Linda's Corner: Inspiration for a Better Life

Navigating Bonus Families: Love, Acceptance, and Conflict Resolution with Dr. Jann Blackstone

In this insightful episode of Linda’s Corner: Inspiration for a Better Life, we sit down with Dr. Jann Blackstone, a behavioral scientist, author of The Bonus Family Handbook, and the founder and director of the Bonus Families non-profit organization, a 501 c3 non-profit organization dedicated to peaceful coexistence between divorced or separated parents and their combined families. Dr. Blackstone shares her expertise on transforming the traditional concept of stepfamilies into a more positive and inclusive “bonus family” approach.

With more bonus families existing today than traditional families, Dr. Blackstone explains how this dynamic provides a unique opportunity to expand love and support in a child’s life. She introduces the C.A.R.E. model—Communication, Acceptance, Respect, and Empathy—as a powerful framework for fostering harmony within blended families.

We also explore the importance of co-parenting with a present mindset, rather than focusing on past conflicts, and how to prioritize a child’s emotional well-being. Dr. Blackstone offers a four-step conflict resolution guide to navigate challenges effectively:

1. Identify the problem
2. Bring a possible solution
3. Negotiate
4. Compromise

Listeners will learn why using terms like “bonus mom” or “bonus child” creates a sense of belonging, how to ensure children feel safe and loved after a divorce, and why acceptance is the key to making bonus families thrive.

Join us for an empowering conversation that will transform the way you view blended family dynamics and help create a more loving and supportive environment for everyone involved.

Connect with Dr. Jann Blackstone:
Website: https://bonusfamilies.com

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