You probably guessed by the episode title that today is our anniversary! July is a big month: it’s Summer’s birthday month, we celebrate Independence Day, and the best part of July is the day that we celebrate our commitment to each other. In this episode, we’re reminiscing about the past and sharing how our relationship has grown stronger over the years despite the many challenges and obstacles that life has sometimes thrown our way. We are also divulging our biggest piece of advice for other couples to remember when times are hard - because even the strongest relationships experience hardship, but it’s in the adversity that we can really grow together. 2:00 - 3:00 - Why we love July. 3:00 - 4:04 - Reminiscing about the past. 4:05 - 7:59 - What is the biggest difference between being married and dating? 8:00 - 11:39 - Adversity makes you stronger together. 11:40 - 16:44 - Summer’s favorite all-time family memory. 16:45 - 20:27 - Our advice for pushing through those hard times.   Takeaways: July is the best month. Perspective is everything. Embrace adversity. Love grows exponentially.  Make time to be together. Quotes: “The longer I’m with you, the more I like you.” - Mike “Adversity makes you stronger.” - Mike “Those moments when everyone is disconnected but so connected to each other makes you feel so warm and fuzzy and puts perspective on all the things that we have gone through.” - Summer    3 Interesting Clips: 8:55 - 9:25 - Our love grows deeper and stronger with every challenge thrown our way. 14:00 - 14:40 - The importance of putting things into perspective. 18:00 - 18:20 - Make your relationship a priority, always.   Links: Everything Always Episode 02: The Story of Us. The Story of You. Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter   Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm

Everything Always

Everything Always Episode 99: Our Anniversary!

Your family needs you at your best, but when conflict creeps in between your partner and their ex, it has a tendency to wind you up tight and cause all kinds of frustration and anxiety. So how can this be avoided? And how do you, as a step-parent, know where to draw the line when it comes to your involvement? In this episode, I will be talking about what you can do in these situations, what we have done, and what step-parents are not responsible for doing. This is a one-on-one session, just me and you, where you’ll get a better understanding of what you can control, what you can’t control, and how to show up for yourself and others in the best way. My ultimate goal is to let you know that you’re not alone and that you shouldn’t be full of guilt and anxiety over these situations. After this episode, you will be able to breathe a little easier and have more clarity on what you can and cannot do as a step-parent. 2:20 – 4:22 – A thank-you from me to you. 4:23 – 5:57 – Why I’m talking about step-parent issues 5:58 – 10:45 – The disruption that conflict has on you and your family. 10:46 – 14:04 – What you can’t control. 14:05 – 21:17 – What you can do. 21:18 – 25:55 – The most important influence you have. 25:56 – 28:29  – How to bring positivity and perspective. 28:30 – 38:05 – The opportunity that comes with hard times.   Takeaways: How you are brought down, even by things that have nothing to do with you. Why you can’t change another person’s behavior. Why focusing on you will help you show up better for others. How to contribute to the situation without going too far. Why you should embrace challenges and treat them as opportunities for unity.   Quotes: “If you are the step-parent and your partner is going through an icky, terrible mess, even if you think it is about you, it really isn’t.” - Summer “You’re probably putting an overwhelming amount of pressure on yourself thinking that somehow you can control all of these outcomes, but all of these outcomes have little to do with you.” - Summer “Be that sounding board for the anger or venting without inserting your judgment unless asked—and sometimes not even then!” - Summer 3 Interesting Clips: 5:05 – 5:29 – An important reminder about being a step-parent. 11:44 – 12:24 – Your role in changing other people’s behavior. 14:35 – 15:12 – The importance of a clear head.   Links: Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm

Everything Always Episode 98: When Your Partner is Fighting with Their Ex Over the Kids

Bringing a new person into your child’s life can be confusing and difficult for both you and your child, but there are ways to do it with love and understanding. Karyn Glemaud joins us on the show today to give us some great ideas for how to make the blending process go more smoothly from the start of dating all the way through marriage and moving in together. Karyn is an entrepreneur, student, and children’s book author who co-wrote a book with her son. She shares from her own experience in a very blended family and discusses how she encourages communication, listening, and empathy—but also firmness through the whole process. You will also get to hear about why she decided to write a book and the impact of this book on her own blending experience. 1:40 – 3:50 – Who Karyn is and her experience in business and writing about a blended family. 3:51 – 8:49 – Why she decided to move to New Zealand and write a book with her son. 8:50 – 11:07 – Insight on when and how to introduce your children to someone new. 11:08 – 14:39 - The importance of sharing relationships the right way. 14:40 – 24:44 – How to make sure everyone feels important and valued in a blended family. 24:45 - 30:49  – How to deal with the pressure of business, a busy life, and guilt while handling a blended family. 30:50 – 33:54 – The learning curve of business success and blending families. 33:55 – 38:48 – Where to find Karyn's book and other resources.   Takeaways: Figuring out the timing of allowing children to meet a new partner. The importance of location. Why it’s key to listen to the child’s feelings but also stand firm. How to ensure everyone feels valued. Handling the guilt and pressure that comes with being a mom and a business owner.   Quotes: “I encourage people to not be afraid and to lead with love.” - Karyn “Ultimately, I think it’s important for you to find love and be able to share that with your children. Your children should see a good example of a loving relationship.” - Karyn “There’s no right answer, and every child will respond differently.” - Summer 3 Interesting Clips: 6:09 – 6:30 – How her son became her co-author. 9:42 – 10:24 – Validating your child’s feelings while still being firm. 11:12 – 11:45 – The importance of being an example and sharing the right things with your children.   Links: Karyn Glemaud: Website | Facebook Mommy’s New Friend by Karyn Glemaud Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm

Everything Always Episode 97: Balancing Business and a Blended Family with Karyn Glemaud

Being in a blended family and dealing with an ex that puts a strain on your marriage is something a lot of people deal with. In this episode, Kate Anthony joins the show to share her insight on surviving divorce and making key decisions that will help you deal with exes, a difficult second marriage, blending for a second time and more. She has helped women all around the world to make the most difficult decision of their lives and transition out of toxic marriages. If you are trying to decide whether to heal your relationship or find a way out, Kate has an incredible way of putting things in perspective and shares key steps you should take in order to make a wise and thoughtful decision. Kate talks about things that a lot of us might not want to own up to and it’s so important to hear that and learn from that. She pulls from her own experience along with that of those she has coached and you will be able to gain some incredible insight from that. 6:34 – 9:12 – The "should I stay or should I go" conversation and how common it is for even 2nd & 3rd marriages. 9:13 – 14:59 – Kate’s experience in a volatile abusive marriage and what brought her to helping other people through divorce. 15:00 – 21:25 – Dealing with a dramatic ex and an interesting situation she got herself into with her ex. 21:26 – 27:02 - What the shifting of primary is and how to embrace and recognize it. 27:03 – 24:05 – Making things smoother for the kids and what it takes to get there. 24:06 – 41:25 – How to think clearly in a stressful state and make the best decision for yourself and others. 42:26 – 48:24 – The importance of knowing yourself well and how that effects our relationships. 48:25 – 56:03 – How to not drag your kids through the mud while you’re going through relationship problems. 56:04 – 1:02:06 – Do kids deserve to know the truth about the divorce?   Takeaways: How to know when to stick it out when it comes to a second marriage becoming rocky. The importance of doing the healing work and taking responsibility for your decisions. Advice on how to decide whether to blend a whole new family (the second time around). Overstepping boundaries when it comes to the ex and their new partner. The importance of navigating family dynamics with the kids in mind.   Quotes: “You can sign the papers but it doesn’t mean anything if you keep up a relationship that continues the dynamic.” - Kate “This person may be a total a**hole but you picked the a**hole.” - Kate “If you’re waiting for the other shoe to drop, it probably will. So protect yourself and have those boundaries.” - Kate   3 Interesting Clips: 4:15 – 5:20 – A little (important) secret that Kate and Summer share. 7:00 – 7:36 – The reality of 2nd divorces and having to blend again. 14:01 – 14:43 – How to make sure you don’t make the same mistakes over and over.   Links: Kate Anthony: Website | Blog | Instagram | Facebook Community The Divorce Survival Guide Podcast Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm  

Everything Always Episode 96: Surviving Divorce with Kate Anthony

A lot of our episodes are focused around the challenges that come with being part of a blended family and parenting, but today we’re doing a bit of a shift. In this episode, we're diving into what our children learn in school, how they learn in school, and how we can encourage them to realize their potential. We’ll be talking with an expert, Kelsey Komorowski, about the difference between teaching vs. learning and how we can ensure that we’re putting our children in the best position to truly learn. Listen in as Kelsey discusses how we as parents can foster increased engagement and foster a stronger ability to learn in our children. She shares some of the key issues kids tend to have when it comes to actually learning and how their learning environment has a huge effect on that. Kelsey has a fascinating perspective on education, and we think that any parent will really enjoy this episode and get a lot of valuable information from it. 5:52 – 10:56 - The importance of paradigm shifts and why Kelsey stepped into the education space. 10:57 – 13:09 - What we can do as parents to encourage more effective learning and excitement for learning in our children. 13:10 – 14:23 - How Komo Consulting works with teachers to bridge the gap between classroom teaching and at-home learning. 14:24 – 20:59 - The reasons families want to work with Komo Consulting and the transformations that come from that. 21:00 – 33:41 - How the transformations actually happen and how parents can facilitate change. 33:42 – 47:16 - The feelings that happen when we are learning and how to teach problem-solving, resilience, and confidence. Takeaways: Why we need to focus on the things that get kids excited. Why parents need to be taught alongside and as well as their kids. The importance of understanding what skill-building really is. Why we need to re-think the role of educators, teachers, and ourselves as parents. How we’re able to help our kids realize how much potential they have. Quotes: “There’s an assumption that being taught to in the classroom equates to learning, and that’s just not true.” - Kelsey “You can be the best teacher in the world, but if the student isn’t tapped into themselves as a learner, it’s not going to matter.” - Kelsey “It doesn’t matter what you’re being taught—what’s important is what you’re learning.” - Kelsey 3 Interesting Clips: 11:50 – 12:54 - What school is for and how we should view it. 17:45 – 18:35 - The problem of identity and grades. 23:21 – 24:22 - Why student achievement is greatly shaped by household dynamics. Links: Kelsey Komorowski Komo Consulting Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm

Everything Always Episode 95: Teaching vs. Learning with Kelsey Komorowski

If you’re a step-parent, you know what it’s like to parent and to raise other people's children. Today we’ll be joined by Debbie Ausburn, and we're diving into the complexities, hurdles, and important needs involved with this. She will share insight that might shed light on the unrealistic standards we hold for ourselves and take some of the pressure off in regards to how we think things are “supposed to be.” Listen in as Debbie shares from her experience as a lawyer, foster parent, step-parent, and caregiver of other people’s children. Her passion and experience are in working with traumatized children, serving as a board member, and representing youth-serving organizations. We talk about how you can make the most of your relationship with your stepchildren and have a rewarding relationship, as well as the number one relationship when it comes to having a blended family. 6:35 - 10:12 – An overview of Debbie’s history and why she wrote her book on parenting. 10:13 – 17:57 - The key to understanding a child’s perspective and your position as a non-biological parent. 17:58 – 20:38 - How to deal with guilt in your situation and embrace the journey the best you can. 20:39 – 27:01 - Where the true priority lies in order to make things work with your blended family. 27:02 – 30:28 - The responsibility of the child and how the commitment is one-way. 30:29 – 36:12 - How to have a more rewarding relationship with a teenager. 36:13 – 45:38 - How to deal with authority, setting rules, and being there the best you can.   Takeaways: The biggest life lessons that came with Debbie serving many children. The importance of understanding your position in a child’s life and setting up structure. Why we feel guilt and how to deal with that guilt as a step-parent. How to have a rewarding relationship with teenagers or more difficult children. Practical tips and tools for being a step-parent and helping raise other people’s children.   Quotes: “Challenges arise no matter how skilled or how well equipped we are.” - Summer “We are their second choice as parents, and that’s okay. We can still have a great relationship.” - Debbie “From a child’s point of view, I am in their life because the world isn’t working the way that it should.” - Debbie   3 Interesting Clips: 10:22 – 12:00 -  What to understand when it comes to being a parent to a child that is not yours biologically. 13:26 – 14:29 - An important tool to use when parenting other people’s children. 16:45 – 17:57 - Something that really helps put things in perspective when it comes to addressing challenging situations.   Links: Debbie Ausburn: Website | YouTube | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram Raising Other People's Children by Debbie Ausburn Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm  

Everything Always Episode 94: Raising Other People’s Children with Debbie Ausburn

Today’s episode is on high conflict divorces and our guest today is super fun, wicked smart and really helpful when it comes to navigating rough times. Matthew Barach, known as “the fixer” in Massachusetts family law. He owns his own law firm, over 20 years in family law experience, and is dedicated to excellence when it comes to family law I love talking to an attorney who cares about all parties involved and that is definitely Matthew. He has a ton of insight and wisdom when it comes to dealing with a high conflict divorce. You will get some incredible information, tips and advice on how to navigate a challenging divorce in a way that does the least damage as possible. 7:26 – 8:42 – The truth about divorce and being a divorce lawyer. 8:43 – 14:56 – How Matthew ended up in family law and why divorce isn’t about winning. 14:57 - 19:01 – How to deal with parental alienation in the court and the role lawyers have in it. 19:02 – 23:58 – What to do when parental alienation happens and crafting a solution that works on both sides. 23:59 – 32:58 – Clarifying a father’s rights and the impact of changing roles on divorce outcomes. 32:59 - 41:35 – The importance of shielding your child from the divorce process. Takeaways: What parental alienation means in the eyes of the court and how it might be different from what you see. What actually fixes parental alienation and how you can do your best to do that. Clarifying father’s rights and what you can do to prepare. Dealing with the stigma placed on parents who have less custody time. What’s really important when it comes to being a parent.   Quotes: “Every single solitary study says that children that were exposed to the divorce, during the time when parents were getting a divorce, had long term effects. BUT children who were not exposed to the divorce process do not have lingering effects when they’re older.” – Matthew Barach “It’s not really about the lawyers or judges, it’s about the parents making a decision, jointly or singularly to protect their children from the divorce.” - Matthew Barach “Nobody ever wins a divorce, that’s a misnomer and it’s not how it works.” - Matthew Barach   3 Interesting Clips: 12:02 – 12:59 – The gratifying part that comes post-divorce. 16:03 – 16:48 – The difficulty of proving parental alienation in court. 20:02 – 21:02 -  How to actually FIX parental alienation.   Links: Matthew Barach: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook A Family Law Guide to Appellate Practice by Matthew Barach Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter   Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm

Everything Always Episode 93: Navigating High Conflict Divorce with Matthew Barach 

We are so pumped to share this episode featuring Tim Kellis with you! Tim is a coach who specializes in fixing the problems in marriages that cause people to break up and get divorced. You will hear about the number of second marriages that fail, the reasons that contribute to them failing and learn key ways to avoid or squash those issues if they crop up in your own marriage. Tim has a great way of breaking down big problems into simple, bite-size pieces that really give us the ability to process them and understand them better. You will gain insight into common marriage issues that crop up and how to solve them in simple, effective ways. As Mike says in the intro, “If you’re hoping to get a divorce, don’t listen to this episode.” 5:00 – 9:08 - The scary number of divorces in 2nd marriages and why Tim is passionate about helping people stay married. 9:09 - 11:49 - The issue with current marriage therapy and what is missing from it. 11:50 - 19:57  - The common reasons why relationships are successful (or not) and the main reason for disagreements. 19:58 - 17:50 - Why spiritual transformation is important to your relationship and how to grow together. 17:51 - 34:58  - How to navigate the tension of finances and other sticky subjects you disagree on. 34:59 – 39:39 - How to not be controlled by fear and limiting beliefs while understanding equality. 39:40 – 52:16 – The important things in life and how our priorities got skewed. Takeaways: The value of addressing marriage mentally vs. behaviorally. Why the love languages haven’t solved the marriage problem. The common factor in unsuccessful relationships. Why mental problems are mental-based. What you should be learning when going through the divorce process in order to move into your next relationship effectively. The importance of creating a judgement-free zone for your relationship. Why always seeking understanding first is so valuable. Quotes: “My approach is to understand how to make marriage work from a mental perspective and when I’ve solved the problem, the solution is equality.” – Tim Kellis “There’s no psychological component to the 5 Love Languages.” - Tim Kellis “The reason why relationships are successful is because couples get along. The reason why relationships are unsuccessful is because couples don’t get along.” - Tim Kellis 3 Interesting Clips: 8:43-9:08 – Why Tim addresses marriage mentally. 7:43-11:50 - The problem with love languages in an insecure relationship. 15:12-17:52 - The hierarchy of the problem and how that plays into your relationship. Links: Tim Kellis: timkellis@happyrelationships.com | Facebook | Clubhouse The Marriage Support Group Equality: The Quest for the Happy Marriage by Tim Kellis Karl Jung Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm

Everything Always Episode 92: Solving the Marriage Problem with Tim Kellis

Are you going through (or have you gone through) a custody battle? If so, and if you have questions about the processes, the money, the emotions, the risks and more, you’re going to want to listen in to what Renee Rodriguez has to say. She joins us on the show as someone who has been through all of this and will be sharing strategy, tips and wisdom on how to walk into that courtroom with confidence. If you’ve asked the questions, “How long will this go on?” or “Wait, we already did this and it's years later and we’re doing it again?” in regards to custody proceedings, this episode is for you. You will learn about what it’s like to work with attorneys on a custody case and how to have a successful relationship with them. Renee also gives some really great guidance on how to be smart about the process and carry it out in a way that will benefit your child first and bring as little damage as possible. 7:19 – 11:34 - How Renee dealt with a high conflict relationship and custody battle and eventually decided to help others in the process. 11:35 - 13:00 - The unexpected situation of custody battles and understanding your role in the situation. 13:01 - 15:27 - The expectations people have for their lawyer and how that is a common downfall. 15:28 – 25:14 - How to know what kinds of evidence are valid, the role of communication and text messages and how to organize it. 25:15 – 30:31 - What to do if the other parent refuses to use an app. 30:32 – 55:10 - How to keep your calm in court and the mindset preparation you can do. Takeaways: What a custody coach is and why it’s so impactful to custody battles. The importance of understanding the system and how to be properly prepared. Why documentation is so key and how to understand how people will see your ex. Communication with your ex and why you should keep it mainly to a parenting platform. How to reframe things when you are concerned about your ex and their wishes. How to move from texts to parenting platforms amidst push-back. The importance of how you appear in court and the need for mindset prep. Quotes: “There’s something so stifling and so debilitating when you’re going through [a custody battle] because it’s your CHILD.” - Summer “You learn all these things in school, you think you know what to expect in life but you don’t learn how to be in family court – that’s not an expectation.” - Renee “You don’t divorce the person you married. You never would have married the person you divorced.” - Renee 3 Interesting Clips: 8:13 - 8:47 - A key discovery that helped Renee’s recovery. 12:54 - 13:00 -  3 things you need to go into court with. 15:04 - 15:25 - The importance of being cautious with your evidence and using strategy. Links: Renee Rodriguez: Website | Twitter | Facebook Template: Timeline of Disturbing Behavior Our Family Wizard Talking Parents Fayr Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm

Everything Always Episode 91: Gaining Custody in Confidence with Renee Rodriguez

If you’ve just gone through a separation or a breakup and feel unsure of what to do next or stifled in your situation, this episode is for you. Sonia Frontera joins us today to talk about how the troubles that come with an ended marriage are NOT the end of the road, but a detour on the way to happiness. Sonia is a survivor of a toxic marriage and happily remarried, so she has really practical advice and insight to share. Listen in as we discuss how divorce can cause us to label ourselves and our situation as permanently bad or troubled, as well as how we can avoid that. Sonia also shares her take on how these particular trials can smooth out along the way and how we can move onward and forward to a place of happiness and healing despite everything that seems to be pulling us down. You'll learn some really effective strategies to heal your heart from divorce and find recovery and happiness. 4:22 – 6:02 - Why Sonia is passionate about helping people through divorce and her story with it. 6:03 – 11:29 - What it looks like to have not moved on and how to start moving on. 11:30 – 16:38 – It’s a divorce from your ex, not TO your ex. 16:39 - 26:13 – Why your divorce and ex shouldn’t control your narrative and where your focus should be in order to be happy. 26:14 – 33:04 – Why you NEED to keep your kids out of the differences with your ex. 33:05 – 38:15 – Why Sonia was inspired to write and a special offer for listeners. Takeaways: Divorce and marital problems are not the end of the road for you. The importance of intentionally going out and creating your own happiness. Where the focus should be when you’re going through a divorce (and even after). Who revenge is really punishing. Why compassion and forgiveness are key to your healing and happiness. Quotes: “You need to make an effort, and it’s all about baby steps. It’s not like you’re going to wake up and be completely over everything that happened in your marriage.” - Sonia Frontera “There are so many things you can do to make your life better. Problems in your marriage or divorce are not the end of the road, but a detour on the road to happiness.” - Sonia Frontera “You cannot love anyone until you love yourself first.” - Sonia Frontera 3 Interesting Clips: 6:22 – 7:49 - Why you may not be able to move on. 9:18 –10:10 - How to find fulfillment and healing. 14:50 – 15:50 – Why revenge shouldn’t have a part in this process.   Links: Sonia Frontera: Website | Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube Relationships Solutions by Sonia Frontera Solve the Divorce Dilemma by Sonia Frontera Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm  

Everything Always Episode 90: Detours on the Road to Happiness with Sonia Frontera

In this episode, we will be doing things a little bit differently. We have been getting a lot of letters from you guys, and we want to be able to read more of them and respond more fully, so today we will be reading through not just one, but multiple letters! You’ll hear a letter to someone who hopes their ex gets the help they need, a letter from a stepmother with a confession, and more. As we read through these letters, we will also take the time to talk through them and discuss the situations. Listen in as we discuss how to better communicate with an ex and the importance of working and focusing on ourselves. You will also hear how we deal with sharing time, creating routines, and communicating about rules and routines. 4:02 – 5:39 - Our plan to read more letters. 5:40 - 7:47 - A letter to an ex who needs help. 7:48 - 9:14 - Why it’s so important to know you’re not the only one going through the things that come with divorce (and not be afraid to reach out). 9:15 - 13:39 - The difficulty in relaying helpful feedback in a difficult relationship. 13:40 – 16:42 - A letter from a step-mom who feels relieved when her stepkids are away. 16:43 - 19:02 - Knowing that it takes time to find your groove as a mixed family. 19:03 - 25:43 - How to know what can slide and when to be consistent. 25:44 - 31:17 - A letter to an overbearing father and what to do when your ex may be narcissistic. 31:18 - 37:55 - A letter about a TikTok dilemma and how to promote better morals in your home.   Takeaways: The importance of going to counseling and working on yourself. Why you need to be okay with feeling relieved when step-kids leave the house. How to handle an ex who is too hard on your child. Why it's crucial to document when a lot of issues are occurring with the other parent. How to express your concern about what children put on the internet.   Quotes: “I used to think we were the only ones who couldn’t figure out how to get along, but then I started seeing people all over the place who were having issues. I really hoped when we got divorced that we could get along.” - Anonymous “To let it out, to journal—it brings some type of relief.” - Summer “Be the consistent parent that shows a good example and try to be the best you can for your kids when it’s your time and opportunity. Eventually, the kids will be attracted to that and they’ll want more of that.” - Mike   3 Interesting Clips: 10:30 - 12:27 - What to do when you want to give feedback to a difficult ex. 17:11 - 17:50 - The feelings of missing out on focused attention in a mixed family. 18:01 - 19:03 - What you can control in your home and the importance of communicating with your spouse when it comes to home routines.   Links: Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm  

Everything Always Episode 89: Working on Yourself, Family Routines, and Difficult Parents

For those of you in a blended family with a special needs child, you know it can be very stressful coming together and there are very few resources available for helping you navigate through it. So to help us discuss this topic more in-depth is Dr. Lynette Louise, an international award-winning speaker, author, consultant, brain change expert, mental health advocate, and—most importantly—mother. In this episode, she will be sharing her expert advice on co-parenting, special needs parenting, and so much more. Listen in as she explains what led her to adopt multiple children with autism or special needs and what she believes everyone should know before jumping into a blended family. You will discover how to help your children live with their mental health issues and why everyone is responsible for their own actions—including your children. If you’re struggling with parenting, whether your child has special needs or not, this episode will be a powerful tool for discovery and growth. 6:15 - 12:50 - Dr. Lynette’s journey to where she is now. 12:50 - 18:50 - How to know if you’re ready to jump into a blended family. 18:50 - 23:06 - How to have a successful relationship beyond just your children. 23:06 - 30:08 - How to help your child handle their own mental health issues. 30:08 - 40:05 - Why you must learn to make your own mistakes.  Takeaways: The importance of communication. Why everyone is responsible for their own actions. How to help your children learn to live with their special needs. The importance of teaching your children how capable they are. How to help the people around you flourish. Quotes: “I think it’s important to check on yourself and check on the person who is stepping forward and decide, yes, I can take on your package or your steamer trunk full of children.” - Dr. Lynette Louise  “It's a humbling experience to look at yourself, but you have to do it.” - Dr. Lynette Louise  “There has got to be something that cements you together as adults, not just parents.” - Dr. Lynette Louise 3 Interesting Clips: 12:58 - 16:42 - How to decide if you’re in the right position to co-parent or blend a family. 18:45 - 19:56 - The importance of being connected beyond just parenting. 24:00 - 25:55 - How to help your children help themselves. Links: Dr. Lynette Louise: Website | Twitter Brain & Body Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm

Everything Always Episode 88: Teaching Your Children How Capable They Are with Dr. Lynette Louise

How many times have you heard the word "narcissist" thrown around? Most of us associate this word with someone who is only concerned with themselves, but there may be more to the story. To help us uncover what it really means to be a narcissist—and how to deal with these toxic people in our lives—is Dr. Ramani Durvasula, clinical psychologist, bestselling author, and narcissism expert. Listen in as we discuss what to do if you co-parent with a narcissist and are concerned about them passing on these toxic traits to your children. You will learn how to identify narcissists, what to do if your ex is turning everyone against you, and what to do if your child is showing narcissistic traits. 9:55 - 12:25 - What got Dr. Ramani interested in narcissism. 13:05 - 15:25 - What a narcissistic personality is. 15:25 - 20:00 -  How to identify a narcissist to protect yourself. 20:00 - 30:15 - How to deal with a narcissistic ex. 30:50 - 36:00 - What to do if your child is showing narcissistic traits. 36:00 - 39:58 - Why you need a twelve-month detox after ending a relationship with a narcissist. 39:58 - 46:45 - How to set boundaries with your ex. 46:45 - 51:00 - The roles children play in narcissistic family dynamics. 51:00 - 54:05 - How to get rid of a narcissistic person in your life. Takeaways: How to identify a narcissist. How to deal with a narcissist in your life. What to do if you’re worried about your narcissistic co-parent passing on toxic traits to your children. How to avoid entering a relationship with a narcissist. Who narcissists attract. Quotes: “You are never going to convince a narcissistic co-parent to do it your way, and if you keep pushing you are going to take a tense situation and turn it into an explosive device.” - Dr. Ramani “People who have a regular level of insecurity don’t feel the need to shout it from the rooftops. They’re okay. But because [narcissists] are insecure, their whole life is compensation.” - Dr. Ramani “If you suspect that the patterns in your relationship are this toxic and recognize that the more toxic the patterns the less likely they are to change, the real heavy lifting you need to do is figure out what exactly are you going to do.” - Dr. Ramani 3 Interesting Clips: 13:05 - 14:33 - What a narcissistic personality actually is. 16:45 - 18:30 - How to identify narcissists. 32:10 - 35:04 - What to do if you see narcissistic traits in your children. Links: Dr. Ramani: Website | Instagram | YouTube | Twitter   Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm

Everything Always Episode 87: How to Stay Sane in a Narcissistic World with Dr. Ramani Durvasula

Going through a divorce can be a traumatic time for both parents and children. So what measures can you put in place to ensure the least amount of damage is done? Our guest today is J. Camille, a motivational speaker and host of The Shift, and in this episode, she will be sharing her takeaways from growing up with divorced parents, as well as the insights she has looking back on that time now that she's an adult. Listen in as J. explains what she wishes her parents would have done when they divorced to make it an easier transition for her as a young child. You will learn the importance of open communication with your children, why you should create collaboration over competition, and how to create healthy boundaries for yourself. 5:39 - 7:27 - How J. learned to adjust to The Shift. 7:27 - 10:33 - The truths J. learned from growing up with divorced parents. 10:33 - 13:25 - What she believes would have helped her get through the divorce easier. 13:25 - 16:34 - The importance of collaboration versus competition. 16:34 - 29:45 - How the divorce impacted J.'s life. 29:45 - 33:42 - Why you are not a bad parent—you just have some things to work through. 33:42 - 41:33 - The importance of being slow to speak but quick to listen. Takeaways: What it is like growing up with divorced parents. The things J. learned from her childhood. The importance of having open communication with your children. Why you should never make the child choose. The importance of collaboration instead of competition. Quotes: “I just wish there would have been a sit-down conversation of the truth… Even if it’s ugly, it would have helped me.” - J. Camille “A foundation of truth is always the best place to start.” - J. Camille “You have to create healthy boundaries for yourself.” - Summer Mulder 3 Interesting Clips: 6:00 - 7:27 - Why being adaptable to change is so important. 10:43 - 11:46 - The importance of having open communication with your children. 30:00 - 33:42 - Why you are not a bad person or parent. Links: J Camille: Facebook | Instagram The Shift Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm

Everything Always Episode 86: Growing Up with Divorced Parents with J. Camille

Today’s topic is a bit of a tough one, but it is something that is so important for anyone with older children as they start to experiment with alcohol and/or drugs. We will be discussing substance abuse and addiction with our guest, Richard Capriola, an expert on the subject. With over two decades of experience, Richard will be sharing how to identify the warning signs that your child is struggling and how to approach the conversation with them. Listen in as we touch on the sensitive topic of eating disorders and self-harm, as well as what to do if you see these changes in your child. You'll learn the different substances that are more commonly used these days, how they differ from older generations, and how to ensure your child is feeling understood and listened to so that you can help them through their addictions or underlying issues. 6:02 - 8:40 - The letter of the day. 8:40 - 11:05 - How Richard got into the mental health industry with a specialty in addictions. 11:05 - 13:11 - The warning signs to be aware of that your child might be struggling with addiction. 13:11 - 16:52 - The different substances to be aware of. 16:52 - 22:15 - Why these substances are being used and abused. 24:03 - 28:30 - The difference between adult addiction and adolescent addiction. 28:30 - 34:03 - How to prevent your child from becoming addicted and help them if they are already suffering. 34:03 - 38:50 - How to support both your child and your family. Takeaways: Warning signs that your child is abusing substances. How substances affect your child’s brain development. The importance of listening and understanding your children. How to discuss this topic with your children. Why addiction is so prevalent these days. Quotes: “You have to wonder why they are drinking alcohol or why they are using marijuana.” - Richard Capriola “As parents, we’re always worried about something. There is just different worries at different stages.” Summer Mulder “Most of the people that I was working with were using substances to medicate an underlying issue.” - Richard Capriola 3 Interesting Clips: 2:20 - 3:02 - The biggest eye-opener when having children. 12:00 - 13:11 - Warning signs to be aware of. 25:00 - 26:28 - How children are getting ahold of dangerous substances. Links: Richard Capriola: Website The Addicted Child by Richard Capriola Text us: 760-389-3722 Send us an anonymous letter Subscribe & Review in iTunes! Are you subscribed to our podcast? If not, we would strongly suggest you do. This way you won’t miss a thing! Subscribe here: Everything Always And now for the pretty please with a Bordeaux Maraschino Cherry on top. We would be so incredibly grateful if you left us a review on for Everything Always as well. This will help other parents and families like you find our podcast. Plus, it’s fun for Mike and I to sit and read them together on date night! Just click here, click open in iTunes, select “Ratings and Reviews”, tell us your favorite moment and best take away and we will send a huge cyber hug and kiss right to you! Find the Everything Always Podcast wherever you listen! Apple Podcasts (iTunes) acast Pocketcasts ListenNotes Spotify player.fm

Everything Always Episode 85: Addiction and Substance Abuse with Richard Capriola

We got married with children, together we have 4 kids! We want to share what works for us and what doesn't. For step-parents, co-parents, marriage, being your best self, managing work, family, friends & health... we're going to talk about everything, always.

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Everything Always

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