The Almost Empty Nest—Letting Go, Redefined: Parenting Teens and Finding Yourself Again—with Small Jar Coach

This week on The Almost Empty Nest Podcast, I'm kicking off a transformative new series on Midlife Mindset Traps that keep us stuck in frustration and anxiety. If you find yourself struggling as a mom to find peace, connection, and purpose, this episode is for you. In this first episode, I dive into how our instinct to seek comfort can sometimes lead us astray, leaving us feeling dependent on external validation or stuck in unproductive habits. You’ll learn three powerful insights: the role your mindset plays in your emotional experiences, how to spot and step out of mindset traps, and most importantly, why there’s absolutely nothing “wrong” with you for feeling the way you do. Join me as I show you how to take charge of your thoughts and unlock more joy, peace, and freedom in this next chapter of life. 🎯 Want to take this work deeper? Save your seat for the next free masterclass—click here to sign up: https://www.thesmalljar.com/class. 💪 Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0. ❓ Have questions or want to share your feedback? I'd love to hear from you! You can email me at [email protected].  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

10 out of 10! 5 stars! Excellent! Amazing! Wouldn't it be nice if you could reflect on the upcoming holidays with this sentiment?  In this episode of the Small Jar Podcast, I explore how...not by creating perfect circumstances, but by taking ownership of your emotional experience. Like a teacher, we have an internal "rubric" for judging our lives. But this often leads to disappointment when reality doesn't meet our expectations. Join me as I uncover how to redefine those expectations, embrace the messy beauty of life with our teens, and empower ourselves to create joy and peace this holiday season, no matter what comes our way. Tune in to discover how you can transform your holiday experience from good to truly great! 🎯 Want to take this work deeper? Save your seat for the next free masterclass—click here to sign up: https://www.thesmalljar.com/class. 💪 Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0. ❓ Have questions or want to share your feedback? I'd love to hear from you! You can email me at [email protected].  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Join me as I open up about the emotional tug-of-war that comes with parenting a high school senior as they prepare to leave the nest. It’s a time of mixed emotions—grappling with pride, fear, and the bittersweet realization that life is changing. I share personal stories and insights on how to let go of the expectations that often define our connection with our teens, and instead, learn to embrace unconditional love and connection, even as they grow more independent. This episode is a guide for navigating this transformative time with intention and purpose. 🎯 Want to take this work deeper? Save your seat for the next free masterclass—click here to sign up: https://www.thesmalljar.com/class. 💪 Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0. ❓ Have questions or want to share your feedback? I'd love to hear from you! You can email me at [email protected].  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

 The emotions of parenting teens can hit hard—whether it’s waiting for big college news, managing the quiet shift of an almost-empty nest, or navigating the bittersweet joy of watching your kids grow up. In this week’s episode, I’m sharing one of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned as a mom: how to create unconditional love, connection, and purpose—no matter the challenges or changes that come our way. This episode isn’t just about giving your teen the space to grow; it’s about discovering the gift of growth for yourself. 🎯 Want to take this work deeper? Save your seat for the next free masterclass—click here to sign up: https://www.thesmalljar.com/class. 💪 Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0. ❓ Have questions or want to share your feedback? I'd love to hear from you! You can email me at [email protected].  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

 The holiday season is upon us—filled with joy, love, and, let’s be honest, a fair share of stress. In this episode, I invite you to consider that peace isn't something you have to earn...but instead something that you have the power to choose. Join me as I share how you can step off the hamster wheel of expectations—your own and everyone else's—and truly embrace a sense of calm and connection. As you navigate the holidays, give yourself the most precious gift of all—the ability to choose peace. 🎯 Want to take this work deeper? Save your seat for the next free masterclass—click here to sign up: https://www.thesmalljar.com/class. 💪 Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0. ❓ Have questions or want to share your feedback? I'd love to hear from you! You can email me at [email protected].  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

As a mom of teens, I know how easy it is to slip into dread—whether it’s the emotional minefield of parenting, the stress of the holidays, or the quiet ache of the empty nest creeping in. In this episode, I share how I’ve learned to stop overthinking and start letting go of what I can’t control. Dread isn’t just anxiety—it’s the belief that hard things are inevitable and that we’ll be powerless when they arrive. But through mindset work, life coaching tools, and honest reflection, I’ve found a way to set boundaries, reduce anxiety, and reconnect with my purpose in motherhood. If you’ve been feeling the weight of what’s coming, this episode is for you. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

The holidays are approaching, and as midlife moms, the season can feel like a swirling storm of expectations, obligations, and emotions. We juggle so much—family traditions, holiday planning, our children’s ever-changing needs, and the bittersweet reality of approaching the empty nest. It’s no wonder we feel stretched thin. Overwhelm can manifest as a tangled web of stress, anxiety, guilt, and frustration, making it hard to enjoy what should be a season of peace and joy. Let’s make this holiday different, my friend. Join me in this episode to learn how to overcome overwhelm--both over the holidays and in the year to come. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.    

Welcome back to the Small Jar's ONE Obstacle series where we’re diving into the one thing holding so many of us back from creating the happiness we want in midlife. This week, I’m diving into that tricky emotion we all encounter but rarely name: disappointment. Why is it so hard to admit that we’re disappointed—sometimes with our lives, our relationships, or even with ourselves? Let’s talk about why this feeling shows up, what it really means, and how we can shift from feeling stuck in it to feeling empowered. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Welcome back to the second episode in Small Jar's new series where we’re diving into the one thing holding so many of us back from creating the happiness we crave in midlife. In this episode, I’m diving into one of the most common obstacles we face in midlife—worry. Whether it’s our kids, our relationships, or uncertainty about the future, worry can consume us, leaving us feeling powerless and disconnected from the moments that matter most. I’ll explore why our minds are wired for worry and how it keeps us stuck. Whether your  mind falls prey to mindset traps or if you find yourself trying to control the people or outcomes around you, all of this only serves to heighten anxiety. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by worry, join me to discover how you can reclaim your peace, set powerful boundaries, and show up for yourself with intention. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Welcome to a brand-new series on the Small Jar Podcast where we’re diving into the one thing holding so many of us back from creating the happiness we crave in midlife. If you’re a mom of teens or an empty nester, feeling like your world is shifting as your kids grow more independent, you’re not alone. What if I told you that there's one obstacle keeping you stuck, and that understanding this obstacle emotion is the key to unlocking a new chapter of peace, purpose, and joy in your life. In this episode, I’ll break down why this obstacle is so difficult to overcome, why the typical solutions don’t work, and how you can finally overcome it. If you're ready to get unstuck and start living the life that you want, join me for this new series launch! Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

As moms in midlife, we face a lot of challenges. In this week's episode, I'm diving into something that’s been heavy on my heart lately—navigating my son's senior year, the pressure of college applications, and all the emotions that come with it. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by stress or found yourself worrying endlessly about your child’s future, you’ll want to listen in. I'll be sharing the roller coaster of emotions I've been experiencing, and more importantly, how I’ve been working through it all. But here’s the twist—it's not just about managing anxiety or forcing gratitude. It’s about truly understanding how our minds work, why those stressful thoughts show up, and what it means to be present even when life feels chaotic. So, if you’re ready to explore how to find peace in the midst of the storm, how to recognize the purpose behind your thoughts, and how to see the beauty in your life—even when it’s messy—this episode is for you. Join me as we unpack the journey of embracing both the joy and the challenge of these pivotal moments. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

No matter how old your child, no matter what else you have on your plate, I bet you drop everything if they need you. It's just what we do as moms.  You do everything in your power to support their dreams. We're working so hard to support the needs of everyone else in our life. But, who's taking care of us?  Even though we wouldn't trade anything for the gift of being a mom, this sense of purpose and meaning doesn't solve for the anxiety and stress we can feel as we navigate raising and launching our kids. It doesn't solve for the loneliness we start to feel as our kids become busier in their lives and eventually leave home.  In this episode, I explore the question - who's taking care of you. And how you can learn to take care of yourself on a deeper level than ever before. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.  

Let's talk about this phrase, "letting go."  As we raise our teens and approach the empty nest, the thought of "letting go" of our kids is painful. It can make us feel like we need to hold on tighter, or dread a time when we really will have to let go. We think it means we have to let go of our desire to keep our kids safe and help them be happy and successful. We can think he means we have to let go of our connection with our kids, and the deep purpose we have felt as moms. Is it any wonder that it's hard to let these precious things go? But in this episode, I ask you to consider, do you really need to let your dreams for your child, or even your purpose as a mom go? If you're struggling as your teen grows up, this episode will empower you to know that you never have to let go of your child. In fact, you can create the love and connection you want with them, no matter how far away they go. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

How often does the phrase, "I don't know," come to mind or out of your mouth? I don't know how to get my teen to listen. I don't know why my daughter is always angry. I don't know whether I should get involved. I don't know what I should do next. Sound familiar? There are some times where you literally don't know. In other words, there are facts that you don't have. Other times, we fall into what I call the "I Don't Know" mindset....when we tell ourselves that we don't know because we want to protect ourselves from pain. The problem is, when we tell ourselves "I don't know", and we fear the possibility of pain, what we're actually doing is staying stuck in pain. In this week’s episode of the Small Jar Podcast, I dive into how to understand the "I Don't Know" mindset...and how to empower yourself to decide how to move forward. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

If you've ever found yourself caught in a whirlwind of frustration, resentment, or feeling out of control because of how others are behaving—whether it's your kids, your spouse, or others in your life—you are not alone. Most of us give away our emotional power waiting for others to behave a certain way so we can feel okay.  The problem is, this keeps us dependent on the circumstances of our lives going perfectly, and when they inevitably don't align with our hopes and expectations, we find ourselves stuck in painful emotion. Join me in this episode as I share how to create emotional intention so you can show up in your life with strength and peace, regardless of what's happening around you. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

One thing I love about being a mom is that I get to believe my in boys' potential, even when they can't see it. In fact, I am so fiercely dedicated to my belief in their potential, that there is nothing that can convince me they don't deserve all of the happiness and success their hearts can hold. But with ourselves, we're pretty quick to give up on our own potential. Or we wait for evidence to help us believe it. Whether we're looking for validation from others, or proof of our progress. The result is frustration and disappointment. And even worse, staying stuck. In this episode, I take a fresh look at the Mentor Mindset and how the skillset we have as we champion and coach our own kids is exactly the same mindset that can empower us to reach our own potential. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

As moms, we have really good advice. We want the best for our kids and we have a lot of experience in life that our kids don't have. But what's interesting is that the advice we give our kids is often the very same advice we need to hear ourselves. But how often do we actually take our own advice? In this episode, I share my personal experiences and examples from my coaching practice to help you see the wisdom you already have within you. Join me as we reflect on this sage advice and discover how to step into a more empowered and compassionate version of yourself. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

As a mom entering your child’s senior year of high school, you feel deeply the weight of the change to come. With each micro-goodbye, each "last", you feel closer to that time when you will have to say goodbye to your child. I've been down this road before with my older son, and as I approach my baby's senior year, I thought I would share the intentions I am going into this year with to be sure that I stay in the moment and support my son in the best way I can. I have learned that by becoming more intentional about your thoughts and how they shape your emotions, you harness the power to create any even deeper and more impactful connection with your child and also with yourself. This year is a pivotal time, full of bittersweet moments. Join me as we embrace all of it together. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

It's an emotional rollercoaster, this business of raising and launching teens. There are so many beautiful highs, but the lows are rough. We've been supporting our kids, helping them be safe, happy and successful, for so long, it's instinctual at this point. In fact, caring for our kids is as important to us as our own survival. So often we think of our emotions as being caused by people or situations in our life, but in this episode I explore how this isn't true. And why this is really good news! Look, in life, there will no doubt be triggers...situations that fire up our fight or flight response. Times that we have to navigate complicated decisions. Questions about how best to parent and support our kids. Life is always going to offer up new circumstances. But could you imagine understanding your emotions, and knowing how to be in control of them, so that you knew you could handle whatever comes your way? Check this episode out to learn how. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Some of us dread the empty nest...others of us embrace it. No matter your perspective about that moment when your last child leaves home, us moms actually start the process of letting go much earlier. As soon as our kids hit puberty, we start to have to grapple with the reality that we can no longer have control over their safety, happiness or success. And in truth, balancing our at times conflicting desires to support our kids, help them thrive, and to feel like our role matters...this challenge can continue through the time when our own babies start having babies. In this episode, I reframe the conversation about the empty nest and share the three lessons that you have the opportunity to embrace so that you can step off the emotional roller coaster and create more peace, confidence, joy and fulfillment in your life. Where ever you are on your journey through the open nest, consider that although your birds might eventually leave home, they will come back….and as they seek their own happiness and success…that invitation is open to you as well. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

"Stay positive!" "You just need to learn to let go." "Find new purpose." "Learn pickleball!"  It's not that this advice isn't well-meaning...the problem is that this advice doesn't address the root cause of the problem you're facing. Namely, that the transition when your kid goes to college can be really hard. We'd love to believe everything will be fine. Our kids have been telling us to let go for years. Find new purpose? How do I do that? The typical advice we new empty nesters hear sounds simple, but it's not easy. So in this episode, I'm not going to give you more advice. But I am going to do a mindset audit of some common tips people give moms of new college kids...and I'm going to show you exactly why it's not easy to follow. And spoiler alert: it's NOT your fault! Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

When I was in the thick of figuring out what was next — after the teen chaos settled and the empty nest crept closer — everyone had advice: “Try pickleball,” “Start volunteering,” “Find a new hobby.” And while those things are great, they didn’t touch the ache underneath. What I really wanted was to feel alive, connected, at peace in my own skin. In this episode, I’m sharing why chasing activities doesn’t work unless you ask one key question first: How do you actually want to feel in your life? If you’ve been busy fixing everything on the outside but still feel restless inside, this one’s for you. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Life is messy.  Life with teens, riding the roller coaster of emotions as they grow up...for us moms, it's particularly messy. Learning how to redefine ourselves as we approach the next chapter...messy. We often tell ourselves that "it doesn't have to be perfect". But how often are you satisfied with "imperfect."  In this episode, I share the four lessons I was reminded of as I tackled my garden. Join me if you're ready to find the beauty in imperfection. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

I used to think I had to work harder, be better, or wait until life calmed down to become the version of myself I really wanted to be. But what if she’s already in me? In this episode, I’m getting honest about the mindset that keeps so many moms stuck—especially in the teen years and the slow shift toward the empty nest. I’ll show you how to stop overthinking, let go of the pressure to fix yourself, and start trusting the mom you already are. You don’t have to wait for permission, proof, or peace to start becoming her now. This is your reminder that finding purpose in motherhood doesn’t come from striving—it comes from choosing. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

I never knew raising teens would feel like this. The anxiety. The loneliness. The fear that I’m doing too much—or not enough. In this episode, I’m sharing the emotional truth so many moms carry but rarely speak aloud: when your teen starts pulling away, making risky choices, or shutting you out, it can feel like your world is unraveling. You love them more than life itself, and yet you feel powerless to keep them safe or happy. Letting go in motherhood isn’t just hard—it’s heartbreaking. But there is a path forward. I’ll show you how embracing where you are, instead of fighting it, can become the first step to peace, purpose, and power as you navigate motherhood, mindset, and the empty nest. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

If you're the kind of mom who always wants to guide, support, and cheer your teen on — this episode is for you. I’m talking about the Mentor Mom Archetype, the mom who shows up like a coach on the sidelines, rooting for her child’s success with everything she’s got. But what happens when your teen stops listening... or starts pulling away? In this episode, I explore the mindset traps mentor moms fall into — like judgment, overthinking, and emotional reasoning — and how we can let go of control without losing connection. If you're navigating the tension between motherhood and the empty nest, and trying to find purpose while still being there for your teen, this is the perspective shift you’ve been waiting for. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

I used to think that if my kids were safe, happy, and doing well, then I was doing motherhood right. But no one prepared me for what happens when they grow up, pull away, or stop needing me the same way. In this episode, I’m exploring the Nurturer Mom Archetype—the version of us that leads with unconditional love, empathy, and a fierce commitment to our teens. But when our kids become more independent, that deep connection we once relied on can feel fragile… or gone. I’ll share the mindset traps nurturer moms face—perfectionism, comparison, and identity loss—and how we can find purpose, peace, and self-worth again, even in the messy middle of letting go. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.  

Doing, striving, fixing—it’s how the Achiever Mom shows love. There’s pride in being the mom who shows up, who gets it done, who never stops reaching for what’s best. But when your teen starts making their own choices, that instinct to push and manage can start to feel like pressure—for both of you. In this episode, I’m unpacking the Achiever Archetype and what it means to parent from a mindset of drive, control, and deep care. This is an invitation to step back, release the outcome, and rediscover who you are when you’re not measuring your worth by what you do. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

There comes a moment in every mom’s life—usually somewhere between the chaos of the teen years and the quiet of the empty nest—when you realize you’ve been so focused on keeping your kids safe, happy, and successful that you’ve lost sight of yourself. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on why this podcast exists, how I got here as a coach and mom, and what it really means to trust yourself. I’ll show you how peace, parenting, and purpose all begin with one thing: deciding to believe you already have what it takes to move forward. If you’re ready to stop second-guessing yourself, release the guilt, and rediscover your identity in motherhood and beyond—this is your starting place. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Is it just me, or do we moms bear the brunt of the responsibility for the end of year celebrations and our kids' transition to summer? Your kid might be taking final exams and you're supporting them through that stress. Your child could have just graduated, and you've planned countless celebrations, hosted family, and attended endless "lasts".  Or maybe your college kid is back home and suddenly there's more laundry, more mess, more groceries needed. There is so much to celebrate and look forward to, but as a mom, you might also be feeling a lot of stress, anxiety, and frustration. If this is you, you're definitely not alone. Join me as I work through my own end of school year overwhelm. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Being the mom who sees every risk, anticipates every need, and quietly absorbs the worry feels like love—until it starts to feel like fear. The Guardian Mom wants nothing more than to keep her teen safe, but in the season of letting go, that fierce protection can become emotional exhaustion. In this episode, I explore how the drive to protect can turn into anxiety, why we carry it so silently, and how to start building trust—not just in our kids, but in ourselves. This is for every mom who feels the weight of doing it all, holding it all, and never quite knowing how to let it go. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

We spend so much time worrying we’re not doing enough—overthinking our parenting, second-guessing our instincts, and comparing ourselves to other moms who seem to have it all together. But what if the way you love, lead, and show up is already powerful… even when it doesn’t feel like it? In this episode, I introduce four core Mom Archetypes—the Guardian, Achiever, Nurturer, and Mentor—and explain how your natural strengths might also be what’s tripping you up. You’ll hear how each type brings something beautiful to motherhood—and how embracing your style can help you find peace, confidence, and purpose as you let go and raise your teen. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Motherhood has taught me a thousand lessons—but none more important than how to love without conditions. This episode is personal. I open up about what it felt like to bring my son home after his first year of college, the joy and pain of watching him grow, and the hard-earned truths I’ve learned about parenting, expectations, and letting go. You’ll hear how the idea of unconditional love has taken on new meaning for me—and how learning to respect my teen’s choices, even when I disagree, has brought more peace and connection than control ever could. If you’re deep in the messy middle of motherhood and wondering how to love your teen as they are—not as you wish they’d be—this episode is for you. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Regret has a way of creeping in when we least expect it—especially in motherhood. Sometimes it sounds like, “I should’ve done more,” or “Why did I let that happen?” Whether it’s about parenting choices, missed moments, or how we’ve cared for ourselves along the way, the weight of guilt and regret can be heavy—and it can keep us stuck. In this episode, I break down the difference between regret and guilt, why we so often blame ourselves for things out of our control, and how to challenge the mindset traps that keep us looking backward. If you’re ready to stop letting regret define your story and start taking your next best step forward, this episode is for you. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.  

It’s easy to feel like life is happening to us—especially in this season of raising teens and preparing for the empty nest. We care so deeply that we absorb all the worry, guilt, and stress, and then wonder why we’re constantly overwhelmed. In this episode, I explain what it really means to have a “managed mindset” and how it can transform your experience of motherhood. This isn’t about toxic positivity or pretending everything’s fine—it’s about learning to observe your thoughts, challenge old stories, and step back into the driver’s seat of your emotional life. If you're ready to feel more confident, peaceful, and present—even when life doesn’t go as planned—this episode will show you where to start. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Judging ourselves is second nature—we question our parenting, criticize our choices, and even feel guilty for just having negative thoughts. But that judgment doesn’t stop with us. It shows up in how we see our teens, our relationships, and the world around us. In this episode, I’m unpacking the Judgment Mindset Trap and the four ways it plays out: mind reading, labeling, overgeneralization, and emotional reasoning. These patterns are so common in motherhood, especially in the teen and empty nest years—but they keep us stuck in anxiety, self-doubt, and constant overthinking. If you’re ready to challenge the thoughts that are wearing you down and create more peace in your relationships and in your mind, this episode is your first step. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Sometimes I don’t even realize I’m doing it—comparing myself, needing reassurance, wondering if I’ve done enough, or if my teen thinks I’m a good mom. But when my self-worth depends on their approval—or anyone else’s—it leaves me anxious, reactive, and disconnected from who I really am. In this episode, I dive into the validation-seeking mindset and the four traps that go with it: perfectionism, comparison, identity crisis, and people-pleasing. I’ll show you why this pattern feels so hard to escape—and how letting go of external validation is the key to reclaiming your confidence, your peace, and your power. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

There are days when motherhood feels like too much—when the weight of worry, responsibility, and overthinking leaves me anxious and exhausted. I created the L.O.V.E. Technique because I needed a way to step off that emotional rollercoaster and reclaim some peace. In this episode, I walk you through the four-part process I use with my clients (and myself!) to shift from overwhelm to clarity: Learn, Observe, Verify, and Empower. This isn’t about ignoring the hard stuff—it’s about changing how you relate to it. If you're ready to feel more grounded, confident, and emotionally free in motherhood and beyond, this is the place to start. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Fixing things used to feel like love—jumping in to help, offering advice, smoothing the path so my teen wouldn’t struggle. But eventually, I realized all that fixing was costing me more than I thought. It left me anxious, overwhelmed, and disconnected—from myself and my teen. In this episode, I break down the Fix-It Mindset and why it’s so common for moms who care deeply. You’ll learn how this pattern creates emotional burnout and what it takes to step back, let go, and trust your teen’s growth without trying to control it. If you’re ready to shift from fixer to guide—and find more peace in the process—this is the episode for you. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Worry has always felt like part of motherhood—like proof that I care deeply and want to protect my teen. But over time, I started to see how that worry wasn’t keeping anyone safe; it was just keeping me stuck in overthinking and anxiety. In this episode, I dive into what I call the Worry Mindset: the mental patterns that drive our fear of the unknown, the urge to control, and the inability to let go. If you've ever felt powerless to stop spiraling or guilty for how much you care, this conversation will help you find a new way forward—one that honors your love and brings you peace. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

This season of motherhood is full of emotional whiplash—one moment I’m trying to guide my teen through college applications or mental health struggles, and the next I’m wondering who I even am outside of being a mom. In this episode, I introduce the mindset traps that keep so many of us stuck: overthinking, guilt, catastrophizing, trying to fix everything, and never feeling like enough. I’ll show you how your brain is wired to avoid emotional pain—but in the process, keeps you from living with peace, confidence, and clarity. If you’re caught in the chaos of parenting teens and preparing for the empty nest, this is where we begin to find your power again. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

For years, I’ve chased the feeling that what I was doing as a mom was “enough.” That I was doing enough, giving enough, being enough. But no matter how much I checked off the list or how hard I tried, that whisper of doubt always returned. In this episode, I open up about the emotional weight we carry as moms of teens—the guilt, the fear, the comparison—and how it disconnects us from our own worth. I share the turning point that helped me begin to believe I am enough, and how you can too. If you’re caught in the constant push to prove your value, this episode is a reminder: your worth has never been up for debate. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

They call it a “syndrome,” but what if there’s nothing wrong with you at all? As my teen prepared to leave, I started feeling that quiet ache—grief, confusion, even guilt for not handling it better. But then I started asking new questions: What if the empty nest isn’t a diagnosis? What if it’s not something to fix—but a moment to meet with compassion and self-trust? In this episode, I challenge the myth of empty nest syndrome and offer a mindset shift for moms like me who’ve given everything to parenting and are ready to reclaim their peace, purpose, and identity in this next chapter. Letting go doesn’t have to mean losing yourself—it can be the beginning of finding you again. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Every time I spiraled in guilt, anxiety, or overthinking, I thought something was wrong with me. But what if these mindset traps aren’t flaws—they’re invitations? In this episode, I talk about the patterns that keep so many moms stuck during the teen and empty nest years, and how shifting your mindset doesn’t mean fixing yourself—it means understanding yourself. You’ll learn why these traps exist, how they protect you, and how to move through them with compassion instead of criticism. If you’re tired of feeling like you’re always doing it wrong, this is your permission to stop striving and start seeing your mindset with new eyes. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

For a long time, I believed that if I just planned better, worried more, or tried harder, I could control the outcome—for me and for my kids. But that mindset didn’t lead to peace—it led to burnout. In this episode, I dive into one of the most powerful mindset traps moms face: the illusion of control. I’ll show you how this belief keeps you stuck in overthinking, anxiety, and constant emotional pressure—and how letting go of that illusion is actually the first step toward peace and trust. If you’re tired of trying to manage everything and still feeling like it’s never enough, this is the shift you’ve been looking for. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

It’s so easy to take a few moments of your teen’s behavior and make them mean everything — that they’ll always be anxious, unmotivated, disrespectful, or behind. I’ve done it, and I know how heavy those conclusions can feel. But what if those assumptions aren’t true? In this episode, I explore the mindset trap of overgeneralization — how it keeps moms stuck in frustration, disconnects us from our teens, and robs us of the confidence to create a fulfilling future of our own. When you learn to question those sweeping conclusions, you open up the possibility for connection, empathy, and hope — for your child and for yourself. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Romantic love isn’t just about having a partner—it’s about the way we think about connection, worthiness, and what it means to matter. Whether you’re in a relationship, recovering from one, or wondering if you want one at all, this episode is a deep dive into the mindset behind love. I talk about why so many moms in the empty nest season feel lonely, disconnected, or even invisible—and how we sometimes expect others to fill emotional gaps we haven’t yet learned to fill ourselves. I’ll help you uncover what you really want from love and how to create more of it, starting with the most important relationship of all: the one you have with yourself. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

Friendship used to come easy—playdates, shared struggles, sideline chats. But somewhere in the chaos of raising teens and the quiet of the empty nest, I started to feel disconnected. From others. From myself. In this episode, I open up about what’s really happening beneath the surface when friendships shift or fade, why it feels so personal, and how to stop blaming yourself for the distance. You’ll hear how motherhood reshapes our needs for connection, how grief and growth often go hand in hand, and what it looks like to show up with honesty, vulnerability, and grace—for yourself and for your friendships. If you’re navigating that in-between space of letting go and longing for more, this is for you. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

The older my kids get, the more I realize: parenting isn’t about control—it’s about connection. But that’s so much easier said than done, especially when your teen is pulling away or making choices you don’t understand. In this episode, I share what it means to set real relationship goals with our kids—not based on fear, guilt, or perfection, but on empathy, trust, and presence. You’ll hear how I’ve learned to move from reactivity to regulation, from fixing to guiding, and how to stay rooted in the kind of connection that lasts long after they’ve left home. If you're navigating the messy middle of motherhood and want to rebuild or protect your relationship with your teen, this episode will help you find your way back. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.

There’s a moment in motherhood that no one prepares you for—the one where your child is pulling away, and every instinct tells you to hold on. In this episode, I talk about what I call the Empty Nest Straddle—that emotional space between still feeling responsible for your teen and realizing they’re stepping into their own life. It’s a tug-of-war between purpose and powerlessness, love and letting go. I share my own story, the guilt, the control, the fears—and what it took for me to begin releasing my grip and creating a new identity as a mom. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Who am I if they don’t need me anymore?”—this one’s for you. Curious about coaching with Small Jar?  Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0  This empowering podcast offers life coaching for moms and parenting support for midlife mothers raising teens as they approach the empty nest, teaching them how to let go of control, stop overthinking, and shift their mindset, while also helping them set boundaries, improve communication, reduce anxiety, release mom guilt, and find purpose in the evolving journey of parenting teens and motherhood.