Life after Kids with Drs. Brooke and Lynne

No matter how committed, focused, or hardworking you are, and no matter how much time you have spent on the Life after Kids Goals Framework, inevitably, life beyond motherhood will have its fair share of setbacks. Setbacks are a natural part of life's journey, and learning how to effectively deal with them is the central theme of the discussion on this week’s episode of Life after Kids. We share personal stories, highlighting how different "mom types" of the What’s My Purpose Quiz—from analyzers to diligent doers—handle life's challenges. This episode is filled with essential strategies and insights to help listeners cultivate emotional resilience and transform setbacks into opportunities for growth.

Stay tuned for more suggestions and strategies on navigating an empty nest or almost empty nest. And, for more insights and personal development tips through setbacks, tune into today’s full episode of Life after Kids.

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne

PS... Don't forget to follow us!

Have your children grown up and moved out, leaving you navigating a new reality? Join us as we delve  into how women can rediscover their purpose once their primary role as caregivers shifts. This episode of Life after Kids offers valuable insights into the emotional and psychological challenges mothers face when transitioning from full-time parenting to an empty nest. We provided practical advice for mothers who are feeling a loss of identity, including key strategies to overcome feelings of irrelevance.

Key Takeaways:

• Recognizing the shift from caregiver to finding new relevance and purpose can be challenging but is crucial for personal growth after children leave home.
• Understanding personality types, especially the Enneagram, can guide mothers to rediscover fulfilling roles that align with their inherent strengths.
• Taking steps such as volunteering, exploring creative outlets, and focusing on self-care can help combat feelings of irrelevance or lack of purpose.
• Embracing personal identity shifts and seeking opportunities to use caregiving skills can lead to a meaningful and rewarding life post-parenting.
• Connecting with supportive communities and utilizing resources like the "What's Your Purpose?" quiz can illuminate new paths for fulfillment.

Encouraging women to embrace their unique caregiving nature while finding new avenues to express it, this compelling episode of Life after Kids inspires listeners to seek and seize the opportunities life presents after their children have left the nest. Tune in to uncover more wisdom and actionable advice as we help you to thrive in the next exciting chapter of your life.

RESOURCES:
The What's My Purpose Quiz
The Road Back To You: Book
The Life after Kids Goals Framework
The Life after Kids Membership Community
The Life after Kids Website


Timestamp Summary
| 0:00  | Rediscovering Purpose After Children Leave Home
| 4:26  | Finding Purpose and Overcoming Feelings of Being Lost
| 7:17  | Rediscovering Purpose Through Caregiving and Volunteering Opportunities
| 14:20  | The Joy and Challenges of Parenting During College Breaks
| 15:13  | Finding Fulfillment and Joy in Life After Parenthood
| 16:43  | Balancing Selflessness and Personal Needs in Enneagram Type 2
| 18:46  | Prioritizing Self-Care and Finding Purpose Beyond Home
| 21:23  | Embracing Change and Finding New Ways to Care
| 25:09  | Exploring Enneagram Types for Post-Parenting Fulfillment

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


PS... Don't forget to follow us!
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Have you ever noticed that your productivity and mood naturally ebb and flow with the seasons?  And as when we turn the clocks back, heading full steam into winter months and less daylight, it may become increasingly harder to remain upbeat and active. 

Welcome back to Life after Kids, where today's conversation dives into understanding how seasonal changes impact productivity and emotional wellbeing, especially for women. Learn about the variations in our productivity throughout the year, and explore how women’s energy levels and moods fluctuate with the sunlight and seasons. Get empowered with insights to leverage productive periods while embracing natural ebbs with tranquility.

Key Takeaways:

• Productivity has natural ebbs and flows, with specifics varying according to the season and even menstrual cycles.
• Many women reportedly feel more extroverted and productive during daylight-rich months such as September and October.
• Utilizing Vitamin D supplements and sunlamps can help mitigate winter blues and sustain emotional equilibrium.
• Understanding and embracing natural downtimes can improve overall well-being, helping one plan around these fluctuations.
• Grounding and infrared therapies were discussed as beneficial practices, enhancing mood and providing both mental and physical benefits.

Looking for more insights? Tune into the full episode of Life after Kids to explore in-depth how seasonal changes affect productivity and emotional growth while picking up practical tips to embrace these changes with positivity. Stay with us for more enlightening conversations on navigating the choppy waters of life after the kids are grown.

RESOURCES:
Grounding Mat
Grounding Yoga Mat
Light Therapy Lamp
Fast Like a Girl Book
Vitamin D


Timestamp Summary
| 0:00  | Leveraging Seasonal Changes for Productivity and Emotional Wellbeing
| 5:20  | Maximizing Productivity: Timing and Seasonal Trends
| 13:47  | Harnessing Cycles and Sunlight for Optimal Productivity
| 17:52  | Combating Winter Doldrums With Vitamin D and Sunlight Exposure
| 25:00  | Embracing Winter's Slower Pace for Health and Wellbeing

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


PS... Don't forget to follow us!
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Facebook
Tik Tok

If you miss taking care of and snuggling your babies now that they’re grown and your house is feeling quiet, it might be time to consider a pet!

In this episode of Life after Kids the central theme revolves around the significance of pets in our lives, particularly during transitional times such as when children have left home. This episode is a tribute to the power of animals to provide companionship, emotional support, and a sense of purpose as families navigate new phases in life.

Key Takeaways:

• Pets can greatly alleviate feelings of loneliness and provide comfort during transitional life phases like children leaving for college.
• Owning a pet has numerous health benefits, including stress reduction, lower blood pressure, and increased oxytocin levels.
• Pets are excellent companions that encourage physical activity, which is beneficial for overall health, especially as we age.
• Volunteering with animals or even starting a pet-related business could be a purpose-driven venture for those passionate about animal care.
• Finding ways to overcome challenges like travel constraints when owning a pet can make the decision to adopt easier and more attractive.

Listen to today’s episode of Life after Kids to learn more about the health benefits of owning pets.  For insightful discussions and valuable support as you navigate life after kids, continue the journey with us down the path to a fulfilling life post-parenting.

"Pets help us release stress and lower our blood pressure," illustrating the profound health impact animals can have on humans.” Dr. Brooke

Don’t forget to post your pictures of your furry friends in your story and be sure to tag us on instagram @life.afterkids so we can share it!

RESOURCES:

Upshot Dog Rescue

Heal Animal Rescue

The Oxytocin Podcast


Timestamp Summary
| 0:00  | The Importance of Pets for Connection and Mental Health
| 5:32  | The Emotional Benefits of Pets During Life Transitions
| 12:13  | How Pets Enhance Fitness and Social Connections
| 14:33  | The Bond Between Humans and Animals: Goats, Horses, and Pigs
| 17:58  | Exploring Pet Ownership and Alternatives for Animal Lovers
| 22:54  | Passion for Animal Rescue and Adoption

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


PS... Don't forget to follow us!
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Facebook
Tik Tok

One of the biggest struggles moms face in an empty nest or almost empty nest is making new friends and building deeper relationships.  And yet, friendships and community are necessities for longevity and living a fulfilling life after kids.

The art of making new social connections and the hurdles so many moms of older kids face in this endeavor is the topic of this week’s episode of Life after Kids. Tune in for practical advice from real life experiences for help with making new friendships and connections now that the kids are grown.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of stepping out of comfort zones to grow and forge new connections in the post-parenting phase.
• Practical advice for overcoming social anxiety, including arriving early and preparing mentally for social events.
• The significance of active listening and asking questions to facilitate deeper connections with new acquaintances.
• Encouragement to be the person who reaches out to someone who seems isolated in social situations.
• Using personal experiences as opportunities to practice and improve social skills, even when feeling anxious or awkward.

For more insights into making meaningful connections during life after active parenting, tune in to this episode of Life After Kids. Stay connected for more valuable discussions with Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne.

RESOURCES:
The What's My Purpose Quiz
The Life after Kids Goals Framework


Timestamp Summary
| 0:00  | Navigating New Social Situations and Building Connections
| 2:55  | Navigating Awkward Social Situations at a Dinner Event
| 7:08  | Building Female Connections and Overcoming Social Barriers
| 10:25  | Overcoming Anxiety When Entering a Room Full of Strangers
| 12:43  | The Power of Vulnerability and Unexpected Connections
| 14:33  | Avoiding Hunger for Better Social Interactions
| 15:37  | Overcoming Social Anxiety and Embracing Growth Experiences
| 21:27  | The Art of Active Listening and Building Genuine Connections
| 26:09  | Navigating Social Anxiety and Building New Connections
| 32:55  | Embracing Imperfections and Tolerance in Life's Tapestry
| 35:06  | The Importance of Connection and Purpose After Kids

Kion amino acid powder is our go to way to supplement our protein intake and help build muscle in midlife. It dissolves easily in water and tastes great too!
Go to www.getkion.com and use code AFTERKIDS for 10% off single items, 15% off bundles, and 20% off subscriptions!

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


PS... Don't forget to follow us!
Instagram
Facebook
Tik Tok

Would you agree that one of the hardest parts about being a mom of grown kids is watching your child struggle or face a major obstacle? In this episode of Life After Kids, we delve into the emotionally charged and challenging topic of what to do if your child is unhappy in college or any post-high school situation with compelling real-life stories and actionable advice. Because let’s face it, a mother's happiness is closely linked to her child's well-being. 

Key Takeaways:

• Encourage Perseverance: Initially encourage children to fully commit to their current situation before contemplating a change.
• Root Cause Analysis: Determine if the unhappiness is due to the environment or personal challenges that will follow them.
• Comprehensive Evaluation: Guide children through thorough self-reflection and critical questioning to ensure their decisions are well-considered.
• Parental Support: Maintain an open line of communication and offer balanced support while allowing the child to make their own choices.
• Normalize Transitions: Understand that transferring schools or making significant changes is not a failure but a step toward finding the right path.

Join us as we explore the foundational principle that while it's essential for children to stick out tough situations to build resilience, it's equally important to recognize when a change is necessary for their overall happiness and future success. Listen to today’s episode in its entirety  to learn more about parents handling their own reactions and societal pressures concerning their children's choices, as we advocate for a child-centered approach rather than focusing on external judgments. Stay tuned for more valuable discussions and join the Life After Kids Community for continued support and growth.

Resources:
BOOK: The Gift of Failure 
BOOK: Failing Forward 


Timestamp Summary
| 0:00  | Helping Your Child Navigate Unhappiness in College
| 5:38  | Navigating College Transfers and Finding the Right Fit
| 16:19  | Guiding Children Through Critical Conversations and Challenges
| 18:36  | Guiding a Young Adult Through Major Life Decisions
| 22:06  | Overcoming Fear and Embracing Change in Life Decisions
| 25:54  | Navigating College Transitions and Parental Expectations
| 28:52  | Balancing Parental Expectations and Children's Happiness

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


PS... Don't forget to follow us!
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Facebook
Tik Tok

Just like that, another new season is upon us.  And while we hope you’re finding time to enjoy pumpkin spice lattes and planting colorful mums, we also hope you’ll find some time to check in with your goals for the year and begin to think about your goals for next year as well. Now is the perfect time!

In this episode of Life After Kids, we’re talking all about the importance of planning ahead for the New Year by setting goals as early as October. If you wait until January, you may miss an opportunity for thoughtful preparation. We discuss the benefits of breaking the year into 90-day increments to stay on track and celebrate progress along the way, while highlighting the significance of writing down goals and setting a yearly theme to stay focused and motivated.

Key Takeaways:

• Plan Ahead: Don't wait until January; start setting your goals in October to take advantage of the last 90 days of the year and build momentum.
• Use a Goals Framework: Breaking down your goals into categories and setting a yearly theme can provide clarity and focus.
• Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, to stay motivated and positive.
• Involve Family: Incorporate goal-setting practices within the family to foster a supportive environment and set a positive example for children.
• Embrace Failures: Understand that not reaching some goals is okay. It signifies that you're aiming high, which is crucial for growth.

Planning your goals for the last 90 days of the year can be transformative. We encourage you to celebrate your achievements, manage expectations, and keep dreaming big while breaking down goals into actionable steps. Listen to the full episode of Life after Kids to learn more about goal setting and promoting a positive and proactive mindset.  And, be sure to stay connected with us on all of our social media platforms for more insights and updates.

RESOURCES:
Goals Framework & Tutorial
Mid-Year Check-In Episode
Coffee Break and Date Night Episode
Coffee Break and Date Night Guide

Timestamp Summary
| 0:00  | Planning Ahead for the Last 90 Days of the Year
| 2:06  | Planning Ahead for a Stress-Free Holiday Season
| 7:07  | Goal Setting and Planning for the New Year
| 14:08  | Celebrating Achievements and Setting Goals for a Fulfilling Life
| 23:36  | Achieving Goals Through Strategic Planning and Mindset Shifts
| 29:58  | Join Life After Kids for Goal-Crushing Tips and Community

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


PS... Don't forget to follow us!
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Facebook
Tik Tok

If you're considering a move now or sometime in the future, you’ll want to listen to this week’s episode of Life after Kids, because moving houses is the topic of discussion.  Even if you aren’t moving anytime soon, still listen to the episode as we also discuss cleaning out your house and going through old storage bins of photos, artwork, and memories. 

Key Takeaways:

• The emotional and physical toll of moving is significant, comparable to other major life stressors like divorce or job loss.
• Downsizing can be a cathartic experience, offering the opportunity to purge unnecessary belongings and hold onto meaningful items.
• Establishing a new social network and familiarizing oneself with local services and regulations is crucial for a smooth transition.
• Moving provides a unique chance for personal growth and reimagining one's living space and lifestyle.
• Involving family members in the moving process can create bonding experiences and help everyone adjust to the change.

Hear all about the excitement and stress of moving, including Dr. Brooke's personal anecdotes about downsizing and purging unnecessary items. Learn about the practical aspects of moving, such as establishing new social networks, understanding local regulations, and making the new house feel like home. Key advice includes a strategic approach to packing, involving children in the process, and focusing on self-care to manage stress. We also explore the emotional facets of leaving a long-term home and the potential benefits of a fresh start in a new location.

Dive into this heartfelt and informative episode to glean practical advice and emotional support, whether you're about to move or simply considering the possibility. And, stay tuned for more insightful content from Life After Kids!

RESOURCES:
Book: The Summer Place
Stainless Steel Laundry Folding Table


Timestamp Summary
| 0:00  | Navigating the Challenges and Excitement of Moving
| 2:27  | Downsizing Sentimental Items During a Move
| 10:06  | Navigating the Challenges and Opportunities of Moving to a New Town
| 13:47  | Embracing Change and Moving to New Homes
| 19:49  | Emotional Farewell to a Family Home
| 23:05  | The Emotional Journey of Moving and Finding Closure
| 27:43  | Navigating the Emotional and Practical Challenges of Moving

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


PS... Don't forget to follow us!
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Facebook
Tik Tok

For much of our adult life we’ve been raising kids, most of us so caught up in their lives that we had little energy left to nourish other relationships including with our spouse.  Now that the kids are older, our marriages may need a little TLC and focus, especially if we want to live a really fulfilling next chapter of life.

In this episode of Life after Kids, we dive into the critical topic of maintaining and rekindling relationships with your spouse well after the kids have left the nest. We give practical advice, and introduce the concept of the "coffee break" and "date night" as two vital tools for ensuring a healthy, vibrant, and connected romantic relationship.

Key Takeaways:

• Structured Date Breaks: Incorporating regular "coffee breaks" and "date nights" helps couples align on everyday tasks and rekindle their romantic connection.
• Intentional Planning: Scheduling weekly check-ins with structured agendas can prevent logistical miscommunications and keep the relationship thriving.
• Novelty in Dates: Engaging in new and different activities during date nights can enhance bonding and create lasting memories.
• Proactive Connection: Maintaining a proactive approach to relationship health before and after the children leave helps mitigate emotional challenges.
• Reflective Practice: Reflecting on shared goals and future aspirations can keep partners connected and excited about their journey together.

Listen to this week’s episode of Life after Kids for a systematic and realistic approach  to romantic relationships that acknowledges the common struggles couples face and offers structured solutions to navigate and overcome these.  For moms looking to rejuvenate their relationships and lead a more fulfilling life post-parenting, this episode is a must-listen. Stay tuned for more empowering content from the Life after Kids series!

RESOURCES:

1. Remarkably Bright Creatures (Book)
2. The Life after Kids Membership Community
3. The Coffee Break and Date Night Guide

Timestamp Summary
| 0:00  | Reconnecting With Your Spouse Through Coffee Breaks and Date Nights
| 5:29  | Enhancing Relationships Through Structured Coffee Breaks and Date Nights
| 12:46  | Strengthening Relationships Through Intentional Quality Time
| 24:01  | Creative and Engaging Date Night Ideas
| 30:06  | Reconnecting with Your Partner: Tips and Encouragement

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


PS... Don't forget to follow us!
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Facebook
Tik Tok

Staying healthy is key to living a vibrant life after the kids are grown.  Physical and emotional health are common topics of conversation, but why aren’t we talking more about financial health?!

In this episode of Life After Kids, we’re interviewing our very first and very special guest, Ken Stillwell, (Dr. Brooke’s husband) to discuss the importance of financial health in  life after kids. Our conversation delves into the impact of financial stress, the role of spouses in managing finances, and the significance of communication and alignment in financial decision-making. Ken shares insights on the influence of upbringing, career stability, and risk tolerance on financial mindset and decision-making within a relationship. 

Key Takeaways

• Minimize Debt: Reducing leverage by avoiding unnecessary debt, including high-interest credit cards, is crucial for financial health.
• Build a Nest Egg: Establishing a financial cushion for emergencies helps in reducing stress and maintaining financial stability.
• Invest Wisely: Maximize the benefits of employer-provided retirement plans, such as 401(k), and avoid investments you do not understand.
• Communicate and Align: Open discussions about financial goals and roles can prevent conflict and ensure both partners are on the same page.
• Educate the Next Generat

Tune in to the full episode of Life after Kids with Ken Stillwell for a conversation covering practical advice for moms in midlife, with a focus on financial security, retirement planning, and investment strategies. Learn more about the importance of imparting financial wisdom to the next generation, and get valuable insights for managing debt, building financial safety, and making informed investment decisions.

About the Guest:

Ken Stillwell is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of a large company based in Boston. He is an accounting major with extensive experience in financial management, both in personal and corporate settings. Known for his deep financial acumen and strategic thinking, Ken has g

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Financial Health in Life After Kids
07:25 The Role of Communication and Alignment in Financial Decision-Making
22:15 Navigating Financial Security in Later Life
30:27 Debt Management and Financial Safety
36:22 Imparting Financial Wisdom to the Next Generation

Kion amino acid powder is our go to way to supplement our protein intake and help build muscle in midlife. It dissolves easily in water and tastes great too!
Go to www.getkion.com and use code AFTERKIDS for 10% off single items, 15% off bundles, and 20% off subscriptions!

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


PS... Don't forget to follow us!
Instagram
Facebook
Tik Tok