Blended and Bio

Blenders, welcome back! This week Jen and Christina pose a challenge as we wrap up a season on Conflict. Have you ask yourself if you have offended/ sin against or done something unpleasing to the Lord? As we hold others accountable in our conflicts, it's essential to do the same with ourselves. Do you have a true apology to give?

This week, blenders we discuss the formula for a true apology. How get FROM conflict TO a resolution is often tricky and confusing, but God desires healing and restoration in our relationships. Join us this week as we talk about each step so that we all can experience and give a true apology and allow the healing to begin.

We have VIDEO with our super special guest, this week we are talking to Christina's kind, generous, big-hearted, gorgeous bonus daughter Kayla Castano. She so graciously talked about some of the challenges of growing up blended- the memorable things that made a lasting impact and some of her takeaways on blending better. We thank you Kayla for sitting down with us for this real and raw conversation.

This week Jen and Christina get into the rules of fighting. What you argue about has far less impact than HOW you argue. We look into the healthy and un-healthy ways we communicate when we are upset. This is an episode of everyone!

This week we talk with one of our favorite guests (again) Kara Lackey- this time decoding what it looks like for an introverted child. Kara, the Co-Founder of Know and Love gets into the different types of introvert types of children, their preferred communication styles, along with other ways we can connect best with them. If you haven't already taken this short but impactful quiz she developed, I invite you to start at Knowandlove.com website. This is a great start to connect with your family on a deeper level, appreciate their individuality and tailor your approach to support their growth.

This week we talk to Pastor Kyle Glenn -a.k.a. The Hiking Pastor about finding peace when life gets messy. Pastor Kyle shares how faith, humility, and persistence can help resolve conflict and restore connection. This episode is packed with wisdom and lots of heart.

This week we are talking about life before the blending... single, independent, eating cereal for dinner without judgement. We laugh about the perks and pitfalls of what we learned in that season and how we can prepare for the beautiful madness of blending a family.

Welcome back Blenders! This week we talk about a topic that EVERYONE can relate to. Single, In a Relatio nship, Married----MONEY with Grant Botma Money can be one of the biggest stressors in families- especially in blended home where different backgrounds, habits, and expectations come together. Mr. Botma gets us into the essentials of financial literacy. This is an episode you might need to take notes its that good.

Welcome back to Part 2 Conflict happens-whether it's over who's loading the dishwasher wrong, why someone can't put the toilet paper on the roll right way, or why it's so hard to get everyone to make their beds in the morning. In this episode, we're diving into the some of the conflicts we all face ( and sometimes petty) battles that come with family, marriage and everyday life. Here's the magic- it can actually bring us closer..

Conflict happens-whether it's over who's loading the dishwasher wrong, why someone can't put the toilet paper on the roll right way, or why it's so hard to get everyone to make their beds in the morning. In this episode, we're diving into the some of the conflicts we all face ( and sometimes petty) battles that come with family, marriage and everyday life. Here's the magic- it can actually bring us closer..

In this episode, we sit down with Kylie Jones, a young mom with a beautiful story of building a blended and bonded family. With honesty and heart, she opens up about -everything- mental health, marriage and how she found the courage and hope through Jesus. Kylie's story will give you hope that in any age or season God has a plan and a purpose for us all.

Season 3 In this episode of Blended and Bio, Christina and Jen dive into the tricky world of EXPECTATIONS- those hopes we carry little (or big!) we carry into our marriages, parenting, and family life. Here's the thing: expectations aren't the same as requirements. One is "hopefully" the other one is "need". We'll swap some real-life stories, unpack where expectations trip us up and share how learning the difference can actually bring more PEACE- and a lot less frustration- into your home.

It's a special episode of Blended and Bio- and this time, the husbands are in the house! That's right...we handed over the mics (kind of) and brought our better halves on for some laughs and some dad jokes.We're playing "Most Likely To.." surveyed by our kids... how did we do?!AND... this is our first video! Grab your popcorn and get ready to laugh.

This week we are joined by the hilarious and honest duo, Dacey and Mitch Blackman. They both get into how they were feeling when they first started to blend and what they said was the biggest thing they want other people to know about blending- this is a do not miss episode. Part 2 of 2 is out this week, so play last weeks if you are new here to get the whole conversation.

This week we are joined by the hilarious and honest duo, Dacey and Mitch Blackman. They both get into how they were feeling when they first started to blend and what they said was the biggest thing they want other people to know about blending- this is a do not miss episode. Part 1 of 2 is out this week, so comeback next week to hear the rest of this amazing conversation.

In this powerful episode, we are joined by a special guest, Penelope Rivera, who brings firsthand insight into the complex world of the family court system. Whether it's custody battles or court-ordered services, we talk about what really happens when the court is required to step in. Thank you listening , enjoy .Penelope Rivera:Counseling website is www.livefreecounselingservices.com. Mediation website is www.riveramediation.com. Book can be purchased at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. http://hsbn.tv/broadcaster.html?b=FA1C18*We offer adult and adolescent DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) groups at our office. 

Ever wondered what makes your child tick? Personality quizzes can be more than just fun- they can be a insightful way to truly understanding you child's unique traits. In this episode, Kara, the Co-Founder of Know and Love gets into why she developed this amazing, quick quiz, designed for kids of all ages. This is a great start to connect with your family on a deeper level, appreciate their individuality and tailor your approach to support their growth. Join us for part 2 of this conversation. You can find Kara's quiz along with some additional support products on her website https://knowandlove.com Use BlendedandBio20 for 20% off all products !

Ever wondered what makes your child tick? Personality quizzes can be more than just fun- they can be a insightful way to truly understanding you child's unique traits. In this episode, Kara, the Co-Founder of Know and Love gets into why she developed this amazing, quick quiz, designed for kids of all ages. This is a great start to connect with your family on a deeper level, appreciate their individuality and tailor your approach to support their growth. Join us for part 1 of this conversation. You can find Kara's quiz along with some additional support products on her website https://knowandlove.com Use BlendedandBio20 for 20% off all products !

Join us this week for part 2 of 2 as we dive into COMMUNICATION. This is one of our first skills we learn in our lives, something we do daily..so why aren't we all better at it? We get into some of the challenges and pitfalls of why we all struggle with communication in one way or another.

Join us this week for part 1 of 2 as we dive into COMMUNICATION. This is one of our first skills we learn in our lives, something we do daily..so why aren't we all better at it? We get into some of the challenges and pitfalls of why we all struggle with communication in one way or another.

Join us this week as we talk Stages. Parenting is a journey of constant evolution, shifting from control to coaching and, eventually, consulting. in this episode, we break down the key stages of parenting-how our roles change as our children grow, the importance of letting go and adapting to each phase.Whether you're in the first or last phase, this conversation will provide insight to help you navigate each with confidence.

Welcome friends! This week we sit down and talk about parenting styles. Such an important topic...for all parents! Jen breaks down the 4 common parenting styles. Do you know what style you naturally lean into ? What style you would like to parent from OR how to get there? We would love for you to join us in what we consider a foundation piece for all families blended or bio.

In this episode we get in to the importance of minding your business in a blended family. Join the discussion this week as we get into what this can look like and what we need to consider.

Join us this week as we talk about MONEY. Finances can be a tricky topic in any household, but in a blended family we add a layer of complexity.In this episode, we talk about how we each navigated those challenges from child support to budgeting as a team.

Season 2 is BACK !! In this episode, we talk through our holiday season. From festive wins to unexpected hiccups, we share the real moments that made this holiday memorable. Tune in for some reflections, relatable chaos and maybe even a few tips to carry into next season. Welcome back to a new season of Blended and Bio !

In this episode, we take a heartfelt look back at our blending parenting journey, sharing the moments we're proud of and the lessons we've learned along the way. Our first season is ending with honest confessions, reflections, insight and encouragement. Thank you for coming along with us this season and stay tuned for our SEASON 2!!

This week, we explore the unique roles each family member plays in a blended family dynamic. From parents and step-parents to biological and step-siblings, we get into the challenges and opportunities that arise when combining households. Join us as we discuss strategies for communication, setting boundaries, and creating healthy relationships.

This super special episode we talk to Jen's beautiful, talented, smart and kind step-daughter Caylee. She talks about what it was like for her growing up in a blended family and what she wants parents to know. You don't want to miss this week!

In this episode, we get into the powerful emotions that come with parenting, especially the guilt so many of us carry. Why do parents feel so pressure to be perfect? And how we navigate these feelings to create a more balanced, guilt-free environment for both ourselves and our kids? This conversation is a reminder that non one has to do it alone- and that showing up as you are is enough.

What a fun episode! This week we get into some real questions submitted looking for open and honest advice. Tune in as we share practical advice, personal stories, and encouragement for harmony in your blended family.

In this episode, we talk about the critical importance of building a sustainable support system. Emotional, practical, motivation and encouragement, support can and does come in may different ways. In essence, a strong support system empowers you to handle the up's and downs with greater resilience.

In this episode, we explore the power of self-care and why it is essential for maintaining balance within your home, marriage and parenting. We dive into strategies to nurture your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Because when you take care of yourself, everything else feel little more manageable.

In this episode, we explore the importance of presenting a united front as parents, ensuring consistency and stability in raising children. Joined by Corrine Parsons, we discuss why making decisions behind closed doors is essential how to navigate disagreements respectfully, and the long term benefits of maintaining a united approach in front of your kids.

Blending families brings unique challenges and opportunities, making the strength of your marriage more important than ever. Part 2 of 2, we explore some way we can check in with ourselves, our partner and our kids to effectively communicate our needs and wants. Learning how to prioritize your marriage can help create stability, trust and love in your (new) family, ensuring that everyone feels connected and supported.

Blending families brings unique challenges and opportunities, making the strength of your marriage more important than ever. Part 1 of 2, we explore some way we can check in with ourselves, our partner and our kids to effectively communicate our needs and wants. Learning how to prioritize your marriage can help create stability, trust and love in your (new) family, ensuring that everyone feels connecting and supported.

In this episode, we talk about the significance of bonding. We explore some practical strategies for fostering deep connections building trust and creating a sense of unity among new siblings, stepparents and extended family members. Whether you're part of a blended family or curious about the experience, this episode offers valuable insights into creating lasting bonds.

In this episode, Christina and Jen dive into the complex and often overlooked topic of grief within blended families. Join us as we unpack the universal language we all speak, whether we know it or not- GRIEF. Whether you're a parent, step-parent or a child in a blended family this episode offers a compassionate and humorous take on how to embrace the grieving process with the goal to find joy and connection on the other side.

Welcome to Blended and Bio! In this episode, we introduce you to your hosts, Christina and Jen. They share some their back story on how and why blended families is such an important topic. Together, they explore topics, share personal stories and engage in thought-provoking conversations. Tune in to learn more about who they are and what you can expect in future episodes. WELCOME TO THE COMMUNITY OF BLENDED AND BIO