Beyond Empty Nest

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 Feeling stuck, unsure, or guilty for wanting more in midlife? In this episode of Dare On with Jodi, Jodi Silverman chats with author Patti Diener about redefining purpose, releasing guilt, and why your dream is always worth the risk — even if it’s messy. You’ll learn: Why guilt keeps women stuck — and how to let it go The difference between fear that protects vs. fear that propels How to create a one-year exit strategy toward your dream Why midlife is the perfect time to start something new A practical way to start moving forward — even if you're scared Resources Mentioned: Patti’s latest novel Wildflower 🌸 Wheel of Life Workbook (free!) Join the Dare On Membership Moms Who Dare Facebook Group Guest Info: Patti Diener is a former librarian turned bestselling author who dared to rewrite her life in her 50s. Her stories blend heart, grit, and truth — just like she does. Follow Patti on Instagram: @pattidiener Grab her book Wildflower here Let’s connect: 👉 Follow Jodi on Instagram 👉 Explore more at JodiSilverman.com DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 Dare On with Jodi is the podcast for every midlife woman who’s ever whispered to herself, “There has to be more than this.”  More joy.  More purpose.  More connection.  More of you in your own life. Hosted by midlife coach, speaker, and your Chief Dare Officer Jodi Silverman, this weekly show helps you stop drifting and start daring as you navigate the beautiful, messy, liberating middle of life. Whether you’re facing an empty nest, a career pivot, burnout, a relationship shift, or that quiet “Who am I now?” moment, you’ll find comfort, clarity, and courage here. Jodi brings relatable stories, practical tools, and uplifting conversations that help you reconnect with yourself, rebuild confidence, and create a next chapter filled with joy, meaning, and possibility. Expect inspiring interviews, short solo episodes, and simple “dares” you can put into action right away. No perfection. No pressure. Just one real woman talking to another — helping you discover that it’s never too late to dream bigger, laugh harder, and live fully. And if you’re not sure where to start, grab Jodi’s free Wheel of Life Workbook—your first step toward clarity, confidence, and your next daring moment. (Link in show notes) Your next chapter is calling.  Let’s Dare On — together. 💖 DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 What if the next chapter of your life is the best one yet?  If you’ve ever thought, “It’s too late for me,” this episode will lovingly call B.S. on that belief.  To celebrate  and support you in making sure you achieve your New Year Goals, I'm sharing our  100th episode, bringing together a powerful panel of three extraordinary women—Melissa Davey, Beth Allen, and Cheldin Barlatt Rumer—who prove that midlife isn’t the end... it’s the beginning of a daring new chapter. Whether you’re feeling stuck, lost, or unsure of what’s next, this conversation is the spark you didn’t know you were looking for. Through vulnerable storytelling and real talk about facing fears, starting over, and building dreams from scratch, this episode will help you finally believe that it’s never too late. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: How to face fear and move through it, even when everything feels uncertain Real stories of transformation in midlife—from divorce and grief to new careers and creative ventures The simple mindset shifts and practical tools that helped each woman reclaim her purpose Why your next chapter depends on the community you build—and where to find yours today Three empowering dares to kickstart your dreams in 2026 💡 Whether you’re 45, 55, or 65+, you’ll leave this episode feeling seen, supported, and inspired to take that next bold step—whatever it looks like for you. 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned: 🎯 Dare On Circle Community is coming in 2026, Get on the waitlist HERE. – This is your community of midlife women to support you in daring more, doubting less and living fully.  ✍️ Make Your Dream List with the Wheel of Life Workbook It's that time again! Time to get clear on what you want to be, do and have in 2025!  Ditch those resolutions and fancy goal setting and come join me and other midlife women in creating a Vision Board.  Click HERE For full details.  Don't let your dreams get lost, join us and let's make 2026 the year you make them all come true.   DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 What if the best way to care for others… is to prepare to be cared for yourself? In this deeply heartfelt episode of Beyond Empty Nest, Jodi sits down with caregiving coach Cheryl Rothbart — a 75-year-old powerhouse (with purple hair and purpose!) who has cared for four loved ones, including her own son. Cheryl shares what most people miss when it comes to caregiving: the emotional, legal, and practical preparation it takes to make sure your wishes are honored and your loved ones aren’t left in crisis. If you're navigating midlife, aging parents, or caregiving responsibilities, this conversation will hit home in the most beautiful way. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why “being prepared to be cared for” is a gift to your future caregivers The most important legal and emotional steps to take now — regardless of age How to navigate the grief that comes before physical loss (especially with dementia) Self-care strategies for caregivers that actually work Why it's never too early to start the conversation Links & Resources: 👉 Connect with Cheryl Rothbart (Caregiving Partner Solutions) HERE 👉 Check The Dare On Membership Community HERE   It's that time again! Time to get clear on what you want to be, do and have in 2025!  Ditch those resolutions and fancy goal setting and come join me and other midlife women in creating a Vision Board.  Click HERE For full details.  Don't let your dreams get lost, join us and let's make 2026 the year you make them all come true.   DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 In this heartwarming and truth-filled episode, Jodi Silverman sits down with lawyer, author, and proud mom Bernadette Bowman to explore the wisdom behind her book, Daughter Lessons. What starts as a conversation about parenting and passing on values turns into a soul-stirring exploration of self-discovery, happiness, and the power of personal reinvention in midlife. From truth and pride to dreaming big and “doing happy,” Bernadette’s reflections — many drawn from her essays — offer a gentle nudge to reconnect with yourself and dare to live more fully. 💬 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why journaling one question changed Bernadette’s life The difference between being happy and doing happy — and why it matters How her daughters became the inspiration behind her dreams A new way to approach the holiday season (spoiler: it involves sparkly shoes and zero guilt) Why pride isn't a dirty word — and how to reclaim it 💡 Quotes to Remember: “Nobody’s going to rescue you — you have to be the hero of your own life.”  “When we are happy, we give the people around us permission to be happy.”  “Doing happy is about energy. It’s about doing things that light you up — right now.” 📚 Resources & Links: Bernadette’s book: Daughter Lessons on Amazon Get the Wheel of Life Workbook: Click here Take the Happy in Midlife Quiz: Click here 🙋‍♀️ Ready to Do Happy? Share what you're doing to "do happy" today by tagging @jodisilverman_ on Instagram and using #DoHappy #DareOn. 🎁 Ready or not—the holidays are here! Shop the Annual Dare On Gift Guide for jewelry, books, cozy Dare On swag, and more.  Every item supports women-owned and small businesses, so you can give gifts that inspire and make a difference.  Start shopping now HERE DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 Ever catch yourself saying, “I’m just a mom,” or “I’m just trying to figure things out”? Friend, it’s time to drop just and reclaim your story. In this powerful episode, I sit down with podcast coach and voice-finder Jen Rogers — who just so happens to be my coach — to talk about the moment she lost her voice, how she found it again, and why your story is your superpower. If you’ve ever felt like your voice doesn’t matter or your story isn’t big enough, this conversation is your wake-up call. What You’ll Hear: Why women tend to minimize themselves with words like “just,” “but,” and “sorry” Jen’s unforgettable story of losing — and reclaiming — her voice How to uncover mic-drop moments in your everyday life A sneak peek into how podcasting can be a powerful way to own your story The one question to ask yourself before launching a podcast Resources Mentioned: Jen’s podcast: Simplify Podcasting Connect with Jen on LinkedIn Connect with Jen on Facebook 7-Day Self-Talk Clean-Up Challenge Dare of the Week:  Dare to eliminate the word just. Start replacing it with truth that uplifts instead of shrinks. DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 You’re allowed to feel good again. In Part 2 of this powerful menopause series, Jodi continues her conversation with certified Menopause Health Coach Ashley Basilio — and this time, it’s all about solutions. From HRT facts to lifestyle shifts, sleep strategies, weight changes, intimacy struggles, and how to advocate for yourself, Ashley gives you the practical tools and empowering mindset to take back control in midlife. What You’ll Learn: How to sort through hormone therapy, lifestyle changes & symptom overload What the Women's Health Initiative got wrong about HRT — and why it still impacts us Real solutions for sleep, metabolism, weight gain, and pelvic health What “sleep hygiene” actually means — and how to try it How to reframe your relationship with your body, aging, and identity How to advocate for yourself when your doctor won’t listen (with a resource link!) Ashley's Podcast HERE- StrongHER Voice 💌 Download Ashley’s free guide: 5 Ways to Feel Your Best in Midlife 🧠 Ready to reset your inner voice? Grab the Self-Talk Clean Up Challenge 🔍 Find a certified menopause-informed doctor: Menopause Society Provider Search 💬 Join the conversation in our free community: Moms Who Dare on Facebook 🎁 Ready or not—the holidays are here! Shop the Annual Dare On Gift Guide for jewelry, books, cozy Dare On swag, and more.  Every item supports women-owned and small businesses, so you can give gifts that inspire and make a difference.  Start shopping now HERE DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 If you’ve ever thought, “What is going on with me?” — this episode is your lifeline. In Part 1 of our two-part menopause series, Jodi welcomes Ashley Basilio — certified personal trainer, menopause health coach, and founder of Get Fit With Ashley — to decode what’s really going on in your body during perimenopause and menopause. Together, they uncover why menopause is so much more than hot flashes, how hormonal shifts affect nearly every system in your body, and why identity loss is real (but so is empowerment). What You’ll Learn: Why menopause is technically just one day — and what the four stages actually are How estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone impact your mood, metabolism, sleep, and more 34 surprising menopause symptoms — including itchy ears and brittle nails (yep, really) The long-term effects on brain, bone, and heart health Why tracking your symptoms is essential — and how to advocate for yourself at the doctor Ashley’s personal story of going from clueless to certified (and how it might mirror your own) 🎯 Don’t miss Ashley’s free resource: 5 Ways to Feel Your Best in Midlife 💖 Ready to check in on your midlife joy levels? Take the Happy in Midlife Quiz 🎁 Ready or not—the holidays are here! Shop the Annual Dare On Gift Guide for jewelry, books, cozy Dare On swag, and more.  Every item supports women-owned and small businesses, so you can give gifts that inspire and make a difference.  Start shopping now HERE DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 Are you walking on eggshells around your adult child—or wishing they’d just call more often? In this heart-opening episode of Beyond Empty Nest, Jodi is joined by Esther Goetz of Moms of Bigs to tackle the unspoken grief, guilt, and emotional gymnastics of parenting “bigs.” If you’ve ever tried to fix or force connection with your grown-up kids and felt it backfire, this conversation is for you. In this episode, we explore: Why control and closeness don’t mix How to shift from “What if” worry to “I wonder” curiosity The power of roots and wings in adult-child relationships What it really means to invite, not demand How to stay connected—without overstepping Top Takeaways: Use the phrase “I’ll follow your lead” to build trust Practice “Zippy the Lippy” to replace demands with invitations Connection grows when we drop the agenda and get curious Resources & Links: 🌟 Join the Dare On Membership: Moms Who Double Dare ✨ Get started on empowering your adult children by making this shift HERE 💖 Follow Esther: Moms of Bigs on Instagram 🎁 Ready or not—the holidays are here! Shop the Annual Dare On Gift Guide for jewelry, books, cozy Dare On swag, and more.  Every item supports women-owned and small businesses, so you can give gifts that inspire and make a difference.  Start shopping now HERE DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 If you’ve ever looked around and wondered, “Is this it?” — this episode is your sign to explore something new. Jodi sits down with Amazon expert and business coach Kathy Lampert, who went from corporate powerhouse to stay-at-home mom... to six-figure Amazon entrepreneur. Whether you're seeking a purpose beyond motherhood, craving a new challenge, or exploring side income options, Kathy's journey will leave you inspired and energized. She breaks down what it really means to sell on Amazon — and shares multiple ways you can profit in the Amazon ecosystem, even if you’re not into selling products. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why feeling “boring and flat” might just be your turning point What’s possible when you allow yourself to pivot and reset The truth behind starting a business on Amazon — without a massive upfront investment 8+ ways Kathy now earns income (many of which you’ve never heard of!) How coaching and mentorship transformed her life — and how it can help you, too 🎁 Resource of the Week: Kickstart your next chapter with 30 Days of Doable Dares — a free, fun challenge to reconnect with your confidence and curiosity. 💬 Continue the conversation: Join the Moms Who Dare community on Facebook: Moms Who Dare FB Group 3 Ways to Connect with Kathy: Go HERE- and request AMAZON QUICK START CHECKLIST (you'll input email and I'll send it to you!)  Email kathy@kathycoaching.com Connect on LinkedIn HERE Click HERE for full details and to secure your ad in this years Annual Holiday Gift Guide!  Submissions open through October 31st!  Don't miss out on this opportunity to reach your ideal shopper this holiday season.   DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 In this powerful episode of Beyond Empty Nest, Jodi sits down with author and humanitarian Lori Pappas, whose life story is as inspiring as her message. At 75, Lori dared to say “yes” to fully stepping into her authentic self —and she’s here to help you do the same. 🔑 In this episode, you’ll discover: How Lori escaped a from a mental institution at age 17 and built a purpose-filled life The importance of stillness, silence, and reflective time in midlife What the “magic of yes” really means—and how it changes everything The difference between knowledge and wisdom (it’s not what you think!) How to overcome low self-worth by detaching your value from doing Lori’s DREAM Framework to guide your next empowered decision 💡 Your Midlife DARE: Reflect on this question: What does success mean to me now—and how do I define it for myself, not for others? 📚 Mentioned in the Episode: Get Lori’s Book HERE: The Magic of Yes: Embrace the Wise Woman Within (Link in show notes) 30 Days of Doable Dares— Free resource to help you take inventory of where you are and where you want to go Join the Dare On™ Membership Community 🔗 Connect with Lori Pappas: Website HERE 🎧 Subscribe & Review: Love what you’re hearing? Be sure to follow Beyond Empty Nest and leave a review. Your words help more midlife women discover the courage to dare into their next chapter. Join the after party!  Connect with other listeners of the show and with me inside the Moms Who Dare FB Group. I'm waiting to welcome you.  Dare on together. DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 Feel like your kids are growing distant — and you're not sure how to reach them anymore? In this episode, Jodi chats with Tammy Cohen, author of Text Messages to My Sons, about how a simple daily practice of texting transformed her relationships with her adult children. Whether you’re navigating empty nest grief, disconnection, or just want to feel closer to the people who matter most, this conversation will inspire you to rethink how you use your phone — and how you define connection. IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: Why sending “just because” texts (with no expectation) can deepen emotional bonds How to use mobile devices to connect meaningfully — not just logistically The ripple effect of consistent connection and gratitude Why it’s never too late to start building (or rebuilding) relationships with your kids How Tammy’s journey through personal growth and cancer shaped her parenting and purpose LINKS & RESOURCES: 📘 Grab Tammy’s Book: Text Messages to My Sons on Amazon 💌 Free Resource: 5 Dares for Connection & Wellbeing 💖 Learn about the Dare On™ Membership Community: Join here 📲 Follow Jodi on Instagram: @jodi_silverman Join the after party!  Connect with other listeners of the show and with me inside the Moms Who Dare FB Group. I'm waiting to welcome you.  Dare on together. DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 What if you could feel grounded, present, and fully aligned with who you are—no matter what life throws your way? In this episode of Beyond Empty Nest, I’m joined by Erin Keating, founder of Live Your Truth Journey, to explore how to connect with your personal power, define your values, and use them as a compass to create a life that feels deeply fulfilling. Erin shares her own transformation from people-pleasing and living by others’ expectations to stepping into her authentic self. Along the way, she discovered that personal freedom—not just time or financial freedom—is the real key to happiness and fulfillment. We discuss: What it really means to “live your truth” How to identify your core values (and why defining them matters) The role of vision in guiding your decisions How to say “yes” and “no” with confidence—and without guilt Why your personal guidance system makes decision-making easier Simple daily practices to help you stay present, centered, and grateful Erin’s dare for you: Live your truth every single day This conversation is filled with practical tools, inspiring insights, and gentle reminders that you have the power to design your own path—starting now. Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode: Connect with Erin → Live Your Truth Journey Download Erin’s Wisdom and Awareness Workbook Join the Dare On Membership Community → dareontowhatsnext.com/moms-who-double-dare Moms Who Dare Facebook Group → Join Here Join the after party!  Connect with other listeners of the show and with me inside the Moms Who Dare FB Group. I'm waiting to welcome you.  Dare on together. DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 What if financial wellness had less to do with math and more to do with meaning? In this empowering episode of Beyond Empty Nest, host Jodi Silverman sits down with Ramat Oyetunji, founder of The FI Woman, who retired at age 44 after a 20-year career in engineering. Ramat’s mission? Helping women align their finances with what they truly value so they can live with clarity, confidence, and choice. Together they explore: How Ramat planned her early retirement—and how you can build your own roadmap Why financial clarity is the foundation for bold midlife living The critical reasons women must build financial security What “financial wellness” really means (hint: it’s not about the amount in your bank account) The mindset shifts needed to stop “should-ing” yourself about money If you’ve ever said, “I’m not good with money,” this conversation will change that narrative—and maybe your life. Resources Mentioned: 🧠 Ramat’s guided journal: The Selfish Guide to Financial Wellness Clean up your self-talk and get rid of those old stories with Jodi’s  7-Day Mini challenge HERE. Join the after party!  Connect with other listeners of the show and with me inside the Moms Who Dare FB Group. I'm waiting to welcome you.  Dare on together. DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 Are you secretly exhausted from always saying “yes”? Do you find yourself doing things for everyone else, while your own dreams sit on the back burner?  This week on Beyond Empty Nest, I’m talking with leadership coach and community builder Jessi Sheridan about the real cost of people pleasing—and how setting healthy boundaries can help you design a life you truly love. Jessi’s story will inspire you to ask the big questions, get crystal clear on your values, and create a vision for your days that leaves you feeling fulfilled, not depleted. We cover: Jessi’s journey from working with college women to leading a thriving women’s community How a single "What impact do I want to make?" question changed her life Why identifying your top values is the key to healthy boundaries Practical ways to say “no” without guilt How to recognize when you’re people pleasing—and what to do about it The surprising link between boundaries and stronger relationships Jessi’s dare for you: put yourself first every single day This conversation is your permission slip to stop overcommitting, ditch the guilt, and start intentionally designing a life you love. Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode: Connect with Jessi Sheridan → habitualleadership.com Join the Dare On Membership Community → dareontowhatsnext.com/moms-who-double-dare Free Resource: 5 Dares for Connection and Well-Being Moms Who Dare Facebook Group → Join Here Join the after party!  Connect with other listeners of the show and with me inside the Moms Who Dare FB Group. I'm waiting to welcome you.  Dare on together. DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 Is your marriage thriving—or just surviving? When the kids leave and the house falls quiet, many couples find themselves at a crossroad. In this honest, hopeful, and eye-opening episode of Beyond Empty Nest, Jodi Silverman is joined by marriage and family therapist Dr. Becky Wetstone, who brings a powerful blend of clinical expertise and personal wisdom. Together, they dive into: The surprising traits that predict a lasting, happy marriage The silent habits that slowly destroy connection How to navigate power struggles over money, location, and lifestyle Why checking in with your spouse might be the game-changer you didn’t know you needed What to do if you're feeling lonely, even while together Dr. Becky also shares her own unexpected journey—from stay-at-home mom to advice columnist to therapist—and the pivotal moments that shaped her passion for helping couples in crisis. Whether your marriage feels strong or strained, this episode is your reminder that it’s never too late to turn toward each other. Resources Mentioned: 🛑 Dr. Becky’s book: I Think I Want Out – What To Do When One of You Wants to End the Marriage 💬 Take the first step: Join the Dare On Membership Community ✨ Say hi: Come connect in the Moms Who Dare Facebook Group Join the after party!  Connect with other listeners of the show and with me inside the Moms Who Dare FB Group. I'm waiting to welcome you.  Dare on together. DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 You’ve heard the phrase “it takes a village,” right? Well, midlife takes a team—and in this powerful panel episode, Jodi Silverman brings together four specialists to guide you through the essential conversations and planning needed as you navigate aging, caregiving, and your own wellness. If you’ve ever wondered how to support aging parents, how to prepare for your own next chapter, or how to avoid chaos when a crisis hits—this one’s a must-listen. In this episode, you’ll discover: The 3 overlooked parts of a real aging plan (hint: it’s not just about a will) Why more women need to get familiar with their finances now How to approach difficult conversations with aging parents (without drama) What a care manager is—and how they can take 1,000 things off your plate Real talk on independence, boundaries, and what “help” really looks like Whether you’re the go-to daughter, an overwhelmed caregiver, or simply thinking, “I should probably figure this out…”—this conversation gives you the clarity and tools to start now. Meet the Panel:  Felicia Greenfield, LCSW – Private therapist and former Penn Memory Center clinician https://www.feliciagreenfieldtherapy.com/ Elizabeth Dunleavy, MSW, CMC – Lead Care Manager at Kith Eldercare Bode Hennegan – Aging-in-Place Specialist & Founder of Life Managers & Associates Rebecca Thompson, CFP® – Financial Advisor for Women in Transition & Widowhood 🔗 Resources: You don’t want to do this chapter alone. That’s why I’ve created a community for midwife women to gather, connect and grow together.  Check it out HERE Want to see your Happiness Score?  Take our Quiz Here. Subscribe & Review: Love what you're hearing? Leave a review wherever you listen! Your words help other women discover the support, inspiration, and connection they’re craving right now. 💬💕 DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 What really happens after the kids leave? Spoiler alert: it’s not all peace, quiet and productivity. In this heartfelt episode  of Beyond Empty Nest, I’m chatting with author and award winning journalist Rita Lussier about the messy, surprising and often hilarious truths of life after kids. From the awkward silence between spouses to the grief that sneaks up between milestones, Rita shares real stories from her book And Now Back to Me-Stories that mirror what so many women are living right now.  We dive deep into what really happens when the kids leave home-and how to reclaim your identity in midlife. In This Episode, You’ll Discover Why it’s totally normal to feel rudderless after your kids leave The surprising emotional shift many women experience-even if they have a full life outside of motherhood How Rita rekindled her connection with her husband (awkward Friday night drives and all!) The unexpected "sandwich generation” responsibilities that sneak up on us Why discovering your next purpose doesn’t have to be instant- and how patience plays a powerful role. Key Takeaway: You’re not alone. The grief, the awkwardness, the excitement, the loss, the rediscovery-it’s all part of the process. This episode is your invitation to come back to you. Resources & Links: Grab Rita’s book Now Back to Me HERE Join the Dare on Membership Community HERE and/or  come say hi in the Moms Who Dare Facebook Group HERE DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 “I feel as if I've lost the best job I've ever had.” This is the exact statement many moms have said to me over the past ten years while I've been supporting empty nest moms. They go on to say that if they're not full-time moms anymore, then what really is their purpose? The transition from a bustling household to an empty one can be a mix of emotions. We may experience a sense of loss as our roles as primary caregivers evolve. However, it is important to remember that this newfound freedom also offers exciting opportunities for self-discovery and personal growth. In this podcast episode, we will explore the concept of finding your purpose as an empty nest mom and how it can empower you to embrace this next phase of life with enthusiasm and fulfillment. Remember, the empty nest phase is an opportunity for personal reinvention, growth, and self-fulfillment. It's time to prioritize your needs, passions, and desires. And to reestablish a sense of purpose that extends beyond motherhood. So, let's embark on this exciting journey together, rediscovering the vibrant, empowered, and purpose-driven woman within each of us. ✌️ Your Dare is to take action! Take action with one thing on your list. If you are really stuck with the list-making and you can't really come up with ideas, grab a copy of My 30 Days of Daring by signing up for our weekly podcast emails. 🌟Download the Wheel of Life Workbook HERE. DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.

Text us 1 takeaway from this episode (don’t forget the episode #). We read every message—even if we can’t reply!🥺 In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to lose sight of our own identity amidst the roles we play. For many women, the journey through motherhood and a thriving career has defined them for years, but what happens when the roles shift and the questions start to loom? “What's my purpose, if not a full-time mom? Who am I? If I'm not a corporate executive anymore, why do I feel so lost and unfulfilled?" These are the haunting queries that echo from all corners of midlife transformations. But amidst these uncertainties, a guiding light emerges, a beacon of hope in the form of Deborah Thomas. With a reservoir of wisdom, Deborah is a Midlife Empowerment Coach and Mentor. Having walked this path herself, she knows the ins and outs of grappling with change, the shift in priorities, and the gnawing desire for self-discovery. Deborah's journey from a high-powered corporate marketing and advertising executive to a stay-at-home mom of nine children, a loving mom-in-law, and a doting grandma is nothing short of remarkable. With grace and insight, Deborah has distilled her own evolution into a comprehensive 12-month signature program. Deborah is here to remind us all that the best truly is yet to come. Let’s uncover the three essential pillars every woman needs for a midlife reinvention, and stride forward with the conviction that this chapter is not an ending, but a magnificent new beginning. ❤️ Your Dare this week is to do a “dream download” (minute 22:00 for clarification): 1. Write a list of everything that you dream about, while you day dream and while you sleep.      2. Do not judge your dreams. Simply notice them and write them down. Things you used to dream about, things you still dream about, and things you secretly dream about. 3. Review the list and use it as a starting point to move forward toward your dreams, and in the process, you will discover purpose. 🤗 Take Jodi's Happiness Quiz and increase your level of happiness! Dare On Membership Community is waiting HERE. DISCLAIMER: The commentary and opinions available on this podcast are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical, physical, or psychological advice. You should contact a trained medical professional before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine and with respect to any particular issue or problem.