The Empty Nest Mom Podcast

In this episode, Mandy and Lauren talk about the part of Motherhood no one really prepares you for.Not the busy years.Not the chaos.But the moment everything starts to shift.From graduation season and kids stepping into their own lives, to realizing you’re stepping into a completely new version of yours… this conversation is honest, emotional, and real in a way every Mom will feel.They talk about identity changes, letting go, and what it actually looks like to move forward when life doesn’t look the same anymore.And in true Mandy and Lauren fashion… there’s also Midwest weather chaos, tornado stories, fitness resets, and even a hidden Jamaican restaurant find mixed in.Because this season?It’s not just an ending.It’s the beginning of something new.—In This Episode, We Talk About:• The moment you realize “wait… how did we get here?”• Graduation season and the emotions Moms don’t talk about• Watching your kids grow up and need you differently• The identity shift that comes with this stage of motherhood• Letting go of what was… and learning to embrace what is• Starting over without starting from scratch• Getting back into routines, fitness, and doing things for YOU again• Midwest weather, tornado stories, and real-life chaos• How shared experiences (even the crazy ones) bring families closer• Discovering a hidden Jamaican restaurant and finding joy in the unexpected• Talking about summer plans, travel, and what’s next• Navigating change, growth, and building a life that feels good again—Resources + Favorites Mentioned:Fi Mi Pot Jamaican Restaurant (local hidden gem)Website: TheEmptyNestMom.comInstagram: @theemptynestmomsTikTok: @theemptynestmomsFacebook: The Empty Nest MomNewsletter Sign Up: https://theemptynestmom.com/ourstories/—A Little Reminder Before You Go…You didn’t lose your purpose.It’s just changing.This season might feel unfamiliar… emotional… even a little heavy at times.But it’s also where you start finding pieces of yourself again.Different doesn’t mean worse.Sometimes it’s just deeper.And you’re not the only Mom feeling this way. 💛

Finding Joy in the Little Things: Midlife Mom ReflectionsWhat if the thing that saves your day… isn’t something big?In this episode of The Empty Nest Mom Podcast, Mandy and Lauren sit down for a real, honest conversation about the small, everyday moments that bring joy back into midlife Motherhood, especially in a season that can feel overwhelming, emotional, or unfamiliar.From a spontaneous stop at a charming plant shop in Franklin, Tennessee to deeper conversations about identity, exhaustion, and learning to prioritize yourself again… this episode feels like sitting on the couch with your best friend, saying the things Moms don’t always say out loud.Because the truth is... life looks different when your kids start growing up. The noise quiets. The roles shift. And somewhere in that transition, it’s easy to wonder where you went.But maybe joy isn’t something you have to chase.Maybe it’s found in the tiniest moments:A sunset.A quiet drive.A new plant for your kitchen.A laugh you didn’t expect.Mandy and Lauren share personal stories, reflections, and real-life moments, from family updates and spontaneous adventures to self-care conversations around Botox, NAD+, and simply doing something for yourself without guilt.They also talk about the importance of community, supporting other Moms, and creating a space where women can show up exactly as they are; no pressure, no perfection.If you’ve ever felt like you lost a piece of yourself in Motherhood… or you’re trying to figure out what this next chapter looks like…This episode is your reminder:You don’t need permission to enjoy your life again.Resources & Mentions:Rooted Plant Shop (Franklin, TN)Botox Wellness & Vitamin ClinicOptimized Health (NAD+ & Red Light Therapy)Interested in being a guest on our podcast? Click here!Connect with us:Follow along on Instagram & TikTok: @theemptynestmomsRead more on the blog: theemptynestmom.comJoin our community:Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for exclusive content, giveaways, and ways to connect with other moms just like you.And if this episode resonated with you, share it with a Mom who needs this reminder today.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/hybridas/perfect-timeLicense code: YAAVKSL66OSH3PI4

Sick Kids, Side Hustles & Finding Joy Anyway | Real Mom Life UnfilteredIn this episode, Mandy and Lauren pull back the curtain on what life really looks like behind the posts.From sick kids and sleepless nights to exciting wins like monetizing on Facebook, this conversation is honest, unfiltered, and full of the moments Moms don’t always share, but all of us live.They talk about navigating chaos, finding joy in the middle of it, and learning to embrace life as it is… not as it “should” look.Because sometimes Motherhood is messy.And sometimes, that’s where the magic actually is.—In This Episode, We Talk About:• The truth behind social media vs. real life• Navigating sick kids, stomach bugs, and total chaos• Trying to take care of yourself while everyone else needs you• That very real moment when kids get sick… in the car 😅• How Motherhood is evolving (and why that’s a good thing)• Letting go of perfection and showing up authentically• Lauren’s current Walmart favorites + comfy Mom style finds• Supporting small businesses and shopping local• The emotional side of preparing for the empty nest• Big feelings, loss, and what really matters most• Celebrating a huge milestone: monetizing on Facebook 🎉• DoorDashing as a flexible, fun side hustle for Moms• Finding joy, even in the middle of the mess—Resources + Favorites Mentioned:• Baked by Nina (Harrisonville, MO)• Walmart Fashion & Joyspun Pajamas• LTK Shop (Lauren’s Favorites)• DoorDash (Side Hustle Idea for Moms)—Connect With Us:Website: TheEmptyNestMom.comInstagram: @theemptynestmomsTikTok: @theemptynestmomsFacebook: The Empty Nest Mom—A Little Reminder Before You Go…Life doesn’t slow down for the perfect moment.It happens in the middle of the chaos… the sickness… the laughter… the ordinary days.And somehow, those end up being the moments that matter most.You’re doing better than you think, Mama. 💜

Join Lauren and Mandy as they explore the joys, challenges, and emotional transitions that come with life beyond active Motherhood. From travel adventures and creative experiences to the deeper journey of rediscovering identity after raising children, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that Moms deserve space for reinvention, connection, and self-care.Lauren shares highlights from her VIP experience at the Pinners Conference, while Mandy reflects on the evolving role of a Mom once the kids grow up. Together they talk about Mom guilt, the sacrifices of Motherhood, and the importance of giving yourself permission to live intentionally in this next chapter.Whether you're navigating an empty nest, dreaming about travel, or simply trying to reconnect with yourself after years of putting everyone else first, this conversation is for you.In This Episode: • The transition from active Motherhood to the Empty Nest and redefining your identity• Highlights from Lauren’s VIP experience at the Pinners Conference• Tips for attending events like Pinners and getting the most value from classes and workshops• The importance of Mom self-care and learning to move beyond Mom guilt• Reflecting on the sacrifices of Motherhood and the lessons we learn along the way• Practical advice for traveling minimally and living more intentionally• The power of shared experiences and community among Moms• How blogging and storytelling help process emotions and create connection• Encouragement for Moms to give themselves grace and embrace every season of MotherhoodResources & Connect with Us: Learn more, read the blog, and connect with our community of Moms:The Empty Nest Mom Bloghttps://theemptynestmom.comFollow The Empty Nest Mom on Social MediaInstagram: https://instagram.com/theemptynestmomsFacebook: https://facebook.com/theemptynestmomsPinterest: https://pinterest.com/theemptynestmomsTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@theemptynestmomsYouTube: https://youtube.com/@theemptynestmomsInterested in collaborating or working with us?Email: [email protected] stage of Motherhood is unique. As Moms, we spend years caring for everyone else, but this season is a reminder that your story is still unfolding. Whether you're planning your next adventure, rediscovering your passions, or simply looking for connection with other Moms, you are not alone.Let’s walk this journey together.

In this episode of The Empty Nest Mom Podcast, Mandy and the Moms get real about Mom Guilt, Free Will, and the constant tug-of-war between Personal Time and Parenting. From sneaking away for a guilt-free coffee to surviving Walmart runs and celebrating the small wins, this week’s conversation is all about reclaiming joy in the middle of everyday chaos.They share honest moments about the pressure to “do it all,” why taking time for yourself isn’t selfish, and how the simple act of choosing joy can change everything. Between laughs about weekend adventures, nostalgic memories, and local favorites, the Moms open up about aging, health, family dynamics, and what it means to keep growing even when life feels messy.It’s not about perfection. It’s about permission. Permission to breathe, laugh, and be a woman first, even while you’re rocking Motherhood in all its forms.✨ Key TakeawaysMom Guilt is universal — but it doesn’t have to rule your story.Personal Time helps you recharge, reconnect, and return with more patience and love.Free Will is your reminder that you still get to choose joy every single day.Weekend chaos, Walmart runs, and sweet tea breaks all count as self-care.Aging and wellness deserve real, honest conversations (yes, even pelvic floor talk).Nostalgia reminds us how far we’ve come — and how much beauty remains.Community and humor are lifelines for every Mom Season.It’s okay to say no, slow down, and create space for what matters.The right people and simple pleasures make life lighter.Whether you’re sipping coffee on a Saturday, navigating school chaos, or just craving a moment to yourself, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone, Mama — and you’re doing better than you think. 💛✨ Follow along and be part of our community🌐 Blog & freebies: theemptynestmom.com📸 Instagram: @theemptynestmoms🎥 TikTok: @theemptynestmoms📌 Pinterest: @theemptynestmoms👍 Facebook: The Empty Nest Mom💛 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review — your support helps more Moms find the laughter, grace, and connection they deserve.👉 Join our private Facebook community, The Mom Circle, a safe space to connect and grow with Moms who truly get it: theemptynestmom.com/podcast

In this episode of The Empty Nest Mom Podcast, Mandy and the Moms dive into the world of technology, exploring how smart gadgets, AI tools, and modern devices are reshaping everyday Motherhood. From using ChatGPT for meal planning and workout ideas to the benefits of wearables like Fitbits and smart home assistants, they share practical ways tech can simplify life, improve communication, and even bring families closer together.But this conversation goes deeper than devices — it’s about finding balance. The hosts talk openly about the overwhelm that can come with learning new technology, the comfort of “old school” habits, and how to choose tools that truly serve you instead of drain you.With honesty, humor, and a dose of encouragement, they remind Moms that it’s not about keeping up — it’s about finding what works best for you.✨ Key Takeaways:Technology can help Moms stay connected with their kids.Smart gadgets can reclaim time and reduce stress.ChatGPT can simplify meal planning and workouts.Wearables like Fitbits support health and mindfulness.Smart homes can make daily life easier.Balancing old school with new tech keeps things real.Tech can strengthen family communication and organization.Learning new tools can be overwhelming but rewarding.It’s okay to stick with what works for you.The right tech can make life smoother and more joyful.Whether you’re a tech-savvy Mom or someone still figuring out how to connect the Wi-Fi printer, this episode will inspire you to embrace technology in your own way with grace, curiosity, and confidence.✨ Follow along and be part of our community:🌐 Blog & freebies: theemptynestmom.com📸 Instagram: @theemptynestmoms🎥 TikTok: @theemptynestmoms📌 Pinterest: @theemptynestmoms👍 Facebook: The Empty Nest Mom💛 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review. Your support helps more Moms find the encouragement and connection they deserve.👉 Join our private Facebook community, The Mom Circle — a safe space to connect, share, and grow with Moms who truly get it: theemptynestmom.com/podcast

In this episode of The Empty Nest Mom Podcast, Mandy and Jill open up about the heart-tugging season of Motherhood when children begin to leave home. Together, they share raw stories of navigating the quiet house, the mix of joy and guilt, and the profound emotional shift that comes with rediscovering who you are beyond being “Mom.”They explore how self-care, intentional relationships, and chasing experiences over material possessions can help Moms step into this new phase with courage and joy. With honesty and encouragement, they remind us that it’s never too late to reconnect with your identity, nurture bonds with adult children, and give yourself permission to pursue dreams long set aside.✨ Key Takeaways:Joy and guilt often coexist in Motherhood’s transitions.The empty nest is an opportunity to embrace change and rediscovery.Self-care is vital for emotional resilience.Relationships with adult children require love, effort, and grace.Experiences matter more than possessions.Identity beyond Motherhood is worth pursuing.It’s never too late for personal growth and new beginnings.Whether you’re standing at the threshold of an empty nest, living in the quiet now, or simply curious about what lies ahead, this conversation offers comfort, validation, and a hopeful reminder: you are not alone, and your story is still unfolding.✨ Follow along and be part of our community:🌐 Blog & freebies: theemptynestmom.com📸 Instagram: @theemptynestmoms🎥 TikTok: @theemptynestmoms📌 Pinterest: @theemptynestmoms👍 Facebook: The Empty Nest Mom💛 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review. Your support helps more Moms find the encouragement and connection they deserve.👉 Join our private Facebook community, The Mom Circle: a safe space to connect, share, and grow with Moms who truly get it. theemptynestmom.com/podcast

In this episode of The Empty Nest Mom Podcast, Mandy and the Moms of TENM come together for a heartfelt conversation about the challenges and emotional support every Mom needs. From navigating the ups and downs of homeschooling to creating strong community connections, they open up about the real, unfiltered experiences of Motherhood.Through honest stories they remind us that perfection was never the goal. Instead, it’s about raising resilient souls, showing up in the moment, and knowing you don’t have to do this alone.Together, they explore the pressure Moms feel to be “perfect,” the relief that comes with sharing struggles, and the power of building a community where encouragement flows freely. This conversation is both grounding and uplifting, offering the reminder that being present is far more valuable than being perfect.✨ Key Takeaways:You don’t have to do this alone.Emotional support is crucial for Moms.Homeschooling is about resilience, not perfection.Community makes the hard days lighter.Presence matters more than perfection.Whether you’re homeschooling, juggling endless to-dos, or just craving a safe space to exhale, this episode is your reminder that you are not alone in this journey of Motherhood.✨ Follow along and be part of our community:🌐 Blog & freebies: theemptynestmom.com📸 Instagram: @theemptynestmoms🎥 TikTok: @theemptynestmoms📌 Pinterest: @theemptynestmoms👍 Facebook: The Empty Nest Mom💛 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review. Your support helps more Moms find the encouragement and connection they deserve.👉 And head on over to the theemptynestmom.com/podcast where you can sign up for our Exclusive Facebook Group: The Mom Circle. A safe space to connect, share, and grow with Moms who truly get it.

In this episode of The Empty Nest Mom Podcast, Mandy sits down with the Moms of TENM to have a raw, empowering conversation about the unspoken realities of Motherhood. Together, they open up about the guilt that so often comes with prioritizing your own needs, the pressure to justify every choice, and the freedom that comes when you decide to live unapologetically.Through personal stories—both heartfelt and hilariously unhinged—they explore what it means to embrace authenticity, set boundaries, and reclaim self-worth. From the messy moments of Mom life to the quiet power of saying “no” without guilt, this conversation reminds every Mom listening that her journey is unique, valid, and worthy of respect.With laughter, honesty, and encouragement, the Moms remind us all that empowerment comes from within—and that community is what makes the hard days easier and the joyful days even sweeter.Whether you’re battling Mom guilt, craving connection, or learning to own your voice without apologies, this episode is your reminder: you do not owe anyone an explanation, you are allowed to rest, and you are never alone on this Motherhood journey.✨ Follow along and be part of our community:🌐 Blog & freebies: theemptynestmom.com📸 Instagram: @theemptynestmoms🎥 TikTok: @theemptynestmoms📌 Pinterest: @theemptynestmoms👍 Facebook: The Empty Nest Mom💛 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review—your support helps more Moms find the encouragement and community they deserve.

In this episode of The Empty Nest Mom Podcast, Lauren sits down with her Mom, Mandy—the founder of The Empty Nest Mom—to have a heartfelt conversation about the emotional journey that begins once the kids leave home. Together, they open up about the quiet moments that follow, the challenge of rediscovering who you are beyond Motherhood, and the power of creating sacred rituals that bring you back to yourself.They share the raw feelings of being “lost” in transition, the paradox of love and longing, and the freedom that comes from embracing this new chapter with fresh eyes. Through shared reflections and encouragement, Mandy and Lauren remind listeners that this season is not an ending, but an invitation to grow, to dream again, and to pursue joy unapologetically.Whether you’re navigating the quiet of an empty house, rediscovering passions you once set aside, or simply seeking connection with women who get it, this conversation is a gentle but powerful reminder: you are not alone, your dreams still matter, and you are worthy of hope, joy, and self-care at every stage of life.✨ Follow along and be part of our community:🌐 Blog & freebies: theemptynestmom.com📸 Instagram: @theemptynestmoms🎥 TikTok: @theemptynestmoms📌 Pinterest: @theemptynestmoms👍 Facebook: The Empty Nest Mom💛 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review—your support helps more Moms find the encouragement and community they deserve.

In this episode of The Empty Nest Mom Podcast, Lauren sits down with her mom, Mandy—the founder of The Empty Nest Mom—to share a raw and moving story of grief, resilience, and rediscovery. Mandy opens up about navigating the heartbreak of loss while raising her daughters, the power of therapy in healing, and why building a community of support for moms became her mission.Together, they talk about the unseen struggles moms face beyond their titles, the importance of mental health, and how empowering one another can bring hope and strength after hardship. This conversation is about more than survival—it’s about rewriting the story, finding purpose again, and reminding every mom that her worth and journey matter.Whether you’re in the depths of grief, rediscovering yourself in a new season, or simply looking for connection, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that you are not alone—and that there’s always hope for a brighter future.✨ Follow along and be part of our community:🌐 Blog & freebies: theemptynestmom.com📸 Instagram: @theemptynestmoms🎥 TikTok: @theemptynestmoms📌 Pinterest: @theemptynestmoms👍 Facebook: The Empty Nest Mom💛 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review—your support helps more moms find the encouragement and community they deserve.

In this episode of The Empty Nest Mom Podcast, we open up about the real complexities of Motherhood—the loneliness that can come with parenting, the bittersweet shift of an empty nest, and how friendships change as children grow up. We talk about the importance of self-advocacy, mental health, and celebrating the small victories that remind us we’re doing enough.This conversation is unfiltered, encouraging, and a reminder that Moms don’t have to carry the weight alone. Whether you’re in the thick of raising kids or navigating the quiet of an empty nest, this episode is about finding joy in the journey and embracing the ups and downs of being a Mom.✨ Follow along and be part of our community:🌐 Blog & freebies: theemptynestmom.com📸 Instagram: @theemptynestmoms🎥 TikTok: @theemptynestmoms📌 Pinterest: @theemptynestmoms👍 Facebook: The Empty Nest Mom💛 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review—your support helps more Moms find the encouragement and community they deserve.

In this very first episode of The Empty Nest Mom Podcast, we explore the emotional journey of Motherhood—from the tender moments of early parenting to the bittersweet transition into an empty nest. Together, we share the real struggles of weaning, the chaos of balancing family and personal life, and the unique challenges of raising kids in a digital age.This conversation is raw, heartfelt, and filled with encouragement. More than anything, it’s a reminder that no matter what stage of Motherhood you’re in, you’re not alone. This season is also about rediscovering yourself, finding community, and embracing the freedom to grow again.✨ Follow along and be part of our community:🌐 Blog & freebies: theemptynestmom.com📸 Instagram: @theemptynestmoms🎥 TikTok: @theemptynestmoms📌 Pinterest: @theemptynestmoms👍 Facebook: The Empty Nest Mom💛 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review—your support helps other Moms find encouragement right when they need it most.

This is what The Empty Nest Mom is all about: Real women. Raw stories. And the reminder that your story matters too.🎧 Tune in Wednesday.#RealMomStories #TheEmptyNestMom #MomLifeUnfiltered #PodcastTeaser #MomsSupportingMoms