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    Blended Kingdom Families Podcast

    Welcome to the Blended Kingdom Families Podcast! If you are in need of resources that deal with remarriage, step-parenting, co-parenting, preparing to blend, or divorce-proofing your marriage, we are here to serve you! Blended Kingdom Families is a step-family ministry that is committed to providing resources for individuals, families, and churches by implementing biblical foundations and practical tips.


     Our mission is to break the generational cycle of divorce, equip marriages, and unite blended families with the truth of God's word. Hosts, Scott and Vanessa Martindale, living blended their entire lives, they know firsthand both the joys and difficulties that can come along with it.


     We hope that this podcast would encourage, excite, and equip you in your blended family journey. When you blend your family God's way, you have a 100% chance of success. He will complete the good work He began in your step-family, for nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37).

    To find out more about BKF, visit our website, www.blendedkingdomfamilies.com.

    Blended Kingdom Families is a 501c3 nonprofit organization, and this podcast is funded thanks to the generous support of our one-time and monthly donors. To learn more about how to partner with us, click here, Donate - Blended Kingdom Families!

    For additional resources visit: https://linktr.ee/blendedkingdomfamilies


    en-us233 Episodes

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    Episodes (233)

    How To Be A Better Stepparent

    How To Be A Better Stepparent

    Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Vivian Cumins as she shares her journey of healing and growth within her blended family. From managing expectations to seeking forgiveness, Vivian's insights offer wisdom and encouragement for all blended families. Don't miss out on this inspiring discussion!

    Join Our Community - Ready to connect with other blended couples who understand exactly what you're going through? Find out how you can join or start a small group in your church or home. https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/groups/ 

    We pray this episode blesses you today! 


    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    Praying with Your Spouse

    Praying with Your Spouse

    On this episode of the Blended Kingdom Families Podcast, Scott and Vanessa delve into the transformative power of prayer in marriages and blended families. They discuss encouraging statistics revealing the significant decrease in divorce rates among couples who pray together daily. Throughout the episode, Scott and Vanessa share practical advice on incorporating prayer into daily routines and nurturing spiritual intimacy as a couple. The hosts emphasize the importance of persistence in prayer and its profound impact on relationships, urging listeners to actively pursue this practice. Tune in for valuable insights and encouragement to strengthen your marriage and family through the power of prayer.

    We pray this episode blesses you today! 

    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/

    For more resources visit: www.blendedkindomfamilies.com and https://linktr.ee/blendedkingdomfamilies 

    Join Our Community - Ready to connect with other blended couples who understand exactly what you're going through? Find out how you can join or start a small group in your church or home. https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/groups/ 

    Connect With Us - Leave your thoughts and questions in the comments below. Follow us on social media at @BlendedKingdomFamilies 
    For more resources, including information on leading a Blended & Redeemed group, visit our website https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com 

    🔔 Subscribe now and turn on notifications so you so not miss out on future episodes about blended family life, co-parenting tips, advice on maintaining healthy relationships and more! 

    Engage with Us - Leave a Comment: Share your thoughts or experiences related to this topic. 

    Ask Questions: We love to address listener questions in our episodes! 

    #blendedfamily #prayer #marriages #praytogether #HealthyRelationships #Stepfamily #BlendedFamilyPodcast #praywithyourspouse

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    The Power of Resilience: Embracing God Amidst Trials in your Blended Family

    The Power of Resilience: Embracing God Amidst Trials in your Blended Family

    Discover the power of resilience in this latest episode of the Blended Kingdom Families podcast. Special guest Rebekah Lyons joins Scot and Vanessa Martindale to talk about her journey of faith and seeing God's hand in every season, especially the hardest ones. Our hosts and their guest share profound insights on dying to yourself to discover your true self in God, as well as the beauty in surrendering your dreams to embrace God's greater plan. The podcast also explores the concept of finding balance and purpose in tragedy, the role of blended families in God's kingdom, and how every difficult season is an opportunity to grow closer to God and help others. 

    You can connect with Rebekah Lyons at"

    https://www.rebekahlyons.com/

    https://www.instagram.com/rebekahlyons/

    https://www.facebook.com/rebekahlyons

    #BlendedFamilies #blendedkingdomfamilies #rebekahlyons #Resilience #PurposeInPain #FindYourPurpose #OvercomingAdversity #GodsHandInEverything

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    Intimacy & Sex in Second Marriages

    Intimacy & Sex in Second Marriages

    On this episode of the Blended Kingdom Families Podcast, Scott and Vanessa tackle the sensitive topic of physical intimacy and sex within second marriages. They share vulnerably about their own experiences, and highlight the importance of working through past trauma, triggers, and comparison. The conversation centers on the importance of open communication, patience and grace for each other, and embracing joy and pleasure in physical intimacy. If you’re struggling in this area of your marriage, we hope this episode gives you courage to have those needed conversations with your spouse. Don’t let comparison and the past steal your joy in your current marriage!

    We pray this episode blesses you today! 

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    I Feel Alone! Finding Community in Blended Families

    I Feel Alone! Finding Community in Blended Families

    If you have ever felt alone and isolated or have struggled to find a supportive community while navigating blended family challenges then this episode is for you! 

    Navigating life in a blended family can be a beautiful but complex journey. In this episode, I Feel Alone - Finding Community in Blended Families, Scott and Vanessa Martindale are joined by special guests Tim and Sandie Noack, small group leaders with 20 years of experience! In this episode they dive into the life-changing value and importance of small groups specifically designed for couples in blended families. Join us as we explore how small group gatherings can provide encouragement, understanding, godly counsel, prayer, and growth for you, your partner and blended family. 

    Why Small Groups?
    Small groups offer a unique setting where couples in blended families can share experiences, challenges, and successes. It's a space where vulnerability is welcomed and personal growth is nurtured. Discover how these groups can provide you with the tools and confidence to strengthen your marriage and blended family dynamics.

    From improved communication to deeper empathy, learn how sharing your journey with others can pave the way for a stronger, more unified blended family.

    We pray this episode blesses you today! 

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    Enmeshment With Ex-Spouses: Blended Family Boundaries

    Enmeshment With Ex-Spouses: Blended Family Boundaries

    Welcome to the latest episode of the Blended Family Podcast - Enmeshment with Ex-Spouses: Setting Boundaries in Blended Families. Join hosts Scott and Vanessa Martindale as they discuss the intricate dynamics of blended families, focusing on the challenges and nuances of enmeshment between ex-spouses.

    In this episode - Enmeshment with Ex-Spouses: Blended Family Boundaries, we explore what enmeshment means in the context of ex-spouses, discuss several examples of enmeshment and solutions. 

    Learn about these topics and more! 
    - Signs of Unhealthy Enmeshment: Learn about the red flags such as inappropriate closeness, emotional manipulation, and feelings of obligation that might indicate unhealthy ties between ex-spouses.
    - Strategies for Setting Boundaries: Scott and Vanessa discuss practical ways to establish boundaries for the well-being new marriages and blended families.
    - Co-Parenting Communication: Tips on how to involve both spouses in co-parenting conversations to foster a respectful and healthy co-parenting relationship.

    Listen to gain insights and strategies to help navigate the complex relationship between ex-spouses and its impact on your blended family. Whether you are newly blended, starting to date again after divorce,  or just interested in remarriage dynamics, this episode offers valuable advice and real-life examples.

    Subscribe to our podcast so you so not miss out on future episodes about blended family life, co-parenting tips, advice on maintaining healthy relationships and more.

    Engage with Us - Leave us a podcast review and share your thoughts, feedback and topic suggestions

    We pray this episode blesses you today! 

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    Enmeshment Between Parents & Kids - Maintaining Healthy Boundaries in Blended Families

    Enmeshment Between Parents & Kids - Maintaining Healthy Boundaries in Blended Families

    Enmeshment between parents and kids is an important factor in families and maintaining healthy boundaries in blended families can help. 

    Dive into the complexities of enmeshment in blended families on this podcast episode: Enmeshment Between Parents & Kids - Maintaining Healthy Boundaries in Blended Families. Hosts Scott and Vanessa shed light on scenarios in which parents and children grapple with enmeshment issues that may have formed after a divorce or other life-changing event. This can include a parent's over reliance on a child for emotional support, a parent inhibiting a child's independence, or other similar unhealthy connections.

    Scott and Vanessa offer practical advice on overcoming enmeshment, emphasizing the importance of open communication and setting clear boundaries. They talk about the benefits (and necessity) of seeking counseling to re-prioritize the marriage and foster healthier relationships within the blended family unit. They also discuss the importance of the child’s mental health.

    We pray this episode blesses you today! 

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    Blended Families: My Nest is Empty—Coping with Kids Leaving Home

    Blended Families: My Nest is Empty—Coping with Kids Leaving Home

    In this episode, Scott and Vanessa Martindale are joined by guests Eric and Keisha Gomez to talk about the empty nest phase of marriage and family. Eric is the XO Marriage Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Keisha is a Marriage Mediator at XO Marriage. Together, they talk about preparing for the empty nest before the last child leaves, the importance of intentionality in growing your marriage in this phase, and some of the fun benefits of living in a house with no kids. 

    We pray this episode blesses you! 



    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    Preparing to Launch - Sending Kids to College in a Blended Family

    Preparing to Launch - Sending Kids to College in a Blended Family

    In this episode Scott and Vanessa Martindale are joined by guests Eric and Keisha Gomez. Eric is the XO Marriage Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Keisha is a Marriage Mediator at XO Marriage. Eric and Keisha share personal experiences and advice for sending kids to college as a blended family, including preparing children academically and spiritually, coping with letting go, dealing with identity attacks and much more!

    We pray this episode blesses you today! 

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    The Power of Untethered Worship - 2024 Word of The Year

    The Power of Untethered Worship - 2024 Word of The Year

    In this podcast episode, Scott and Vanessa talk about their practice of asking God to give them a word for the year ahead. They share how they both seek God for a word individually as well as for their blended family, and how this annual activity draws them closer together. 

    We pray this episode blesses you today! 

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    Trusting the Uncomfortable & Growing Through Discomfort

    Trusting the Uncomfortable & Growing Through Discomfort

    Scott and Vanessa reflect on 2023, a year of growth through trusting God during hardship. They recap ministry highlights like launching video curriculum, Uversion devotionals, conferences, groups across the country, BKF coaching, and podcasts. Looking ahead, 2024 plans include expanding coaching, more resources like books and studies, events, fundraising, and partnerships to help more blended families.

    We pray this episode blesses you today!

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    Blended Family Traditions: Finding Joy, Love, and Peace During the Holidays

    Blended Family Traditions: Finding Joy, Love, and Peace During the Holidays

    Join us in this special episode of the Blended Kingdom Families podcast as we share heartwarming stories and tips on navigating the holiday season in blended families. From decorating Christmas trees to serving the community, discover how new traditions can bring joy, gratitude, love, and a sense of connection.

    We pray this episode blesses you today! 

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    How to Navigate Blended Family Holidays: A Teen's Perspective

    How to Navigate Blended Family Holidays: A Teen's Perspective

    In this special holiday episode of the podcast, Vanessa and her son, Michael, to talk about the holiday season from a teenager's perspective. He shares tips for blended families on making holiday transitions smoother for kids. He talks about the importance of communication, flexibility, and involving kids in the planning. Vanessa and Michael also discuss setting boundaries, laying aside differences, and focusing on what is best for the children.

    We pray this episode blesses you today! 

    For more resources visit: www.blendedkindomfamilies.com
    https://linktr.ee/blendedkingdomfamilies
    https://blendedkingdomteens.com
    https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131623
    https://www.instagram.com/blendedkingdomteens/
    https://www.tiktok.com/@blendedkingdomteens

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    Q&A: Answering Audience Questions So You Can Build a Healthy Blended Family

    Q&A: Answering Audience Questions So You Can Build a Healthy Blended Family

    Discover the secrets to a healthy blended family in this insightful Q&A episode of the Blended Kingdom Families podcast. Join Vanessa and Jessica Russo, Director of Donor Relations here at BKF, as they tackle real questions from audience members facing past relationship wounds, co-parenting conflicts, and frustrations with former spouses. Vanessa shares her personal journey as a divorced and remarried mom, offering valuable perspectives on the challenges of blending families. Gain prayerful and Kingdom-focused encouragement for your own blended family journey. Don't miss this empowering conversation on overcoming obstacles and fostering a thriving blended family.


    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    Q&A: Managing Stepchild and Biological Child Relationships in Blended Families

    Q&A: Managing Stepchild and Biological Child Relationships in Blended Families

    In this episode, liscensed professional counselor and blended family coach Scott Martindale takes the mic to answer listeners' questions. He shares practical advice on stepchild relationships, discipline roles, conflict resolution, and more. His unique perspective will give you actionable steps for improving your blended family relationships. Listen in to hear your questions answered! 

    We hope this episode blesses you today! 

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    The Heart of Step-parenting: A Stepmom's Perspective with Special Guest Cheryl Shumake

    The Heart of Step-parenting: A Stepmom's Perspective with Special Guest Cheryl Shumake

    On this week’s podcast episode, hosts Scott and Vanessa Martindale are joined by a special guest, Cheryl Shumake, a stepmom with a powerful ministry dedicated to supporting and inspiring stepmoms. Cheryl shares her insights on navigating the challenges of blended families and discusses her latest book, "Waiting to Be Wanted: A Stepmom's Guide to Loving Before Being Loved."


    The conversation delves into the importance of empathy, the 100% chance of success in blended families when done God's way, and the role of faith in the journey of step-parenting. Cheryl encourages listeners to shift their focus from the pain of waiting to how God wants them to show up in their roles.


    Join the BKF podcast community as Cheryl, Vanessa, and Scott share stories, wisdom, and practical advice to help you thrive in your blended family journey. Don't miss out on the full video format available on the Blended Kingdom Families YouTube channel. Like, share, comment, and leave your reviews to let us know your thoughts.


    Our guest, Cheryl Shoemake, is the founder of Stepmom Sanity and author of four books, including "Waiting to Be Wanted." Explore more about Cheryl and her ministry at StepmomSanity.com and follow her on social media @stepmomsanity.


    Thank you for tuning in to the BKF podcast. Remember, your blended family journey is part of God's larger story, and as you wait, trust that God is working in your life. Stay connected, stay encouraged, and keep seeking God's guidance in your blended kingdom family.

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    Blended Family Holidays: Fostering a Heart and Mind of Gratitude

    Blended Family Holidays: Fostering a Heart and Mind of Gratitude

    The holidays can be a challenging time for blended families. In this uplifting episode, Scott and Vanessa share how cultivating gratitude and thankfulness can bring joy and strengthen family bonds.Learn how starting traditions, quiet reflection, and extending grace to co-parents can foster unity and create new positive memories. Whether you're gathering with grandparents, looking back on the year, or facing grief, you'll be inspired to see blessings and goodness. Tune in for a hope-filled perspective on embracing thankfulness in all circumstances and discover how gratitude can deepen your connection with God and others this holiday season!

    We hope this episode blesses you today!

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    Learning to Honor God in Dating and Marriage

    Learning to Honor God in Dating and Marriage

    Honoring God in dating can be challenging in todays world. In this episode, Scott and Vanessa discuss God's design for dating and marriage. They emphasize the importance of identifying values and traits that are non-negotiable in a spouse, while also being open to the Holy Spirit’s leadership. They also discuss the importance of open communication, premarital counseling, and being bold about pursuing a Christ-centered marriage.

    We hope this episode blesses you today! 

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    How to Set Boundaries with Extended Family: Extended Family Dynamics in Blended Families, Part 3

    How to Set Boundaries with Extended Family: Extended Family Dynamics in Blended Families, Part 3

    One challenge that blended families face is setting healthy boundaries with extended family members. Boundaries are the limits and rules we set for how others will interact with us, and they are vital for the health of any family. In this final episode in our series on extended family dynamics in blended families, we unpack the importance of boundaries as a means to protect and preserve the nuclear family unit. We also provide examples of boundaries and the process for creating and maintaining them. 

    We hope this episode blesses you today! 

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website

    Fostering Positive Relationships: Extended Family Dynamics in Blended Families, Part 2

    Fostering Positive Relationships: Extended Family Dynamics in Blended Families, Part 2

    When we go through a divorce, our relationships with our extended family members can be affected, which can then affect our (step)child’s relationships with them. In the second episode of this series, we discuss the value of allowing our children and stepchildren to keep strong bonds with their extended family members after divorce, and we offer small steps we can take to rebuild or maintain those bonds.

    We pray this podcast blesses you today! 

    Want to join the Blended Kingdom Families Community?
    Connect with us: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,
    To support this ministry and help ensure that blended families around the world continue to receive biblical equipping click here: https://blendedkingdomfamilies.com/donate/
    For more resources visit: Blended Kingdom Families Website