In this solo episode of The Gen Mess with Tess, Tess Brigham unpacks one of the most emotionally charged conversations happening right now: adult children going no contact with a parent.

Drawing from her work as a therapist and her own lived experience, Tess challenges the oversimplified narratives dominating social media and reframes "no contact" not as a trend, punishment, or failure, but as a response to long-standing emotional disconnection and a lack of acknowledgement.

This episode explores the generational divide shaping these conversations, why intent does not erase impact, and why emotional safety, accountability, and repair matter more than endurance or tradition. Tess also shares a deeply personal story about her relationship with her father, illustrating how acknowledgement - not perfection - creates the possibility for healing.

For leaders, HR professionals, and parents alike, this episode offers a powerful reminder: relationships break down not because people are “too emotional,” but because discomfort is avoided instead of addressed.

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