Bonus Parents, Not Rivals: Embracing Your Ex's New Partner for Your Children's Benefit

Better Than Bitter™ Divorce Podcast

Episode 13: Bonus Parents, Not Rivals: Embracing Your Ex's New Partner for Your Children's Benefit

Our Guest for Today's Episode:

Pam Dennis

Pamela has worked with amazing leaders in global Fortune 100 firms like GE, Merck, JP Morgan, CNN and General Motors as well as small, closely held companies helping them to lead important transitions in the life cycle of their organizations. She knows the challenges of mobilizing commitment to change -- building acceptance, managing resistance and fear, and dealing with ambiguity. (Not unlike some of the transitions we face in divorce!) In her own life, following a divorce, Pamela built and led an international consulting business that received recognition for its growth and impact: “Mercury 100 Fastest Growing Colorado Companies”; “Boulder Top 25 Women Owned Companies” She sold her company after nearly 20 years. She also holds a PhD from Univ CO.

Pam's Website

Summary

In this conversation, Tania Leichliter and Pamela Dennis explore the complexities of navigating family dynamics during and after divorce. They discuss the importance of communication, the role of a bonus parent, and how to create a family of affection that transcends traditional labels. The conversation emphasizes the need for amicable relationships and offers practical tips for co-parenting effectively, breaking the cycle of animosity, and fostering a supportive environment for children.

Takeaways

• Navigating divorce requires open communication and understanding.
• It's essential to address fears and concerns in family dynamics.
• Creating a family of affection can help ease transitions after divorce.
• Amicable relationships take effort from all parties involved.
• Children often feel caught in the middle of parental conflicts.
• Facilitating conversations can lead to better outcomes for families.
• Divorce doesn't have to mean the end of family connections.
• Breaking the cycle of animosity is crucial for future generations.
• Parents should model healthy relationships for their children.
• Every family can redefine their dynamics post-divorce.

Sound Bites

"What feels right?"

"You have to break the cycle."

"How do we de-stigmatize divorce?"

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Family Dynamics and Amicable Divorce

03:03 The Importance of Communication in Co-Parenting

06:59 Mindset Shifts for Amicable Resolutions

09:55 Rethinking Our Inner Dialogue

14:24 Navigating Stepparent Dynamics

17:28 Creating Amicable Relationships Post-Divorce

21:44 The Importance of Family of Affection

25:58 Breaking the Cycle of Conflict

30:33 Top Tips for Amicable Co-Parenting

Keywords

divorce, co-parenting, family dynamics, communication, blended families, amicable relationships, family of affection, parenting tips, emotional health, relationship advice

Thanks for tuning in to Better Than Bitter™, navigating an amicable divorce. Whether you are at the beginning of your divorce journey, midway through, or even done, we want the stories from our guests to give you hope that an amicable resolution is possible. If you'd like to dive deeper into today's episode, check out our show notes for a full transcript, reflections, and links to learn more about Better Than Bitter's coaching courses, and how to connect with our fabulous guests. If you're ready for more support, you can head over to betterthanbitter.coach .

On our website you'll find details and additional information on our 5-Step Gameplan multimedia course, our different types of coaching methods, monthly memberships, events and retreats, and a whole lot more. Plus, we've got a ton of free resources, like our monthly newsletter, our private Facebook group, our Instagram channel, and a library of articles and free webinars to help you along the way. When you go to our website, you'll be able to schedule a free 45-minute breakthrough call. Remember, we're here to help you reach an amicable resolution. Find your courage and believe in your brighter future because you know what? It is possible.

At Better Than Bitter™, we measure success by what we give and not by what we get. So let's change the divorce dialogue together. It's time to be better than bitter.

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Mentioned in this episode:

Ready to Thrive After Divorce? Join Our Supportive Community!

Divorce is hard—but it doesn’t have to define your future. This podcast is dedicated to helping you navigate divorce with clarity, confidence, and peace. Whether you're in the midst of separation, co-parenting, or rebuilding your life, you'll find expert insights, mindset shifts, and real-life strategies to move forward. 📌 Looking for more support? Join the Better Than Bitter Support Group Membership for access to expert-led discussions, exclusive resources, live Q&A sessions, and community support. For a limited time, get two months for the price of one! 🔗 Learn more: betterthanbitter.coach #BetterThanBitter #AmicableDivorce #DivorceSupport #CoParenting #Healing #DivorceRecovery

Ready to Thrive After Divorce? Join Our Supportive Community!

Thank you for tuning in to the Better Than Bitter Divorce podcast! We’re here to support you through every stage of your divorce journey—helping you move from surviving to thriving. If you’re looking for deeper guidance, access to expert-led workshops, or a supportive community, check out our Support Group Membership at betterthanbitter.coach. As a member, you'll get access to: ✔️ Weekly live support group calls ✔️ On-demand workshops, mini-courses, and exclusive resources ✔️ A community of people navigating similar challenges ✔️ Special offers and discounts on expert services And for a limited time, we’re offering two months for the price of one—so now is the perfect time to join! Visit betterthanbitter.coach to learn more. See you in the next episode!