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Sometimes the trips aren't really about the destination.
In this episode, Mandy shares the story behind why travel became such an important part of her life after losing her husband. What started as a trip to Disney World with two little girls became a promise she made to herself on a quiet bathroom floor late one night.
Together, Mandy and Lauren talk about grief, identity, motherhood, solo travel, and why getting in the car often changes more than the destination ever could.
Plus: the Disney World moment Mandy never told Lauren about, the trips that changed her life, why she didn't love every destination, and the lesson she hopes every mom hears.
If you've ever wondered who you are outside of motherhood, this episode is for you.
Links mentioned:
• Read more from The Empty Nest Mom — theemptynestmom.com
• Subscribe to our email list — theemptynestmom.com
• Follow us @theemptynestmoms on TikTok, Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
• Listen to The Empty Nest Mom Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts
The Empty Nest Mom | theemptynestmom.com | @theemptynestmoms
[email protected] | June 2026
By Mandy McMahanSometimes the trips aren't really about the destination.
In this episode, Mandy shares the story behind why travel became such an important part of her life after losing her husband. What started as a trip to Disney World with two little girls became a promise she made to herself on a quiet bathroom floor late one night.
Together, Mandy and Lauren talk about grief, identity, motherhood, solo travel, and why getting in the car often changes more than the destination ever could.
Plus: the Disney World moment Mandy never told Lauren about, the trips that changed her life, why she didn't love every destination, and the lesson she hopes every mom hears.
If you've ever wondered who you are outside of motherhood, this episode is for you.
Links mentioned:
• Read more from The Empty Nest Mom — theemptynestmom.com
• Subscribe to our email list — theemptynestmom.com
• Follow us @theemptynestmoms on TikTok, Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
• Listen to The Empty Nest Mom Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts
The Empty Nest Mom | theemptynestmom.com | @theemptynestmoms
[email protected] | June 2026