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Graduation season often brings a sudden, gut-wrenching realization: your child is leaving, and life as you've known it is about to change forever.

This episode explores that pivotal moment when parents shift from full-time caretakers to part-time advisors.

Instead of resisting or pretending the change isn’t happening, discover how embracing the mantra "Let Life Evolve" can transform this challenging time into an opportunity for growth and renewal.

We dive into the powerful idea that within the word "challenge" lies "LLE"—a reminder that change is not just inevitable but also a catalyst for transformation.

You'll learn practical strategies for managing this transition: maintaining routines for stability, caring for your physical health, communicating openly, and proactively exploring new interests.

The key message?

The empty nest years are about possibility—not just loss. The skills that made you a great parent can now serve as tools for rediscovering yourself. This isn’t about replacing parenting with hobbies—it’s about reconnecting with the person beneath the role.

Highlights & Key Takeaways:

• Resistance only makes transition harder; embrace change instead.
• The acronym LLE (Let Life Evolve) reminds us to accept and flow with change.
• Keep routines to provide stability during uncertain times.
• Seek support—friends, family, or coaches—so you don’t have to navigate alone.
• As relationships evolve, clear communication and healthy boundaries are essential.
• Focus on what's possible now, rather than dwelling on what’s ending.
• Rediscover interests and prioritize your physical health—don’t wait for retirement or grandchildren to start your next chapter.

Join us as we explore how this transition - filled with a mix of grief and gratitude - can become your next great opportunity for growth.

You don’t have to wait; your new life begins now.

Tune in, and remember: "Let Life Evolve."

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What if your most profound life lessons could come from an unexpected journey? In this inspiring episode, I explore how my recent walk along the Camino de Santiago in Spain became a powerful metaphor for navigating the empty nest years—filled with surprises, deep connections, and personal growth.

Walking the Portuguese route with strangers from around the world pushed me beyond my comfort zone, revealing that the richest experiences often come from embracing detours rather than rushing to the finish line. When faced with a challenging climb, a simple question from a friend—"What’s the rush?"—became a guiding wisdom for embracing the present moment.

The true magic of the Camino was found in the connections formed along the way. Brief conversations with fellow pilgrims sparked feelings of transformation, and our nightly ritual of sharing a "crumb" (challenge) and "cookie" (joy) strengthened resilience and gratitude—key components proven to boost mental well-being during major transitions.

Through rain and sunshine, I discovered that each traveler brought unique "superpowers," from authenticity to embracing new experiences, inspiring me to pursue my dreams while savoring life's small moments. This journey taught me that necessary endings—like children leaving home or finishing a long walk—create space for new beginnings.

What’s your Camino? Whether it’s a new hobby, career change, or inner exploration, your next big adventure awaits. Take that first step—your most meaningful journey might be just around the corner.

When you're ready to craft a fulfilling new chapter, visit thisemptynestlife.com to learn how I can support you in designing a life full of purpose and joy.

Highlights & Key Takeaways:

• Embrace detours over rushing — slowing down creates space for growth.
• Deepen connections through shared vulnerability and gratitude practices.
• Recognize the unique strengths ("superpowers") each person brings to your journey.
• Mindfulness in everyday moments fuels profound self-discovery.
• Necessary endings open doors for exciting new beginnings.

Join me on this journey of self-discovery, and maybe find your own Camino to fulfillment.

Support the show

FREE WORKBOOK
3 Steps to Loving Your Empty Nest Life

ENJOY THE SHOW?
Don’t miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more.

LOVE THE SHOW?
Get your THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE swag

Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we’d appreciate your support greatly.

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As relationships evolve, the empty nest phase presents a pivotal moment for couples to rediscover each other beyond their parenting roles. In this insightful episode, Carolyn Sharp shares valuable insights from her new book, "Fire it Up: Four Secrets to Reigniting Intimacy and Joy in Your Relationship."

Join us as we explore how to reconnect and reignite passion when the kids leave home.

Highlights:

• The three crucial elements for a healthy relationship: ignition (spark), kindling (communication), and oxygen (acceptance).
• The power of curiosity for reconnection—asking better questions leads to deeper understanding.
• Why couples often overlook communication and acceptance while trying to rekindle the spark.
• The importance of defining your relationship purpose during major life transitions to create clarity and direction.

Key Takeaways:

• Healthy relationships require intentional nurturing to avoid stagnation.
• Balance in relationship conversations should be paired with enjoyable activities to strengthen bonds.
• The assumption that "true love" doesn’t need effort is a myth; revitalizing a relationship takes work.
• Creating a safe space for honest communication fosters authentic connections, even when romantic passion may have faded.

Carolyn Sharp Bio

Carolyn Sharp always knew she wanted a career in helping people. She earned a master of social work from Portland State University and has extensive training in attachment, neuroscience, trauma, and mindfulness. Today, she is an experienced couples therapist with twenty-five years of training and practice in helping people build vital, vibrant, and secure functioning relationships through one-on-one and group couples coaching, workshops, retreats, and intensives. She combines her passion for helping people with her widespread experience to create the healthiest and happiest relationships possible.

Find Carolyn Online: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok

Support the show

FREE WORKBOOK
3 Steps to Loving Your Empty Nest Life

ENJOY THE SHOW?
Don’t miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more.

LOVE THE SHOW?
Get your THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE swag

Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we’d appreciate your support greatly.

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