Episode #19: Reflecting on the unexpected freedom that comes with empty nesting, Kelly and I share our personal journey of redefining identity and rekindling passions in this new life phase. My mission to revive the brooch as a homage to my grandmother sparks a joyful conversation about fashion staples and life’s simple pleasures. The episode takes a heartfelt turn as we address the complex realities of aging and addiction, drawing from personal experiences and the silent battles faced by loved ones. We discuss how embracing sobriety can be a transformative lifestyle choice, touching on the innovative appeal of mocktail bars as inclusive social spaces that nurture mental clarity and well-being.

The narrative deepens as we explore the intricate path of addiction recovery, with personal stories providing a window into the struggles and triumphs of supporting family members through their battles. This emotional journey underscores the importance of acceptance, self-reflection, and the individual’s internal drive for change. We highlight the role of genetics and environment while acknowledging the challenges that come with repeated relapses. By sharing these stories, we aim to connect with others navigating similar paths, offering insights into the unexpected role reversals that occur when children step into caregiving roles for addicted parents, and emphasizing the strength found in supportive communities and therapy.

Chapters:

(00:00) Navigating Addiction and Empty Nesting
(07:39) Journey to Overcoming Addiction
(17:55) Overcoming Addiction Through Self-Reflection

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Episode #18: Throwing a spontaneous 21st birthday party for Sarah turned into an unexpected adventure, complete with a wild search for a lost car in a Torrance mall parking lot. Join us as we recount the joys and hiccups of this impromptu celebration. The dinner at Din Tai Fung brought logistical challenges and family dynamics front and center, leading to a day filled with laughter and lessons. While the celebration may not have matched our grandiose expectations, it set the stage for future festivities where everyone can delightfully join in the fun.

Our journey doesn't stop there. We dive into an intriguing mix of astrology and spirituality, featuring insights from the talented Antonia Kha, who offered guidance on health, career, and even the significance of media presence. The episode also explores rejuvenating experiences with saunas and cold plunges, reflecting on personal anecdotes that highlight the whimsical wish to reverse aging. From astrological predictions to intuitive readings, we share how these practices prepare us for the unexpected twists life throws our way. Tune in to experience a blend of humor, wisdom, and inspiration that might just lead you to explore these intuitive realms for yourself.

Chapters:

(00:00) Navigating Empty Nest Life in 50s
(08:47) Astrology and Spiritual Guidance
(21:01) Exploring Saunas, Astrology, and Intuition

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Episode #17: Are you ready to embrace the empty nest with open arms and a full heart? Join us, Jen and Kelly, as we explore the thrilling adventure of finding ourselves anew in this liberating stage of life. Our journey takes us from a spirited family gathering in Palm Desert to serene road trips with our grown kids, leaving us both nostalgic and excited for the future. Inspired by Mel Robbins' "Let Them Theory," we discuss the transformative power of setting boundaries, abandoning old people-pleasing habits, and boldly stepping into our individuality. We’ll share personal stories of growth, the joy of letting go of past identities, and how allowing our children their own paths can lead to profound personal freedom.

In our quest for personal development, we draw lessons from James Clear's "Atomic Habits," highlighting how small changes can lead to big rewards. Our chats reveal the humor and heart in exploring new activities like pickleball and golf, surprisingly delightful ways to connect with new friends. You'll hear about our endearing family moments and the excitement of cheering our kids on in their endeavors, including Elias's upcoming competition in Colorado. As we navigate the bittersweet transition to empty nesting, we're discovering new hobbies and sharing heartfelt tales from our adventures. Connect with us on social media for more stories and a good laugh as we revel in this exhilarating new chapter.

Chapters:

(00:00) Empty Nesters Embrace New Chapter
(13:01) Navigating Empty Nesting and Personal Growth
(21:25) Empty Nesters Find New Activities

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