Aurora Culpo Discusses the Challenges of Co-Parenting with Ex-Husband Michael Bortone

Aurora Culpo shares her experiences with co-parenting young children. During an interview with PEOPLE, the 35-year-old discussed navigating single parenthood along with her sister Sophia, 27. She focuses on her collaboration with wellness brand Thorne.

Culpo expressed how she and her ex-husband, Michael "Mikey" Bortone, can improve their co-parenting dynamics. Facing recent challenges with their children, Remi, 6, and Soleil, 4, she noted the common tendencies in their parenting.

"There's this unspoken tit-for-tat of who’s doing more," Culpo explained. "While we manage to cheer each other on, sometimes we wait for the other to mess up so we can point it out."

"The emotional weight of co-parenting" Culpo emphasized that this competitive attitude quickly becomes unhealthy. She believes it heightens feelings of guilt associated with parenting. This is particularly reflexive during difficult times in parenthood.

"I think it's such a balancing act," said Culpo. "You want to always do your best, and it’s not a competition. Carelessness can lead to slipping into a competitive mindset with your co-parent. That approach isn’t helpful or productive."

Addressing personal health management, she shared that Thorne's health supplements support personal challenges and enable her to maintain focus.

"Being a single mom requires lots of juggling," she added. "If I forget something, there’s no one else to remember for me. The stakes are high, so I need to keep my brain in great condition."

"Health supplements support daily challenges" Among Thorne's products, she values the 5-HTP capsules. These enhance her cognitive function and energy levels. She takes them each night to improve serotonin production, encouraging restful sleep.

Culpo and Bortone ended their relationship in April 2022. Culpo opened up about her experiences as a single mother shortly before their divorce was officially finalized in 2023.

"Taking it one day at a time while prioritizing my health is crucial," she stated in May 2023. "Regardless of challenges, focusing on what benefits my well-being remains irreplaceably valuable."

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