Episode 71 - Mom is Not Your Only Name with Kate Batistelli

Date: April 11, 2025 Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Kate Battistelli   Episode Highlights: In this powerful episode of The Women Behind the Words, we’re joined by the inspiring Kate Battistelli, who brings a heartfelt and hope-filled message to women navigating the tender transition of the empty nest. Whether you're currently walking through this season or preparing for it, Kate's words are sure to bring comfort, clarity, and vision for what's ahead. With wisdom grounded in faith and experience, Kate shares the raw realities of the “after party” of parenting—how it can feel both beautiful and deeply challenging. She speaks to mothers whose children are walking away from the Lord and reminds us that our prayers still hold eternal weight. She encourages listeners to dream again, pursue purpose beyond parenting, and reclaim the identity that may have been placed on hold during the child-raising years. From prioritizing your marriage in this new chapter to finding mentorship and becoming a mentor to embracing God’s unexpected callings, Kate offers practical encouragement and deeply spiritual insight. Her gentle reminders echo throughout this episode: God is not done with you, your story still matters, and your name is not only “Mom.” Before closing in a beautiful prayer, Kate encourages each listener to lean into God’s faithfulness and not to settle for the sidelines. There is still work to do—and great joy to be found.   About the Guest: Kate Battistelli is the author of The After Party of the Empty Nest: Mom is Not Your Only Name, The God Dare, and Growing Great Kids. A national voice of encouragement to women in all stages of life, Kate is a sought-after speaker, mentor, and one-third of the popular Mom to Mom Podcast alongside her co-hosts September McCarthy and Jamie Erickson. Once a Broadway actress, Kate starred as Anna in The King and I opposite Yul Brynner, performing over 1,000 shows on tour. She and her husband laid down their careers in the theater to follow God's call to homeschool their daughter, Grammy-winning artist Francesca Battistelli, and build a life of ministry and home business. Today, Kate resides in Franklin, Tennessee, where she enjoys life alongside her family—including seven beloved grandchildren. A frequent contributor to publications such as Guideposts, The Joyful Life, The Better Mom, and Mici Magazine, she has also written for the Incourage Bible for Women and The Spirit-Led Woman’s Bible. Kate was recently honored by She Leads Tennessee for her leadership and influence in ministry. Through her books, blog, and social platforms, Kate continues to inspire women to step out of their comfort zones and into God's bigger plans.   Book Spotlight: The After Party of the Empty Nest: Mom is Not Your Only Name The empty nest isn’t the end—it’s the start of something new. In this beautifully written and deeply encouraging book, Kate invites readers to explore the sacred, sometimes bittersweet space that follows the parenting years. With reflection prompts and practical wisdom, she guides women to rediscover who they are, what they’re called to do, and how to thrive in a season filled with possibility. If you've ever asked, “Who am I now that my children are gone?”—this book is for you. If you feel torn between grief and freedom—you’re not alone. If you’re ready to embrace your second act—God is already writing it. You are cordially invited to the After Party… because Mom is not your only name.   Connect with Kate Battistelli: Instagram: @katebattistelli Facebook: Kate Battistelli X (Twitter): @katebattistelli LinkedIn: Kate Battistelli Website: www.katebattistelli.com   Closing Thought: The chapter of motherhood may change, but your purpose never ends. Let this season be a divine invitation—not to retreat—but to rise. The second act might just be the most meaningful one yet.