49: Mother in the Middle... Help!

In this episode, I talk with Kalynn Spain: farm family coach, young mom, and self-described conflict nerd, about what it really means to be “the mom in the middle” of farm family dynamics.

We explore how mothers often carry the emotional weight of succession conversations, get stuck in the middle of unresolved conflict, and feel responsible for keeping the peace, even when it’s burning them out.

Kalynn shares insights from her coaching work and lived experience raising young kids on the farm, and we offer strategies for flattening communication triangles, setting healthy boundaries, and lightening the load.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying too much for too many people, this episode offers language, encouragement, and tools to help you step out of the middle and move your family forward with care.

Access the full show notes for this episode at elainefroese.com.

Discover more about our guest: Kalynn Spain

Elaine Froese Resources:

• Watch this episode on YouTube.
• SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event
• COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach
• MEMBERSHIP - Join the Farm Family Harmony Membership waitlist
• RESOURCES - download for FREE
• CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition 
• BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here for Elaine or her coaches

Timestamps

0:02:04 - Introduction of "Mom in the Middle" concept 0:05:37 - Discussion on mom's role in family harmony 0:08:33 - Explanation of "flattening the triangle" in family dynamics 0:12:52 - Importance of written communication in family conflicts 0:15:10 - Power of family meetings and facilitation 0:18:53 - Challenges in pulling farm family members into conversations 0:24:43 - Self-care and mental wellness for moms 0:26:54 - Strategies for moms to take care of themselves 0:30:26 - Conflict as a skill to be learned