Have your children left home — or are they about to? Whether you’re already in the empty nest or heading toward it, this episode is for you. Sylvia explores one of life’s most overlooked transitions: what happens to YOU when your role as the everyday parent comes to an end. She gets honest about the grief that comes with it, why so many women experience depression at this stage, and why ignoring those feelings only makes things harder. But this episode isn’t just about loss — it’s about what’s possible on the other side. In this episode you’ll discover: - Why couples who focused heavily on parenting often find themselves strangers to each other once the kids leave - How to shift from a parent-child dynamic to a healthy adult-to-adult relationship with your grown children - Why the empty nest can actually be an invitation to rediscover yourself - Practical steps to identify new interests, passions, and purpose - How letting your children make mistakes — and learn from them — is one of the greatest gifts you can give them (and yourself) - What to do if your adult child is still living at home — and how to set respectful boundaries that work for everyone.
Joy is a practice. And this could be your time to fully embrace it.

Show Notes

The kids have left — or they're about to. And suddenly the question is: now what?


In this episode, Sylvia dives into the emotional and practical reality of the empty nest transition. She talks honestly about the grief many mothers feel when their children leave, why that grief deserves space and acknowledgement, and how to move through it without filling the void with unhealthy habits.


She also explores what it means to rediscover yourself — your interests, your passions, your partnership — and why this season of life, as challenging as it can be, holds real potential for joy and growth. What's covered in this episode:


* Why neglecting your relationship while raising children can create challenges later — and what to do about it now


* How to transition from parenting your child to relating to them as a fellow adult


* Navigating the emotional complexity when grown children still live at home


* Building a meaningful relationship with yourself after a major role change


* Practical ideas for exploring new interests: courses, travel, music, community groups and more


* Why allowing young people to make their own decisions benefits everyone.


Whether you're in the middle of this transition or just beginning to feel its edges, this episode will leave you feeling seen — and inspired to take the next step.


 


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