Synergistic Stepparenting Podcast
Kids & Family Podcasts
Maria Natapov has been a stepparent for 10+ years. When she and her partner learned of the abuse and neglect inflicted by the biological mother, Maria studied and took the lead to install the right supports and prevent her stepdaughter from further harm. Her passion is helping other stepparents transform their challenging responsibilities into opportunities for the whole family to thrive. In Synergistic Stepparenting podcast, Maria talks frankly about actionable steps to transform family chaos into meaningful and harmonious co-parenting. Reminding stepparents that they are not alone. Learn more about Maria Natapov. https://synergisticstepparenting.com/meet-maria/
Location:
United States
Genres:
Kids & Family Podcasts
Description:
Maria Natapov has been a stepparent for 10+ years. When she and her partner learned of the abuse and neglect inflicted by the biological mother, Maria studied and took the lead to install the right supports and prevent her stepdaughter from further harm. Her passion is helping other stepparents transform their challenging responsibilities into opportunities for the whole family to thrive. In Synergistic Stepparenting podcast, Maria talks frankly about actionable steps to transform family chaos into meaningful and harmonious co-parenting. Reminding stepparents that they are not alone. Learn more about Maria Natapov. https://synergisticstepparenting.com/meet-maria/
Language:
English
Contact:
617-419-0878
Episodes
#65: Estrangement in Blended Families
1/19/2023
Hi Stepparents,
Despite rising tensions around the holidays and the buzz of annual family gatherings straining your already taxed energy, the familiarity and nostalgia of holiday traditions brings a certain warmth.
However, if you’re estranged from a loved one or from a person who was once close to you, this time of year can amplify that pain. Today we’re discussing estrangement. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenitng.com/65.
Covered Topics:
- My Story of...
Duration:00:11:25
#64: Making Safe Choices with Carrie
1/14/2023
Hey Stepparents,
Happy New Year!
I’ve been out unexpectedly with a bad cold and some medical issues all of which prevented me from being able to produce the valuable content that I aim to provide you with week to week.
So, I’ve taken the time to tend to my well-being and have some great episodes lined up for you with special guests sharing their insights and resources and addressing topics that don’t get enough attention.
Today’s conversation is no exception with returning special guest,...
Duration:00:26:34
#63: Safety in Relationships with Carrie
12/1/2022
Hi Stepparents,
The month of October is the of Domestic Violence Awareness and National Bullying Prevention.
As you know, recently, I did a few episodes on raising awareness around domestic violence where I and a guest discussed specific examples of what domestic abuse can look like, how it feels and its common patterns.
But I want to provide you guys with more tips around important considerations to get clear on for yourself as well as for your children as you teach them about safety in...
Duration:00:17:44
#62: Perspective of Gratitude in Stepparenting
11/24/2022
Hi Stepparents,
As the Thanksgiving holiday is sneaking up on us, I like to steel quiet moments of reflection on the year thus far. And I’ve noticed what I am overcome with most in these moments is the feeling of gratitude.
Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/62.
Topics Covered:
- Things I'm feeling grateful for this year
- Perspective of Gratitude
- The benefit in taking on a perspective of gratitude even in challenging situations
- My personal...
Duration:00:05:48
#61: Balancing Stepparenting and Parenting Dynamics
11/15/2022
Hey Stepparents,
I’m excited to bring to you highlights from my conversation where Allison Dagney interviewed me about the dynamics between a stepparent and a parent and how to navigate these differences to best support the kids.
Allison is a covert abuse survivor, author of When Tears Leave Scars – her personal memoir – and a rapid reprogramming coach for others who have been through the painful experience of emotional abuse.
In this episode we discuss seeing the stepparent as a source...
Duration:00:31:10
#60: Covert Abuse with Allison Dagney: Part 2
11/3/2022
Hey Stepparents,
I’m excited to bring to you Part 2 of my conversation with Allison Dagney, who is a covert abuse survivor, author of When Tears Leave Scars – her personal memoir – and a rapid reprogramming coach for others who have been through the painful experience of emotional abuse.
In this episode Allison shares why she never wanted to have a conversation with her ex, a key tactic to look out for, what happens when you’re in an unhealthy relationship, and the best thing to do if you...
Duration:00:31:05
#59: Covert Abuse with Allison Dagney: Part 1
10/31/2022
Hey Stepparents,
I’ve been under the weather and lost my voice and therefore wasn’t able to record portions of my episode which is why I haven’t put out an episode for a couple of weeks. But I’m thrilled to be feeling better and to pick right up where we left off.
In my last episode, I shared my story of covert abuse, discussing what I endured, how I got there, contributing factors, as well as what my realizations, takeaways and outlook has been since healing from this experience. Find the...
Duration:00:33:28
#58: My Story of Covert Abuse
10/13/2022
Hi Stepparents,
First of all, I want to apologize that I didn’t produce an episode last week. I got sick with a nasty cold, and decided to live what I preach, that self-care needs to be a priority. I often talk about how important it is to meet your own needs first so that you can better support others.
So, I followed my own advice, unplugged from everything, and answered my body’s plea for rest.
Since October is domestic violence awareness month, I am sharing a bit more about my 16-year...
Duration:00:14:31
#57: Are You an Overextended Stepparent?
9/29/2022
Hi Stepparents,
Have you ever put work into a relationship thinking, “I’m putting in so much, I’ve gotta be racking up some excellent relationship karma points. I’m bound to get some of this coming back around to me!”
Maybe you’ve gotten upset that you’re not getting the same level of support in return, or you’re not being appreciated, or not even being given credit for all that you do. Does this sound familiar?
And when this happens, do you feel frustrated, hurt, and depleted?
This...
Duration:00:09:40
#56: The Stepparenting Cycle and My Why
9/23/2022
Recently, I was reflecting on my early days as a stepparent, remembering many times when I felt uncomfortable in said role.
Frustrated and consumed with tension, emotions and split decisions, I worried about what each stakeholder in the situation was thinking and wanting from me. So badly wanting to start off all interactions with my “best foot forward.”
This is the cycle we’ll be exploring on the show today. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/56.
Topics...
Duration:00:09:52
#55: Do You Have a Stepparenting Energy Leak?
9/15/2022
Hi Stepparents,
This time of year where work gets busier with year-end initiatives and deliverables and school’s back in session.
In some climates, like here in New England, the days are quickly getting shorter, and the busy holiday season is just around the corner. So, it’s no surprise that you might find yourself feeling more drained.
Before you chalk it up to life’s busy day-to-day grind, I invite you to slow down to ponder, is that really all that’s operating here making you feel...
Duration:00:11:16
#54: Creating a Co-Parenting Schedule
9/8/2022
Hey stepparents,
I know a lot of you have a school-aged child. This time of year can be chaotic with the start of a new school year, extra-curricular activities, drop-off and pick-up logistics, etc.
You also might find yourself in a position of co-parenting with your partner and possibly their ex, and maybe even with their ex’s new partner as well.
These extra cooks in the kitchen can add to the overwhelm and leave you feeling uncertain as to what your role is in supporting your beloved...
Duration:00:09:28
#53: Gaining Clarity in Your Stepparenting
9/1/2022
As the new school year is getting under way and things feel chaotic and busy, you might be feeling overwhelmed and like it’s virtually impossible to keep up.
When this happens often you might feel like not doing anything because you don’t know where to even start.
If you can relate, you’re definitely not alone. But stick around, because I have some great step-by-step tips for you to not only stay afloat, but flourish. Find the show notes for this episode at...
Duration:00:08:14
#52: Academic Success with Dr. P
8/25/2022
Hey Stepparents,
With the academic school year already upon us, many stepparents worry about how to set their stepchild up for success.
And to help with that concern by providing actionable tips and strategies, we are thrilled to be joined by Dominique Padurano, M.S., Ed., Ph.D. – aka “Dr. P” of Crimson Coaching to discuss academic success.
Dr. P has extensive knowledge of and experience in the arena of education. Her love and passion for helping students of all ages and abilities access...
Duration:00:19:49
#51: Polyamory with John Hoelle
8/18/2022
Hey Stepparents,
Today we’re continuing our exploration of sex and intimacy by delving into polyamory with John Hoelle, a family law attorney and mediator, and co-founder of Conscious Family Law & Mediation.
We cover what polyamory is, how polyamory can improve an otherwise monogamous relationship, the benefits of utilizing a coach in your relationship, and how to approach and discuss polyamory with kids.
John has an easy warmth about him instantly making you feel comfortable. I feel...
Duration:00:25:39
#50: Sex and Intimacy with Rose Schlaff: Part 3
8/11/2022
Hi Stepparents,
Welcome back to the finale of my conversation with Rose Schlaff, a Pelvic Physical Therapist, Intimacy Coach, and founder of Be Well with Rose, LLC as we wrap up our discussion about sex and intimacy.
Rose and I quickly bonded from the get-go over our passion about the need to shed light on issues that most of us struggle with but feel uncomfortable discussing. Find the show notes for this episode at synergisticstepparenting.com/50.
Get comfy, grab your favorite beverage...
Duration:00:28:52
#49: Sex and Intimacy with Rose Schlaff: Part 2
8/4/2022
Hi Stepparents,
Welcome back to part 2 of the conversation with Rose Schlaff, a Pelvic Physical Therapist, Intimacy Coach, and founder of Be Well with Rose, LLC. This week we are continuing our discussion about sex and intimacy.
We cover:
- Introduction of Rose Schlaff
- why and how your body image plays a role in intimacy
- how to love your body
- the surprising gift of sharing your whole truth
- why and how to talk to your kids about sex
Find the show notes for this episode at...
Duration:00:26:29
#48: Sex and Intimacy with Dr. Rose Schlaff: Part 1
7/28/2022
Hi Stepparents,
We are continuing our conversation about sex and intimacy this time with an expert on this topic. Rose Schlaff is a Pelvic Physical Therapist, Intimacy Coach, and founder of Be Well with Rose, LLC.
I’m so excited to share this conversation with you. When Rose and I first met, we quickly found that we were both passionate about the need to underscore and shed light on issues that aren’t often discussed and often feel uncomfortable to talk about.
Having more of the dialogue...
Duration:00:23:52
#47: A Bio-Parent's Perspective - The Sex Talk
7/21/2022
Hi Stepparents,
Today we are continuing our conversation about sex. And I’m thrilled to welcome back my partner and Lilah’s dad, John to the show.
John was a great sport! He was very transparent about why he had several talks with his daughter about sex and why you should be doing this too. He shared the key to navigating those conversations. He also shared his 4 tips for making those conversations as productive as possible.
Find the show notes for this episode at...
Duration:00:29:54
#46: Confessions of a Stepdaughter - The Sex Talk
7/14/2022
Hi Stepparents,
Today we are continuing our conversation about sex. And I’m thrilled to welcome back to the show my step-daughter, Lilah.
Who generously let me pick her brain about the sex talk. In our case there were multiple which I strongly encourage all parents to do. Which is to have multiple sex talks and not just one throughout a child’s development.
Lilah and I will discuss why that is in this show so stay tuned. We also discuss what was most helpful about our talks, how we curbed...
Duration:00:24:10