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Malibu & Me with Jen Rouse
Malibu & Me with Jen Rouse
Author: Iconic Nation Media
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Welcome to Malibu & Me, the podcast where new beginnings meet ocean breezes and life in your 50s finally starts to feel like yours.
I'm Jen Rouse—mom of two, recent empty nester, and a woman who made the bold decision to leave Park City behind and return home to Malibu to reconnect with my family, my roots, and ultimately, myself.
For years, like so many of us, I lived in service to everyone else. I was the chauffeur, the chef, the crisis negotiator, the tutor, the cheerleader, the emotional glue—the one who made it all run. And I wouldn't trade those years for anything. But now, the kids have flown the nest, and I'm standing on the coastline asking: What does this next chapter look like for me?
This is a season of reinvention—of rediscovering passions, healing old stories, and rewriting new ones. From navigating life after long-term marriage, to dipping a toe (or maybe a whole foot) into dating at 50, to rebuilding identity, routines, and confidence—nothing is off limits.
Think of this as your weekly reset in the middle of your own beautiful comeback. We're talking real life, real struggles, real joy, and the courage it takes to start over in midlife… with plenty of laughs, candid moments, and Malibu magic sprinkled in.
So pour your wine—or your green juice—and slip into your comfiest sweats. Join me every Wednesday as we explore what it really means to create a life you love in your 50s and beyond.
This is Malibu & Me.
A fresh start. A brave new chapter.
And finally… it's about you, too.
Follow along on IG, TikTok & Facebook @MalibuAndMePodcast
I'm Jen Rouse—mom of two, recent empty nester, and a woman who made the bold decision to leave Park City behind and return home to Malibu to reconnect with my family, my roots, and ultimately, myself.
For years, like so many of us, I lived in service to everyone else. I was the chauffeur, the chef, the crisis negotiator, the tutor, the cheerleader, the emotional glue—the one who made it all run. And I wouldn't trade those years for anything. But now, the kids have flown the nest, and I'm standing on the coastline asking: What does this next chapter look like for me?
This is a season of reinvention—of rediscovering passions, healing old stories, and rewriting new ones. From navigating life after long-term marriage, to dipping a toe (or maybe a whole foot) into dating at 50, to rebuilding identity, routines, and confidence—nothing is off limits.
Think of this as your weekly reset in the middle of your own beautiful comeback. We're talking real life, real struggles, real joy, and the courage it takes to start over in midlife… with plenty of laughs, candid moments, and Malibu magic sprinkled in.
So pour your wine—or your green juice—and slip into your comfiest sweats. Join me every Wednesday as we explore what it really means to create a life you love in your 50s and beyond.
This is Malibu & Me.
A fresh start. A brave new chapter.
And finally… it's about you, too.
Follow along on IG, TikTok & Facebook @MalibuAndMePodcast
48 Episodes
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Episode #47: In this episode of Malibu and Me, Jen Rouse engages in a heartfelt conversation with Kimberly Lovi and Chantelle Phillips about the theme of worthiness. They explore personal journeys of self-discovery, the importance of community, and the challenges of setting boundaries. Chantel shares her transformative experience from struggling with self-worth to creating a supportive community for women. The discussion emphasizes the significance of authenticity, self-care, and the power of silence in navigating life's challenges. In this conversation, the speakers explore themes of self-worth, personal growth, and the importance of authenticity in relationships. They discuss the significance of inner work and self-discovery, emphasizing that true happiness comes from within rather than from external sources. The dialogue highlights the necessity of setting personal boundaries and teaching others how to treat us, as well as the power of vulnerability in attracting genuine connections. The speakers also advocate for collaboration over competition, encouraging women to support one another in their journeys of empowerment and growth. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Worthiness and Self-Discovery 02:40 Chantel's Journey to Self-Worth 06:55 The Impact of Life Experiences on Worthiness 10:48 Building a Supportive Community for Women 12:43 Authenticity in Leadership and Community Building 16:45 Setting Boundaries for Self-Care 20:55 The Power of Silence and Reflection 27:36 Understanding Personal Boundaries and Self-Acceptance 30:45 The Importance of Inner Work and Self-Discovery 34:45 Self-Worth and Its Impact on Relationships 39:49 Attracting Authentic Connections 43:54 Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity 48:03 Collaboration Over Competition
Episode #39: Welcome to Malibu & Me, the podcast where new beginnings meet ocean breezes and life in your 50s finally starts to feel like yours. I'm Jen Rouse—mom of two, recent empty nester, and a woman who made the bold decision to leave Park City behind and return home to Malibu to reconnect with my family, my roots, and ultimately, myself. For years, like so many of us, I lived in service to everyone else. I was the chauffeur, the chef, the crisis negotiator, the tutor, the cheerleader, the emotional glue—the one who made it all run. And I wouldn't trade those years for anything. But now, the kids have flown the nest, and I'm standing on the coastline asking: What does this next chapter look like for me? This is a season of reinvention—of rediscovering passions, healing old stories, and rewriting new ones. From navigating life after long-term marriage, to dipping a toe (or maybe a whole foot) into dating at 50, to rebuilding identity, routines, and confidence—nothing is off limits. Think of this as your weekly reset in the middle of your own beautiful comeback. We're talking real life, real struggles, real joy, and the courage it takes to start over in midlife… with plenty of laughs, candid moments, and Malibu magic sprinkled in. So pour your wine—or your green juice—and slip into your comfiest sweats. Join me every Wednesday as we explore what it really means to create a life you love in your 50s and beyond. This is Malibu & Me. A fresh start. A brave new chapter. And finally… it's about you, too. Follow along on IG, TikTok & Facebook @MalibuAndMePodcast Follow Jen @officialJenRouse
Episode #46: In this episode of Malibu and Me, host Jen Rouse explores the fascinating world of Human Design with guest Lauren. They discuss how Human Design combines elements of astrology, the I Ching, the chakra system, and Kabbalah to create a unique self-discovery tool. The conversation delves into understanding one's energy type, emotional intelligence, and the importance of living in alignment with one's design. They also touch on the significance of gratitude and how different energy types interact within communities, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and personal growth in midlife transformation. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Malibu and Me 00:27 Exploring Human Design 01:50 Understanding Your Unique Wiring 03:08 Living in Alignment with Your Design 04:31 Emotional Intelligence and Awareness 09:10 The Body Graph and Energy Centers 18:26 Energy Types in Human Design 26:33 Projectors and Reflectors 30:48 The Importance of Alignment and Gratitude 36:50 Combining Modalities for Self-Discovery Follow along on IG, TikTok & Facebook @MalibuAndMePodcast Follow Jen @officialJenRouse Follow Lauren on IG @humandesignmalibu at https://humandesignmalibu.com/
Episode #45: In this episode of Malibu and Me, host Jen Rouse discusses her recent move back to Malibu and the challenges of downsizing and organizing her new home. Joined by organizational expert Jennifer Satel, they explore the emotional attachments people have to their belongings, the importance of decluttering, and the benefits of hiring professional organizers. The conversation highlights the transformative power of organization in creating a peaceful living space and the necessity of letting go of items that no longer serve a purpose. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Malibu and Me 00:27 The Move to Malibu 02:57 Organizational Challenges and Solutions 05:08 The Art of Organization 11:19 Emotional Attachments to Belongings 17:03 The Importance of Decluttering 23:55 Investing in Organization Services 30:29 The Value of Letting Go 36:55 Conclusion and Future Plans Follow along on IG, TikTok & Facebook @MalibuAndMePodcast Follow Jen @officialJenRouse You can find Jenifer Satel, home organizer at: https://www.initsproperplace.com/ You can listen to "Unpacking with Jenifer Satel" podcast here.
Episode #44: In this episode of Malibu and Me, Jen Rouse and Kimberly Lovi delve into the complexities of midlife transformation, particularly focusing on grief and loss. They share personal experiences of navigating the emotional landscape after losing loved ones, discussing how these experiences have shaped their purpose and led to significant life changes. The conversation explores the importance of processing emotions, embracing change, and finding spiritual connections through healing practices like astrology and Reiki. Ultimately, they emphasize the power of intuition and the necessity of self-discovery in the journey of healing and growth. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Midlife Transformation 00:55 Navigating Grief and Loss 05:28 Finding Purpose Through Loss 10:35 Embracing Change and New Beginnings 16:53 The Power of Intuition and Alignment 22:11 Processing Grief and Emotions 28:52 Spiritual Healing and Connection 33:51 Exploring Astrology and Self-Discovery Follow along on IG, TikTok & Facebook @MalibuAndMePodcast Follow Jen @officialJenRouse
Episode #43: In this episode of 'Malibu and Me', Jen Rouse shares her transformative journey of returning to Malibu as an empty nester and embarking on an extraordinary holiday adventure with her family. They traveled to the Seychelles Islands via Dubai, experiencing the luxurious Emirates airline, cultural insights from Dubai, and the beauty of the Seychelles. Jen reflects on the importance of family, presence, and overcoming fears, particularly through her first surfing experience. The episode encapsulates the essence of midlife transformation and the joy of new beginnings. Chapters: 00:00 New Beginnings in Malibu 01:43 Extraordinary Holiday Adventures 06:16 The Emirates Experience 12:26 Cultural Insights from Dubai 17:50 Desert Adventures and Camel Rides 21:14 Exploring the Seychelles Islands 27:15 Surfing and Overcoming Fears 32:45 Reflections on Family and Presence Follow along on IG, TikTok & Facebook @MalibuAndMePodcast Follow Jen @officialJenRouse
Episode #42: In this enlightening conversation, the host and Sherry, a Reiki healer, explore the transformative journey of self-discovery and healing. They discuss the importance of addressing internal traumas, the significance of the wise woman phase in women's lives, and the role of Reiki in facilitating healing. The conversation delves into the chakras, emotional energy, and the power of authenticity in sharing one's gifts with the world. They emphasize the need for community support and the importance of grounding oneself in order to navigate life's challenges. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Healing and Transformation 03:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery 06:00 Embracing the Wise Woman Within 08:58 Understanding Reiki and Its Benefits 12:00 The Role of Chakras in Healing 15:07 Exploring the Sacral Chakra and Creativity 18:00 The Power of Authenticity and Sharing 21:03 The Importance of Grounding and Safety 24:12 Navigating Emotional and Spiritual Energy 26:50 The Role of Community and Support 30:06 Conclusion and Future Conversations Follow along on IG, TikTok & Facebook @MalibuAndMePodcast Follow Jen @officialJenRouse Connect with Sherri for your Reiki session at https://www.mamacare.health/energyhealing
Episode #41: In this episode, Jen and her son Nate discuss the recent changes in their lives, particularly Jen's move to California and Nate's transition to living independently in Utah. They explore themes of family support, personal growth, and the emotional challenges that come with change. The conversation highlights the importance of pursuing happiness and the opportunities that arise from embracing new beginnings.The conversation emphasizes the importance of family support during transitions. Nate is learning to live independently and is adapting to his new routine. Change can be challenging but also creates opportunities for growth and happiness. Both mother and son recognize the relief that comes from making positive life changes. Nate is exploring new interests beyond competitive snowboarding. The importance of letting go of the past to embrace the future is highlighted. Jen and Nate's relationship is strengthened through their shared experiences and support for each other. Chapters: 00:00 A New Chapter Begins 09:55 Embracing Change and New Opportunities 17:40 Finding Happiness in Transition Follow along on IG, TikTok & Facebook @MalibuAndMePodcast Follow Jen @officialJenRouse
Episode #40: In this episode, Kimberly Lovi discusses the seamless transition of her friend Jen moving to Malibu, facilitated by her sister-in-law McCall. The conversation explores the whirlwind process of finding a home, setting it up, and creating a cozy environment that feels like home. Michal shares her organizational strategies and the importance of making a space inviting and functional for families. The episode highlights the power of community support and the joy of new beginnings. Chapters: 00:00 The Magical Move to Malibu 08:46 The Art of Home Setup 17:39 Creating a Cozy Home Environment 29:05 Organizational Strategies for a Smooth Transition Follow along on IG, TikTok & Facebook @MalibuAndMePodcast Follow Jen @officialJenRouse
Episode #39: Welcome to Malibu & Me, the podcast where new beginnings meet ocean breezes and life in your 50s finally starts to feel like yours. I'm Jen Rouse—mom of two, recent empty nester, and a woman who made the bold decision to leave Park City behind and return home to Malibu to reconnect with my family, my roots, and ultimately, myself. For years, like so many of us, I lived in service to everyone else. I was the chauffeur, the chef, the crisis negotiator, the tutor, the cheerleader, the emotional glue—the one who made it all run. And I wouldn't trade those years for anything. But now, the kids have flown the nest, and I'm standing on the coastline asking: What does this next chapter look like for me? This is a season of reinvention—of rediscovering passions, healing old stories, and rewriting new ones. From navigating life after long-term marriage, to dipping a toe (or maybe a whole foot) into dating at 50, to rebuilding identity, routines, and confidence—nothing is off limits. Think of this as your weekly reset in the middle of your own beautiful comeback. We're talking real life, real struggles, real joy, and the courage it takes to start over in midlife… with plenty of laughs, candid moments, and Malibu magic sprinkled in. So pour your wine—or your green juice—and slip into your comfiest sweats. Join me every Wednesday as we explore what it really means to create a life you love in your 50s and beyond. This is Malibu & Me. A fresh start. A brave new chapter. And finally… it's about you, too. Follow along on IG, TikTok & Facebook @MalibuAndMePodcast Follow Jen @officialJenRouse
Episode #38: Today is a BIG day! Jen is moving out of Park City. Take a listen to learn more about when, why and WHERE?! Follow us on Instagram, TikTok and watch us on YouTube!
Episode #37: Walking through our beloved park, Run a Muck, we find ourselves immersed in the vibrant colors of fall, a perfect metaphor for our transition into this liberating empty nest phase. Remember those hectic days of school shopping and packing lunches? Now, we're enjoying a newfound freedom as we explore fresh routines and passions in our 50s. Kelly's dedication to the 75 Hard challenge is just one example of how we're embracing this chapter, pushing our limits and discovering exciting opportunities like the Olympic training facilities nearby. It's a time of reflection and transformation, and we're grateful to share these moments with you. The healing power of nature and the joy of staying active have become our essential tools for navigating life's transitions. Walking has become a cathartic release, a simple yet profound way to process emotions and challenges like grief. We're thrilled to share our latest fitness adventures, from hot yoga sculpt classes to our newfound love for pickleball. Staying healthy and engaged is our priority, and we're excited to share easy, high-protein recipes that fit our active lifestyles. As winter approaches, we're eager to incorporate weighted vests into our routines, embracing the change of seasons with enthusiasm and open arms. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok and watch us on YouTube!
Episode #36: Join us as we embark on an exciting new journey through the uncharted territory of empty nesting. As the kids spread their wings and embrace their independence, we're reclaiming our time, our passions, and our identities. With a refreshing outlook on this new phase of life, we explore everything from resetting marriages to navigating dating at 50, all while embracing the challenges and joys that come with this liberating transition. Grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and stroll along with us through the beautiful season of fall in Park City as we unpack the realities of life in our fifties. In this episode, we take a closer look at Kelly's journey with the 75 Hard program, sharing insights and tips for those considering similar personal growth challenges. From her early morning routines to her newfound superfood coffee recipe, Kelly shares the physical and mental shifts she's experiencing on day nine of the regimen. We also chat about her reading list, which includes inspiring titles like "Atomic Habits" and the "5 AM Club," offering listeners a glimpse into how these books are shaping her mindset. Whether you're contemplating a lifestyle change or simply curious about how to embrace this exciting stage of life, our conversation promises a blend of authenticity, motivation, and camaraderie. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok and watch us on YouTube!
Episode #35: What if the unexpected twists of life could teach us the most profound lessons on resilience and connection? Join us as we welcome Aaron Philip Tochin, Kelly's brother, whose personal battle with colon cancer unfolds into a narrative of transformation and familial strength. Through Aaron's candid reflections, we navigate the complexities of delayed diagnoses, the emotional impact of a life-altering illness, and the enduring power of family bonds. As we pay tribute to our mother during a poignant memorial in California, we cherish the legacy of love that continues to unite us. Caregiving during a health crisis presents its own set of hurdles and triumphs, and we explore these through Aaron's journey and the shared wisdom from community support groups. The shift towards healthier, more organized living is highlighted, alongside tales of mishaps and learning curves that illustrate the delicate balance between caregiving and self-care. The conversation serves as a reminder of the strength found in shared experiences and the hope that carries us through each day's uncertainties. Rebuilding life post-illness brings its unique challenges, from managing chronic discomfort to coping with the mental aftermath of treatment. Aaron shares how incorporating stretching, personal training, and new activities like golf have helped him regain control and maintain a positive outlook. We delve into the emotional journey of adapting to a new normal, embracing change, and finding joy in small victories. This episode is a heartfelt testament to the transformative power of resilience, the importance of cherishing relationships, and the unique life lessons gained from facing adversity together. Chapters: (00:00) Navigating Life After the Nest (10:47) Cancer Caregiving (14:12) Rebuilding Life After Illness and Change (18:57) Navigating Life Through Health Challenges (28:48) Life Lessons and Appreciation Follow us on Instagram, TikTok and watch us on YouTube!
Episode #34: This episode, we share our experiences with practices like Reiki, breath work, and energy healing that have profoundly impacted our lives. Listen in as we recount a powerful Reiki session that not only helped us release emotional blockages but also connected us with our past and allowed us to reclaim our identities. As we navigate this new chapter, we emphasize the importance of self-discovery and maintaining a spiritual connection to enhance our overall well-being. As we embrace this next phase, we also touch on the themes of self-worth, healing, and the rapid passage of time. Reflecting on how quickly summer passed and the challenges of watching loved ones age, we highlight the importance of cherishing relationships and staying open to new experiences. With excitement, we discuss trying activities like the 75 Hard challenge and using a weighted vest during walks to incorporate weight-bearing exercises into our daily routines. Through personal anecdotes, we explore the idea of finding nurturing love that aligns with our needs and desires and stress the significance of having a voice and recognizing our self-worth. Tune in to hear our reflections on the transformative nature of life experiences and the readiness for joyful new chapters as we continue our journey of personal growth. Chapters: (00:00) Navigating Spiritual Wellness in Empty Nesting (09:51) Discovering Self-Worth and Healing (18:17) Embracing the Next Life Chapter Follow us on Instagram, TikTok and watch us on YouTube!
Episode #33: Empty nesting has brought us on a journey we never quite expected, filled with both emotional challenges and spiritual connections. Having recently lost our mom, my brother and I found ourselves seeking comfort and guidance. We were joined by the remarkable Shinka, a psychic medium, who brought her unique insights into the studio, helping us understand the spiritual embrace our mom received from her own mother. Shinka's presence was not only soothing but transformative, as she shared how our mom now remains close, supporting us in our grief. Family dynamics often come with their own set of emotional intricacies, and we tackled these head-on with Shinka's guidance. Together, we navigated the complex interplay of guilt, love, and acceptance within familial relationships, focusing on the way past decisions have shaped our lives. Shinka offered profound insights into our mom's final moments, where love was her guiding light. We also examined the importance of releasing burdens like guilt and remaining open to new possibilities in life, including future relationships. From the afterlife, words of love and encouragement offered us a comforting reassurance of continued connections. We received touching messages urging us to find joy and not cling to physical remains, while also sharing joyful reunions with beloved pets and recognizing signs like rabbits as signals of presence from beyond. Amid personal health struggles, a sibling's quest for forgiveness revealed to us the immense power of love and forgiveness. We invite you to join our podcast community, share in our heartfelt journey, and engage with us on social media as we continue this path together. Chapters: (00:00) Empty Nesting and Connecting With Spirits (17:17) Guidance and Healing From Spirits (35:43) Healing and Moving On (52:44) Interactive Podcast Engagement Follow us on Instagram, TikTok and watch us on YouTube!
Episode #32: Ever wondered how the freedom of an empty nest could reignite your passions? Join us as we embark on our thrilling journey of rediscovering life with the kids out of the house. We're diving into community events, from vibrant yoga sessions at the Pantry Hotel to the lively Song Summit in Park City. Our newfound freedom has us embracing the great outdoors—whether it's hiking through scenic trails or preparing for the cozy winter months. With each adventure, we savor the collective spirit and camaraderie of our local community, all while keeping our zest for exploration alive. As we navigate the ups and downs of wellness in our 50s, our loyal dogs, Tilly and Maya, have become the perfect motivators for maintaining an active lifestyle. Our conversations explore the challenges of seasonal transitions, the wonders of having the right gear, and even the curious effects of global warming on our routines. With plans to visit California and tackle the 75 Hard challenge, we're committed to our personal growth while reminiscing about simpler times without air conditioning. And yes, we might just have a session with a medium psychic lined up to add a sprinkle of mystery to our rejuvenating journey. Tune in for an episode full of laughter, reflection, and the excitement of embracing this invigorating chapter of life. Chapters: (00:00) Navigating the Empty Nest (12:59) Wellness Journey in Our 50s Follow us on Instagram, TikTok and watch us on YouTube!
Episode #31: Sending our children off to college is a whirlwind of emotions, a sentiment many of us can relate to all too well. We recount our own experiences of packing up our kids' belongings with a sense of bittersweet pride, as well as the comforting routines we cherish when they're home. Through personal stories, we explore the emotional transitions both parents and children face as they adapt to their dual lives—rooted in a new collegiate environment while still holding on to the bonds of family. These moments of parting and reunion are filled with poignant complexity, making us reflect deeply on the nature of our family connections. As we navigate the intricate maze of college life, we delve into pressing themes like setting boundaries and the art of saying no without guilt. We share anecdotes about the struggles of maintaining friendships out of obligation and the importance of investing in relationships that truly matter. The freshman year of college is a rollercoaster of emotions, from the initial euphoria to the reality check of vulnerability and homesickness. Our discussion highlights the pivotal role roommates play in each other's highs and lows, the unpredictable journey of joining sororities, and how everything eventually falls into place, reinforcing the belief that everyone ends up where they're meant to be. The journey of moving into college is an emotional rite of passage filled with challenges and growth. We recount our own moving day hiccups, like rigid dorm assignments that eventually led to better arrangements, and reflect on the bittersweet nature of letting our children go. The sense of pride and anxiety is universal as both parents and students adapt to this transformative phase. We emphasize the importance of community, mentorship, and staying connected through planned visits, which provide comfort and continuity. As we conclude our heartfelt conversation, we express gratitude to our listeners, inviting them to share in the joy and connection that our journey brings. Join us on this emotional ride as we laugh, cry, and grow together in this unique chapter of life. Chapters: (00:00) Empty Nesting (10:50) Navigating Boundaries and College Transitions (20:57) Moving to College (28:57) Interactive Podcast Promotion and Q&A Follow us on Instagram, TikTok and watch us on YouTube!
Episode #30: Watching my daughter, Melissa, step into her new life in Charleston, South Carolina, was like watching a bird leave the nest for the first time. With a cargo van, a pod, and a few resourceful friends, we managed to turn her apartment into a cozy haven amidst the unfamiliar humidity and occasional pesky bugs. Through the hustle of lugging heavy furniture and the heartwarming task of meal prep, we've realized that this transition is not just about Melissa finding her wings, but also about us rediscovering our own. As we navigate this new chapter, the void left by my mom's passing looms large, echoing through life's milestones. Just as we adapt to the absence of daily interactions, we seek solace in signs that she's still with us, reminding us to live with the zest she embodied. This episode is a reflection on how loss is intertwined with life's many transitions, from having a baby to sending children off to college, each marked by a mix of excitement and sorrow. Through connecting with a medium and honoring her spirit in daily activities, we find healing in celebrating her life and the memories we still hold dear. Rituals offer a profound way to honor those we've lost, as we share stories filled with love and laughter, emphasizing the pivotal role of mothers and grandmothers in our lives. The act of cherishing memories and expressing emotions openly provides a cathartic release, allowing us to embrace the idea that it's okay not to be okay. This week's episode wraps up with heartfelt gratitude for our listeners, inviting them to join us in this shared journey of laughter, tears, and healing. We're grateful for the community that binds us, and we look forward to your questions and stories on our Instagram page, hoping to foster a space where every listener feels supported and understood. Chapters: (00:00) Life as Empty Nesters (11:21) Navigating Loss and Finding Healing (16:18) Honoring Life Through Death Rituals (22:08) Navigating Grief and Memories (31:30) Weekly Podcast Wrap-Up Follow us on Instagram, TikTok and watch us on YouTube!
Episode #29: Picture this: you've just returned from dropping your youngest child off at school, and the house feels oddly still. Julie Spieler knows this feeling all too well, as she shares her heartfelt journey through the emotional terrain of empty nesting. Together, we explore the poignant shift from the bustling life of dedicated parenting to the unfamiliar quiet that follows. Julie opens up about the unique bond she's formed with her children through years of single parenting and the bittersweet shock of facing an empty home after raising children with special needs. Join us for a candid conversation filled with humor, as we discuss the financial and emotional tolls of raising a family and the profound connection between single parents and their kids. As children spread their wings and gain independence, mothers often find themselves navigating uncharted waters. With less preparation and support than one might hope for, the transition can be overwhelming. Julie and I tackle the often-overlooked emotional challenges women face as they adjust to this new phase of life. The common advice to "find a hobby" is just the tip of the iceberg; we emphasize the importance of reaching out to friends and family, staying active, and embracing the journey of rediscovering personal identities and passions. Strap in as we embark on this reflective journey together, reclaiming who we are beyond our roles as parents. Chapters: (00:00) Navigating Empty Nesting in Your 50s (13:06) Emptiness and Adjusting to Change Follow us on Instagram, TikTok and watch us on YouTube!



