Episode 27: “I Was Failing as a Stepmum”

Stepmum Space

For stepmum support, tools, workshops and coaching, visit: https://stepmumspace.com
If you’ve ever felt like you’re “failing” as a stepmum — like you’re not coping, not bonding, or not showing up how you thought you should — this episode will reassure you in the deepest way. Nietta shares her raw, honest story of becoming a stepmum to four children, bringing two of her own into the mix, and realising very quickly that stepfamily life was nothing like she expected.

In this episode, Katie talks to Nietta, who had previously co-parented well with her ex-husband and assumed blending families would feel similarly manageable. Instead, she found herself overwhelmed, constantly trying to prove she was a “good” stepmum, and battling the painful belief that she was failing everyone — including herself.

Nietta opens up about:

• Feeling like she had to prove herself at every turn
• The shock of stepping into a dynamic shaped by two biological mums
• The emotional toll of trying to meet impossible expectations
• Resenting her stepsons when they didn’t behave how she hoped
• The exhaustion of carrying responsibility without feeling appreciated
• How her mental health suffered under the pressure
• The mindset work that helped her rebuild her confidence and peace

Through courage, reflection and real accountability, Nietta reframed her experience, rebuilt her relationships and created boundaries that protect her mental health. Her transformation is empowering — and full of lessons for any stepmum who feels like she’s “not enough.”

In This Episode We Explore:

• Why even capable, loving women feel like they’re failing as stepmums
• How expectations, comparison and guilt damage your confidence
• What resentment really means — and why it’s normal
• The shift that transformed her relationship with her stepsons
• Boundaries that protect your peace without disconnecting from the kids
• How to take responsibility for your thoughts, not everyone else’s behaviour
• Why mindset work matters — and what it changes

If You Need Support
Book a free introductory coaching call: https://www.stepmumspace.com/booking
Learn more about Katie’s work: https://www.stepmumspace.com
Keywords:
struggling stepmum, failing as a stepmum, stepmum resentment, blended family challenges, stepmum mental health, stepmum guilt, stepmum boundaries, overwhelmed stepmum, stepmum mindset shift, stepmum podcast, emotional support for stepmums

Helpful Links:
Stepmum Space website: https://stepmumspace.com
Instagram: @stepmumspace
1:1 Coaching & Couples Coaching: https://stepmumspace.com
You’re not failing — you’re navigating one of the hardest family roles there is. And you deserve support through it.

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