Ep 120 // Embracing Midlife Motherhood and the Joy (and Mess) of the Empty Nest with Pamela Henkleman

What if the empty nest wasn’t an ending—but an invitation?

In this episode of the Rooted and Held motherhood series, Megan Nilsen sits down with the vibrant and faith-filled Pamela Henkelman to unpack the complexities of midlife motherhood, the pain and purpose of letting go, and the divine invitations that come in life’s second act.

Pamela doesn’t sugarcoat the journey. From premature labor and prodigal children to chronic illness and miraculous healing—this conversation explores the full emotional landscape of motherhood, faith, and transition. She shares how hearing God's voice became her lifeline, how ministry emerged out of hardship, and why no part of your story—especially the messy ones—is ever wasted.

If you're a Christian woman navigating motherhood, identity, or the empty nest (with a little bit of joy and a whole lot of Jesus), this one’s for you.

Powerful Quotes:

“Let’s normalize that. Parenting is hard—and we don’t have to carry shame for our kids’ choices.”

“Your pain is never wasted. God always has a purpose in it.”

“Don’t lose hope. He has good things for you—even in the empty nest.”

Reflection Questions:

1. What season of motherhood are you in, and what emotions are surfacing in this phase?
2. How has your identity shifted as your children have grown?
3. Are there areas of grief or regret you need to process with God?
4. What new callings or dreams might God be awakening in you during this transition?
5. How can you rekindle connection in your marriage or key relationships?

Practical Takeaways:

• It’s okay to feel the tension of release and relief in the empty nest.
• Invite God into your emotions—He’s not afraid of your grief, confusion, or longing.
• Make space to hear God’s voice again—He often speaks fresh vision in times of transition.
• Prayer is powerful—especially for prodigal kids. Keep sowing seeds of hope.
• Begin rediscovering purpose by noticing where your passion and God’s peace intersect.
• Take one small step today: call a friend, journal a prayer, plan a date with your spouse.

Connect with Pamela:

• Website: https://www.pamelahenkelman.com/
• Podcast: The Midlife Mama

Connect with Megan:

• Instagram:@megan_nilsen
• Facebook:@megannilsenkingdomlifecoach
• Email:[email protected]
• Website: https://meganbnilsen.com/
• Ready to explore thedesires of your heartand see whatGod has for youin the next season? Schedule aFREE discovery callto discuss what Kingdom Life Coaching could UNLOCK for you!

Want to learn how to hear God’s voice and gain Kingdom wisdom for your life?! Grab a copy of Untangled Faith: How Honest Conversations with God Lead to Deeper Connections, Clarity, and Peace

Keywords:

midlife, motherhood, empty nest, faith, parenting, Christian women, life transitions, miracles, chronic illness, prodigal children, personal growth, empowerment, divine destiny, self-discovery, family, rekindling relationships, hope, Christian podcast, women of faith