The Girlfriend's Guide to an Empty Nest

No brothers? No sons? No problem! :) For those girlfriends who want to better understand raising boys or how to interact with/encourage the boys in their lives (sons-in-law, boyfriends of your daughters etc.), this episode is for you! We share today about:Anne’s experience raising a son vs raising her daughtersHelping your kids navigate online dating A funny story of Anne standing up for her son his freshman year of college What matters to boys in college compared to what matters to girls Things Anne wishes she would have talked to her son about moreDifferent techniques for learning about what is going on in a son’s lifeAnne’s biggest fear as a mother of a sonWhy you have to sometimes be more intentional connecting with your sons than your daughters once they leave home/get marriedTips for being an open and not pushy parent, so your kids want to come to you for adviceUnique Advice on welcoming new “kids” into the family via sons-in-lawGet in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

There is a different tone in homes when laughter is easy, jokes are made more often and when your spouse is actually enjoyable to be around and not weekly getting a case of the Sunday Scaries (you know, dreading the upcoming work week). So today we pose the question: what can we do to set a joyful atmosphere in our homes as wives and moms? This episode is all about intentionality. Taking action to get a better outcome. We pray this one encourages you, girlfriends!Today we dive into:How our contentment at work (or lack of) impacts our home livesWhy YOUR pursuit of joy benefits your loved ones tooThoughts on changing jobs in the Empty Nesting season to bring you more purposeLooking for next steps once your kids leave, to lead you to new callings Our experience with being Empaths and how that feels when your spouse is downRecognizing the impact you have as a woman on the mood in the homeIdeas to have more fulfilling relationships and daysHow to find things that bring you joy and how to allow your deep dreams to awakenAmazing stats about productivity in your 50’s and 60’sAccidental joy hunting vs intentional joy hunting The importance of staying curiousEpisodes mentioned: Doing Some Thing Badly episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/37-how-about-not-setting-goals-this-new-year/id1760203235?i=1000743952619Smothering Your Dog Once Your Kiddos Leave episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/4-where-to-put-your-mom-energy-now/id1760203235?i=1000664451393Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Today is an episode for all the mama bears out there who just want to swoop in and fix things for their kids. It is such a HARD thing when your cub is grown and now you are required to play a supportive role, not a fix it role. We chat today:The importance of life’s trials being allowed to be a teacherEncouraging vs fixingThoughts on how hardships in life shapes you (and your kids)The natural feeling of wanting to fix thingsThe pain of watching your kids experience pain (even when it results in good things) Why the answer isn’t always to make struggles go awayHow issues in relationships can teach our kids how to handle conflict and moreIdeas on how to give your perspective to your kids with loving languageSuccesses AND failures providing lessons for allNoun Parenting vs Verb Parenting The skill of trusting your kids and your good job as a parent  Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Today we are navigating a tough topic: what to do when your grown children are struggling. It is SO hard on a mama’s heart when situations arise that you can’t practically do anything to fix, other than letting them know you are there to listen and sympathize. Today we chat about:Reflections of our own childhoodsOur own parent’s style for parenting vs our own stylesHow to to give our imperfect parents graceBecoming the mom you wish you had growing up yourselfHow the older generations view emotions as weakness (and the impact of that on their kids)Thoughts on mental health in the church and our kids livesThe wisdom of just asking your grown kids how to best help themThe importance of apologizing to your kidsGiving yourself grace for not knowing how to do everything rightWhy looking to the grace of God first, helps you to then have grace for yourselfGet in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Today we are chiming in on how to take care of ourselves. Please note, taking care of yourself doesn’t just mean exercise or eating nourishing meals. It also means learning how to be resilient to peer pressure to do something a certain way, like those around you are. We also share about caring for our future self by caring for our current selves physically and emotionally. We’ll be chatting today tons too about clothing and how to let yourself wear what you wanna! Even if your kids think your fashion is wacky :) You’ll hear today:The freedom that comes from not caring what others think about your words, appearance, life choices etcOur thoughts on dressing aging bodies (is it okay to still dress like your 20 even when you aren’t?)Being mindful to listen to the right voicesThe comfort and confidence to be yourself, unapologetically How clothing can become an unhelpful armour Anne’s experience “getting her colors” doneThe power of considering what is right for you and not just doing what appears right to otherConsidering “Grandma You” and what you can do to be the version of her you desire to be one dayCommentary on barrel jeans … what the heck?!How you feel vs what other people thinkWatching out for the “Comparison Gauge"Finding health promoting behaviors that work for you personally Learning what feels good for you (which might not look like what the influencer says to do or buy)Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

The day has finally arrived …. Our hubbies borrow our microphones and host the show for a special episode! Get ready for some jokes but also some great male insights to the Empty Nesting season. You’ll hear new information from stories already shared on this podcast, all from Rick and Chad telling THEIR experience of these moments. They may or may not also make a few jabs at Anne and Becky : ) To quote Rick, “This is our chance to throw our wives under the bus.” LOL! The guys chat about:How launching a child looks different outwardly on dads and what they actually are thinking insideMindsets dads use to help with the deep emotions that come with kids leaving the homeDrop off Day from a dad’s perspective (including some funny memories!)Why our husbands wanted to come on the show Advice for dads dropping off kids at college The blessings that come from less kiddos in the homeThe mixed emotions that come with an Empty (or Emptier) NestHow dads (these dads at least) feel when the kids come back for visits (tripping over shoes anyone else?!)How marriages and friendships change when the kids are no longer living in your homeHow conversations change with your kids once they leaveThoughts on boundaries to set with kids when they come home after being on their ownHow the dads chatted with their kids about money to set them up for adulthood budgets Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Tune in today to hear about some exciting things coming to the show! Think HUSBANDS! You’ll also hear on today’s episode how to practically transition into your new roles in the Empty Nest season and we also share a fun BAD challenge to join us in this year!Today we also chat about:Expert Adults vs Baby AdultsThe sweetest listener review from a military mamaA refreshing way to look at being in your 50’s (it’s funny but true!)Shifting from guide to mentor to your kids (what the practically looks like)Compassion for moms, no matter what your child decided to do post high schoolHelpful analogies for this stage of lifeThe exciting possibilities for moms in the Empty Nest seasonWhy it’s not all about your kids anymoreThe wisdom of embracing the suckThoughts on “shoulding” on yourself vs listening to what God is asking you to do (even if you stink at it)An invitation to do something you are terrible at this yearGet in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Today is a suuuuppper fun episode for the girlfriends listening. We have a very special guest on … Clara, Becky’s oldest daughter! You’ll hear in our conversation all things leaving the nest, starting college, building new relationships and learning to “adult”, all from a daughter’s perspective. We know this episode will bless you. Clara gives such insightful wisdom and encouragement for moms and kids alike!We chat about:The mixed emotions that come with starting a new chapter of your lifeWhat goes through your child's mind on Drop of Day on their new campusTips (from Clara) on how parents can help make transition seasons easierHow it impacts your child, knowing it’s a change for the whole family when they leaveWays your child can be international about savouring their “lasts” at home before they leave the nestAdjustments your child is figuring out, moving from a high school student, to a college studentLearning how to adult, in ways like time management or living in a new cityRemembering to do things your parent use to do for youDifferent approaches children can have staying connected to their family once they move out How to NOT be a helicopter parent in college (ex: things not to text!)Thoughts on parents tracking their kids whereabouts Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Today we are chatting about going a little rouge/counter culture and letting yourself not set goals in 2026. Yes, there is a time and place for that but sometimes goals can limit us, box us in, put distracting pressure on ourselves. And as Empty Nesters (especially that first year), it can be so good to learn to just BE and not DO. Trying to figure out who you are apart from your kids is a very hard challenge so that is plenty to focus on! #goaltonotmakegoalsThings we share about today:Why Anne doesn’t set resolutionsThe strangeness of having free time and not knowing what to do with itThe freedom that comes with no goalsHow Becky was able to thrive at times in 2025 as her nest started to emptyLearning to exercise “muscles” you haven't since having kidsUsing this year (and new chapter)  to experiment and do things just because it sounds funThe powerful question of “how do I feel like playing today?”Examples of how Becky is starting to do things for herself, enjoying more flexibility with less kids in the houseThings Anne has found she enjoys doing, once she tried new things as an Empty NesterHow courageous decisions are a risk but also can lead to great blessing!The wisdom of letting go of things that don’t bring you joy anymore (it’s okay to change and pivot)Choosing to see the GIFT that kids leaving can be to YOU the motherThe importance of having your own life and therefore having things to contribute to conversations with your adult childrenGet in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Today we are chatting with the girlfriends about a fun topic today: family traditions. It can be so surprising when your kids let you know they loved certain traditions growing up, yet you didn’t even realize it was something you did for your kids on routine. We chat today:The thing we did with our kids that they consider a tradition vs how we saw it as momsWhy it feels like a gold star when you realize something was meaningful to your childrenHow traditions even begin, sometimes unintentionally (ahem, just tryin’ to manage chaos!)Some family traditions we personally doHow interesting it is that some traditions land with our kids and some just don’tHow even the things you don’t do often can become such precious memories for your adult kids to replicateThe wonder of watching your kids join their own traditions with theirs of their spouseThe emotions certain habits can evoke and why our kids adopt them from watching usSome conversation starters to get your kids (at any age) to chat about family traditions they loveWhy you can’t decide what traditions will stick with your kids! (Becky has a fun story about fishsticks. Lol)Dealing with holidays will no kids coming home (learning to share your kids with other people)Discovering new traditions as an Empty NesterGet in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Today we start things off with Anne flooding Becky with buckets of genuine compliments. Becky honestly shares that it was hard to receive said affirmation! Sounds familiar? Today we are digging into why it’s so dang hard to just say “thank you” when people speak life over you. And more importantly, how to practically grow in this area.More in today’s conversation:Anne sharing a cute story of how she decided to embrace a complimentHow we can help the younger generation learn to accept kind wordsWhy it’s possible to say thanks, even if you don’t feel their words are true yourselfThoughts on why giving lovely feedback is easier than receiving that lovely feedbackWhy some people don’t give complaintsWhat deflecting is commonThe danger of not learning to receive compliments to fill your brain spaceHow to give better complimentsFlattering vs thoughtful complimentsWhy we might criticize ourselves more as we ageHow not learning to accept affirmation can impact even your walk with the LordGet in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

From sugar habits, continuing grief after the kids leave, to finding blessings in every season with your kids, this episode has sooo much jammed into it. It will give ya some laughter, some advice about doubting your mothering skills, a quote that rocked Anne’s world about perfectionism and everything in between.We chat today:Looking for the joy and inspiration where you areHow we need to encourage each other in the Empty Nest seasonThoughts from listeners of the show What to do with the self-talk of “am I doing enough as a mom?”Why self condemnation as a mom isn’t helpful or healthy and what to focus on insteadComfort from God for mothersLaughing at yourself vs beating yourself upWhy your kids need to see you mess up sometimesLooking at the sum total of what your kids have experienced from youInsights on when your kids pick up struggles from youGet in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Today we are checking in on Becky, her thoughts and feelings after The First Visit of her kiddo coming home for the first time after moving away for college. This is a VERY emotional time for moms (and kids) and Becky is sharing the things she wishes she would have done to care for her heart and things that are now working better. This episode in the last half reads a little like a big sister heart to heart/therapy session with Anne!You’ll hear us share on:What it feels like dropping them off again once the weekend is overSurrendering your child to the LordEmbracing loneliness and being productive with itNormal emotional and physical feelings that come with them leaving & visiting Silver linings about this seasonSurprising timeline of adjustment for BeckyThings that change once there is one less person at homeReflections from Anne of her experience from this timeThe impact on emotions of a mom during this transition Hope for finding your new normal and hard things easing up!Allowing yourself space to rest and adjust (instead of staying busy and being in denial) Thoughts on emotional/identity bridgesWhy having a life of your own enhances your relationship with your childrenGet in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

How do you feel about your body as you age? Loaded question, we know! Today we are talking about body image as you age. Level 5 (turning 50) can bring up a whole host of feelings and today we are sharing our thoughts and experiences with aging. Remember, what works for one woman to feel confident in her current body will look different for another. You’ll hear today:NOT should you or should you not do things but rather our experiences with aging The different ways different women feel beautiful as they get olderThe good desire to want to feel confident and beautiful that God put in womenThe reasons culture makes us feel less attractive as we age (and how it doesn't respect certain types of beauty)How it’s up to each woman to decide how to support her own body confidence Practical ways to feel good in your skinAdult breakouts … sigh, it’s a thing.How with age comes wisdom and also not caring as much about people's thoughtsSelf care looking like fashion or beauty choices at times How Empty Nesting opens up opportunities to invest time and money on you!Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Today’s episode will start with a big time giggle on the expense of Anne. She’s sharing what can happen when you aren’t aware of current lingo and then she and Becky discuss the deep questions those embarrassing moments can bring up. The reflection, the wondering of things like, “Who is paying attention to me? Am I okay with being irrelevant?”You’ll hear today:The wrestling that comes with once being someone who strives, to now simply not caring or having that ambition anymoreThe lack of information for mothers in this stage of parenting Encouragement to re-invent yourself when the kids leaveThe different value our culture puts on women in different stagesHow our world worships youthfulness (and sometimes even in the church)The good desire in your 50’s and beyond to be valuable and how it looks different nowHow women our age are more picky about where they want to be seen (not always on social media)The difference between a shift in your values vs your valueThe freedom that comes when you see there are ways to make impact even when “culturally irrelevant”The joy of putting energy towards timeless thingsHow contributions to the world looks different in different seasons of lifeThe people pleasing you shed as you age that can be mistaken for invisibility Why things don’t have to be public to be valuable Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

That thing that was once waaaayyy in the future has come and gone now for Becky: dropping her oldest off at college. It’s hard. It’s weird. It’s abrupt. It’s hopeful. It’s rewarding. And everything in between.Today we are chatting about redefining your role as a mother and your relationship with kids as they get older and enter new life seasons. There definitely are wise and not so wise ways to do this!Things you’ll hear today:What changes when you become your child’s guide How to support your kids, even if you don’t agree with their decisionsThe risks that come with imposing parenting when the stage of life calls for being a guideWhy trusting your skills as a mother helps you trust your kids later on in lifeThe best way to “let your kids go” and encouragement for this timeNavigating how often to reach out to your kids once they move outSigns your kids are not feeling judged for their life choicesHow to NOT put your emotional care on your children (example texts provided!)Considerations for the feelings of the kid(s) still in the nestA helpful mindset to have to live in the momentGet in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Back to school season is in full swing right now. New school supplies, check. New teachers, check. Fresh starts for kids AND moms? Also check!Today we are diving into the pros and cons of summer vs the regular school year. Each time of year brings a different set of challenges for moms but also unique blessings! You'll also find inspo in this conversation and practical ideas to help you discover the exciting next chapter of your life as a daughter of God.You’ll hear today:What we love about summer and what we enjoy about the school yearHow bringing back routine impacts your physical time and your mental timeThoughts on organizing your extra time during the school yearThings Anne and Becky miss about having younger kids and things they are glad they don’t have to deal with anymore! How Becky is using work as a healthy tool right now, while her mama heart is hurting about missing her kidsWhy it’s important to remember your kid’s childhood is only a small/short part of your lifeInspiration for finding what’s next for you as a mom once the kids are out of the houseGet in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Today is a unique style episode: we recorded this in real time for you! We thought it would be insightful to interview Becky on how it’s feeling IN THE THICK OF THINGS. Sometimes with the passing of time, our recollections of events and attached emotions can dim …  so why not check in while the hard thing is happening? This special and emotional episode (grab the tissues!) reads sorta like a counselling session or big sister talk between Anne and Becky. Perhaps some of you are in the very same boat as Becky and if so, we pray this vulnerable episode is one of solidarity, hope, and practical encouragement! You’ll hear today:How grief is being expressed for Becky at this time (pre-grief is a thing!)The tension of “both and” (so feeling two opposing things at once)How to soak in your last summer with your kid AND give them more rope for independence Things Anne remembers about this “weirdest summer” of your life as a momHelpful AND vulnerable conversations to have with your kid about them leavingDisappointments that have happened to Becky, things that can’t be distractions anymore from feeling her feelings (a blessing in disguise)The temptation to switch to another identity once your mom identity shifts Why your kids need to see you as a PERSON and not just their parentSome tough love and wisdom from Anne to Becky (and you) for this seasonGet in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Today is the episode about finances. Oooohhh, yes. We are going there. How to think about spending money on yourself. It goes much deeper than buying new things but uprooting thoughts about not being worthy of being invested in.We talk today:How we turn around and take money and time that was once spent on our kids and now being okay with spending it on ourselvesSomething Anne looks back on, wishing she and her hubby had done on top of date nights when the kids were growing upThe benefits of NOT bringing the kids along on vacayLies that sometimes make moms think it’s not okay to spend money on themselves and their dreamsBig and small fun ideas of what to do with that extra cashThings to expect to happen once you start to invest in yo selfThe messy process of getting to know you againAn unexpected gift you can give your childrenGet in Touch With us!⁠Connect with Anne:⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Though we really wanna, it’s not helpful to our children when we try to rescue them all the time. So much learning comes from them taking responsibility for the consequences of their choices. So much growing into the person they need to be, who are okay and successful without us.Today we chat about:A funny story where Anne admits she was wrong in advice she gave to her adult kid (all our cat lover friends will love this one!)How it looks to actually let your kids make mistakes (and why this is so darn hard to do!)What “taking off the hero cape” is and what it does to your kids when you don’tDifferent ways to help your kids that don’t involve removing the challenge for themThe difference between Equipping vs RescuingThe long term impact of always swooping in to save your kids A caution for all those generous mamas out their who have a love language of giving giftsHow guidance looks different as your children get older⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Today we have our first guest episode … wooo who! Author Kate Battistelli (yes, Francesca’s mom!) joins us to talk about her book The After Party of the Empty Nest. As her website says, “As you begin your empty nest, you’re not only leaving your child behind, but the life you knew so well.” And that our friends, is why this season is so darn hard at times. It makes sense why we feel like a fish out of water! It’s braaaannndd new territory. You’ll hear in this episode:Why being mom is not your only nameFiguring out what else God has for youWhy it’s okay to grieve in this seasonThree different types of mama birds and how they embrace the empty nest differentlyHow God may dare you to do new thingsThe bonuses of the empty nestThe power of volunteering when finding new purposeConnect with Kate:WebsiteBookPodcast⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

It’s that time of year where some are a little antsy for summer to come and school to be over. But that’s not the case for everyone in the family: mom can be dreading the buffer summer between college days beginning. Check out today’s conversation to hear how our thoughts on the “time bomb ticking” of things never being the same again.We chat today:The desire to smother your kid as the end of their high school career looms What to expect in the last summer before post secondary begins How to make the most of that last summer together and set boundaries on timeWhy eye rolls aren’t the worst thing when you share your heart with your kidThe limbo/not in control season your child feels they are in during this weird in between seasonPossible behaviors to expect in your child in the buffer summer⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Declare Conference infoConnect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

New decade, new milestone. It comes with birthday cake and parties but also sometimes comes with imposter syndrome. “Am I too old to be relevant in my industry?!” What happens when you don’t feel like the “cool old woman” anymore but just the “old looking woman?”Today we chat about:Struggling with aging and looking olderThings we personally invest in to feel more confident in our appearanceHaving fun with your appearance as you transition into older yearsWhy it’s not wrong to fight against agingThe blessing of GETTING to ageThe good parts of getting olderHealthy motivations for taking care of yourself with proactive habits to age wellWhy not loving aging goes deeper than vanityHow God has wired woman to desire beautyAging with grace and style⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

We hear alllll the time about the importance of dating your spouse but dating your kids is actually just as key! If you desire to foster a relationship with your kids so that when they are grown they still willingly seek you out for comfort and advice, this episode is for you, friend.Tune in to hear about:What it looks like to date your kidsTwo environments that often make kids open up for heart to heartsThe power of asking questions when communicating with your kidsAdvice for connecting 1:1 with each child when you have multiple childrenWhy bonding is not always having to do with deep talks but also fun timesA unique way to connect with your kids instead of a sweet 16 partyThe beauty of reminding your kids you are proud of them Why it’s okay for your kids to see imperfect you⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Today Anne is getting vulnerable about the confusing season of life she is currently in. We pray this conversation helps you feel not alone in being unsure what’s next and that you know there is no shame in wrestling with this!We chat today: About Becky’s book on purpose and her wisdom on how to help people find their purpose The tension of having hope and despair side by side Figuring out if God is leading you to do something or not The beauty of waiting upon God to show you what to do and finding your identity and worth in being His kid How no sin or shame comes from God in His directing Helpful prayers and questions for identifying what to do next The excitement of being asked to do things utilizing new skills you didn’t know you had⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

We chat on this podcast about guiding our kids through transition seasons but it’s not all about your kids. And we sometimes lose sight of that, with all the daily responsibilities that come with parenting. But once your kids are launched, there are some big questions to answer like: who am I outside of being their mom?We talk today:How to shift your callingMourning the loss of being a mom as part of your identity Why it’s healthy to invest in yourself for the sake of your relationshipsThe wisdom of being selfish (we give you permission, girlfriend!)Practical tips to learn how to get back to youThe danger of using hobbies to numbThe power of examining your tearsSimple but powerhouse questions to ask to get to know yourself and what you value⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

As mothers of teens and adult children, we are realizing we have less and less control over our kids' lives. And maybe instead of striving to be a perfect parent, a change in goal would be wise.We chat today about:How God is the only perfect parentAdvice for stressful seasons with your high schoolersA powerful quote Anne’s mom used to say about parenting Cranky moms and how to deal!The power of asking your children to give you extra grace on tough daysWhy it’s okay for your kids to see your need for JesusIdeas of how to express your love to your kidsA surprising important ingredient in making your children feel safe, loved and supported and all the things⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Some things don’t actually matter in the long run. What happens to our kids in these formidable years ARE important … but not everything is going to mark their lives forever. Today we are talking about how to balance helping your kids thrive but not stressing them out with extreme pressure to succeed in senior year in all the categories.We dive into today:How culture normalizes moms stressing out their kidsThe role comparison between moms leads to how we treat our childrenAnne’s hindsight of what she would do differently if she could go back and navigate Senior Year again with her kidsThe different factors that create a stressful environment for kids in the last year of high schoolMain pieces of advice for this busy time (and beyond) for moms concerning homework and due datesHow hiccups in high school (mistakes) don’t mean your kid is going to fail at adulthood (we provide a powerful real life example in this episode!)The wisdom of sometimes letting your kids walk away from goalsSomething we need to prioritize in training our kids in that WILL matter in future yearsGet in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Do your kids know how to write a cheque? Boil water for pasta? Balance a budget? Sometimes we get so focused on teaching our kids these heart concepts, like God LOVES YOU UNCONDITIONALLY! Yet, we forget to teach them how to do their laundry or fix a tire. Today we are chatting about: The value of teaching your children to write thank you notesSkills we were brought up knowing that kids these days lackWhy Anne told her kids they didn’t have to work in college but why they decided to (a valid reason!)Creative ways to teach your children about budgeting and debtWhy it’s key to remind your kids to consider others (including their parents) The importance of sibling dates before one sibling moves away⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Suddenly with the kids gone you have more downtime. Today we are chatting about how to fill your time, in ways that fill you up personally, but also eases the bittersweetness of having an empty home. We chat about:A funny way that Anne has become her mother (ahem, a hobby Anne found out she loved that her own mother loved)Ideas of creative hobbies to try to make your free time enjoyable and meaningful The importance of having interests of you own (besides work or your kids)Our experiences as moms during the pandemic Things on our dream list to do A key question to ask yourself TODAYThe different categories to find hobbies in (they all start with the letter s!)Practical reflection questions to ask to help figure out what to do in your new found spare time⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Confession: It’s HARD when the kids are GONE. Like really gone. You know, when they are fully moved out and won’t be bouncing back for summer break from college anymore since they now have a place of their own. Today we are chatting about how our expectations don’t always match lived out experiences for Empty Nesting. And how the grief of your kids leaving can appear in surprising ways and how each kid leaving will hit a bit different. Check out today’s episode to hear:Will your house be cleaner now without kids? Do you get another pet to fill the void? Ways your time is freed up The importance of reconnecting with your spouse BEFORE the kids are permanently gone Things Becky is looking forward to and things she is dreading about having a fully Empty NestThe weird transition into a new normal Things Anne didn’t anticipate about leaving her son at his own homeHow hard it is to not make mothering your identity Why grieving is actually just part of parenting The tough parts of mommin’ adult children (why don’t they call more!? Gah, so hard that they don’t need me as much anymore…)Why your aren’t “doing Empty Nesting wrong” if you miss your kidsDog IG account mentioned: https://www.instagram.com/simonsits?igsh=aWliY2l2a2FmNzJ6⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Should you hold off on turning their room into a crafting room? Is it okay to move from their childhood home? Track their location yes or no? So many questions, so many opinions. Today we are discussing an article we found, sharing if we agree or disagree about things the article suggests we reframe from doing when your child goes off to college. Today we chat about:7 things we have heard you should not do when your kids leave for collegeHow Anne did not follow the article’s suggestions and why that’s okayWhat a “highschool home” isHear how Becky “breaks” a rule from the article during the podcast episode! LOL!The Biblical take on giving your kid space being essential The thought of going back to the old fashioned days and how we communicated with our parents back thenThe wisdom of showing your kids YOU are independent, in order for them to grow in independence themselvesThe article referenced: https://apple.news/AmGzs2qdWQPC4Tuhh3WjiuQ⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Are you in the thick of touring colleges with your senior kid? Is it causing mega stress or excitement for you and them? It’s a big choice, looking forward towards the future and figuring out where they want to land for the next 4+ years. Or deciding if they even want to go to college.Tune in today to hear:The wisdom of dividing and conquering the activities between mom and dad for that senior yearThe importance of your kids noticing how they feel when they are walking the campusWhy it’s okay to not choose the fancy schoolBeing open to going to your rival schoolWhat a Vibe Check is and why your kid needs to do itThe power of considering building community when deciding on a schoolCost of tuition and how that may impact their school choice/college experienceDoes everyone have an “Aha Moment?”⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

It’s exciting to see your kids so near walking across that stage to get their well-earned high school diploma … but it’s also very hard on a mother’s heart. All these milestones and “lasts” can be bittersweet. Today we are chatting about how to enjoy the process and make the most of senior year. We chat today about:Why moms are allowed to feel differently and act differently than dads in senior yearIs there a way to celebrate the “lasts” without it becoming a big cry fest?The reasons why senior year goes crazy fastThe wisdom of looking for the beautiful moments in small moments vs the elaborate big eventsWhy you should probably eat more ice-cream in senior yearSenior year events to be prepared for emotionally and schedule wiseWhat Competitive Mom Spirit isTips for prom dress shoppingNavigating the various expenses of senior yearWhy it’s okay if their last year of high school isn’t the best year of their life⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

It can be tricky to learn new dynamics when your kid leaves then returns. Do you still give them a curfew when they come home for a long weekend? Should you ask them to do chores? What are you actually supposed to do and not do when they come back to visit after moving out? Answer: it’s a bizarre adjustment, for sure!We chat about today:Give yourself grace, it’s a bit of a whiplash to learn how to live again with them in your space. Finding your new normal can take time. Embrace the messy middle!Helpful mindsets to center yourself when annoyance creeps in about their added mess.Why how you interact with your child will be very individual to the culture in the home you desire.Thoughts on bailing your kids out from responsibilities when they are stressed … healthy? Or not so much?Easy to remember curfew idea for when your kiddo is still in highschoolThe danger of enforcing rules after your child hasn’t had them for awhile at college or when moved out.Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Actively raising children is a BIG job. And once they are no longer living under your roof, it takes some intentional thought to redefine your new role in their life and learn to restructure your days and life now that your kids are out of the house. But finding meaning and purpose beyond being a caregiver is very much so possible and we pray this episode inspires you to see all the amazing possibilities! Today we share about:The choice to look at change as a possibility and “what do I GET to do next?” Different avenues Anne headed down once her kids went off to college Advice for helping kids know what to do after high school (there is a special wording you’ll want to borrow!)Why we think it’s okay to change in interests, hobbies, skills, jobs etc.The power of humor in the churchHow God confirmed a calling of Anne’s through a famous Christian Bible teacher!The wisdom of looking for patterns in your long-term core passions when trying to figure out what is next for youAdvice that’s good for your kids and YOU (ahem, try new things!)Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

We have heard from listeners that sometimes rather than grief, it’s a worry that mother’s deal deeply with when the empty nesting season looms. How will my kids do once they leave? Will they be okay growing into adulthood? If that resonates with the narrative in your own head, please take a listen to this episode. We pray it brings you encouragement and a little laughter, too!What goes through a mom’s mind when senior pictures are takenFeedback from our hubby’s about the show!The joy and weirdness of not having to think about buying school supplies anymoreDealing with the mixed emotion of pride and sadness at the thought of your child leavingOur thoughts about chapters and seasons endingThe reality of anxiety, panic or seeing possibility when it comes to what’s next for momWhen your child goes to a college 6 hours awayAdvice for soaking in their last year of high school, even amongst the bitter sweetness⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Yup, we are going there today. Girlfriends, we are digging into the ins and outs of menopause. If you don’t have someone in your life to chat about the “ugly” stuff, we would gladly be that friend for you. We hope this episode leaves you feeling a little more prepared about women’s health!In today’s episode:How the timing of menopause and your kids leaving home can often happen at the same time, making things feel even harderWhy we should be talking about our changing brains and bodies more openlyThe dismissal that doctors can often give you, making you feel a little crazy at this timeTips for advocating for yourself at this stage of lifeA powerful tale of two brothersThe wisdom of spending money on your healthLink to the Coffee (not an affiliate!)⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Mommy Wars … it’s a real thing. And it doesn’t stop once your kids fly the coop. People will continue to give you opinions on how you think you should parent your adult children too.On this episode we dig into:How to handle the judgy people in our lives who give their unsolicited thought about how we parentWhat grocery store item can cause the downward spiral of self criticism as a woman and as a momBecky’s crazy story of dealing with Mommy WarsThe power in allowing your kids to make confident decisions What Pre-Shame and how it impacts decision making for our childrenHow brave it is to keep to your personal convictions The impact on Mommy Wars that social media has had⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

We are talking about our marriages with some REAL TALK today. Sometimes we wish our husbands didn’t live with us AND we love ‘em so much. God has created us to feel more than one thing at once, what a gift!Today we are chatting about: How husbands and wives handle kids leaving differently and how to cope with this differenceWays to reconnect with your spouseThings to chat about when the kids are no longer the main thing your conversations surround Digging into the “Case of the Capable” and what that does to marriages Being intentional in needing each other (like letting HIM kill the spiders!)The way dreaming together can bring you together⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

All the “lasts” can add up in that final year of having a child living under your roof. Counting down a whole season of “lasts” can be HARD. Today we are sharing how we can best set ourselves up to enjoy this last year.You’ll hear in this episode:What Senioritis is (and how it shows up in our kid’s attitudes and ours) The power of just letting yourself be sad about all the “lasts”A preview of your senior year with your kids can be found in having a newbornWisdom for navigating the beautiful and hard parts of senior yearAdvice for uniquely parenting your kids last year of high schoolEncouragement and real life stories about letting your kids make decisions in order to learn from their mistakes⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Any dog mamas out there? As mothers, we need to channel that mom energy to something. We were made to nurture! When there is no one at home to parent anymore, sometimes a pet is just what you need.In this episode we are chatting about:How we are made for relationships and how dogs (or any pet) fits into that needWays to build into relationships once your kids are out of the houseThe unexpected ways to channel your mom energy (besides on your fur baby)Why you need to give yourself permission to be bad at new hobbiesHow our seasons can be measured by the food that is being served in your homeWhat the Drop it and Do it Mindset isThe power of discerning from God how to intentionally spend your time with your kids during their last years at home⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Join us for a conversation about grief. We won’t be shaming you ONE bit for feeling all the feels. Nope, over here, we believe that grief comes from the ending of something beautiful which is worth celebrating! Today we discuss:The challenges and frustrations of grieving differently than those around youWhat you should NEVER tell someone in the midst of grievingThe illogical side of griefThe dangers of shutting down the process of grievingThe hard part of being good at being a successful momThe weird side of our world that says we shouldn’t display emotions that make others uncomfortablePre-grief is a thing! You can start to grieve your kiddo leaving, even before they graduate high schoolGet in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Today we are comparing our current journeys with empty nesting. One of us sees the empty nest through the windshield, the other one can see it in the rearview mirror. Thanks for hanging out with us today, it’s an honor to share with you our different experiences, and we pray you leave encouraged about this topic that is close to both our hearts. You’ll hear us share today:Our thoughts on being friends with your kidsHow men and women are different when it comes to all the “lasts” with your kids in high schoolA small but profound line in the Bible about Mary the mother of Jesus that shows us it’s Biblical to mark memories downThings to look forward to once your kiddos leave the nestWhy bumping heads with senior kids could be a good sign, something to make empty nesting an easier transition The wisdom of expecting an emotional rollercoaster at times in this season (grief they are gone AND excited for when they will leave and when they visit!)⁠Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:WebsiteSwayology Business podcastInstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Welcome to our very first episode! We pray your time with us (Hi! It’s Anne & Becky!) is filled with laughter, encouragement and so much inspiration. When we discovered people just weren’t talking about the grief and challenges of having your kids leave your home, we decided to become that much needed resource ourselves. In this premiere episode we share about:Why it’s healthy and important to let yourself grieve your kids leavingThe things Anne really enjoys about having adult kids outside of her home (there is good stuff to look forward to after they leave!)Profound parenting tips that have blessed us so much (like why you need to let your kids get to know your preferences)Hilarious stories about our husbands and kids!Future episode topics to comeAnne’s encouragement to Becky as she prepares to have college aged kids and Anne’s plans to start putting herself first (maybe some higher scale shopping perhaps?!)Get in Touch With us!⁠⁠Connect with Anne:Website⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠InstagramConnect with Becky:Website⁠⁠Her books⁠The Inspired Business podcast

Hey! We are Anne & Becky! Here we discuss the challenges and joys of the empty nest phase, sharing personal experiences and advice. You aren't alone if emptying nesting feels HARD! We cover topics such as the grieving process, reconnecting with spouses, rediscovering purpose, and the transition from parent to friend. We share the importance of faith and humor in navigating this season of life. We pray these episodes bless and prepare you for emptying nesting... and make you giggle! Connect with Anne: Website ⁠Swayology Business podcast⁠ Instagram Connect with Becky: Website⁠ ⁠Her books⁠ The Inspired Business podcast