Walking through your child’s senior year in high school is an exhilarating journey packed with excitement, nostalgia, and undeniable stress—for both parents and students. As your child transitions from high school to their next life phase, aiming to spread their wings and embrace independence, moms often face a dual journey of their own. On this week’s episode of Life after Kids we’re helping you navigate this significant year by not only guiding your child but also emotionally preparing yourself for their impending departure.

Key Takeaways

1. Primary Points and Insights:
   • Intentionality in Parenting: Emphasize being deliberate with time spent with your senior, creating lasting memories while preparing them for independence.
   • Communication: Maintain open lines of conversation, not just about logistical tasks like college applications, but about emotional well-being and future plans.
   • Balancing Act: Understand the dual approach of pushing your child toward independence while providing support and structure at home.
2. Actionable Advice:
   • Practical Preparation: Encourage independence by assigning tasks like making appointments and handling personal errands.
   • College Application Process: If accessible, invest in professional college counseling to avoid conflicts and ensure comprehensive preparations.
   • Community Engagement: Connect with other parents of seniors to share experiences and support each other through transitions.
   • Scheduling Fun Activities: Plan trips or special days to bond with your senior before they graduate.

Your child’s senior year involves complex emotions, from pride and joy to anxiety and anticipation of an impending empty nest. By focusing on intentional engagement with your child, prioritizing self-care, and maintaining open channels of communication, you can transform this pivotal year into a richly rewarding experience. Senior year is not only a culmination of your child's school journey but also an opportunity for you to reconnect with your own passions and prepare for a new phase in your life. Listen to the full episode of Life after Kids to embrace both the highs and lows, allowing them to shape a future filled with new possibilities for both you and your child.

RESOURCES:
The Life after Kids Membership Community


Timestamp Summary
| 0:00 | Preparing for Senior Year: Tips and Emotional Insights
| 4:27 | A Mother's Nostalgia as Her Son Prepares for College
| 5:13 | Preparing for Senior Year: A Parent's Emotional Journey
| 12:44 | Navigating College Applications and Supporting Teen Independence
| 15:57 | Navigating College Visits and Campus Vibes for High School Seniors
| 19:57 | Thriving Beyond Parenthood: Self-Care and Connection During Senior Year

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


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YOU ASKED AND WE ANSWERED…One of the most common questions we get asked by our community is “how do I foster a good relationship with my child and their spouse after they leave home and get married?”

In this episode of Life after Kids, we’re breaking down the nuanced topic of the shifting dynamics that occur when our kids get married. Our conversation explores common concerns among mothers about losing their sons to their new families. Dr. Brooke, a mother of three boys, expresses her anxieties, while Dr. Lynne shares wisdom, experience, and strategies on fostering healthy relationships with adult children and their spouses.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Dynamics: Recognize that the relationship between a mother and her son will naturally evolve when he marries, often changing his priorities.
• Selflessness in Relationships: Allowing space for your child and their spouse to form their own family dynamics can strengthen the overall family bond.
• Controlling Self and Letting Go: Focusing on what you can control—such as your own reactions and happiness—helps in accepting the changes.
• Communication Strategies: Open, supportive communication with both the son and daughter-in-law fosters healthier, more respectful relationships.
• The Power of Giving: Selfless giving without expecting anything in return can be a powerful way to maintain meaningful connections with adult children.

Dive deep into this conversation and explore the subtleties of maintaining strong family bonds after kids grow up. Listen to the full episode to understand the importance of controlling what you can and letting go of what you cannot and hear a notable discussion revolving around the actions of one mother's approach to practically preparing herself for "losing a son" and how it surprisingly brought her children closer to her.

We hope you enjoy the show, and stay tuned for more valuable insights on Life after Kids.

Timestamp Summary
| 0:00 | Navigating Mother-Son Dynamics After Marriage
| 8:25 | Navigating Family Dynamics and Letting Go for Fulfillment
| 10:38 | Letting Go to Strengthen Relationships with Adult Children
| 12:34 | Fostering Healthy Relationships with Your Children and Their Spouses
| 18:26 | Selflessness and Autonomy in Parenting Adult Children
| 22:32 | Helpful Parenting Tips and Social Media Engagement

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


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If you’re seeking a healthy and happy life now that the kids are grown, then you’ll want to pay attention to important research that came out of Harvard led most recently by Dr. Robert Waldinger. This 85 year study shows that the most important factor for not only happiness but also a long life is connection and community.

We’re delving into the profound subject of forging friendships after your children have left the nest in this episode of Life after Kids. We dissect the intricacies of forming and maintaining friendships at this stage of life, and explore the common challenges women face in building relationships post-child rearing.

Key Takeaways:

• Overcoming Judgment: Avoid being overly critical when meeting new people; understand that diverse friendships enrich life.
• Embracing the Layers of Friendship: Recognize that different friends serve different roles and purposes in your life.
• Effort is Key: Cultivate friendships proactively by putting yourself out there—even if it's uncomfortable at first.
• Utilizing Community Resources: Engage in local classes, groups, or clubs to expand your social circle.
• Technology and Online Communities: Don't overlook the power of online connections in today's digital age.

Listen to the full episode of Life after Kids for analogies and personal stories, as we shed light on the reality that friendship dynamics change over time and how essential it is to put in the effort to cultivate new relationships. You’ll also get strategic tips on leveraging community resources, joining new activities, and even utilizing technology to foster meaningful connections. With this week’s episode, you’ll gain more depth into the art of cultivating meaningful friendships. Be sure to stay connected for more insightful discussions

RESOURCES:

The What’s My Purpose Quiz

The Life after Kids Membership Community

Planning a Girls Trip or Night Out Podcast Episode


Timestamp Summary
| 0:00 | Navigating Friendships and New Beginnings
| 3:15 | Making Friends at Different Life Stages
| 5:58 | Navigating Friendships Through Shared Values and Social Layers
| 11:43 | The Importance of Fostering Friendships Amid Life Changes
| 15:45 | Balancing Relationships: Three Minute, Three Hour, and Three Week Friends
| 17:01 | The Importance of Relationships for Happiness and Longevity
| 17:46 | Practical Tips for Building Friendships and Social Connections
| 23:36 | The Importance of Genuine Connections Over Material Wealth
| 27:21 | Building Friendships and Connections After Kids

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


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Are you…facing an empty nest, feeling stuck in a mundane routine, or simply seeking a more intentional existence? Then this episode of Life after Kids is for you. We’re taking a deep dive into finding meaning and fulfillment in daily life, especially as time often feels like it’s slipping away, and this episode is packed with actionable insights and strategies that will resonate with you.

Key Takeaways:

• Engaging Senses for Mindfulness: Utilize your senses to stay in the present moment, enhancing memory and emotional engagement even in mundane tasks.
• Variety and Novelty: Introduce small changes in daily routines to break monotony and make life more memorable and engaging.
• Random Acts of Kindness: Simple gestures like opening doors, smiling, or helping others can significantly boost your sense of purpose and satisfaction.
• Gratitude Practice: Regularly reflecting on what you’re grateful for can transform mundane days into meaningful experiences.
• Emotional Choice: Regardless of external circumstances, focus on cultivating the emotions you want to experience more of in your life.

Hear our personal experiences of feeling like life is "flying by" along with practical advice to counteract these feelings by adding variety and emotional engagement to your day. Together, we weave a conversation that is rich with experience and actionable strategies, leaning on scientific and therapeutic principles to make each day count, regardless of your current phase in life. Dive into this episode of Life after Kids for more insightful discussions and stay tuned for further enlightening content that aims to make every day count. And be sure to listen to Life After Kids on your favorite podcast platform and join the community aiming to live more meaningful lives post-parenting.

RESOURCES:
Midlife Code of Conduct Podcast Episode
The Gap and Gain Book
The Meaning of Life Book


Timestamp Summary
| 0:00 | Finding Meaning and Fulfillment in Daily Life
| 8:24 | The Power of Emotion in Creating Meaningful Memories
| 9:44 | Choosing Presence Over Productivity
| 10:39 | Mindfulness and Meaning in Everyday Tasks
| 15:19 | How Engaging Senses Enhances Memory Retention
| 17:54 | Simple Tips for Adding Novelty and Meaning to Daily Life
| 23:43 | Harnessing Gratitude and Choice for Emotional Well-Being
| 28:28 | The Power of Random Acts of Kindness

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


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Of all the struggles menopause brings for us, perhaps managing our weight is one of the biggest. Have you noticed that the things you used to do to maintain a healthy weight no longer work like they once did? In midlife, very often our hormones and the scale become enemy #1. So in this week’s episode of Life after Kids with Doctors Brooke and Lynne, we’re zeroing in on the labyrinth of perimenopause, menopause, and the often frustrating issue of weight gain. Today, we’re blending our expertise and personal experiences, providing practical advice and a range of strategies to manage these transformative years.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Hormonal Changes: Insight into how fluctuating estrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause impact the body and contribute to weight gain.
• Dietary Adjustments: Importance of nutrient-dense foods, protein, and good fats in managing symptoms and maintaining hormone balance.
• Exercise & Hydration: The critical role of regular physical activity and adequate hydration in supporting hormonal health.
• Intermittent Fasting: Personalized approaches to intermittent fasting and how it can benefit women in menopause.

· Stress Management: Strategies for managing stress to keep cortisol levels in check and support overall hormonal balance.

Take a deep dive into the complexities of perimenopause and menopause with us as we discuss why this stage of life inevitably lead to symptoms like weight gain, brain fog, and hormonal fluctuations. Don't miss this episode brimming with practical advice and expert insights on navigating perimenopause, menopause, and weight gain. For more enlightening content and support, keep tuning in to Life after Kids with Doctors Brooke and Lynn.

RESOURCES:
The Life after Kids MasterClass
The Life after Kids Membership Community


Timestamp Summary
| 0:00 | Perimenopause, Menopause, and Managing Weight Gain in Midlife
| 5:18 | Navigating the Complexities of Perimenopause and Menopause
| 11:36 | Understanding Weight Gain During Perimenopause and Menopause
| 16:48 | Managing Cravings and Hydration During Menstrual Cycles
| 19:35 | Boosting Nutrition and Protein Intake for Women's Health
| 23:19 | Managing Hormonal Changes with Diet and Intermittent Fasting
| 28:40 | Nourishing Hormones with Maca Powder and Smoothies
| 33:25 | Resources and Community Support for Life After Kids

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


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In this emotionally charged episode of Life after Kids, we tackle the complex and often heart-wrenching topic of preparing for your child to leave for college, aiming to provide both emotional support and practical tips. Dr. Brooke shares her personal experiences with her son’s transitions to college, underscoring the valuable lessons learned along the way.

Key Takeaways:

• Stages of Grief: Understand that the emotional journey of launching a child includes stages like denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.
• Parental Self-Care: Stress the significance of self-care and finding new purposes for personal fulfilment post-child launch.
• Sibling Impact: Acknowledge and address the emotional impact on siblings left at home when an older child leaves for college.
• Drop-off Advice: Practical suggestions for managing the college drop-off, emphasizing the benefits of a shorter drop-off duration.
• Open Communication: Encourage honest conversations with your child about the changes and emotions surrounding their departure.

Throughout this episode of Life after Kids, we delve into the grief parents may experience during this transition, discussing the normalcy of feeling anger and sadness, the necessity of self-care, and the benefits of finding a new personal focus or hobby. Don't miss this heartfelt episode packed with wisdom and practical advice to help you navigate the transition of your child leaving for college. Tune in now and stay tuned for future episodes offering more support and insights on parenting and life transitions.

Resources:

• Life After Kids Blog
• Amazon College List
• Community Membership: Join the Life After Kids membership community for support and resources - Life After Kids Community

Timestamp Summary
| 0:00 | Emotional Preparation for Kids Leaving for College
| 4:30 | Misdirected Anger and Emotional Turmoil Over a Son Leaving Home
| 6:32 | Navigating Anger and Loss in Family Dynamics
| 8:21 | Balancing Family Expectations and Personal Relationships
| 9:11 | Preparing for Children's Departure and Finding New Purpose
| 13:28 | The Impact of Denial and Compartmentalization on Emotional Wellbeing
| 13:48 | Navigating the Emotional Challenges of Empty Nest Syndrome
| 16:58 | A Mother's Emotional Struggle with Her Son Leaving for College
| 18:00 | Navigating Emotional Transitions in Parenting
| 22:40 | Navigating Emotional Challenges During Major Life Transitions
| 29:10 | Coping with Emotional Exhaustion and Finding Comfort in Small Things
| 31:01 | Channeling Loss into Creation and Personal Growth
| 32:45 | Navigating Parenting Challenges and Preparing Kids for College

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


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We are 100% certain that we could all use a little more girlfriend time to make this season of life more fun and more memorable. But sometimes getting a group of women together can be a little tricky, especially now. In this episode of Life after Kids, we unpack the enriching world of planning and enjoying girls' nights out and girls' trips. We share a few laughs and tackle the common challenges women face in making time for female friendships, offering practical tips and strategies to foster those much-needed connections.

Key Takeaways:

• Create a Rhythm: Plan for realistic intervals such as quarterly girls' nights out and annual trips to build anticipation and regular connection.
• Combine Purposes: Enhance the appeal of gatherings by combining social time with a good deed, milestone celebration, or novel experience.
• Be Flexible with Invitations: Plan events and invite everyone but proceed without waiting for everyone's availability to align.
• Practical Planning Tips: Utilize group texts, e-vites, or a private Facebook group to organize events efficiently and share responsibilities among group members.
• Capture Moments: Assign a group photographer and create keepsakes like photo books or themed gifts to make the memories last longer.

We cannot stress enough the importance of regular get-togethers with your gal pals, as these gatherings can combat feelings of isolation and provide much-needed respite from daily routines. Listen to the full episode of Life after Kids to hear more about the logistical hurdles typically encountered, such as coordinating schedules and battling mom guilt, because when it comes to mom guilt, the struggle is real. And that’s one of the most beautiful things about this phase of life, we can finally let go of mom guilt and take more time for ourselves and our friends!


Timestamp Summary
| 0:00 | Planning Girls' Nights Out and Trips for Busy Moms
| 5:37 | The Power of Novel Experiences and Good Deeds in Friendships
| 8:09 | Reasons and Ideas for Planning Girls' Trips and Celebrations
| 12:04 | Creating a Supper Club for Trying New Recipes with Friends
| 13:05 | Planning Meaningful Trips and Overcoming Challenges
| 17:24 | Tips for Planning a Successful Girls' Trip
| 23:55 | Custom Gifts and Meaningful Celebrations for Milestone Birthdays
| 27:51 | Creating Lasting Memories Through Photo Books and Girls Trips

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


PS... Don't forget to follow us!
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When was the last time you did something just for the pure enjoyment of it? One of the gifts of our kids getting older is that we have more time to engage in activities that bring us joy. In this episode of Life After Kids, we dive into the exciting world of hobbies, specifically tailored to individual Enneagram types. From exploring what defines a hobby to detailed suggestions on how women can find personal enjoyment and relaxation, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Hobbies vs. Purpose: Hobbies are activities done purely for enjoyment, while purposes often involve contributing to something larger than oneself.
• Enneagram-Specific Hobbies: Tailoring hobbies to personality types can make them more fulfilling and aligned with your natural inclinations.
• Mental and Emotional Benefits: Engaging in hobbies can significantly reduce stress, enhance mental health, and present meditative qualities.
• Growth Through Hobbies: Some hobbies might push you out of your comfort zone and help you grow, offering both relaxation and personal development.
• Community and Connection: Hobbies can also help you connect with others, whether through community involvement or shared interests.

Don’t discount the importance of hobbies for stress relief, emotional well-being, and even their potential for self-discovery and personal growth. Listen to the full episode of Life after kids for an abundance of hobby ideas, broken down by Enneagram type, catering to different personality traits and preferences. Whether you are a Type One perfectionist who might enjoy organizing, or a Type Seven enthusiast seeking variety and adventure, there's something here to inspire everyone to explore new or rediscover forgotten passions.

RESOURCES:
Enneagram Book: The Road Back To You

Timestamp Summary
| 0:00 | Discovering Hobbies Based on Your Enneagram Type
| 2:01 | Hobbies Versus Purpose: Finding Enjoyment and Meaning in Activities
| 4:37 | Restorative Activities and Their Role in Stress Management
| 5:42 | Finding the Right Hobby for Your Personality
| 8:30 | Exploring Hobbies for Different Personality Types
| 13:36 | Engaging Hobbies for Performers and Competitors of All Ages
| 15:09 | Exploring Hobbies for Creative and Analytical Personality Types
| 18:49 | Exploring Local Historical Sites and Hidden Gems
| 20:33 | Engaging in Novel Activities to Stimulate the Mind and Stay Young
| 22:19 | Exploring the Characteristics and Hobbies of Enneagram Types Seven to Nine
| 25:57 | The Importance of Hobbies for Relaxation and Stress Management
| 33:15 | Engage with Life After Kids on Social Media and Enjoy Life

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


PS... Don't forget to follow us!
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