This episode closes out this first season of Cheers… to Life as I Knew It, and Dr. Kim invites listeners into an intimate reflection on what it really means to grow, evolve, and honor the woman you’re becoming. This finale episode gathers the heartbeats of the entire season — the lessons, the letting go, and the light that emerges when we choose ourselves again.

Through five transformational lessons, we are reminded that:

• Evolution is permission, not loss.

• Rest is an act of rebellion and renewal.

• Releasing old roles creates space for rebirth.

• Courage begins in quiet honesty.

• Joy is the North Star guiding us home to ourselves.

In this conversation, Dr. Kim discusses how to turn these insights into simple, actionable practices.

If you’ve ever found yourself in the in-between — no longer who you were, but not yet who you’re becoming — this episode will remind you that you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.

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Next new episode in 2026!

In this episode, Dr. Kim explores the feeling of being stuck, particularly during midlife transitions. She emphasizes that feeling stuck is not a personal failure but a signal for change. The conversation delves into the importance of emotional health, the gift of sensitivity, and the need for self-awareness and responsiveness to overcome feeling stuck. Dr. Kim shares her personal experiences and insights on how to honor one's emotions while striving for clarity and alignment when seeking forward movement after a life shakeup.  

Takeaways

• Feeling stuck is a signal, not a failure.
• Transitions can rewrite our internal maps.
• Misalignment creates emotional and physical friction.
• Emotional sensitivity is a gift, not a flaw.
• We must learn to flow with life's changes.
• Awareness is key to becoming responsive.
• Honoring our emotions helps in the unstuck process.
• Recognizing the stuck cycle is crucial for growth.

New episodes every Tuesday!

Find Dr. Kim on socials @nowgobefree (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)

Music "Light It Up" courtesy of Ryan James Carr via Epidemic Sound

In this episode, Dr. Kim discusses the emotional complexities of transitioning to an empty nest as her daughter prepares to leave for college. She shares her personal experiences of pride and grief, emphasizing the importance of managing emotions during this significant life change. Dr. Kim offers practical strategies for parents to navigate their feelings while supporting their children, including naming emotions, normalizing feelings, and creating new family rituals. The conversation highlights the duality of joy and sadness in parenting and the potential for new relationships as children gain independence.

Takeaways:

• Navigating the empty nest can evoke mixed emotions.
• It's normal to feel both pride and grief during transitions.
• Naming your emotions helps in processing them.
• Normalizing feelings can create space for self-compassion.
• Pay attention to physical cues of emotions.
• Create self-care activities to fill the void left by children.
• Establish new family rituals to mark transitions.
• Practice emotional regulation techniques like deep breathing.
• Encourage your child's independence while providing support.
• Future visioning can help ease the transition for both parents and children.

Are you the parent of a teen who is starting the transition from High School to College? Are you concerned about how to manage the transition and wonder if you're child will be ready when it's time? If so, Dr. Kim's course, First Semester Formula: Parent Edition, is for you. You can learn more about the course here:

https://stan.store/collegementormom

New episodes every Tuesday!

Find Dr. Kim on socials @nowgobefree (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)

Music "Light It Up" courtesy of Ryan James Carr via Epidemic Sound

Keywords

comparison, midlife, self-awareness, mental health, social media, personal growth, self-criticism, anxiety, joy, gratitude

Summary

In this episode, Dr. Kim discusses the pervasive issue of comparison, particularly among women in midlife. She shares her personal journey of overcoming the toxic nature of comparison, especially in the context of social media. Dr. Kim emphasizes the damaging effects of comparison on mental health, including distorting reality, raising anxiety, and stealing joy. She offers strategies for reframing comparison as a tool for personal growth and self-awareness, encouraging listeners to view it as a teacher rather than a thief. The episode concludes with practical tips to combat comparison and foster gratitude.

Takeaways;

Comparison is toxic and can be an uninvited guest.

Social media often presents a distorted reality.

Comparison can lead to self-criticism and anxiety.

It's important to guard your heart against comparison.

Reframing comparison can turn it into a tool for growth.

Comparison can reveal what we truly desire in life.

Gratitude can help combat feelings of comparison.

Celebrating personal wins is crucial for self-esteem.

Limiting social media can reduce comparison triggers.

Comparison can serve as a mirror to our own insecurities

Sound bites

"Comparison distorts reality."

"Comparison raises anxiety."

"Comparison steals joy."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Comparison and Growth

00:58 The Toxic Nature of Comparison

09:39 The Damaging Effects of Comparison

13:53 Reframing Comparison

20:07 Strategies to Combat Comparison

New episodes on Tuesdays!

Find Dr. Kim on socials @nowgobefree (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)

Music "Light It Up" courtesy of Ryan James Carr via Epidemic Sound

In this episode, Dr. Kim reflects on turning 49, sharing insights and lessons from a year of profound personal growth. The discussion explores the themes of courage, awareness, and legacy, inviting listeners to embrace transitions as opportunities for transformation. Whether you're navigating a milestone birthday or simply seeking inspiration, this heartfelt reflection offers wisdom and encouragement for your own journey. Tune in for an engaging conversation that celebrates growth, authenticity, and the power of embracing change.

Takeaways;

1. Embrace Growth: Growth often requires letting go of old identities and stepping into new challenges, even when it feels uncomfortable.

2. Courage Over Fear: Courage isn't about being fearless; it's about moving forward despite uncertainties and trusting in your ability to handle life's transitions.

3. Awareness is Key: Being present and aware allows you to understand your patterns and make intentional changes for personal development.

4. Legacy in the Present: Legacy isn't just what you leave behind; it's how you live and connect with others in the present moment.

5. Reflect and Release: Regular reflection helps identify what you're proud of and what you need to release to grow into your next season.

   
   

   New episodes on Tuesdays!

   Find Dr. Kim on socials @nowgobefree (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)

   Music "Light It Up" courtesy of Ryan James Carr via Epidemic Sound

In this episode, Dr. Kim explores the deeper meaning of home, especially during midlife transitions. She discusses how changes in family dynamics, such as children leaving home, can alter our sense of belonging and grounding. The conversation emphasizes that home is not just a physical space but a feeling of safety and connection. Dr. Kim shares personal experiences and insights on redefining home and staying emotionally grounded amidst change.

Takeaways:

Home represents a deeper sense of belonging and grounding.

Transitions in life can make home feel different.

Home is not just a physical space but an emotional one.

The energy of a home can shift with family changes.

Grieving the loss of a familiar home is common.

Home should be a place where our spirit can exhale.

We often rebuild our sense of home throughout life.

The rhythm of family life contributes to the feeling of home.

Physical changes in home can shake our emotional foundation.

Understanding home helps navigate midlife transitions.

New episodes on Tuesdays!

Find Dr. Kim on socials @nowgobefree (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)

Music "Light It Up" courtesy of Ryan James Carr via Epidemic Sound

In this heartfelt conversation, Dr. Kim and her son, Jordan, explore the complexities of parenting and being a young adult as life rapidly changes around both of them. Focusing on the shift from managing to mentoring as children grow into adulthood, Dr. Kim and Jordan discuss the challenges and changes faced by families, the importance of resilience, and the evolution of parenting styles. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they highlight the significance of communication, trust, and the lessons learned from childhood experiences. The episode emphasizes the need for parents to adapt their approaches to support their young adult children while allowing them the space to grow and learn from their own mistakes.

Takeaways

• Parenting roles shift from manager to mentor as children grow.
• Family changes can be challenging but manageable with open communication.
• Resilience is key in navigating adulthood and its challenges.
• Trust in the parenting foundation laid over the years.
• It's important for parents to adapt their styles to the changing world.
• Children need space to make mistakes and learn from them.
• Presence and consistency in parenting create a strong foundation.
• Adulting comes with unexpected challenges, including financial responsibilities.
• Conversations about life should be transparent and open.
• Parenting transforms but never truly ends.

New episodes on Tuesdays!

Find Dr. Kim on socials @nowgobefree (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)

Music "Light It Up" courtesy of Ryan James Carr via Epidemic Sound

In this episode, Dr. Kim discusses the emotional journey of becoming an empty nester, exploring the identity shifts and feelings of grief that accompany this transition. She emphasizes the importance of reclaiming one's identity, rediscovering passions, and building new routines and relationships. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace new adventures and provides practical steps for navigating this significant life change with grace and intention.

Takeaways:

• Becoming an empty nester is a significant transition.
• It's normal to feel a mix of emotions during this time.
• Grief can be complicated and mixed with pride.
• Reclaiming your identity is essential after the nest empties.
• Rediscovering passions and hobbies can bring joy.
• Building new routines around personal needs is important.
• Deepening relationships can provide support during transitions.

New episodes every Tuesday!

Find Dr. Kim on socials @nowgobefree (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)

Music "Light It Up" courtesy of Ryan James Carr via Epidemic Sound

In this episode, Dr. Kim discusses the significance of preparing for major life transitions rather than being innocent bystanders. She emphasizes the importance of self-reflection through seven key questions that encourage women to explore their desires, identities, tolerances, definitions of success, sources of joy, fears, and the legacies they wish to leave behind. The conversation is framed around the themes of permission, personal growth, and the power of choice in shaping one's life during this transformative stage.

Takeaways:

Consider the legacy you want to leave behind.

New episodes every Tuesday!

Find Dr. Kim on socials @nowgobefree (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)

Music "Light It Up" courtesy of Ryan James Carr via Epidemic Sound

In this episode, Dr. Kim discusses the vital importance of giving oneself permission to rest, especially for women in midlife. She explores the societal pressures that make rest feel like a luxury rather than a necessity and emphasizes that rest is essential for physical, mental, emotional, and creative well-being. Dr. Kim outlines different types of rest and encourages listeners to assess their own needs for rest, ultimately advocating for a shift in mindset to normalize rest as a fundamental part of self-care and personal growth.

Takeaways;

• Rest is not a reward; it's a need and a right.
• Women often feel guilty about taking time to rest.
• Midlife can be a time for reevaluation and correction.
• There are four types of rest: physical, mental, emotional, and creative.
• Rest is essential for reclaiming energy and clarity.
• Guilt about resting is common but should be challenged.
• Modeling rest for younger generations is important.
• Resting helps us to honor ourselves and our needs.
• We should assess how often we give ourselves breaks.
• Rest is part of how we get things done well.

New episodes every Tuesday!

Find Dr. Kim on socials @nowgobefree (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)

Music "Light It Up" courtesy of Ryan James Carr via Epidemic Sound