Christina welcomes Brent Crandal, an author and family psychologist to discuss how the feeling of "family" is formed. As stepmoms, we can often feel like outsiders as we step into an "already established family", but we have to change the belief that there's only one way to "family". Not only does Brent speak from his professional knowledge, but he speaks as a partner to a stepmom. How has he helped facilitate the relationship between her and his kids? What have they done to form their own unique family unit? Listen in! If you're looking for a book to help your stepkid's understand how a stepmom can bring positivity to the family, check out Brent's debut children’s book, ⁠Opposititis: A Ridiculous Family Love Story ⁠is a silly heartwarming story for 4- to 9-year-olds and their families. About My Guest: Brent Crandal, PhD, is an author, child and family psychologist, and researcher. He also provides psychotherapy in San Diego and co-authored a widely adopted guide for therapists, Modular CBT for Children and Adolescents with Depression. He enjoys training professionals and teaching in higher education (e.g., UCSD, SDSU, and USD). His research has been published in several peer-review journals on mental health topics for children, youth and families. He created the Advancing California’s Trauma-Informed Systems project, funded by California Department of Social Services, and in partnership with the Ministry of Education, strengthened the supportive services available to children in El Salvador. He often geeks out at Comic-Con, including presenting several times on the intersection of behavioral health and Pop Culture. Learn more or connect with Brent through his website or Instagram So much more than a podcast!!! Find me on the Gram⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@radicalstepmomspodcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want a little more support? Schedule a 1:1 session or become a Radical Member?⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Head to my website!⁠⁠⁠⁠ I am excited for another amazing season! If you would like to be a guest -⁠ ⁠⁠⁠apply here⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/radicalstepmoms/message