Podcasts about Empty nest

Loneliness can sneak in after divorce and an empty nest, not as a dramatic breakdown, but as a quiet feeling you carry while you still do your job, return calls, and tell everyone you're okay. I'm Cheryl Esch, a travel coach and solo travel advocate, and I'm sharing what I wish more women said out loud: you can be surrounded by people and still feel completely alone. When big life transitions pile up at once, grief does not always look like tears in public. Sometimes it looks like isolation, numbness, and the exhausting work of pretending you're “strong.”I talk about how my divorce collided with empty nest life, how depression can drain your motivation, and how winter and seasonal affective disorder can make everything heavier. We also get into the social side of healing: what happens when you finally get vulnerable and someone shuts you down, and why that moment can teach you to stay surface-level even when you desperately need support. If you've felt dismissed, too much, or hard to love during a transition, you're not alone, and you're not broken.We close with practical ways to rebuild community and confidence, including women-to-women support, divorce support groups, church groups, and the surprising power of a small women's travel group (think 12 or fewer). Solo travel does not have to mean being lonely. It can be a bridge back to yourself and to friendships that feel real. If this resonates, subscribe, share this with a friend who's starting over, and leave a review. What kind of support would change everything for you right now?Support the showhttps://www.cherylbeckesch.comhello@cherylbeckesch.comInstagram @solotraveladventures50

Kelly and Sharon kick off the show with their 90's Playlist Picks of the Week, celebrating the groundbreaking hip-hop of A Tribe Called Quest and the incredible artistry of Tracy Chapman.   The ladies also discuss Janet Jackson's upcoming headlining performance at a major festival on England's Sandringham Estate and have some fun imagining whether Prince William and Kate might be in attendance. They also chat about The Chicks returning to the road and revisit the story of how Natalie Maines became the group's lead singer in the mid-90s. Kelly also shares a memorable story about seeing Montell Jordan in person outside one of Montreal's most famous venues.   Plus, Jennifer Lopez is preparing to become an empty-nester as her twins get ready to leave for college. Kelly and Sharon discuss J.Lo's plans to help them settle into dorm life and why this milestone is relatable for so many parents. The episode wraps up with Kelly's Trivia and Sharon's 1995 Rewind. Happy Pride Month and thanks for listening to 90's NOW!

Papa Moser und Pantoffelheld Schelker in einer nachdenklichen Folge über Hefeteig aus Özis Darm, Päärchenshootings und runde Geburtstage. Eine Portion Philosophie mit einer Priese Schnaps gewürzt... Ob das gut kommt?

B shares her take on dating during the "in-between phase." That space between raising teenagers and the empty nest of kids at college. PLUS: Thinking about what YOU bring to the table and how men can be even more emotional than women. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

B shares her take on dating during the "in-between phase." That space between raising teenagers and the empty nest of kids at college. PLUS: Thinking about what YOU bring to the table and how men can be even more emotional than women. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is about how a family crisis can lead to an "empty nest joyride" and insights into your passion to be a writer. Sometimes you can be surprised by the amount of insight gained from a difficult period in your life. Your empty nest phase can be surprisingly mighty. My guest today is Linda Hanstra. Linda is someone who went from being a working mother with four busy kids who felt like she had no time for herself or her passions, to a semi-retired empty nester with more time and more freedom.  Learn More HERE!

This week, I'm joined by Clancy Denton, co-host of the podcast The Loud Quiet, for a conversation about motherhood, transitional stages, and leaning into the "loud quiet" of life after grown children leave home.Clancy shares her own experience and how she and her husband started mentoring an entire community of empty nesters, both in-person and over the airwaves.Clancy talks about their book, as well, which would make an excellent gift for Father's Day, college move-in day, Mother's Day, or graduation!Connect with Clancy:The Loud Quiet WebsiteFind the BookListen to The Loud Quiet Podcast____________________Want to be a guest on The Motherhood Experience? Send Val Kleppen a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1758742098661627c9cc46f40

Join me and my cohost, Eden, as we talk about this 1980's-1990's classic! Among other things, we mention: The dreaded "Pop-In," Mary-Kate and Ashley, Betty White and...Seinfeld! Loads of trivia and fun!

On today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks about what to do when the kids "leave the nest." The time between kids leaving the house and reaching retirement is a time of change for most couples.  How do you make sure your kids are prepared for adulthood?  What type of financial help, if any, should you give them if you are able?  What should you do with all of your newfound time and money?  Matt offers some perspective and some examples that can help you navigate the Empty Nest.

Fearne isn't a massive fan of the relentless pressure to reach a definitive state of happiness. It's just not realistic, so she's dropping into your feed every week for some chat about what's making her – and you! – feel great, and what's making us feel completely crap.This is the cosy corner where there's no judgement allowed! All of us can explore what's been on our minds, what's been getting us down, inspiring us, and making us laugh. Want to join the chat? Send us a voicenote, DM, or comment on Instagram @happyplaceofficial!In this chat, Fearne covers:-Why walks are the best for deep and meaningfuls-Going clubbing and feeling 18 again-Why you're only ever as happy as your unhappiest child-How to make the ‘sexiest salad' ever (according to Fearne)-Coping with The Fear that comes with a hangover-A plea to stop chatting on speakerphone on the train-How to say goodbye to your child when they leave home-Dealing with triggers when you're trying to heal Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who really comes first in a man's life—his wife, his mother, or his daughter?Step into the heart of family life with Steve and Mary Alessi as they pull back the curtain on the “priority puzzle” every husband and father faces. They share honest, sometimes emotional reflections on balancing love and loyalty between these key women, drawing from personal stories of raising daughters, caring for aging parents, and watching children marry.You'll hear why putting your spouse first isn't just biblical or psychological wisdom—it's the glue that holds everything together, setting the tone for peace and security at home. The Alessis discuss common pitfalls, like letting guilt or ego steer your decisions, and offer practical tips for resetting family order in a way that honors everyone.Find out how clarity in family roles can bring freedom, unity, and lasting joy to everyone under your roof.Support the showJOIN THE FAMILY BUSINESS WITH OUR NEWSLETTERSign Up for Our Family Business Newsletter and get more inside news from the Alessis + tips and strategies for a happier family! Get free access to the newsletterTEXT THE FAMILY BUSINESS DIRECTLYYou can connect with us via text to ask family questions and get updates on The Family Business! Text FAMILY to 302-524-0800CONNECT WITH THE FAMILY BUSINESSFollow Us on Instagram and FacebookSubscribe on YouTubeLeave a reviewMORE PODCASTS YOU'LL ENJOYListen to the Alessi sisters' daily devotional podcast My Morning DevotionalFollow Our New Podcast with Mary Alessi and her twin sister Martha MunizziWatch The Mary and Martha Show

Summary What if empty nesting isn't just about loss… but about rediscovering yourself again? In this deeply personal episode, Shelly reflects on her first full year as an empty nester after launching her twin boys to college—just days after losing her mother-in-law unexpectedly. From grief and identity shifts to rebuilding rhythms, reconnecting in marriage, and navigating caregiving for aging parents, Shelly shares an honest look at what this season has really been like behind the scenes. Using the framework of a tree—roots, trunk, and leaves—this episode offers encouragement for any woman walking through a major midlife transition and wondering who she is becoming on the other side. If you're navigating an empty nest, caregiving, or a season of change, this conversation will help you feel seen, grounded, and hopeful about what comes next. Key Takeaways What the first year of empty nesting actually feels like Why grief and goodness often coexist in midlife transitions The emotional impact of shifting identity after motherhood How connection and community help carry us through change Why God doesn't waste transitions—even painful ones A simple framework for navigating any midlife season: Roots → inner healing and grief work Trunk → connection and support Leaves → joy, hobbies, and rediscovering yourself The reminder that caregiving often replaces the space parenting once filled How to identify what your soul needs most in this season Resources & Links Rooted Gathering Weekly Prayer Call Follow Shelly on Instagram Midlife Made Simple Website Final Thought The grief and the goodness can sit at the same table. And sometimes the season that feels like an ending becomes the beginning of returning to yourself. Resources:Rooted Gathering Prayer Call - https://midlifemadesimplepodcast.com/prayerRooted Collective Newsletter: https://midlifemadesimplepodcast.com/newsletter

What happens after homeschooling ends? In this encouraging and honest conversation, I talk with veteran (now retired) homeschool mom Dawn Garrett about life after graduating all three of her children. If you've ever wondered what comes next after years of homeschooling (or if you're approaching the end of your homeschool journey) this episode offers wisdom, perspective, and reassurance. Dawn Garrett shares her experience transitioning from full-time homeschool mom to a new season of life filled with unexpected quiet, reflection, and opportunity. Together, we discuss the emotional, spiritual, and practical aspects of this major life shift, including identity, purpose, and what it means to let go while still nurturing strong relationships with adult children. You'll hear insights on what truly matters in homeschooling, from the importance of family rhythms like worship and rest to the long-term impact of reading great books together. Dawn also reflects on what she might have done differently, offering encouragement for homeschool moms in every stage, from those just beginning to those nearing graduation. This conversation also explores how to navigate the transition when adult children are still living at home, how to shift from authority to friendship, and how to embrace a slower, more reflective pace after years of structured homeschooling days. Topics covered include: Life after homeschooling ends Homeschool mom identity and purpose Transitioning to an empty nest Launching adult children successfully Emotional adjustment after homeschooling Encouragement for new and veteran homeschool moms Whether you're in the thick of homeschooling or standing on the threshold of what comes next, this conversation offers hope, wisdom, and a gentle reminder that every season has its purpose. Don't forget to share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement in her homeschool journey! Show notes and transcript: https://www.humilityanddoxology.com/from-homeschool-mom-to-empty-nestLife Skills Now: https://sl290.isrefer.com/go/LSN5/arsloan/Homeschool START Course: https://www.made2homeschool.com/a/2148255817/KNcPGL3tGetting Started With Shakespeare Guide: https://www.humilityanddoxology.com/exploring-shakespeare-children/FREE 5 Day Gentle Homeschool Reset: https://www.humilityanddoxology.com/gentle-homeschool-reset/While you're here, would you take a minute to leave a rating and review in your podcast app? Send me a screenshot of your review and I'll send you a $15 gift certificate to my shop! Just email me your review screenshot at Amy@HumilityandDoxology.comJoin Made2Homeschool for exclusive content and community: HumilityandDoxology.com/M2H ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.made2homeschool.com/a/2147529243/KNcPGL3t⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Homeschool Planner Calendar: https://www.humilityanddoxology.com/free-homeschool-planner-calendar/FREE Homeschool Planning Guide: https://www.humilityanddoxology.com/homeschool-planning-guide/Year of Memory Work: https://humilityanddoxology.com/year-of-memory-workFollow Humility and Doxology Online:Blog ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.humilityanddoxology.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/HumilityAndDoxology⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://instagram.com/humilityanddoxology⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube.com/humilityanddoxology⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amy's Favorites: ⁠⁠⁠https://humilityanddoxology.com/favorites⁠⁠⁠This podcast and description contains affiliate links.

The Plan is… No Plan (Season 6 | Episode 237) with Dave and Veronica In this episode of the Open Nesters podcast, we revisit a compelling conversation from January 2021, featuring David and Veronica James, famously known as the Gypsy Nesters. Despite the lingering uncertainties of the pandemic, David and Veronica's adventurous spirit shines through as they share their journey transitioning from traditional home life to full-time globetrotting. As pioneers of the midlife travel movement, they emphasize their philosophy of flexibility, explaining how the motto “the plan is no plan” has colored their experiences while navigating global exploration. The Plan is… No Plan (S6 | E237) David and Veronica's story began as they faced the empty nest dilemma. Instead of succumbing to traditional fears associated with this life transition, they chose to sell everything and embark on their first big adventure, which they lovingly referred to as their “victory lap” when their youngest child left for college. Travel enthusiasts at heart, the couple has traversed six continents and over 60 countries in the last decade, inspiring other couples to rediscover themselves beyond their parenting roles. We delve into their empowering narrative about what it means to embrace life’s endless possibilities, especially as a couple rediscovering their bond after years of focus on their children. 0:47  Open Nesters: A New Adventure 22:30  Skydiving: Conquering Fear 27:54  Embracing the Empty Nest 29:58  Reconnecting as a Couple 34:55  Inspiring Journeys Ahead Their journey not only illuminated the excitement of travel but also highlighted the deeper connections they forged with each other and their adult children. We discuss how the couple's unique strategies for maintaining open, honest communication with their kids allowed for richer relationships post-nesting. Veronica reflects on her initial apprehensions as a helicopter mom and how stepping out of her comfort zone through travel and shared experiences rebuilt her connection with David. Their candid discussions reveal the importance of not just the adventures they embarked on, but the joy of togetherness, making memories, and growing alongside each other. Throughout the episode, David and Veronica recount their myriad of travel experiences—from the funny to the frightful—like their daunting skydiving attempt on Valentine’s Day, which highlights the couple’s comical yet brave approach to conquering fears together. Listeners will appreciate the balance of humor and introspective advice the Gypsy Nesters provide, encouraging couples to step into new adventures and prioritize shared experiences that rekindle their relationship. As the couple discusses their transition to living on a boat in Southern California, listeners are reminded that travel doesn't always have to mean constant movement but can also symbolize a way to embrace new lifestyles and choices, even from a dock. As they close, the Gypsy Nesters offer deeply insightful advice on what it means to be open nesters, emphasizing the importance of allowing adult children the freedom to grow while continuing to nurture the romantic bond with each other. Their book, “Going Gypsy: One Couple’s Adventure from Empty Nest to No Nest at All,” serves as a resource for couples seeking inspiration in the next chapter of their lives. Head to their website, gypsynesters.com, for more about their exciting journey, real-life experiences, and lessons learned. This episode serves as a celebration of love, adventure, and the transformative power of embracing life's unpredictable turns together. About Tessa Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters. Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author, and, of course, Podcaster. Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa's specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature. If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives. Please email Tessa to make a connection. And visit her page here on the Open Nesters Website. If you like, please answer the question: What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE… Adventure  Freedom of Expression  Exploration and Fun  Body Movement  New circles of friends  Deep love relationships

Join us at 1440, June 11-13th, 2026: Click to learn moreIf you've ever felt like you were failing at something you were supposed to be naturally good at – this conversation will set you free.Elinor Cleghorn is a feminist historian and the author of A Woman's Work: Reclaiming the Radical History of Mothering, and in this deeply personal, wide-ranging conversation with Dr. Mindy, she unpacks one of the most important questions of our time: why has motherhood been so diminished, misunderstood, and so weaponized against the very women who do it?From the myth of the perfect maternal instinct to the constructed guilt that has silenced women for centuries, from the empty nest to the role of fatherhood in healing the masculine wound, this conversation goes everywhere. It's equal parts history lesson, permission slip, and love letter to every woman who has ever given everything to raising a family and wondered whether she was doing it right.Spoiler: you were.A Woman's Work by Elinor Cleghorn is available in bookshops and online now. Find Elinor on Instagram at @elinorcleghorn.For more resources related to today's episode, visit the podcast episode page: https://www.drmindypelz.com/ep338  Connect with Dr. Mindy:Join Reset AcademyWatch the episodes on YouTubeFollow Dr. Mindy on InstagramSubscribe to Dr. Mindy's newsletter Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, fasting routine, or lifestyle.

What happens when the house gets quiet and you're left asking, “Who am I now?” In this heartfelt and honest conversation, Wendy sits down with award-winning journalist and author Rita Lussier to explore the emotional journey of the empty nest and the many midlife transitions that often come with it. From identity shifts and relationship changes to grief, growth, and rediscovery, Rita shares how she navigated this tender season with humor, grace, and self-compassion—and how you can too. This episode is a beautiful reminder that even in life's in-between moments, there is meaning, healing, and a powerful opportunity to come back home to yourself.   What You'll Learn: Why the empty nest can feel more emotional (and complex) than expected How to rediscover your identity after years of caregiving Simple ways to create new routines that support your mental and emotional well-being The importance of self-care, community, and trying new experiences in midlife How to embrace life's transitions with grace, trust, and a sense of possibility ✨  

The empty nest season can either expose distance in your marriage or become one of its most life-giving chapters. In this episode, Derek, Andrew, and Gabrielle unpack 9 practical ways to reconnect, rebuild, and thrive when the kids leave home. Whether you are in this season or want to have a marriage that prepares for it, listen now so you can thrive when kids leave the home!Discussion Questions:- If our kids left home tomorrow, would we feel close… or like strangers? Why?- When was the last time we intentionally learned or grew in our marriage?- What's something fun we could start doing together again?- Are we serving together anywhere? If not, where could we start?- Is there anything we've avoided talking about (sex, finances, conflict)?- Where do we need to give each other more space—or more connection?- What would it look like for me to “draw a circle around myself” this week?

This week's episode came from a real moment.I was sitting on my daughter's porch in Florida, holding space for her grief, and somewhere in the quiet I felt my own.Not because anything was wrong. But because motherhood at this stage looks so different than I expected, and I'm still learning who I am inside of that shift.

Have you ever noticed how much better you feel when your teen or adult child is open, responsive, or appreciative… and how quickly your mood drops when they're distant or uninterested? Like you're okay when they're okay with you, but unsettled when they're not? Today, I'm continuing the Mindset Traps of Parenting Teens and the Empty Nest series with a focus on validation seeking—the habit of relying on your child's responses to determine how you feel about yourself. In this episode, I unpack why this pattern is so common for moms in this stage of motherhood, especially as you're navigating letting go and redefining your role. You'll start to see how easy it is to tie your sense of connection, purpose, and even identity to how your child shows up. But more importantly, I'll show you what's possible when you shift this. When you stop relying on your child's responses to feel steady, you open the door to a deeper kind of confidence—one that allows you to set boundaries, trust yourself, and stay grounded no matter what. This is the work that changes how you experience both parenting teens and the empty nest, helping you feel more at peace, more connected, and more like yourself again.

Episode 258:From Empty Nest to Full Alignment: Heidi's Journey Back to SelfWhat happens when the role that once defined you… no longer does?In this intimate and powerful conversation, we sit down with our client, Heidi Furking, as she shares her journey through empty nesting—and who she became on the other side of it.Four years post–empty nest, Heidi opens up about the identity shift that many women experience but few talk about. The silence, the unexpected space, the questions of “Who am I now?” and “What actually brings me joy?”Through her journey, she shares how coaching became a pivotal anchor—guiding her through the loss of identity, helping her rebuild her relationship with time, and ultimately reconnecting her to herself in a completely new season of life.This episode is for the woman who is navigating transition, craving clarity, and ready to redefine what fulfillment looks like on her own terms.In This Episode, We Explore:* The emotional reality of empty nesting (beyond the highlight reel)* Losing identity—and how to rebuild it with intention* What happens when you suddenly have more time and don't know what to do with it* Rediscovering joy in a new season of life* The role coaching played in Heidi's transformation* Choosing yourself without guiltKey Takeaways:* Your identity is allowed to evolve—especially in new seasons* More time doesn't equal clarity—it requires intention* Joy has to be rediscovered, not assumed* Support changes everything when navigating life transitionsA Quote to Remember:“I had to learn who I was without the roles I had always carried.”If you're in a season of transition and feeling the pull to reconnect with yourself, this is your invitation.Explore what it looks like to master your relationship with self, time, and money inside YG Collaborations.https://calendar.app.google/g7wQ3cb7wSHOP OUR LOOKS HERE:https://shorturl.at/suqrg

If you've ever felt caught between holding on and letting go as your kids grow up, this episode will feel I'm talking directly to you: the mom navigating the messy, emotional middle of the raising and launching big kids. Where you're still needed… but no longer in control. I know how confusing this stage of motherhood can feel. One moment you're deeply involved in parenting teens, and the next you're questioning your role, your boundaries, and even your sense of purpose. It's easy for your mind to spiral...into overthinking, anxiety, and the pressure to “get it right.” But what if nothing has gone wrong? In this episode, I'm sharing three powerful truths that will completely shift how you experience this transition. You'll begin to understand why letting go feels so hard, how your brain is wired to resist it, and what it really takes to let go of stress and anxiety without losing your connection to your child. If you're ready to feel more grounded, more confident, and less consumed by worry…this conversation will meet you exactly where you are.

Send us an email @ info@parentcoachesunleashed.com SummaryJessica shares with Carrie her emotional journey and practical insights as her youngest prepares for college, exploring changes in family dynamics, communication, and planning for the future.

 Your Emotions Are Trying to Tell You Something: Emotional HealthWhat if the heaviness you have been carrying — the irritability, the quiet sadness, the feeling that you are one small thing away from falling apart — is not a sign that something is wrong with you, but a sign that something inside you is finally asking to be heard?In Episode 4 of the Women's History Month Reset, PK makes the case that your emotional health is not a luxury, a weakness, or something to manage in private. It is the foundation on which everything else in your life is built. And for midlife women who have spent decades showing up for everyone else, it is the one thing most urgently in need of tending.You'll hear why midlife is the season when suppressed emotions tend to surface — and why that is actually your body's wisdom at work, what the science says about the physical consequences of unprocessed emotions on the midlife female body, why the women most likely to ignore their emotional health are the ones who are strongest for everyone else, and how to recognise the early warning signs before your emotional health begins to spiral.PK also walks you through what it actually means to look under the hood of your emotional life, introduces a framework for understanding what your feelings are telling you rather than managing them into silence, and closes with practical steps you can take today to begin tending your emotional health — before it demands your attention in a way you can no longer ignore.Your emotions are not the problem. They are the signal. And this episode will help you finally learn to read them.Affirmation: "I honor my emotions as messengers of truth. I am worthy of being seen, heard, and valued — beginning with myself."

Description: Marriage evolves... and so do the people in it. In this episode, we get honest about communication, changing roles, and what it takes to make partnership work through life's seasons. We discuss: Who This Episode Is For This episode is for couples who are navigating transitions in their marriage, especially those approaching or experiencing the "empty nester" phase. If you and your spouse are reflecting on how your relationship evolves over time, confronting changes in your individual identities, or wanting to improve day-to-day communication as your family dynamics shift, this conversation will resonate with you. It's also relevant for anyone interested in authentic discussions about growing together through different life stages and understanding how to maintain connection, partnership, and friendship in marriage. This Podcast is sponsored by American Heritage Credit Union. To learn more and open an account go to: www.AHCU.co/ForBetterandWorth Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung

Description: Marriage evolves... and so do the people in it. In this episode, we get honest about communication, changing roles, and what it takes to make partnership work through life's seasons. We discuss: How an "empty nest" changes marriage dynamics and daily routines (03:46) The evolution of personal and partner expectations over years of marriage (11:19) Why ongoing communication (not mind-reading) is crucial, even after decades together (19:50) Navigating changes in traditional gender roles and responsibilities at home (22:15) The importance of friendship, liking each other, and finding shared (and solo) interests (28:56) Who This Episode Is For This episode is for couples who are navigating transitions in their marriage, especially those approaching or experiencing the "empty nester" phase. If you and your spouse are reflecting on how your relationship evolves over time, confronting changes in your individual identities, or wanting to improve day-to-day communication as your family dynamics shift, this conversation will resonate with you. It's also relevant for anyone interested in authentic discussions about growing together through different life stages and understanding how to maintain connection, partnership, and friendship in marriage.   This Podcast is sponsored by American Heritage Credit Union.  To learn more and open an account go to: www.AHCU.co/ForBetterandWorth Our website: www.forbetterandworth.com Get Ericka's book, Naked and Unashamed: 10 Money Conversations Every Couple Must Have Check out our local TV spotlight Connect with us: Instagram: @forbetterandworth YouTube: @forbetterandworth Ericka: @erickayoungofficial Chris: @1cbyoung  

Send Jay comments via text“Often, we are left just to watch from the sidelines.”Those words came from a heartbreaking email sent by a listener at 10:00 p.m. from her quiet kitchen. With two of her children getting married this spring, she's wrestling with a feeling many of us know all too well: the sense that the "main event" of our lives is officially over.In this solo deep dive, I'm challenging the idea that launching our children is the "final step" of parenting. The truth? You aren't being fired; you're being promoted. We are moving from the director's chair to a front-row seat, and while the transition is "brutal," it's also where the real relationship begins.In this episode, we explore:The Identity Shift: Why being "unnecessary" as a manager is actually the goal of a successful launch.The Swim Team Lesson: A personal story about a recent wedding that reminded me why we did all those years of "carpool duty" in the first place.The "Director" vs. The "Human": How to let your old role take a bow so your truest self can finally take the stage.The WAIT & WEIGHT Method: My practical, in-the-moment physical exercise to help you stop micromanaging and start holding a "safe harbor" for your adult children.If you're sitting with your coffee today feeling like you're stuck on the sidelines, this episode is your invitation to look at the field differently. It's time to stop looking at what's missing and start asking: What else?Support the showSUPPORT THE MISSION: If this episode provided strategic value, please Follow and Save the show on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your "Save" helps us reach more families navigating the challenge of change. WORK WITH JAY (1:1 PRIVATE ADVISORY): Move beyond general advice. Jay works with a select number of parents in a 6-month Private Advisory Container to navigate identity recalibration and second act design. Book a Second Act Strategy Session

Platform doesn't have to be a dirty word, if you think of it the way Becky does.Becky Kopitzke is an author, co-host of The Girlfriend's Guide to an Empty Nest podcast, and a business coach for Christian women who are fulfilling their calling to write and publish.Becky's sharing how to build and grow your author platform, and how to start making money before your book is even done.Resources mentioned:Becky's websiteAuthorRise Academy (with Tracie Miles)Author ConservatoryRelated episodes:Earn book marketing money by selling digital productsFund your book launch with preorders

Click to Text Thoughts on Today's Episode "It's too late" is the biggest lie we tell ourselves after 60. Allison McCune Davis is here to bust that myth wide open. After 14 years in the natural health space and raising her family, Allison turned 60 and felt a familiar restlessness — the kind that signals a new chapter. That spark led her to write 60 Is a Good Start: A Powerful Body, a Purposeful Life, and a Plan to Make It Happen, a book that challenges the idea that 60 is "the gateway to old age" and reframes it as one of the most opportunity-rich seasons of a woman's life.What We Cover in This Episode:Allison shares how turning 60 triggered a season of deep introspection The biggest myth about life after 60 The self-perpetuating circle of purpose: Body Work, Brain Work & World Work (Allison's framework is rooted in longevity research)The 60-Day DareThe power of rebuilding relationships and communityGet Allison's book, 60 is a Good StartConnect with Allisonhttps://allisonmccunedavis.comInstagram: @allison.mccune.davisFacebook: Allison McCune DavisYouTubeStrong and Vibrant at Home - 7 weeks of app-based at-home strength training designed for women in perimenopause and beyond. April special: Live Office Hours every Wednesday at noon Central for program participants (new, current, or returning).Https://www.gracedhealth.com/strongandvibrant My latest recommended ways to nourish and move your body, mind and spirit: Nourished Notes Bi-Weekly NewsletterBe Strong and Vibrant! Online Strength Training Course for Christian Women in Perimenopause and Beyond30+ Non-Gym Ways to Improve Your Health (free download)Connect with Amy: GracedHealth.com Instagram: @GracedHealthYouTube: @AmyConnell

Send Jay comments via text"Is the silence a void we need to fill, or a space we need to protect?"If you've been tuning in lately, you've heard some incredible experts in the studio—from downsizing gurus to neuroplasticity doctors. But today, the guest chair is empty, the lights are low, and it's just us.In this special "Reset" episode, Jay Ramsden returns to the show's roots. He's stepping out from behind the interviewer's mic to share the candid "morning coffee thoughts" that hit when the house is finally quiet. It's one thing to hear an expert talk about purpose; it's another to stand in your kitchen on a Tuesday morning realizing your role has shifted from "Manager" to a "Consultant" position you never actually applied for.In this solo session, Jay dives into:The Solo Sessions Return: Why Jay is bringing back deep-dive episodes to make sense of life in real-time.The Morning Coffee Struggle: How a hot cup of coffee can feel like a win one day and a reminder of what's missing the next.Manager vs. Consultant: Navigating the identity crisis that happens when your "parenting title" is retired.A Promise of Candor: Why we have to be honest about the messy middle before we can "wind up" for the next chapter.Whether you're a few steps ahead or a few steps behind, remember: you aren't just an empty nester. You're a pioneer of a whole new life.Support the showWANT TO BE A GUEST ON THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE?Send Jay Ramsden a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thisemptynestlifeBECOME A VIP SUBSCRIBER (Join Today!)Bonus Content for Subscribers OnlyEpisode ShoutoutsThank You EmailsPrivate Meet & Greets via Zoom+ MoreENJOY THE SHOW?Don't miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more.Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we'd appreciate your support greatly.

In this episode Sharde says goodbye (for now) as she is moving away. Gaby tries to distract himself from his impending sadness by chatting with Sharde bout what she's been up to. Enjoy! P.S. If you would like to wish Sharde good travels, email her at boardgamesnobs@gmail.com.  If you so wish, you may donate to her traveling and living expenses below, thanks! Sharde's Venmo Sharde's CashApp

The Empty Nest ShiftApril's conversation is centered around Empty Nesting — a season many women experience, but few openly prepare for.In this episode, we explore the statistics and emotional realities behind this major life transition.

Send Jay comments via text"The body keeps the score."We've all heard that phrase, but what does it actually mean when you're 55 and dealing with back pain, migraines, or digestive issues that no doctor seems to be able to explain?In today's episode, I'm joined by Dr. David Clarke, President of the Association for the Treatment of Neuroplastic Symptoms. Dr. Clarke shares the incredible story of an "elevator ride" that shifted his entire medical career—taking him from a traditional gastroenterologist to a pioneer in treating neuroplastic symptoms. We dive deep into why almost 30% of adults in midlife suffer from chronic pain that isn't caused by a physical injury, but by "brain-generated" signals triggered by stress, childhood adversity, and the "deep stress" of being a lifelong people-pleaser.In this episode, we discuss:The "Fifth Floor" Breakthrough: How talking can cure physical conditions that specialized tests can't find.The 7,000 Patient Journey: What Dr. Clarke learned from decades of uncovering hidden emotional triggers.Neuroplasticity vs. Structural Damage: How to tell if your pain is a "pinched nerve" or a brain-generated signal.The People-Pleaser Connection: Why caregivers and "strong" personalities are often the most prone to these symptoms.Parenting Aftermath: How our own childhood experiences shape our health today—and how Dr. Clarke changed his own parenting style based on his research.If you've been told "they can't find anything wrong," but you know the pain is real, this episode is your invitation to look deeper and start a new pathway toward healing.Connect with Dr. David Clarke:Take the Quiz: symptomatic.me (The 12-question self-assessment)Podcast: The Story Behind the SymptomsBook: They Can't Find Anything Wrong!Socials: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook,Support the showWANT TO BE A GUEST ON THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE?Send Jay Ramsden a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thisemptynestlifeBECOME A VIP SUBSCRIBER (Join Today!)Bonus Content for Subscribers OnlyEpisode ShoutoutsThank You EmailsPrivate Meet & Greets via Zoom+ MoreENJOY THE SHOW?Don't miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more.Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we'd appreciate your support greatly.

Have you ever felt like no matter what you do as a mom… it's just not enough? Like you should be more patient… more present… handling everything better, but you're never quite getting it right? Today, I'm continuing the Mindset Traps of Parenting Teens and the Empty Nest series with a focus on what I call the Should Trap. It's when your mind is constantly telling you what you "should" be doing that's different, but the result is that you stay stuck in guilt, pressure, and self-doubt, especially in this stage of raising teens and navigating the empty nest. You'll start to see where these “shoulds” come from, why they feel so true… and most importantly, how to step out of them so you can feel more confident, more at peace, and actually trust yourself again.

Your Tribe Is Your Medicine: Social HealthWhat if the most powerful health intervention available to you right now isn't a supplement, a workout plan, or a new morning routine — but a phone call to your best friend?In Episode 3 of the Women's History Month Reset, PK makes the case that your social connections are not a luxury. They are medicine for your mind, your body, and your spirit. And the research to back that up is more compelling than most women realize.You'll hear four reasons why your friendships deserve to be treated as a non-negotiable health practice, what a landmark 80-year Harvard study found about the single greatest predictor of longevity, why the U.S. Surgeon General declared loneliness a public health epidemic comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and why midlife women — who are by nature social architects — are also the first to let their friendships slip when life gets busy.PK also introduces a metaphor that will change how you see every relationship in your life, connects women's social power to Women's History Month in a way you won't forget, and closes with five practical ways to start tending your relationship garden — starting today.Your tribe is not a distraction from your work. It is not a reward for when everything else is done. Your tribe is part of what keeps you well.Affirmation: "I invest in my relationships, and they sustain me. My community is a source of strength, healing, and joy."

Morgan's first big role was as Jennifer Pace Phillips, in the CBS-TV daytime series, “Search for Tomorrow”, which was the beginning of her television career. Following her stint on “Search for Tomorrow”, she moved to Los Angeles, where she made numerous guest appearances on TV series. She had a recurring role on “Mork & Mindy”, with Robin Williams, as well as a recurring role on “Roseanne”. You could not complete a Morgan Fairchild biography without one of her most popular roles – the original Jenna Wade on “Dallas”, as well as appearing on such series as “Barnaby Jones”, “Happy Days”, “The Bob Newhart Show”, “A Man Called Sloane”, “Police Woman”, “Switch”, “Kojak”, “Big Shamus”, “Perry Mason”, “Burke's Law”, “Murder, She Wrote”, “Lois & Clark”, “Empty Nest”, “Diagnosis Murder”, “Robin's Hoods”, “Friends”, and “Cybill”. She also starred in the contemporary film noir mystery “Writers Block” for USA Network. Morgan starred in “Star Command” with Chad Everett for the United/Paramount Network as well as “Dead Man's Island” with William Shatner, Barbara Eden, Roddy McDowell, and Christopher Atkins, a Movie-of-the-Week for CBS.

There's a moment in many relationships… and it's not loud, dramatic, or explosive. It's quiet. In this episode of Reignite: Love, Sex & Truth for Conscious Couples, we explore the relationship reckoning that happens when the distractions fade… the kids leave… the chaos settles… and you're left facing each other again. They break down the patterns couples fall into during these life transitions… and what it actually takes to reconnect, rebuild, and consciously choose each other again.   What You'll Hear in This Episode: What happens when the “quiet moment” occurs, where relationships are revealed, and why most couples aren't prepared for it When parenting was the glue, and now there's distance How fear-based relating and overcorrection create disconnection in the second or even third relationship Why does it feel so unsafe for both partners when only one has their foot in Why desire fades and how it's directly linked to communication and emotional safety What intentional dating actually looks like    This moment in your relationship…isn't the end. It's the exposure. The invitation to ask: Do we still choose each other? And if the answer is yes… There is so much that can be rebuilt. Because when you lean in consciously…connection can return, respect can deepen, and desire can come back online

Send Jay comments via textYour house didn't suddenly get bigger; your life just got different. Transitioning to an empty nest can turn a lively home into a quiet space filled with big questions: Do we need all this room? Should we stay, go, or renovate? In this insightful episode, real estate agent and author Kim Costa joins us to explore how empty nesters can choose a home that fits their current identity, not the one from a decade ago.Kim shares her unique Wheelhouse Assessment, starting with the “Four Ms”—myself, mastery, mission, and mates—and expanding into the wheel of life: health, environment, fun, romance, career, finances, family, and spirituality. You'll learn how to separate essential needs from “nice to have” features using Maslow's hierarchy of needs.With practical strategies for repurposing rooms, avoiding new problems when solving old ones, and understanding the benefits of renting first, Kim demystifies the home transition process. The concept of “lock and leave” living is also explored for those desiring more freedom with less maintenance.Key Takeaways:Identify signs your home no longer fits your lifestyle.Use the Four Ms to clarify your identity and support system.Define your ideal lifestyle through the wheel of life.Start with a clear vision for your next phase.Renting first can test a new community before committing.Join us as Kim Costa highlights that this chapter isn't an ending—it's a chance to redefine, rediscover, and reignite your life. If today's episode resonates with you, take that first step and visit thisemptynestlife.com to start your journey.Support the showBECOME A VIP SUBSCRIBER (Join Today!)Bonus Content for Subscribers OnlyEpisode ShoutoutsThank You EmailsPrivate Meet & Greets via Zoom+ MoreENJOY THE SHOW?Don't miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more.Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we'd appreciate your support greatly.LOVE THE SHOW?Get THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE swagCONNECT WITH JAYEmail, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok

Send Jay comments via textEver catch yourself thinking, “If I really tried, I'd be good at that”? This protective thought often keeps us from taking risks, especially during midlife transitions. In this compelling episode, we sit down with Leighton Hart, the creator behind Leighton Writes, to explore the journey of modern midlife reinvention.Leighton shares his insights on navigating early creative sparks, blogging while raising young kids, falling silent during corporate seasons, and eventually deciding to build a public voice online. He emphasizes that showing who you are is more impactful than simply telling, and explains how to maintain a clear personal brand while doing brand stewardship effectively.We also dive into the messy aspects of this transition: the sting of criticism, the urge to quit just before achieving momentum, and the identity shifts accompanying the empty nest phase. Leighton's grounding message is simple: chase your curiosity, take the shot, and avoid the regret of wondering what could have been.Key Highlights & Takeaways:Discover the spark that fuels creativity and storytelling.Learn how to build a public voice with a personal brand on social media.Understand the realities of entrepreneurship at 40 and 50.Explore the importance of consistency and resilience in your journey.Embrace the power of curiosity in creating a fulfilling second act.Leighton Hart Bio: Leighton Hart is the creator behind Leighton Writes, a fast-growing social media presence known for its humor, insight, and relatable take on mid-life reinvention. Before becoming a full-time creator, Leighton spent two decades building and selling businesses. Leighton also serves as a content creator and marketing strategist for Turtleson, a national men's apparel brand, where he helps shape storytelling, social strategy, and ambassador relationships. His content offers a grounded, funny, and encouraging perspective for anyone navigating the middle stretch of life or seeking a fresh creative spark.Find Leighton Online: LinkedIn, Instagram, WebsiteSupport the showBECOME A VIP SUBSCRIBER (Join Today!)Bonus Content for Subscribers OnlyEpisode ShoutoutsThank You EmailsPrivate Meet & Greets via Zoom+ MoreENJOY THE SHOW?Don't miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more.Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we'd appreciate your support greatly.LOVE THE SHOW?Get THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE swagCONNECT WITH JAYEmail, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok

If you're a mom who has spent years parenting teens and putting everyone else first, you might expect that once your kids grow up and you find yourself in the empty nest, life will finally open up for you. But many moms discover that the habit of putting themselves last doesn't disappear—it simply follows us into the next stage of motherhood. In this episode, I share a realization I've been having about how easy it is to keep postponing joy, even when our kids no longer need us in the same way. I talk about the fears that make letting go of responsibility feel uncomfortable. If you're navigating a new chapter of motherhood, it might be time to start creating space for yourself again. Join me to figure out what standing in your way.

When we've been carrying a lot for a long time, "fine" can start to feel like the only option.  In this conversation, Jessie is joined by Dr. Jennifer Swaringen an orthopedic surgeon and yoga teacher. She has already been to Jessie's Nicasio Creek Farm retreat twice: once with a friend, and once on her own during an empty-nest transition.  We talk about:  what shifts when women physicians step into a small, safe community how coaching helps us see the stories we've been living inside why nervous-system care (movement, breath, stillness, sound) can create a steadiness that thinking alone sometimes can't reach. Connection isn't a luxury and being cared for is a practice. We explore: How resentment, catastrophizing, and "I'm only valuable when I'm producing" show up (and soften) Why coming to a retreat alone can actually deepen connection Coaching vs. yoga: insight work and nervous-system work (and why both matter) Staying connected after the retreat so it becomes real life Empty nest as a transition point and a valid time to ask for support Pearls of wisdom Noticing our default stories reduces their power. Coaching and yoga work differently, and together. Safe community expands what feels possible. Coming alone isn't a disadvantage. Allowing ourselves to be cared for is a real practice—especially for women physicians. Reflection questions Where are you telling an old story that keeps us stuck? What support would you allow if you no longer needed to earn it? Where are you craving connection—and what is one small follow-through? Ways to work with Jessie: Coaching: www.jessiemahoneymd.comCME Wellness Retreats: www.jessiemahoneymd.com/retreats Free Live-Stream Mindful Yoga: www.jessiemahoneymd.com/yoga Blog: www.jessiemahoneymd.com/jessies-blog Podcast page: www.jessiemahoneymd.com/mindful-healers-podcast Nothing shared in the Healing Medicine Podcast is medical advice.  

Have you ever woken up at 2am with your mind racing…convinced that the distance between you and your child means the relationship is slipping away… or that their struggle is going to define their future… or that the tension in your house is never going to get better… or that this heavy, almost empty nest feeling means the best part of your life is behind you? That spiral where your brain takes something uncertain or hard and turns it into a permanent disaster? Today, I'm continuing the Mindset Traps of Parenting Teens and the Empty Nest series with a focus on Catastrophizing. I'm going to talk about why your brain does it, how it steals your peace, and how to interrupt that worst case scenario spiral so you can approach your life and your big kid with calm confidence and self-trust…even when things are unpredictable and messy. Join me to learn how to stop falling prey to the worst case scenario spiral.

Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!Join Wendy for her dreamy Summer Solstice White Party on Saturday June 20, 2026 —an al fresco evening of delicious food, intention-setting, and celebration at the Phineas Wright House. Wear white, gather at the long table in the field, and toast to the season ahead. Save you spot here.Learn more about The Women's Lunch Place in Boston. In this episode, Wendy sits down with Marile Borden, marketing agency owner who decided in her first year of empty nesting to start a side hustle with her husband: buying an Italian-made wine truck and becoming a professional partygoer. When friends sent them pictures of a wine truck at a graduation party, Marile and her husband—in different parts of the house—saw the photos simultaneously and both thought: we could do that. Three weeks later, they said yes.They explore:How to recognize inspired action when your body says yesWhy having a project to do together as a couple makes empty nesting exciting instead of emptyWhat it takes to start a side hustle over 50 This is a conversation about trusting your instincts, taking action on entrepreneurial ideas even when you're "supposed to be" winding down, and building something fun with your partner during a major life transition. What if empty nesting isn't an ending—it's the perfect time to start something new?Connect with Marile:thegetawaybar.coInstagram @the.getawaybarFacebook________________________________________________________________________________________ Connect with Wendy: LinkedinInstagram: @wendy.harropFacebook: Phineas Wright House Website: Phineas Wright House PWH Farm StaysPWH Curated Experience and Travel Interested in being a guest on the show? Send your pitch to podcast@phineaswrighthouse.com Podcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat! If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a 5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.

Send Jay comments via textWhat if the second half of your life is where your real story begins? In this energizing episode, mentor and speaker Joy Rowland joins us for a raw conversation about rebuilding confidence, cultivating true sisterhood, and using neuroplasticity to change what seems unchangeable. From her journey of overcoming poverty in northern Nigeria, through a decade of grit in London, to a fresh start in Canada, Joy shares her battle with imposter syndrome and language barriers, and how she learned that success is not just for others. Step by step, she teaches us how to question old programming and practice new thoughts, leading to transformative results.We dive deep into why community is more powerful than willpower, especially after 40 and through the empty nest phase. Joy provides practical tips for making new connections—starting with simple greetings, compliments, and showing up consistently. She explains how therapy and coaching can work together to help process old wounds and move forward clearly.If you're feeling invisible, burnt out, or stuck, this episode offers a grounded roadmap filled with evidence-based confidence and accountability. Key Takeaways:Redefine success in your 40s and beyond.Discover why community accelerates personal growth.Simple ways to forge meaningful friendships online and offline.Combine therapy and coaching for holistic healing.Use neuroplasticity to reshape your beliefs and actions.Joy Rowland's Bio: Joy Rowland is a certified Next Level Mentor and the creator of the Next Level Women brand. She is passionate about helping women entrepreneurs create real momentum, stay motivated, and reach their next level — personally, professionally, and financially. She does this by creating a supportive, loving and inspiring place where women can find sisterhood, inspiration, accountability, and support to reach their next level.Find Joy Online: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Podcast Support the showBECOME A VIP SUBSCRIBER (Join Today!) Bonus Content for Subscribers Only Episode Shoutouts Thank You Emails Private Meet & Greets via Zoom + More ENJOY THE SHOW?Don't miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more. Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we'd appreciate your support greatly. LOVE THE SHOW?Get THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE swagCONNECT WITH JAYEmail, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok

It's episode 500, so my husband is joining me! We talked about how much better things function now in our home. I asked him if he had any decluttering regrets, and his answer led to a great conversation.   Dana’s new children’s book – Winnie’s Pile of Pillows – is HERE! Order now! My Books […] The post 500: Talking With Bob – Decluttering Regrets, Moving, Empty Nest, and More appeared first on Dana K. White: A Slob Comes Clean.

Hello Brave Friends! This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and, you guessed it, ask us anything.In this Ask Us Anything episode, #245, we're responding to the question:“Hi Dr. Zoe, Susanna and Jessica, I was wondering if you could shed light on us parents who will NOT BE EMPTY-NESTERS? I am struggling right now because I see friends who are so free and spontaneous and honestly, I am envious. As you guys always say, the grief buttons are getting pushed again. Thanks.”In this conversation, Susanna Peace Lovell, Dr. Zoe Shaw, and Jessica Patay talk honestly about what it means to be a “forever nester”—a caregiver who may never experience the traditional empty nest. They define what empty nest and forever nest can look like, while also acknowledging that it's not always a simple either/or; there are many unknowns, in-between seasons, and times when adult children launch and then return home.Together, they name the complicated mix of emotions that arise when friends are traveling, retiring, or enjoying spontaneous freedom, while caregiving parents are still managing high-support needs, sleep deprivation, food vigilance, and constant responsibility. Jessica and Zoe share candidly about life with children who have Prader-Willi syndrome and the relentless focus on food and safety; Susanna reflects on lifelong rigidity, shame, and a longing to be more spontaneous. They speak to grief as cyclical, normal, and deeply human—especially when future dreams like travel, retirement, or hands-on grandparenting feel uncertain or out of reach.The hosts also offer hope and reframes: the power of naming longings out loud, seeking pockets of “empty nest cosplay” (brief moments of freedom and joy), practicing radical acceptance of the life you're living, and being intentional about creating memories and glimmers of joy right now. They remind listeners that wanting freedom, rest, and space is not selfish—it's human—and encourage caregivers to seek support when resentment or grief feels overwhelming.Keep the questions coming—we're here to support you. Whether you're a parent to a child with complex medical, developmental, or mental health needs, or someone supporting a caregiving family, we would love to hear from you. We see you, and we love you.Leave us a message here.Find more information about LicBrave Together is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to support all of We Are Brave Together's programs and offerings here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! Disclaimer

What happens when the "Brady Bunch" years are over and the house suddenly goes quiet? For many women, the empty nest isn't just a change in schedule - it's a full-blown identity crisis. In this "Hot Seat" coaching episode, Lori Lyons sits down with Dr. Karen Diegelman, a former special education teacher who proved it's never too late to start over by earning her PhD at age 56. Together, they strip away the "coachy" language and dive into the raw reality of midlife transitions. If you've ever walked into your child's empty bedroom and felt like a stranger in your own home, this episode is for you. 3 Things You Will Learn in This Episode: How to Separate "Mommy" from "Self": Learn to identify the specific symptoms of an identity crisis and how to validate your past without letting it stall your future. The "Shrine" vs. The "Space": Why giving yourself permission to reclaim physical space in your home is the first step toward reclaiming your mental space. Aspirational Business Growth: Why high-ticket clients pay for a "transformation" (like saving a marriage or finding a new purpose) rather than a list of PDFs or coaching calls. Join the conversation! Are you ready to reinvent your next chapter? Visit MyCoachLori.com to schedule your own Hot Seat. Schedule your Profitable Path Blueprint call.  If you're considering working together and want to see if it's a fit, book a Profitable Path Blueprint Call. It's a simple, no-pressure conversation to decide whether working together makes sense.  Resources: Click HERE to receive your free gift - Get Clients to Say "YES!" The Ultimate Social Proof Checklist Every Business Needs to Build Trust and Boost Sales Join Lori's private Facebook group - The Midlife Business Academy. A Facebook group for The Typewriter Generation!  A community to share business growth strategies that work for us! Join now!   Connect with Lori Follow me on social media - grab other free resources of book a call - it's all right here! Apply for a "Hot Seat" coaching session to work through your business challenges live: MyCoachLori.com

Your kids leaving isn't an ending; it's an open door to a more intentional version of you. Many of us spend decades organizing our entire identities around our children, only to feel a staggering sense of loss when the house goes quiet.In this conversation, we explore why the term "empty nest" is so limiting and how to navigate the "forced reckoning" of midlife transitions without losing your sense of purpose.My guest is Gretchen Rubin, one of the world's most influential observers of happiness and human nature. She is the author of multiple New York Times bestsellers including The Happiness Project and Life in Five Senses, and the host of the Happier with Gretchen Rubin podcast.What you'll discover in this episode:A simple linguistic shift that changes how you view your children's independenceThe "Book vs. Tree" personality framework that explains why you and your partner might be clashing over the futureA 30-second "identity test" to see if you are at risk for a rocky life transitionThe "Minimum Acceptable Contact" rule for keeping a healthy bond with adult children without oversteppingHow to use "clutter clues" to rediscover a passion you abandoned years agoIf you've ever felt like your world is shrinking as your children's worlds expand, this conversation offers the roadmap to reclaim your space and your joy. Press play to start your next chapter.You can find Gretchen at: Website | Instagram | Happier with Gretchen Rubin - Podcast | Episode TranscriptNext week, we're sharing a really meaningful conversation with Michael Pollan about the elusive nature of consciousness and why it is currently under siege. Michael shares why our awareness is the most precious thing we own and how we can reclaim our attention in an age of constant distraction.Check out our offerings & partners: Join My New Writing Project: Awake at the WheelVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Raising eight kids across six states and two countries gave Renee Thomas Hawkley a front-row seat to the beautiful chaos of family life. Now a grandmother and widow at 79, she's still learning new lessons in love, loss, and letting her adult children “mother” her back. Author of “Once Upon an Amateur Mom” and the forthcoming “Amateur Moms Happily Ever After,” Renee shares honest, humorous stories that reassure overwhelmed moms that joy is still hiding in the mess. From heart‑shaped Valentine's pizzas and allergy‑friendly family dinners to long‑distance group texts and quick check‑ins, Renee shows how simple acts of inclusion and thoughtfulness keep families close even when they're spread across multiple states and seasons of life. In this conversation, Renee and Robert explore the emotional shifts of aging and empty nesting, the reality that every child needs different rules, and the hard truth that you can't fix everything but you can always offer love and kindness. Renee reflects on widowhood and the enduring influence of her late husband Dan, and closes by reading her moving piece “A Mother's Creed,” a poetic reminder that motherhood links humanity's past to its future. Whether you're a mom in the trenches, an empty nester, or an adult child wondering how to better honor your own mother, you'll come away with simple, practical reminders to invite, include, and reach out while there's still time. Quotes: “You can't fix everything for your children but you can always offer your love, your kindness, and the joy of having them close.” “Every child is raised in the same home, but no two children are the same and sometimes love means giving them different rules.” “At 79, I've learned that letting my children ‘mother' me is not weakness; it's the beautiful proof that family love has come full circle.” Resources: Renee Hawkley Once Upon an Amateur Mom Kindle Edition on Amazon

On today's After Show, we're exploring whether empty nesters will account for the next boom in the cigar industry. We explore this intriguing topic. The Cigar Authority is a member of the United Podcast Network and is recorded live in front of a studio audience at Studio 21 Podcast Cafe upstairs at Two Guys Smoke Shop in Salem, NH

Listen to my Morning Monologue: I'm sharing my take on pressing issues, enlightening research on human behavior, answering questions I get by email, and my favorite, most instructive interactions with callers. Everything you'll hear is designed to help you become a better spouse, parent, family member, co-worker, friend, and human being. It's the free therapy you need! Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.comFollow me on social media:Facebook.com/DrLauraInstagram.com/DrLauraProgramYouTube.com/DrLauraJoin My Family!!Receive my Weekly Newsletter + 20% off my Marriage 101 course & 25% off Merch! Sign up now, it's FREE!Each week you'll get new articles, featured emails from listeners, special event invitations, early access to my Dr. Laura Designs Store benefiting Children of Fallen Patriots, and MORE! Sign up at DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.