In this episode, Nicole begins with a personal anecdote about an introverted mishap at the Boise Co-op. Nicole then transitions to a heartfelt discussion on preparing for the emotional challenges of the holiday season, particularly for those experiencing estrangement. Nicole emphasizes the importance of allowing oneself to grieve unmet expectations while still practicing gratitude. She also provides practical advice on handling sensitive family interactions and encourages listeners to lean on their faith, praying for peace and discernment. The episode concludes with a hopeful message about trusting in God's miraculous capability to bring reconciliation and peace.

00:00 Introduction and Technical Glitches

01:06 Personal Update: The Kombucha Quest

04:12 Navigating Thanksgiving and Holiday Challenges

05:41 Coping Strategies for Estrangement During Holidays

11:05 Praying for Peace and Guidance

14:03 Encouragement and Faith in Miracles

17:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with me on Instagram: @heygirl.itsnicole
And explore more resources for estranged moms at nicolecoates.com.

If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review — it helps other moms find the support they’ve been praying for.

This podcast is created for moms walking through estrangement — a place to be understood, encouraged, and reminded you’re not alone.

In this episode, Nicole Coates talks about passive-aggressive comments with compassion and honesty—reminding listeners that we all fall into these patterns sometimes. Instead of shame, Nicole focuses on why these moments happen and how they can become opportunities for healing, clarity, and healthier communication.

She shares how passive-aggressive reactions often come from unspoken hurt or fear, especially in strained or estranged relationships, and offers simple, faith-filled guidance for moving toward peace and connection.

Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:

“Why Everyone’s Cutting Everyone Off” by Rachel Haack

Episode Breakdown:
00:00 — Understanding Passive-Aggressive Patterns
00:18 — Gentle Intentions from Nicole
00:40 — Common Phrases We All Use
01:55 — Emotional Impact
03:56 — Healing + Healthier Communication
05:35 — Faith, Peace, and Perspective
12:14 — Closing Encouragement

Connect with me on Instagram: @heygirl.itsnicole
And explore more resources for estranged moms at nicolecoates.com.

If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review — it helps other moms find the support they’ve been praying for.

This podcast is created for moms walking through estrangement — a place to be understood, encouraged, and reminded you’re not alone.

In this episode, we explore the emotional complexities faced by parents dealing with estrangement from their children. We discuss the invisible rules and shifting standards parents feel they must navigate, the importance of making personal changes, and the frustration of not being able to demonstrate that progress. The conversation touches on the necessity of letting go of impossible standards and the role of faith and self-healing in this journey. The episode encourages respectful dialogue and offers resources for those seeking community while navigating similar experiences.

00:00 Introduction: The Struggle for Perfection

00:18 Invisible Rules of Estrangement

01:25 The Frustration of Unmet Standards

03:04 The Importance of Letting Go

04:30 Navigating Boundaries and Expectations

07:42 Seeking Guidance and Healing

09:10 Conclusion and Community Resources

Connect with me on Instagram: @heygirl.itsnicole
And explore more resources for estranged moms at nicolecoates.com.

If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review — it helps other moms find the support they’ve been praying for.

This podcast is created for moms walking through estrangement — a place to be understood, encouraged, and reminded you’re not alone.

In this first solo episode of 'Between Hope and Heartbreak,' I discuss the evolution of the podcast from 'Motherhood in the Messy Middle', highlight the decision to focus solely on estrangement, and share my personal experiences. Discover past episodes that delve deep into my story, and learn about the community built around this theme. I invite listeners to share ideas and engage in meaningful conversations. This episode also emphasizes the importance of faith and finding hope through Jesus while navigating the difficult journey of estrangement.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:03 Recap of Previous Episode

00:19 Transition to Solo Podcast

01:25 New Podcast Name: Between Hope and Heartbreak

01:31 Episodes on Estrangement

02:30 Community and Future Plans

03:26 Call for Audience Engagement

04:25 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

04:39 Disclaimer and Personal Journey

06:04 Closing Remarks

Connect with me on Instagram: @heygirl.itsnicole
And explore more resources for estranged moms at nicolecoates.com.

If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review — it helps other moms find the support they’ve been praying for.

This podcast is created for moms walking through estrangement — a place to be understood, encouraged, and reminded you’re not alone.

Robin announces her departure from the show to focus on her holistic wellness practice, while Nicole prepares to continue the podcast, focusing on supporting mothers dealing with estrangement. They reflect on their deep virtual friendship, the challenges of midlife motherhood, and their continued mission to normalize 'the messy middle.' The episode is filled with emotions, gratitude, and plans for future meditations and practical support for women in various stages of motherhood.

00:00 Welcome to Season Two: Embracing the Messy Middle

01:02 Halloween Vibes and Emotional Announcements

02:01 Robin's Farewell: Answering the Call

07:48 Navigating Grief and Community Support

11:10 Building Virtual Villages and Deep Friendships

14:01 The Power of Meditation and Mindful Practices

19:38 Robin's Holistic Wellness Journey

26:13 Nicole's Future Plans for the Podcast

32:55 Final Thoughts and Farewells

Connect with me on Instagram: @heygirl.itsnicole
And explore more resources for estranged moms at nicolecoates.com.

If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review — it helps other moms find the support they’ve been praying for.

This podcast is created for moms walking through estrangement — a place to be understood, encouraged, and reminded you’re not alone.

This week, they discuss their approaches to Halloween traditions, from costume planning to navigating trick-or-treating with neurodivergent children. Learn about the unique ways they create a fun, inclusive, and stress-free Halloween experience for their families. Whether you're dealing with young kids, teens, or navigating midlife changes, this episode offers heartfelt advice, plenty of laughs, and fresh perspectives on managing the seasonal chaos. Don't forget to check out the Vault for additional resources and tools!

00:00 Welcome to Motherhood and the Messy Middle

01:02 Cozy Conversations and Heated Blankets

04:26 Halloween Traditions and Neurodivergence

09:33 Trick-or-Treating and Safety Concerns

15:43 Navigating Health Challenges and Candy

17:43 Managing Sugar and Dye Sensitivities

18:42 The Switch Witch Tradition

20:53 Inclusive Halloween Celebrations

23:07 Creating Halloween Routines

24:46 Halloween Costumes and Themes

29:17 Teenagers and Halloween

31:04 Halloween Joy and Grace

32:59 Conclusion and Podcast Information

Connect with me on Instagram: @heygirl.itsnicole
And explore more resources for estranged moms at nicolecoates.com.

If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review — it helps other moms find the support they’ve been praying for.

This podcast is created for moms walking through estrangement — a place to be understood, encouraged, and reminded you’re not alone.

This episode focuses on navigating estrangement, managing difficult emotions, and seeking personal growth, all while maintaining honesty and hope. They share practical tips on grounding yourself in the present moment, the power of prayer, and the importance of honoring one's current state. Join the conversation as they tackle the messy middle of motherhood and midlife with humor, realness, and a touch of spirituality. Don't miss out on the heartfelt insights and practical advice!

00:00 Welcome to the Messy Middle

01:02 Building Virtual Friendships

01:29 Self-Expression and Communication

02:42 Self-Awareness and Validation

03:42 Navigating Emotional Challenges

05:29 Honoring Your Journey

10:40 Cognitive Behavioral Insights

14:30 Grounding Techniques and Mantras

17:53 Understanding Automaticity and Multitasking

18:20 Inner Critic vs. Inner Coach

18:53 Impact of Community Tragedies

19:57 Finding Peace Through Faith

23:22 Power of Prayer and Spiritual Wellness

24:55 Navigating Hard Conversations

30:21 Embracing Connection and Healing

35:23 Conclusion and Resources

Connect with me on Instagram: @heygirl.itsnicole
And explore more resources for estranged moms at nicolecoates.com.

If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review — it helps other moms find the support they’ve been praying for.

This podcast is created for moms walking through estrangement — a place to be understood, encouraged, and reminded you’re not alone.

In this heartfelt episode of 'Motherhood and the Messy Middle,' hosts Robin and Nicole delve into the complex topic of grief, especially in relation to estrangement. They share personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the multi-layered nature of grief, whether through the loss of a loved one or a significant life change. Throughout the discussion, they explore the importance of connection, community, and finding ways to lighten the emotional load through spiritual practices and rituals. This episode aims to provide hope, support, and actionable steps for those navigating these challenging emotions.

00:00 Welcome to Motherhood and the Messy Middle

01:02 Defining Estrangement and Grief

03:59 Navigating the Complexities of Grief

06:56 Anticipatory Grief and Estrangement

09:50 The Mental Load of Estrangement

15:25 Finding Spiritual Centering

21:41 Hope and Healing

29:41 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps

Connect with me on Instagram: @heygirl.itsnicole
And explore more resources for estranged moms at nicolecoates.com.

If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review — it helps other moms find the support they’ve been praying for.

This podcast is created for moms walking through estrangement — a place to be understood, encouraged, and reminded you’re not alone.

In this episode of 'Motherhood and the Messy Middle,' hosts Robin and Nicole dive into the complexities of estrangement and grief, especially as they pertain to motherhood and midlife. 

Robin and Nicole discuss their personal experiences with estrangement, the challenges it brings, and the importance of creating supportive, judgment-free spaces. They introduce the concept of a virtual village to help women feel seen and connected. The episode also highlights Nicole's community app for moms navigating estrangement, offering a faith-based approach to healing and support. The hosts emphasize the importance of leaning into difficult conversations to diminish shame and enhance empathy. They also touch on the toxic nature of social media and the need for more personal, offline connections. 

00:00 Welcome to Motherhood and the Messy Middle 

01:02 Catching Up and Rejuvenation 

02:12 Introducing the Estrangement Series 

03:44 Navigating Social Media and Mental Health 

12:09 Defining Estrangement and Prodigal 1

8:07 Faith and Hope in Estrangement 

24:24 Wrapping Up and Looking Forward

Connect with me on Instagram: @heygirl.itsnicole
And explore more resources for estranged moms at nicolecoates.com.

If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review — it helps other moms find the support they’ve been praying for.

This podcast is created for moms walking through estrangement — a place to be understood, encouraged, and reminded you’re not alone.

Join Robin and Nicole in the second season of 'Motherhood and the Messy Middle.' This episode sets the stage for a season filled with themed miniseries on challenging topics such as estrangement, difficult conversations, holidays, and personal growth. Robin and Nicole provide life updates, reflecting on the transitions they've navigated, from new jobs to supporting their families. With honest, real conversations and a touch of humor, this episode invites you to be part of their virtual village, offering support and resources for moms navigating the messy middle of life.

00:00 Welcome to Season Two: Embracing the Messy Middle

01:00 Catching Up: Life Updates and New Beginnings

01:41 A Journey of Faith and Employment

11:32 Navigating Estrangement and Finding Hope

14:17 Soul-Based Businesses and Personal Growth

19:25 Balancing Business and Motherhood

19:44 Introducing Robin's Wellness and Leadership Initiatives

20:44 Navigating Community and Personal Growth

22:06 The Importance of Human Connection

25:07 Challenges of Capitalism and Patriarchy

27:15 Season Two Preview and Upcoming Topics

29:25 Motherhood Updates and Personal Reflections

35:45 Closing Remarks and Future Support

Connect with me on Instagram: @heygirl.itsnicole
And explore more resources for estranged moms at nicolecoates.com.

If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review — it helps other moms find the support they’ve been praying for.

This podcast is created for moms walking through estrangement — a place to be understood, encouraged, and reminded you’re not alone.