Pickens’ Realities & Blended Family Truths

Being A Bonus Mom Truths & Realities | EP 6 Part 1

Welcome! In Episode 6 of Pickens' Realities & Blended Family Truths, Jessica is joined by her daughter, Jayla, for an in-depth discussion about the complexities and challenges of being a bonus mom in a blended family. Together, they explore the nuanced dynamics of blending families, addressing the emotional and relational adjustments required to foster healthy, harmonious family bonds.

Being a Bonus Mom | EP 6 Part 2

Welcome back to the 6th episode of Pickens' Realities & Blended Family Truths. In this 2nd part of the episode, Jessica and Jayla continue their open and honest discussion about sensitive topics such as guilty parenting, enabling adult children, the choices adult children make, and trauma bonding. Join us as we uncover the realities of navigating these intricate family dynamics.

Generational Parenting Impacts | How Jessica's Upbringing Impacted Her Parenting | EP 7 Part 1

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of Pickens' Realities & Blended Family Truths, Jayla moderates an intimate conversation between Jessica Pickens, her mother Bobbi, and her sister Teresa. Together, they dive deep into how their childhood experiences, upbringing, and Bobbi’s parenting style shaped Jessica's and Teresa's lives—and how these influences continue to impact the way they parent their own children.

Generational Parenting Story | How Jessica's Upbringing Impacted Her Parenting | EP 7 Part 2

Check out the 2nd half of this episode, as my daughter moderates the discussion with me, my mom Bobbi Norman, and my sister Teresa Price, as we discuss emotional details of our childhood experiences, upbringing, and how my mom's parenting style impacted the way we parent(ed).

Loyalty vs Boundaries| How The Family You're Born into Impacts The Family You Create | EP8 Part 1

In this episode, we dive into a crucial topic: how loyalty to the family you were born into can create unexpected challenges in the family you’re building through marriage. We share candid stories from our own journey as a blended family, exploring: The impact of weak boundaries on your new family, the roles and expectations that carried over from our immediate families before marriage, how we worked through trials and tribulations to find unity, love, and balance. Whether you’re part of a blended family or just looking for ways to navigate family dynamics, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-life lessons to help you create healthy, loving relationships.

Generational Parenting Story | How Jessica's Upbringing Impacted Her Parenting | EP 8 Part 2

Welcome back to Part 2 of Episode 7 of Pickens' Realities & Blended Family Truths! In this episode, Jayla moderates an intimate conversation between Jessica Pickens, her mother, Bobbi, and her sister, Teresa. Together, they delve deep into the complexities of family dynamics, sharing personal stories and insights that will resonate with audiences of all ages. We'll witness firsthand how past parenting styles shape present-day choices. From the challenges of a blended family to the power of community, this episode offers a raw and honest look at the emotional journey of family life. Discover the profound impact of a mother's love and guidance as Bobbi reflects on her own childhood and how it influenced her parenting style. Learn how Jessica, in turn, navigated the challenges and triumphs of motherhood, fostering strong bonds with her children. As we explore the power of empathy, resilience, and open communication, we'll uncover the importance of breaking generational cycles and creating a legacy of love and understanding. This episode is a testament to the enduring power of family, offering hope and inspiration to viewers seeking to strengthen their own family connections. 

Navigating Stresses of Being Black and Blended | EP 9 PT 1

Welcome to Episode 9, Part 1 of Pickens' Realities & Blended Family Truths! In this episode, we dive deep into the unique challenges of navigating life as a Black, blended family. The journey of merging different family dynamics is never easy, but adding cultural nuances, societal pressures, and generational expectations can amplify the stress. Join us as we explore personal stories, practical advice, and heartfelt truths about overcoming adversity and embracing love within a blended household. We discuss the impact of cultural identity, the importance of communication, and strategies to maintain harmony and balance. Whether you’re dealing with co-parenting challenges or seeking guidance on building trust in a blended family, this episode provides insights and inspiration. If you’re part of a blended family or interested in understanding the realities faced by Black families today, this discussion is for you. We aim to create a safe space for conversations that matter and foster community support.

Navigating Stresses of Being Black and Blended | EP 9 PT 2

In Part 2 of Episode 9 of Pickens' Realities & Blended Family Truths, we continue our heartfelt discussion on the complexities of being a Black, blended family. Picking up from Part 1, we dive deeper into the emotional, cultural, and social challenges that come with blending families in a world where race and identity often add extra layers of stress. In this episode, we explore how to navigate systemic pressures, manage family expectations, and create a safe, loving environment for all family members. Our conversation highlights the importance of fostering open communication, setting healthy boundaries, and building a strong support system to weather the ups and downs of blended family life.

Being Black & Blended & Church Resistance to Blended Family Ministries & Supports | EP 10 PT 1

In this powerful and transparent continuation of our discussion, Jessica and Jayla dive even deeper into the unique challenges and stresses of being Black and part of a blended family.
 
This week, we’re joined by a special guest, Cheryl Shumake, Executive Director of Sawubona Blended Families and Founder of Stepmom Sanity. Cheryl opens up about her personal journey as a stepmom and the realities of navigating life in a Black and blended family. She also shares the inspiring story behind the creation of Sawubona Blended Families, an organization dedicated to supporting and empowering blended families in Black and Brown communities.
 
Our conversation also highlights the significant lack of dedicated church ministries and programs designed to support blended families, despite their prevalence in today’s society. We aim to raise awareness among church leaders, ministries, and community organizations, encouraging them to recognize the unique and complex dynamics of blended families. By openly addressing their needs, leaders can create impactful programming and resources that empower these families to thrive. Let’s spark a movement to ensure blended families feel seen, supported, and equipped for success.

Being Black & Blended and Church Resistance to Blended Family Ministries | EP 10 PT 2

In part 2 of episode 10, Jessica, Jayla, and special guest, Cheryl Shumake continue discussions of the compounding stresses of being Black in America and being part of a blended family. They also discuss the lack of existing church ministries and programs designed specifically to support blended families, and how that further puts blended families at risk.
 
Cheryl Shumake is the Executive Director of Sawubona Blended Families and Founder of Stepmom Sanity. Cheryl shares her personal journey as a stepmom and the realities of navigating life in a Black and blended family and also shares the inspiring story behind the creation of Sawubona Blended Families, an organization dedicated to supporting and empowering blended families in Black and Brown communities.
 
With 40% of marriages with kids today being blended families, we aim to raise awareness among church leaders, ministries, and community organizations, to encourage them to recognize the unique and complex dynamics of blended families. Our hope is for church and other relevant program leaders to acknowledge the need for blended family supports by creating impactful programming and resources that empower these families to thrive. Let’s spark a movement to ensure blended families feel seen, supported, and equipped for success.