The Stepparenting Network cover art

The Stepparenting Network

The Stepparenting Network

Written by: Lina Shine
Listen for free

About this listen

The Stepparenting Network is a podcast dedicated to honest, meaningful conversations about the realities of stepparenting and blended family life; the parts that are rarely talked about, yet deeply felt.


Hosted by Lina Shine, this show creates space for stepparents, parents, and thought leaders to explore the emotional, mental, and personal growth that often comes with stepping into a blended family. From navigating complex family dynamics and unspoken expectations to building emotional intelligence, resilience, and self-awareness, each episode is rooted in empathy, reflection, and real-life experience.

Whether you’re a stepparent in the thick of it, considering becoming one, or simply passionate about emotional growth and healthy relationships, The Stepparenting Network offers connection, validation, and thoughtful conversation, reminding you that you’re not alone and that growth is possible even in the most challenging seasons.


New episodes explore real stories, practical insights, and the inner work that helps stepparents become grounded, confident, and emotionally supported in their journey.

2026 Lina Shine
Parenting Relationships
Episodes
  • 15|How I Won Sole Custody and Protected My Kids From High-Conflict Co-Parenting with Bridget Bennet
    Apr 22 2026

    There comes a point in some co-parenting situations where the traditional approach simply does not work. And when you get there — you need to know your options.

    Most co-parenting advice assumes both parents are willing to communicate, compromise, and put the kids first. But what happens when that is not your reality? What happens when the conflict is so high that every interaction becomes a battle — and your children are the ones paying the price?

    This episode is for the parent who is done pretending that normal co-parenting is possible.

    We are breaking down everything you need to understand about high conflict co-parenting — and the legal and practical tools available to protect yourself and your children when things go beyond what a custody agreement can fix.

    In this episode we cover:

    • What high conflict co-parenting actually looks like and how to recognize it
    • What sole custody means, when to pursue it, and what the process looks like
    • Parallel parenting — what it is, how it works, and why it might be the answer when direct communication has failed
    • Protective orders — what qualifies, how to get one, and how it changes the co-parenting dynamic
    • How to document, prepare, and protect yourself legally in a high conflict situation

    You do not have to keep surviving a situation that was never meant to be managed alone.

    If this episode resonated with you, subscribe to The Stepparenting Network on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss a conversation. And if you know someone who needs to hear this — share it with them today.

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 1 min
  • Co-parenting Struggles and Kids Caught In The Middle
    Apr 18 2026

    If you are navigating a blended family, you already know that co-parenting is one of the most complicated parts of the equation. The miscommunication. The power struggles. The moments where two adults who couldn't make it work as a couple are now expected to raise children together without missing a beat.

    Links
    Tiktok - http://www.tiktok.com/@UCiE9Xaaf9NlhTAHLgO2xVoQ
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thestepparentingnetwork


    #blendedfamily #stepparenttips #stepmomlife #stepdadlife #blendedfamilyadvice #stepparentstruggles #stepparentingtips #coparentinghelp #stepparentjourney

    Show More Show Less
    53 mins
  • Mental Health, Marriage, Divorce and Fatherhood - The Silent Struggle Men Face
    Apr 13 2026

    On this week's episode, Lina sits with Ben to discuss his life story and men's mental health.

    Ben is the creator behind Ben Keeps Running, where he shares his journey through divorce, fatherhood, and rebuilding identity. He uses running as both a literal and metaphorical anchor, documenting what it looks like to move forward when life falls apart. His work focuses on men’s mental health, personal accountability, and finding your footing again one step at a time.


    Links
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thestepparentingnetwork

    Tiktok - http://www.tiktok.com/@thestepparentingnetwork

    #blendedfamily #stepparenttips #stepmomlife #stepdadlife #blendedfamilyadvice #stepparentstruggles #stepparentingtips #coparentinghelp #stepparentjourney

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 11 mins
No reviews yet