Best Empty Nest Syndrome Podcasts (2025)

1
Can Empty Nest Syndrome Cause Divorce? 13:54

1d ago13:54

13:54

In this episode of Empty Nest Era, we dive deep into the emotional challenges couples face when their children leave home. Can empty nest syndrome lead to divorce? It’s a question that many empty nesters ask themselves as they navigate the emotional rollercoaster of this major life transition. Join Jamie Chin, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist…

1
232 | Are Grandma Hobbies the Secret to Midlife Happiness 8:20

17h ago8:20

8:20

In this episode of the Life Coach BFF Show, host Heather Pettey delves into the world of 'Grandma Hobbies'—activities like knitting, gardening, baking, and birdwatching—that are being recognized for their mental health benefits. Heather discusses the scientific support for these hobbies in reducing stress, improving self-confidence, and protecting …

1
Reunited and it Feels...So Good? 57:49

1d ago57:49

57:49

Reunions in midlife come with more than old stories—they bring new truths. Karen and Lisa explore the emotional power of reconnection, from college reunions to rediscovered friendships. Backed by research on the importance of community in midlife, this heartfelt, funny conversation dives into identity, joy, and rediscovery for women in their 40s an…

1
231 | Struggling to Connect with Grown Kids? Tips for Midlife Mothers 11:24

5d ago11:24

11:24

In this episode of Life Coach BFF Show, host Heather Pettey addresses a letter from a listener, Michelle in Florida. Michelle shares her difficulty in connecting with her adult son, prompting Heather to provide empathetic advice on how to navigate this challenging transition. Heather discusses the importance of letting go of worry, unsolicited advi…

1
From Burnout to Psychic Channeler: A Midlife Awakening with Caren Carnegie 35:59

5d ago35:59

35:59

Some nudges are gentle. Others feel like a whisper you can’t ignore. For Caren Carnegie, it started with a whisper in her body - symptoms, discomfort, stuckness. But instead of pushing it down or muscling through (like we’re taught to do), she got curious. That quiet pull led her to movement… then to healing… then to a complete soul-led transformat…

1
Can Empty Nest Syndrome Cause Depression? 13:12

8d ago13:12

13:12

Empty nest syndrome affects millions of parents each year, but when does normal sadness cross the line into clinical depression? This podcast explores the emotional and physical impact when children leave home, why some parents are more vulnerable to depression during this transition, and evidence-based strategies to navigate this major life change…

1
#25 - The Intentional Midlife Woman: She Chooses How She Feels Each Day 29:04

8d ago29:04

29:04

Ever catch yourself rushing through the motions, waiting for the weekend, or wondering why life feels so...meh? In this raw and reflective episode, I open up about what it really means to live intentionally—not perfectly, but truthfully. I share the morning practices that changed my energy, how I broke free from autopilot, and why setting daily int…

1
230 | Is It Time to Start Saying No for Your Well-being? Here Are 5 Ways to Say "NO" 13:25

8d ago13:25

13:25

----more----In episode 230 of the Life Coach BFF Show, host Heather Pettey shares her insights on midlife, reflecting on the changes and important lessons learned since the first episode in 2019. She introduces herself, her family, and her passion for helping women thrive in midlife. She discusses what it means to prioritize what truly matters, giv…

1
How Horses Help Us Heal and Reconnect With Ourselves in Midlife 54:49

8d ago54:49

54:49

When it comes to midlife healing, sometimes the best therapist has four legs and a tail. In this episode, Karen and Lisa sit down with Equus Coach Sue Willoughby to talk about how horses can help women find clarity, courage, and connection during some of life’s most tender transitions. From identity shifts to emotional overload, Sue shares how work…

1
Smart Financial Moves for Women Over 40 1:12:08

10d ago1:12:08

1:12:08

Money talk doesn’t have to be intimidating. In this empowering episode of Drinks with the Girls, we sit down with Certified Financial Planner Karen Van Voorhis to break down the essentials of financial planning for women in midlife. Whether you're newly single, running your own business, or just realizing it’s time to take charge of your money, Kar…

1
Crack YOUR Code to Wellness & Heal Your Nervous System with Dr. David Yates 28:55

12d ago28:55

28:55

Ready for a soulful mix of science, story, and straight-up perspective shifts? In this episode of the Thrive After 45™, I sit down with Dr. David Yates, a chiropractor who’s part of the rare 2% practicing upper cervical chiropractic care - a powerful, nerve-focused approach that can completely change how your body functions and heals. But that’s ju…

1
Faith, Leadership, and Finding Your Fire 45:42

13d ago45:42

45:42

Send us a text What if the secret to leadership success isn't finding perfect balance, but mastering the art of the pendulum swing? Jennifer Brown, former US Foreign Service Officer turned leadership coach, reveals why traditional work-life balance is a myth that keeps high-achieving leaders trapped in cycles of burnout and depletion. Drawing from …

1
#24 - The Power of Worthiness Beyond Confidence with Dana Hunter Fradella 1:14:22

15d ago1:14:22

1:14:22

In this juicy episode of Midlife Butterfly, we dive deep into the sacred difference between confidence and worthiness with my dear friend and podcast sister Dana Hunter Fradella. Dana is a powerhouse of joy, truth, and awakening, and this conversation will absolutely stir your soul. If you’ve ever wondered why success doesn’t always feel fulfilling…

1
229 | How to Celebrate Menopause: Parties, Products, and Self-Care! 28:08

15d ago28:08

28:08

In this episode of the Life Coach BFF Show, host Dr. Carol Lynn and her co-host dive into an engaging discussion on menopause, hot flashes, and self-care routines. They explore the causes of hot flashes, the implications of hormone levels, and the potential benefits of various treatments. The show also highlights creative ways to celebrate menopaus…

1
25 Things to Keep You Inspired in Your Empty Nest Season 15:32

16d ago15:32

15:32

Feeling lost or unsure what to do now that the kids have moved out? In this podcast, we’re diving into 25 meaningful activities and goals for empty nesters that will help you stay busy, inspired, and fulfilled. Whether you're looking for fun hobbies, new adventures, or deeper purpose, this guide is packed with practical ideas to help you embrace th…

1
228 | How Can You Stay Soft When the World Feels Prickly? 9:08

18d ago9:08

9:08

In episode 228 of the Life Coach BFF Show, host Heather Pettey addresses a letter from Lisa, a mother of three navigating the stormy seas of raising a teenage daughter. Heather provides compassionate and practical advice on how to stay soft and loving despite the challenges posed by teenage mood swings and conflicts. She emphasizes the importance o…

1
From “Perfect Life” to Soul Freedom with Kelle Sparta 35:11

19d ago35:11

35:11

Kelle Sparta is a transformational shaman, spiritual coach, and someone who has completely burned her life to the ground more than once...in the most liberating way. She was living the American Dream on paper… ... successful business... ... big house ... the husband ... the dog ... but she was totally miserable. So she walked away from all of it an…

1
#23 - Love Doesn’t Hurt—Self-Abandonment Does: Healing Heartbreak & Reclaiming Joy 33:31

21d ago33:31

33:31

In this powerful solo episode, Kena Siu unravels a belief that many of us have carried for far too long: “Love hurts.” But what if that’s not true? What if what really hurts are the attachments, conditions, expectations, and the ways we abandon ourselves trying to be loved? Midlife woman, if you’re walking through the sacred in-between—divorce, los…

1
227 | Midlife Moxie: Gen X, Self-Care, and Why We Don’t Share Ice Cream 23:26

22d ago23:26

23:26

In this episode of Life Coach BFF Show, hosts Heather Pettey and Dr. Carol Lynn discuss various aspects of midlife, marriage, menopause, and making the most of every moment. They delve into the unique traits and challenges of Generation X, from practicing self-care to navigating the expectations set by previous generations. They reminisce about the…

1
Why the Empty Nest Phase Can Be a Time of Growth 14:21

22d ago14:21

14:21

The empty nest phase doesn't have to be a time of loss and loneliness. Discover why this transition to empty nest might actually be one of the most transformative periods of your life! In this podcast, we explore how the "empty nest" can become a time of remarkable personal growth - from rediscovering passions and rebuilding relationships to advanc…

1
Empty Nest Syndrome and Marriage: Keeping Your Marriage Strong 14:04

22d ago14:04

14:04

Dealing with empty nest syndrome marriage problems is a real thing! The kids are gone, and suddenly you're staring at your spouse across the dinner table with nothing to say. Sound familiar? The empty nest transition can either drive couples apart or bring them closer than ever before. In this podcast, we explore powerful strategies to revive your …

1
What Nobody Tells You About Empty Nest Syndrome 16:27

22d ago16:27

16:27

What Is Empty Nest Syndrome? Understanding the Heart Ache & Finding New Purpose That moment when your child leaves home can trigger unexpected emotions. In this podcast, we explore what Empty Nest Syndrome really is, why it happens, and how it affects parents differently. Discover why the transition to empty nest creates such powerful feelings - fr…

1
The Complexities of Friendship in Midlife 1:05:26

22d ago1:05:26

1:05:26

In this candid and heartfelt episode of Drinks With the Girls, Karen and Lisa unpack the messy, beautiful, and sometimes painful realities of female friendship in midlife. From fading connections to explosive breakups, they reflect on why friendship hurts in a way romantic relationships often don’t — and how societal conditioning, loyalty, and expe…

1
226 | Struggling with Summer Laziness? Boost Your Motivation with Time Blocking Techniques 12:11

26d ago12:11

12:11

Hey Friend, today we are overcoming summer Ssumps and embracing joyful habits!In this episode of the Life Coach BFF Show, host Heather Pettye offers guidance to midlife women on how to thrive through the seasons, especially during summer. Addressing a letter from Jamie, a college professor dealing with summer laziness and menopause, Heather provide…

1
Choose Your Hard with Lizzie Siegel 47:49

26d ago47:49

47:49

What if the version of you you've been holding back is actually the key to everything you want? In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Lizzie Siegel, and wow....Just get ready! Lizzie’s been through it all... trauma, chronic illness, financial rock bottom... and somehow turned it into deep healing, global impact, and a kind of spiritual gr…

1
One Bathroom, Three People, and a Whole Lot of Cardboard Boxes 33:10

27d ago33:10

33:10

Send us a text Ever tried to chase peace while dodging curveballs? You're not alone, friend. As I wrap up hosting the Summer Serenity Blueprint, I'm sitting in my own version of life's hurricane season—navigating my husband's retirement after 50 years of service, his recovery from surgery, a 1,100-mile relocation, and our new multi-generational liv…

1
#22 - Healing Money Wounds in Midlife: Reclaim Your Self-Worth, Joy & Financial Freedom with Nadine Zumot 50:31

29d ago50:31

50:31

In this episode of Midlife Butterfly, I invite my money coach, Nadine Zumot, to the mic for a radically honest and healing conversation about money wounds, self-worth, and what it really takes to break free from inherited money stories. If you're a midlife woman navigating transitions—like divorce, career shifts, or spiritual awakening—and you're r…

1
225 | What's On Your 'We Do Not Care' List?" 10:09

29d ago10:09

10:09

In this episode of Life Coach BFF Show, host Heather Pettey discusses the empowering 'We Do Not Care' (WDNC) trend on TikTok, encouraging women to let go of societal pressures and embrace their authentic selves. Heather shares ten empowering principles to live by, such as valuing your worth through faith and embracing midlife with confidence. She a…

1
50 and Freaking Fabulous 1:05:23

29d ago1:05:23

1:05:23

50 and Freaking Fabulous 🎉 We did it, listeners — 50 episodes! 🎉 And if you’ve ever looked at the stats for podcasts, you know this is a big deal. Most podcasts don’t make it past episode 10, so hitting 50 is a rare and beautiful milestone. It means we’ve shown up week after week, sharing real conversations about midlife, connection, and everything…

1
224 | Set Your Intentions (and Maybe Have a Corn Dog)! 22:09

1M ago22:09

22:09

We're setting the stage for joy and purpose In this episode of the Life Coach BFF Show, host Heather Pettey, along with co-host Dr. Carol Lynn, explores the transformative power of setting daily intentions. The discussion covers the distinction between intentions and goals, the benefits of intentional living, and practical steps to incorporate this…

1
Signs Your Body is Screaming for Help: Midlife Red Flags with Jaclyn Downs 22:42

1M ago22:42

22:42

What if your chronic symptoms weren’t “just aging” - but your body waving a red flag? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Functional Genomic Nutrition Consultant, researcher, and author Jaclyn Downs ... and lemme tell ya, she does not hold back when it comes to exposing what’s really behind so many of our modern-day health struggles. We’re ta…

1
#21 - You’ve Always Belonged: A Midlife Woman’s Journey Back to Herself 17:48

1M ago17:48

17:48

In this soul-opening episode, I share a tender memory from my teenage years that planted the seed of a deep belief: I don’t belong. This story, small on the surface, but huge in impact, shaped how I showed up in life, relationships, and even my business. I unpack how that moment led me to become a lone wolf, to hide, to shrink… and how I’ve been ge…

1
The Good Girl Myth...and Why We're Over It 52:48

1M ago52:48

52:48

The Good Girl Myth...and Why We're Over It In this fiery and deeply personal episode, Karen and Lisa are clinking glasses to the end of the “good girl” era—and the rise of bold, badass midlife women who are done shrinking to fit. Inspired by Karen’s viral blog post, “The Good Girl Myth: Why Midlife Women Are No Longer Buying It,” the girls dive int…

1
How to Stop Over-Giving & Prioritize YOU - With Dr. Tia Warwick 19:51

1M ago19:51

19:51

What if fueling your giving meant finally pouring back into yourself first? Dr. Tia Warwick is a scientist, professor, public health leader, author, and unapologetic boundary-setter. But what truly blew me away was her realness. We talk about what it looks like to be driven, heart-led, and purpose-fueled...without losing yourself in the process. Sh…

1
Stop Carrying Their Healing Journey: How to Support Without Losing Yourself 34:10

1M ago34:10

34:10

Send us a text Ever caught yourself pouring every ounce of your being into helping someone who simply wasn't ready to change? That gut-wrenching feeling when you can clearly see their potential, know exactly what would help them, yet nothing shifts? That emotional exhaustion isn't just in your head—it's real, and it's draining your precious energy.…

1
#20 - From Force to Flow: Feminine Energy, Inner Child Healing & Manifestation with Raivon LeToyia 1:05:17

1M ago1:05:17

1:05:17

What if midlife isn't a crisis... but an invitation? In this deeply raw and liberating conversation, I’m joined by the radiant Raivon LeToiya—a Manifesting Guide, Intuitive Bodyworker, and host of The Energetic Glow Up Podcast. Together, we dive into the sacred, messy, magical space of midlife awakening. This episode is for the woman who feels the …

1
223 | Reclaim Your Confidence & Wellness After 40: Mindset, Fitness, and Self-Worth with Buff Nation’s Leslie Gordon Christie 22:25

1M ago22:25

22:25

In this episode of the Life Coach BFF Show, your host Heather Pettey introduces Leslie Gordon Christie, the creator of Buff Nation, 40 and Fabulous. Leslie shares her journey from a journalist to a mindset and weight release coach, helping midlife women rediscover their energy, confidence, and health. The conversation delves into the importance of …

1
The Impact of Writing 580 Letters with Guest Amy Daughters 1:01:37

1M ago1:01:37

1:01:37

The Impact of Writing 580 Letters with Guest Amy DaughtersRediscovering Friendship, Purpose, and Healing Through Handwritten Connection In this heartwarming and hilarious episode of Drinks With the Girls, Karen and Lisa sit down with Amy Weinland Daughters — author, speaker, and champion of old-school connection — to talk about the unexpected power…

1
222 | Graduation: Is Your Role as a Mom Changing? Let's Talk Coping Strategies 16:27

2M ago16:27

16:27

In today's episode, host Heather Pettey discusses the emotional challenges and transitions that come with midlife, especially as children grow up and parents face an evolving role. Heather reads and responds to a letter from a listener, Shelly, who is struggling to cope with her children moving on to new chapters in life. Heather provides empatheti…

1
The New Findings on Alcohol and Why We Aren't Changing Our Name 47:21

2M ago47:21

47:21

The New Findings on Alcohol and Why We Aren't Changing Our Name In this heartfelt and no-holds-barred episode of Drinks With the Girls, Karen and Lisa dive into the Surgeon General’s new advisory linking even moderate alcohol consumption to cancer risks — and what it means for midlife women. From pandemic wine habits to menopause metabolism, they g…

1
Find Your True Purpose In Midlife with Dr. Shafer 38:33

2M ago38:33

38:33

What if the life you’re meant to live doesn’t show up until after you’ve already lived a few others? Dr. Shafer, a former physician turned transformational coach, author, and speaker - is living proof that it’s never too late to come home to yourself. After decades of walking the high-achiever path (you know the one...degrees, credentials, perfecti…

1
#19 - The Midlife Butterfly Effect: Navigating Change with Courage and Resilience 29:38

2M ago29:38

29:38

In this solo episode, I’m sharing raw, real, and radiant reflections from the heart of a woman who’s living and breathing the sacred transitions of midlife. From my return to Montreal to the full rebranding of my blissness from The Wellbeing Project to Midlife Butterfly, this episode is a juicy blend of storytelling, lessons, and soulful reminders …

1
221 | Midlife What Ifs: Possibilities, Second Chances, and Saying Yes 19:39

2M ago19:39

19:39

In episode 221 of the Life Coach BFF Show, hosts Heather Pettey and Dr. Carol Lynn delve into the power of 'what if' moments in midlife, exploring how these questions can lead to newfound purpose and joy. They discuss the transformation from viewing midlife as a crisis to seeing it as a period of reinvention and possibility. The episode highlights …

1
220 | Sam McCoy’s Honest Guide to Friendship, Moving, Self-Care & Social Media in Midlife 32:16

2M ago32:16

32:16

Hi Gorgeous! In this episode of the Life Coach BFF Show, host Heather Pettey welcomes the lively and honest Sam McCoy, known for her Instagram presence 'Carpools and Country Clubs'. They dive into the complexities of making friends as an adult, especially after moving, and the challenges women face in supporting each other both online and in real l…

1
From Broke Single Mom to Midlife Millionaire with Jeanne Omlor 30:29

2M ago30:29

30:29

What if starting over at 54 didn’t mean settling - but soaring? I sit down with the fierce and fabulous Jeanne Omlor - a woman who went from drowning in debt as a single mom to building a million-dollar business in just 17 months!!! Now in her 60s, Jeanne isn’t just running a multi-million dollar business - she’s redefining what it means to thrive.…

1
Your Body Is Speaking—Are You Finally Ready to Listen? 16:47

2M ago16:47

16:47

Send us a text Ever had one of those weeks where everything feels impossible—even the things you normally love? That's exactly what happened as I tried to record this podcast episode. Four separate attempts, four brick walls. But instead of forcing it, I decided to get curious about what was really going on beneath the surface. My body was sending …

1
The HRT Conversation 1:11:57

2M ago1:11:57

1:11:57

The HRT Conversation Rage, Relief, and the Hormone Rollercoaster Are you navigating perimenopause or menopause and wondering what the fork is happening to your body? You’re not alone. In this powerful episode, Karen and Lisa sit down with hormone specialist Naomi Major to have the honest, no-BS conversation every woman over 40 deserves about hormon…

1
219 | Is Your Reaction a Sign of a Midlife Shift? 11:51

2M ago11:51

11:51

Navigating Midlife Overreactions: Stories and Strategies In this episode of the Life Coach BFF Show, host Heather Pettey shares a personal story about overreacting to her dog Kendal's behavior, highlighting how midlife can change how we react to stress. Heather discusses hormonal changes, life experiences, changing family roles, and the importance …

1
Spiritual Clarity with Rev. Christine Davies 27:20

2M ago27:20

27:20

What if you could rebuild your spiritual life in a way that actually feels safe, soulful, and completely your own? In this powerful and deeply nourishing conversation, I sit down with Rev. Christine Davies - a hospital chaplain, seminary professor, and spiritual director with nearly two decades of experience walking beside people in their most sacr…

1
218 | Are You Experiencing the Midlife Sleep Struggle? Finding Rest with Dr. Carol Lynn 17:05

2M ago17:05

17:05

Navigating Sleep Challenges and the Benefits of Progesterone in Midlife In this episode, we explore the common issue of sleep disturbances faced by midlife women, especially in their forties and fifties. Host Heather Pettey, a certified life coach and mother of four, dives into the complexities of handling sleep issues with guest Dr. Carol Lynn. Th…

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Empty Nest Syndrome Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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