In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Michelle and Liz chat with Dr Dominique Thompson, award-winning GP, author, and expert in young people's mental health, to explore the emotional journey of empty nest syndrome and the complex transitions facing parents—especially mothers—as children leave home. Together, they unpack the grief, guilt, freedom, and identity shifts that come with midlife parenting, the rise of “boomerang kids,” and how women can reconnect with their sense of purpose once their parenting role evolves. It’s a warm, wise, and often funny conversation about one of the most emotionally charged stages of midlife.

Key Insights:

🎙️ Empty Nest, Full Heart – Why it’s normal to feel a mix of sadness and relief—and how to work through both.

🎙️ Boomerang Kids & Shifting Boundaries – The surprising challenges (and silver linings) of grown-up kids moving back home.

🎙️ Rediscovering You – Dr Dominique shares tips on finding new purpose and identity once the kids have flown the nest.

🎙️ Emotional Health in Midlife – The often-unspoken mental health struggles faced by parents during this transition—and how to get support.

Resources:

🔗 Dr Dominique Thompson’s Website

Connect with Us:

🌟 Website: TwoWomenChatting.com

📸 Instagram: @michelleford_twc

🐦 Twitter/X: @ChattingTwo

📘 Facebook: Two Women Chatting

📺 YouTube: TwoWomenChatting

Keywords: empty nest syndrome, midlife parenting, boomerang kids, motherhood identity, mental health, women over 50, midlife transition, self-discovery, parenting teens, empty nest grief, rediscovering purpose, Dominique Thompson

Email: [email protected]

👉 Follow the show so you never miss an episode, and share it with a friend who could use a little midlife magic.

Explore the 'midlife library' at www.twowomenchatting.com

Connect with Michelle at [email protected] for collaborations, ideas, and comments! Remember to rate, review, and share our show to join the laughter-filled conversation about midlife empowerment and beyond...

Follow Michelle on Instagram at @michelleford_twc or Facebook

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.