The Open Nesters

[Tessa] In this episode of the Open Nester podcast, we revisit a heartfelt conversation with Pat Whitty, a cherished voice from the Modern Elder Academy, who shares profound insights accumulated over his 78-year journey. Pat emphasizes the importance of slowing down amidst the chaos of life, allowing for deep reflection on connection, meaning, purpose, and legacy, which he believes are essentials for continual growth at any age.

Pat opens up by introducing himself and the Modern Elder Academy, a transformative space in Baja designed for midlife exploration and personal reinvention. He shares his personal breakthrough regarding aging—no longer feeling ashamed of his age, but rather embracing it with pride. Through his journey, he highlights how many people are stuck in outdated paradigms of living, often confined to traditional roles and expectations that don’t serve them as they age. He introduces the concept of “Chapter 4,” a term he uses to describe the vital phase of life where individuals reassess their paths and identities, encouraging listeners to redefine their own narratives as they transition into this stage.

The conversation deepens as Pat reflects on his former role as the dean of a business school, where he felt unfulfilled despite the external markers of success. He candidly discusses the moment he recognized he didn’t want his legacy to be merely about job titles or answering emails in a cubicle. Instead, he decided to forge a path centered on health and life transitions, allowing him to assist others in finding purpose and vitality in their later years.

Pat goes on to explore the importance of mindset in aging gracefully. He describes how many individuals hold onto limiting beliefs that prevent them from pursuing what truly fulfills them. Through the lens of his coaching practice, he encourages listeners to envision the lives they desire, rather than fixating on their current struggles. He illustrates this with powerful personal anecdotes and poignant affirmations that resonate throughout the episode.

The themes of community and support are also paramount in Pat’s dialogue. He elaborates on the unique, inclusive environment at the Modern Elder Academy, where participants connect on a human level, free from societal labels and external pressures. Pat shares experiences of communal activities designed to foster deep connections, including a nature walk aimed at inspiring mindfulness and awe, which contrasts sharply with the distractions of daily life.

Throughout the conversation, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their personal journeys while navigating the “messy middle” of life transitions. Pat relates the caterpillar-to-butterfly metaphor to signify the transformation that can emerge from introspection and letting go of limiting beliefs. He emphasizes that purpose is not an elusive goal to be chased but rather a calling that comes to us when we give ourselves permission to dream and explore our true selves.

Pat concludes with an invitation to reach out for those interested in coaching or exploring their next steps through the Modern Elder Academy, reinforcing his commitment to helping others live vibrant, meaningful lives in the navigating of midlife and beyond. This episode is not just a reflection of Pat’s journey but a clarion call for all to recognize the possibilities of renewal and growth at any age, making it a timeless and enriching listen.

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

Okay, Open Nesters, let me tell you, I recently had the most heartwarming and insightful conversation with Zev Aaron on The Open Nesters Podcast. As the executive producer, I get to talk to so many incredible people, but Zev's unique perspective on family dynamics really resonated with our mission to reimagine the empty nest.

Zev, bless his heart, brings such a profound understanding to family life. Being the youngest of a big, blended family, he got a front-row seat to the whole "empty nest" journey even before it was his turn. He watched his parents navigate it as the last of his siblings left, and that really shaped his perspective. From a special education teacher to a Yale researcher, his path led him to become this amazing family coach. He's not a therapist, but a guide, helping families "unblock" the flow of love and connection. His core belief, which I just love, is that if one person in the family is struggling, the whole family is. It’s all about transforming anxiety into comfort and safety.

You know, Zev has this playful yet fundamental question: "Why can't we all just get along?" He identifies resentment as a huge "love blocker" in families. It's those old hurts that go unseen and unaddressed, just festering. His approach is brilliant – he creates a safe space for these stories to be heard and validated, no judgment, no trying to convince anyone they're wrong.

He shared this wonderful Zen story about two monks and a rude empress, where the older monk simply "puts that weight down a long time ago." That’s exactly what Zev helps families do: release that heavy baggage of old stories and choose a new narrative. It's about growth, reinvention, and letting love flow freely again.

We also delved into the practical side of Open Nesting, especially how our relationships with our adult kids evolve. Zev emphasized the importance of boundaries, particularly around finances. He shared how he and his wife established clear guidelines with their daughter about money and responsibility, fostering self-sufficiency rather than entitlement.

It’s not about being unloving, but about empowering our kids to truly "come alive." As I pointed out, if we're constantly bailing them out, that "honey on top" might actually be doing more harm than good. Every family is unique, and what works for one child might not work for another. It really highlights how crucial open communication and a healthy foundation are to navigating these nuanced conversations.

And then we talked about the idea of blessing, which is such a powerful concept. Zev is a big advocate for a gratitude practice within families. When you focus on what's working – like the simple joy of your kids being safe, healthy, and happy – it shifts the entire family's outlook. It doesn't mean ignoring challenges, but choosing to prioritize the positive connections.

For us Open Nesters, the blessing extends to the invaluable role grandparents can play. Zev truly sees those grandparents "courageous enough to consider a healing path" as legacy makers. They can create a ripple effect of healing across generations. It's a disservice, he argues, when unresolved family dynamics prevent grandparents from actively connecting and supporting their children and grandchildren.

This whole conversation beautifully captured what Open Nesting is all about: reimagining success in our family relationships, moving beyond perfection to embrace authentic connection, and being willing to step into discomfort for the sake of deeper love and understanding. It’s an invitation to proactively invest our time and emotional energy into nurturing these vital bonds. As Zev powerfully put it, "I refuse to allow blessed families to continue not feeling the full extent of their blessing."

If you’re feeling touched by this and curious about how Zev can help your family find more ease and peace, I highly recommend reaching out. You can find him at [email protected], and we'll have links in the show notes for his Instagram and Facebook. He offers a free call for anyone interested.

Remember, Open Nesters, your well-being is deeply connected to the harmony of your family. Opening our hearts and homes to endless possibilities isn't just a choice—it's a profound act of self-care and a beautiful legacy of love.

In this episode, we delve deeply into the sensitive topic of parent-child estrangement with Dr. Joshua Coleman, an established expert in the field and the author of the impactful book, *Rules of Estrangement: Why Adult Children Cut Ties and How to Heal the Conflict*. Joined by Jonathan Pellett, a filmmaker and a father who has personally experienced the pain of estrangement with his daughter, we explore the complex emotions surrounding this issue. Dr. Coleman reflects on his own journey through estrangement with his daughter, which serves as a catalyst for his work and insights into the struggles faced by many parents today.

Throughout our discussion, we address the evolving nature of family dynamics in modern society and how this has contributed to estrangements. Dr. Coleman highlights how the shift from traditional familial obligations towards a more individualistic approach can lead children to sever ties with parents. He emphasizes that this phenomenon, while difficult for parents, may arise from their children seeking personal growth and autonomy. This perspective provides a sense of understanding for parents grappling with feelings of loss and shame.

Jonathan shares his raw and heartfelt experiences, expressing the depth of his grief over the estrangement from his daughter. He highlights the shared pain among parents, revealing how often they feel isolated and misunderstood in their journeys. Dr. Coleman offers both thoughtful analysis and practical advice, shedding light on the importance of empathy and communication in these fractured relationships, encouraging parents to take the initiative in reaching out and understanding their children’s perspectives.

As the conversation continues, Dr. Coleman provides strategies for parents to cope with the emotional turmoil caused by estrangement. He discusses the concept of “radical acceptance” of the situation, which involves embracing the reality of the pain rather than fighting against it. This acceptance can pave the way for healing and open dialogue if and when the estranged child is ready. The two speakers explore the benefits of writing amends letters, a tool designed to encourage parents to express their feelings honestly, while also acknowledging their shortcomings without expectation of reconciliation.

Towards the end of the episode, we reflect on the societal implications of estrangement and the need for deeper understanding and compassion for both parties involved. As the conversation wraps up, Dr. Coleman calls attention to the vital need for parents to prioritize their own self-care and emotional well-being, reinforcing that healing is a multifaceted journey that involves both personal growth and the willingness to understand one’s child.

This episode not only brings to light the significant emotional challenges of estrangement between adult children and their parents but also aims to foster hope and connection for those navigating this difficult path. Dr. Coleman's expertise, coupled with Jonathan's personal narrative, creates a rich dialogue that resonates with many listeners, encouraging them to seek understanding, communicate openly, and, when possible, rekindle relationships with their adult children.

[Tessa] In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, I had the pleasure of welcoming back Marni Batista, who has recently released her insightful book on radical living and personal growth. Our conversation delved into the transformative concept of open nesting—a mindset shift that encourages embracing new adventures and relationships as we transition into this next phase of life. Our discussion highlighted how this period can be an opportunity for rediscovery, focusing on vitality, spirituality, and even sexuality.

Marni shared her unique approach to planning one’s life through what she calls the “Big Ass Calendar,” a visual strategy that allows us to intentionally allocate time for family, romance, friendships, and personal growth. We discussed how many people fall victim to time denial, mistakenly believing that they have endless opportunities to realize their dreams and desires. Instead, Marni emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps and setting priorities to prevent falling into routine distraction.

We explored the powerful questions that can help guide us in making intentional life choices, particularly when faced with challenges. A key takeaway from our dialogue was her adoption of the royal approach to decision-making, grounded in mindfulness and awareness of our deeper intentions. By asking ourselves whether something truly needs to be done, by whom, and when, we can better navigate the complex web of expectations, both from ourselves and others.

Marni also opened up about her personal experiences of balancing familial obligations and the expectations of others while making sure to honor her own needs. We examined the concept of resonance; distinguishing between what feels soul-aligned versus dissonant can help guide us toward fulfilling decisions, especially when dealing with the intricacies of family dynamics as we enter this stage of life.

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

[Tessa] Moira Cormack, a passionate advocate for womanhood and personal evolution, shares her transformative journey in an engaging conversation recorded at the Open Nesters podcast.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Moira’s Edinburgh, Scotland, the interview delves deep into our guest’s experiences as a mother of four daughters and her exploration of femininity, personal empowerment, and the practice of Tantra. From her early days of motherhood—raising twins as a young woman who had just moved from London to Bombay—to navigating personal challenges, including a painful divorce, Moira provides a rich narrative filled with insights and wisdom.

Edinburgh Scotland

Moira recounts her early marriage and the circumstances that led her to become a single mother. She reflects on the joys and trials of mothering, emphasizing her commitment to creative engagement with her children and the transformative power of play. With a focus on saying “yes” to experiences, she nurtured a playful household where exploration and creativity thrived.

Moira’s parenting philosophy highlights the importance of staying true to oneself and modeling resilience for her daughters, especially as they encounter their own struggles and journeys toward independence.

A yoni egg (typically made of jade, rose quartz, or obsidian) is a smooth, egg-shaped stone designed to be gently inserted into the vagina (aka the yoni, Sanskrit for “sacred space”). It’s used to strengthen pelvic floor muscles, increase sensitivity, release emotional trauma, and build a connection with one’s body.

Size matters: Beginners usually start with a medium or large egg—it’s easier to feel and control.

Type of stone: Jade is the classic beginner’s choice—non-porous, tough, and gentle in energy.

Physically: Use warm water and a mild soap. Rinse well.

Energetically (optional but popular): Pass it through sage smoke, place it under the moon, or set an intention. Think: “Release. Heal. Empower.”

Not mandatory, but recommended.

Try some deep breathing, a warm bath, gentle pelvic massage, or sensual movement.

The goal: ease into your body, shift from “doing” to “being.”

Lie on your back or squat.

Relax your pelvic muscles.

Gently insert the egg narrow-end first (some prefer string side down if it has one).

Go slowly—no pushing or forcing.

Now the real magic:

Pelvic floor exercises (think Kegels): Squeeze and release around the egg.

Meditation or breathwork: Feel into your womb space.

Movement: Some women dance with it in! Others simply lie still and connect.

⏱ How long?

Start with 10–15 minutes. Over time, some use it for up to an hour.

Not recommended to sleep with it in or wear it all day (contrary to TikTok mythology).

Relax and gently bear down to release it naturally.

If your egg has a drilled hole, you can use unwaxed dental floss to gently guide it out.

Clean it again after each use.

Throughout the conversation, Moira candidly addresses her personal growth following her divorce. She explains how the difficulty of that period catalyzed her journey toward self-discovery, ultimately leading her to explore Tantra. For Moira, Tantra represents a path to understanding one’s own body and sexuality, debunking myths that suggest that women lose their sexual vitality with age. She discusses the often-hidden trauma stored within the body, particularly within women’s sexuality, and introduces the practice of dearmoring—a technique aimed at releasing trauma stored in the vagina and facilitating a deeper connection to one’s own pleasure and body.

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

[Tessa] In this episode of the Open Nesters podcast, we engage in an enlightening discussion with Maria Leonard Olson, a dynamic figure whose journey of transformation resonates powerfully with those navigating life’s challenges, especially after 50. Maria, a litigator and author of the book “50 After 50: Reframing the Next Chapter of Your Life,” shares her story of resilience and reinvention following significant life changes, including a divorce, sobriety, and the transition of becoming an empty nester.

Maria recounts her pivotal experience at 50, where she embarked on an introspective quest to redefine her life. As a birthday gift to herself, she created a list of 50 new things to try, ranging from adventure travel to spiritual practices and personal growth activities. Each endeavor served as a building block in shaping her identity and desires for her next chapter. Her reflections highlight that while life often presents uncontrollable situations, it is our responses that delineate our path. Maria emphasizes the importance of focusing on positivity and progress rather than perfection, a message that she passionately conveys during her talks and interactions.

Throughout the interview, she shares stories illustrating the discomfort and triumph of trying new things, such as her humorous yet enlightening experience singing at an open mic night—an endeavor that challenged her fears and spurred personal growth. A significant theme during their conversation is the importance of community and support. Maria highlights how she intentionally surrounds herself with uplifting individuals who inspire her to embrace her authentic self, moving away from the constraints of her past societal norms and expectations, especially those from her Catholic upbringing.

The narrative takes a poignant turn as Maria delves into her experiences with alcoholism, addiction, and the aftermath of her traumatic childhood, including instances of sexual abuse. She touches upon her multiple stints in rehabilitation, framing these experiences not only as personal failures but as opportunities for deep healing and understanding. Maria’s ability to confront these demons head-on is both harrowing and inspiring, revealing how communication and expressing anger have been crucial in her healing journey. The interview sheds light on her commitment to helping others facing similar struggles, highlighting her work with organizations like AA and Al-Anon, and advocating for emotional honesty and vulnerability.

Intriguingly, Maria shares her recent discovery at age 55 that she is a product of a one-night stand, an unexpected revelation that led her to uncover a unique connection with her biological father—an actor she’d seen on screen throughout her life. This discovery not only transformed her understanding of her heritage but also enriched her personal narrative, leading to a burgeoning relationship filled with humor and deep emotional connection.

The episode concludes with a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking help and sharing one’s story. Maria encourages listeners to take advantage of the resources available today, whether through in-person therapy or online support groups, affirming that they are not alone in their struggles. Her story is one of hope and healing, with an emphasis on the potential for transformation at any age. Both Tessa and Maria express their admiration for the journey they each are on, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose in uplifting others.

Maria’s life stands out as an empowering testament to the resilience of the human spirit, urging listeners to embrace change, connect with supportive communities, and take proactive steps toward a fulfilling life after 50. Maria’s insights offer valuable lessons on authenticity, compassion, and the necessity of confronting one’s past to pave the way for a brighter future.

is a biracial woman whose parents were forbidden by law to marry in their home state of Maryland in the early 1960s. She is the mother of two children, a lawyer, journalist and author of two children’s books and two non-fiction books. She leads writing/empowerment retreats for women, hosts the “Becoming Your Best Version” podcast and is a co-host of the Inside Out radio show on WPFW-fm, 89.3, in Washington, D.C.

Maria graduated from Boston College and the University of Virginia School of Law, served in the Clinton Administration’s Justice Department, fostered newborn babies awaiting adoption, and has been on the boards of Children’s National Medical Center BOV, the Catholic Coalition for Special Education, GirlsUp and the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Washington. While in private practice as a litigator in then one of the then-largest law firms in Washington, D.C., Maria was awarded Pro Bono Coordinator of the Year by the D.C. Bar Association.

She has written for The Washington Post, Washingtonian, Bethesda Magazine, Parenting, BabyTalk and Washington For Women, and is a contributor to Thrive Global, Up Journey and BreaknLinks. She recently returned to practicing law now that her children are launched. Mommy, Why’s Your Skin So Brown? is her first children’s book.  Healing for Hallie is her second children’s book.  Not the Cleaver Family–The New Normal in Modern American Family, was released in November 2016.  Her latest book, 50 After 50–Reframing the Next Chapter of Your Life, was published in hardcover in 2018, and in paperback and on Audible in 2019.

Maria has spoken at numerous schools and corporate and nonprofit events, including the Pennsylvania Conference for Women, the Mixed Remixed Festival in Los Angeles, The Japanese American National Museum’s Family Day, the Washington Independent Review of Books, the National March to End Rape Culture, a motivational speaker at corporate and trade association meetings, and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Asian American Month Celebration (as the then-highest ranking Asian American political appointee at the Justice Department). Maria is available for speaking engagements and book or diversity festivals.  Her book talk has been featured on C-Span’s Book TV show, and her latest book was selected for the National Press Club’s Book Fair. She spoke at TEDx CUNY in 2021.

With the extensive marketing experience Maria has had in marketing her titles and helping other authors, Maria began a formal book marketing service in 2020. Check out her Events and News pages to see the opportunities she has made for herself and how she can help other authors add to their book’s exposure.

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness and other topics of interest:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

[Tessa] In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, I had the privilege of hosting Rabbi Dayle Friedman, whose rich spiritual insights on aging and the transition into open nesting resonate deeply with those seeking meaning in this new stage of life. Rabbi Friedman, an experienced rabbi and spiritual director, shares her journey, exploring the profound opportunities for connection, reflection, and personal growth that accompany the aging process.

We discuss the concept of “open nesting,” which emphasizes that the empty nest does not mark an end, but rather a beginning filled with possibilities for new adventures, passions, and relationships. She emphasizes the importance of accepting our limitations as we navigate the complexities of aging, caregiving, and evolving family dynamics. Her experiences managing her mother’s dementia and her husband’s health challenges illustrate the intricate balance of giving and receiving support within a family.

Through our dialogue, Rabbi Friedman highlights the value of fostering a deep spiritual practice as we age. She discusses how each transition—whether it be the departure of children or personal health changes—involves loss, but also opportunities for deeper connection and growth. The discussion brings forth crucial themes of acceptance and the paradox of life, urging listeners to embrace both the challenges and the joys that arise as they become older.

Rabbi Friedman shares her extensive experience in pastoral care, which includes creating spiritual connections in settings where they might seem unlikely. Her establishment of a Center for Aging and Judaism at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College demonstrates her commitment to educating others about the spiritual aspects of aging. This approach empowers both clergy and caregivers to engage fully with the aging population, reframing perceptions and cultivating hope in their journeys.

Throughout the episode, we touch upon practical wisdom from her writing, specifically her book “Jewish Wisdom for Growing Older,” which provides tools for embracing aging with grace and humor. Rabbi Friedman suggests that by simply being present and deeply listening, we honor our relationships and support one another in profound ways. Her storytelling about family connections—a dialogue with her children and the insights gleaned from interactions with her elderly mother—shows how vulnerability and honesty can transform relationships.

Together, we reflect on the importance of rituals during transitions. Rabbi Friedman offers meaningful examples of how families can create their own rituals, celebrating legacies and sharing memories, to mark significant changes. Her perspective sheds light on the need for shared experiences that honor the past while looking forward with hope. She encourages a shift from a focus on “doing” to a focus on “being,” inviting listeners to savor each moment and find joy in the everyday.

As we close our conversation, I invite listeners to embrace the idea of a “pause day,” akin to Shabbat, to foster mindfulness and connection with loved ones. Rabbi Friedman and I emphasize the significance of nurturing relationships and creating sacred time amidst the busyness of life.

This episode is a rich tapestry of wisdom, compassion, and guidance for anyone navigating the later stages of life. Rabbi Friedman’s reflections remind us that while aging comes with losses, it also presents unique opportunities for renewal, understanding, and love. As we journey through this phase, we continuously have the chance to grow deeper and become more whole—just as the Open Nesters movement encourages us to do.

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

[Tessa] In this episode of Open Nesters, we celebrate the fifth anniversary of our podcast with a revisit to one of our most impactful episodes featuring Pamela Madsen, a notable author and educator known for her work in sensuality and personal growth. I have the privilege of having Pamela share her insights into the liberating journey of embracing our somatic truth as we age, which is particularly resonant for women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s who find themselves navigating transitions in both body and relationships.

Pamela opens up about her experiences and her undeniable passion for helping women reclaim their bodies and sensuality. She highlights the importance of transitioning through different life stages, from raising children to rediscovering individual desires and needs. Our conversation delves deep into the significance of returning to our bodies and the ways in which practices of mindfulness and play can facilitate this journey. She emphasizes that eroticism and the exploration of intimacy are not limited to the younger years; rather, they continue to evolve and can be rejuvenating even in midlife.

Central to our discussion are the themes of empowerment and self-exploration. Pamela shares how many women arrive at her retreats dealing with trauma, body image issues, or simply feeling disconnected from their sensual selves. There is a focus on the somatic aspect of self-care, with Pamela providing examples of how women can learn to find pleasure within themselves. We discuss the methodologies employed at her retreats, including directed touch and mindful exploration, fostering a supportive environment where women can feel safe to engage with their bodies without judgment.

Moreover, Pamela elaborates on the unique challenges that arise as we age, such as societal conditioning and personal fears about sexuality and desirability. We explore how these fears can lead to narratives around boredom in relationships or a decline in sexual vitality. Pamela passionately encourages listeners to break free from these limiting beliefs, suggesting that a renewed connection to our erotic selves offers a wealth of vitality and is crucial for maintaining a dynamic and fulfilling life.

Her insights challenge the conventional views on aging and sexuality, urging listeners to view each relationship stage as an ongoing opportunity for exploration and reinvention. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of couples navigating these changes together, underscoring the benefit of open communication and the exploration of desires as a shared journey.

As we revisit this powerful episode, I encourage listeners to reflect on their own experiences and consider how they can embrace openness, sensuality, and personal growth in this unique chapter of life. Whether you’re tuning in again or for the first time, Pamela’s message about self-discovery and bodily acceptance remains as relevant as ever. Let’s dive into this enriching dialogue and explore how we can all open up to new possibilities within ourselves and our relationships.

We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook:

Open Nesters Resource Page

The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group

This episode features an enlightening conversation with Stacey Funt, a physician, radiologist, and adventure traveler who offers deep insights into navigating the transition of becoming an open nester. Stacey shares her personal journey, which includes embracing the unexpected challenges that come with this life stage, particularly the grief following the loss of family members and the departure of her children to college. As a new empty nester, she begins to confront her own mortality, a pivotal moment that prompts a profound search for purpose and passion in her life.

Stacey recounts how her lifelong commitment to adventure travel became a crucial part of her identity and a source of healing during this transitional phase. She discusses the significance of her solo “mommy and me” trips with each of her twins, fostering connections and memories that added depth to their family life. In the wake of her children's departure and facing personal loss, it was her trek to Nepal that catalyzed a profound personal transformation. This journey not only reignited her sense of wonder but also strengthened her relationship with her husband, creating shared experiences that breathed new life into their marriage.

As Stacey transitions from traditional radiology practice to a focus on lifestyle medicine and wellness, she describes the creation of her travel business, LH Adventure Travel, which is designed to connect wellness with exploration. Through her trips, she appeals to women in their forties to sixties, many of whom are also discovering their unique paths in their open nesting phase. Each adventure incorporates elements significantly centered on health and well-being, including movement, nourishing food, stress management practices, and personal growth, all set within the backdrop of enriching travel experiences.

Throughout the podcast, Stacey emphasizes the profound joy that comes from redefining one’s life after the children have left home, highlighting the positive aspects of opening one's heart to new relationships and experiences. She shares candid accounts of the women she has taken on trips, illustrating how travel fosters community and self-discovery among participants. Stacey and her husband have cultivated a supportive partnership that thrives on mutual encouragement, allowing both of them to explore their individual passions while nurturing their bond.

The episode also addresses the importance of communication within relationships, particularly during life transitions. It illuminates how Stacey and her husband's journey together reflects a shift from the responsibilities of parenting to a newfound freedom to explore the depths of their relationship. As she articulates her views on love, trust, and growth, Stacey inspires listeners to embrace the uncertainty of life with courage and open-heartedness, advocating that the golden years can indeed be filled with exploration, creativity, and adventure.

In conclusion, Stacey highlights the beauty of pursuing one's dreams and passions later in life, reminding us that it’s never too late to start anew. This compelling discussion serves as a powerful reminder to remain present, embrace change, and seek the possibilities that lie ahead as we navigate through each stage of life. For those interested in explo

The Radio Vagabond is a travel podcast created and hosted by Danish radio producer Palle Bo. In 2016, at the age of 50, Bo made the life-changing decision to sell his house, car, and nearly all his possessions to become a full-time digital nomad, with the ambitious goal of visiting every country in the world.

The podcast chronicles his ongoing journey, offering listeners immersive stories from around the globe. Each episode features Bo’s personal experiences, interviews with locals and fellow travelers, and soundscapes that capture the unique atmosphere of each destination. The show is known for its authenticity, practical travel tips, and insights into both well-known and off-the-beaten-path locations.

Since its debut on October 3, 2016, The Radio Vagabond has released hundreds of episodes, covering adventures from rodeos in Texas to tribal communities in Papua New Guinea. Bo’s storytelling emphasizes the joys and challenges of life as a digital nomad, making the podcast a favorite among travel enthusiasts and those curious about global cultures.

As of 2025, the podcast continues to update regularly, with Bo still pursuing his quest to visit every country, sharing new episodes and inspiring stories from his travel