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Navigating the Path - Thriving as a Childless Stepparent

Join us for an insightful and empowering webinar, where we explore the unique experiences and challenges faced by childless stepparents.

Being a stepparent can be a rewarding and fulfilling role, but when you're childless, it can also bring about its own set of complexities and emotions. This webinar aims to provide guidance, support, and practical strategies to help childless stepparents navigate their journey with confidence and resilience.

During this interactive session, our expert panel of experienced stepparents will delve into the following key topics:

  1. Understanding the Role: We will discuss the evolving nature of stepparenting and the distinct dynamics that come into play for childless individuals. Learn how to define your role within the blended family structure and establish healthy boundaries.

  2. Managing Expectations and Emotions: Explore the emotional landscape of being a childless stepparent, including feelings of loss, isolation, and unfulfilled desires. Discover strategies to cope with these emotions, communicate effectively, and develop a positive relationship with stepchildren.

  3. Strengthening the Couple Relationship: Maintaining a strong and healthy bond with your partner is crucial for navigating the challenges of blended families. Gain insights into effective communication, managing conflict, and nurturing your relationship amidst the complexities of being a childless stepparent.

  4. Establishing Positive Parenting Practices: Discover effective strategies for developing a cooperative co-parenting dynamic with the biological parent. Learn how to contribute to the well-being of the children while respecting their existing family structure and routines.

  5. Building a Support Network: Connect with other childless stepparents facing similar challenges and learn from their experiences. Explore strategies for building a supportive network of friends, family, and professionals who can provide guidance and empathy throughout your journey.

By the end of this webinar, you will have gained valuable insights, practical tools, and a renewed sense of confidence in your role as a childless stepparent. Join us and embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment in your blended family dynamic.

Note: This webinar is open to individuals at any stage of their childless stepparent journey. Whether you're newly entering a blended family or have been in the role for some time, this webinar will provide valuable insights and support.

DATE: Tuesday 12th September

TIME: 7pm BST - Find your timezone HERE

REGISTER FOR THIS WEBINAR HERE

Please note: Whilst the panellists will be recorded, your camera and audio will be turned off. If you are unable to attend the webinar live, you DO NOT need to register to watch the replay on the website.


PANELLISTS


Sandy Michelet is based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana USA where she lives with her husband of 23 years and a goldendoodle.

Her infertility journey started in 2001 at 33. After trying to get pregnant for over ten years, she realized it would never happen but was still too ashamed and embarrassed to talk about her grief. She found Jody’s book ‘Living the Life Unexpected’ which opened a life that Sandy didn’t know existed….a fulfilled life without children.

She attended a Reignite Retreat in 2017 which completely changed her life! She became a member of the private GW online community, created The Childless Life blog and a private Facebook group “The Childless Life”.

In 2018, Jody invited her to train with her to lead the first Reignite Weekend in the USA.

She is actively engaged in the HR community and frequently serves as a keynote and session speaker for local and national conferences.


Cara Galbavi - US

Cara Galbavi is an attorney, community activist, wife, bonus mom, and angel mom who lives, works, and plays in West Michigan. 

After suffering unexplained infertility for years, Cara was fortunate enough to become pregnant,   

only to experience multiple miscarriages between 2005-2007.  After her losses and a subsequent divorce soon after, Cara later remarried in 2014, becoming a stepmom to a then-7-year-old.  Cara’s stepdaughter is now 16, the same age Cara’s own children would have been had they been born and lived. 

While recognizing the joys that come with being a stepmom, Cara juggles the triggers of her own losses and childlessness and has become vocal in making sure others in her shoes know that they are not alone. 


Janet Glaze - US

Meet Janet Glaze, married for nearly 14 years to Randy, stepmom to young adults Austin and Addison, and dog mom to Miss Annie.

Fertility struggles, marked by two miscarriages, shaped her journey. At 45, she confronted her deepest

fears, initiating a transformative path guided by the motto "Do something different, to feel something different."

Janet's love for tea led her to craft a new chapter as the Proprietress of the Victorian Glaze Manor in Carthage located in East Texas, hosting vintage tea parties. She also became a Certified Etiquette Instructor, founding Practically Perfect Charm for all ages, to inspire "tenacious confidence through social graces in the most delightful way."

Her story radiates unyielding determination, seasoned with humor.

Today, I'm proud and at peace with my life's direction. Despite joining an unwanted club, I learned how to turn pain into gratitude, refusing to let it define me. To healing and beyond.


REGISTER FOR THIS WEBINAR HERE


Earlier Event: September 12
Hidden in Plain Sight
Later Event: September 13
Writers Talk Letters