienation Is Abuse" to share his story with others. It is heartbreaking to hear what he, as an alienated parent, has gone through. In this episode, we discuss the following: Wife took his kids out of the country and didn't come back The family court system/contempt The White House said they would help Drinking to dull the pain Brief reunification Check out David's YouTube channel Nacho Kids Academy Nacho Parenting Success Story: "I wish I would have found the Nacho Academy sooner. It has made a tremendous improvement in our blend! If you are on the fence about joining the Academy, do it now, you won't regret it!" K.F.