This Empty Nest Life

Jay Ramsden

Embark on a transformative journey with Jay Ramsden, the enlightening voice behind The Empty Nest Coach on TikTok and Instagram. Jay’s show will help you navigate the uncharted seas of mid-life and empty nesting as he thoughtfully unravels the threads of change, growth, and self-discovery in what has become your new normal. Jay will help you discover the endless opportunities awaiting you in this new phase of life because life doesn't end in your 40s, 50s, and beyond -- it begins again.Subscribe now to gain invaluable insights on navigating the challenges of change. Want to be a guest on This Empty Nest Life? Send Jay Ramsden a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thisemptynestlifeGet This Empty Nest Life Swag: https://www.thisemptynestlife.com/merchandise

  1. 4D AGO

    139. Hot Coffee and Quiet Kitchens: Navigating the Middle of the Empty Nest

    Send Jay comments via text "Is the silence a void we need to fill, or a space we need to protect?" If you’ve been tuning in lately, you’ve heard some incredible experts in the studio—from downsizing gurus to neuroplasticity doctors. But today, the guest chair is empty, the lights are low, and it’s just us. In this special "Reset" episode, Jay Ramsden returns to the show’s roots. He’s stepping out from behind the interviewer’s mic to share the candid "morning coffee thoughts" that hit when the house is finally quiet. It’s one thing to hear an expert talk about purpose; it’s another to stand in your kitchen on a Tuesday morning realizing your role has shifted from "Manager" to a "Consultant" position you never actually applied for. In this solo session, Jay dives into: The Solo Sessions Return: Why Jay is bringing back deep-dive episodes to make sense of life in real-time.The Morning Coffee Struggle: How a hot cup of coffee can feel like a win one day and a reminder of what’s missing the next.Manager vs. Consultant: Navigating the identity crisis that happens when your "parenting title" is retired.A Promise of Candor: Why we have to be honest about the messy middle before we can "wind up" for the next chapter.Whether you’re a few steps ahead or a few steps behind, remember: you aren't just an empty nester. You’re a pioneer of a whole new life. Support the show WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE? Send Jay Ramsden a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thisemptynestlife BECOME A VIP SUBSCRIBER (Join Today!) Bonus Content for Subscribers OnlyEpisode ShoutoutsThank You EmailsPrivate Meet & Greets via Zoom+ MoreENJOY THE SHOW? Don’t miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more. Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we’d appreciate your support greatly.

    5 min
  2. APR 5

    138. Why Your "Empty Nest" Aches Might Be Emotional: Dr. David Clarke on Neuroplastic Pain

    Send Jay comments via text "The body keeps the score." We’ve all heard that phrase, but what does it actually mean when you’re 55 and dealing with back pain, migraines, or digestive issues that no doctor seems to be able to explain? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Dr. David Clarke, President of the Association for the Treatment of Neuroplastic Symptoms. Dr. Clarke shares the incredible story of an "elevator ride" that shifted his entire medical career—taking him from a traditional gastroenterologist to a pioneer in treating neuroplastic symptoms. We dive deep into why almost 30% of adults in midlife suffer from chronic pain that isn't caused by a physical injury, but by "brain-generated" signals triggered by stress, childhood adversity, and the "deep stress" of being a lifelong people-pleaser. In this episode, we discuss: The "Fifth Floor" Breakthrough: How talking can cure physical conditions that specialized tests can't find.The 7,000 Patient Journey: What Dr. Clarke learned from decades of uncovering hidden emotional triggers.Neuroplasticity vs. Structural Damage: How to tell if your pain is a "pinched nerve" or a brain-generated signal.The People-Pleaser Connection: Why caregivers and "strong" personalities are often the most prone to these symptoms.Parenting Aftermath: How our own childhood experiences shape our health today—and how Dr. Clarke changed his own parenting style based on his research.If you’ve been told "they can't find anything wrong," but you know the pain is real, this episode is your invitation to look deeper and start a new pathway toward healing. Connect with Dr. David Clarke: Take the Quiz: symptomatic.me (The 12-question self-assessment)Podcast: The Story Behind the SymptomsBook: They Can't Find Anything Wrong!Socials: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook,Support the show WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE? Send Jay Ramsden a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thisemptynestlife BECOME A VIP SUBSCRIBER (Join Today!) Bonus Content for Subscribers OnlyEpisode ShoutoutsThank You EmailsPrivate Meet & Greets via Zoom+ MoreENJOY THE SHOW? Don’t miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more. Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we’d appreciate your support greatly.

    28 min
  3. MAR 28

    137. What If Downsizing Is A Decision About Who You Are?

    Send Jay comments via text Your house didn’t suddenly get bigger; your life just got different. Transitioning to an empty nest can turn a lively home into a quiet space filled with big questions:  Do we need all this room? Should we stay, go, or renovate?  In this insightful episode, real estate agent and author Kim Costa joins us to explore how empty nesters can choose a home that fits their current identity, not the one from a decade ago. Kim shares her unique Wheelhouse Assessment, starting with the “Four Ms”—myself, mastery, mission, and mates—and expanding into the wheel of life: health, environment, fun, romance, career, finances, family, and spirituality. You’ll learn how to separate essential needs from “nice to have” features using Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. With practical strategies for repurposing rooms, avoiding new problems when solving old ones, and understanding the benefits of renting first, Kim demystifies the home transition process. The concept of “lock and leave” living is also explored for those desiring more freedom with less maintenance. Key Takeaways: Identify signs your home no longer fits your lifestyle.Use the Four Ms to clarify your identity and support system.Define your ideal lifestyle through the wheel of life.Start with a clear vision for your next phase.Renting first can test a new community before committing.Join us as Kim Costa highlights that this chapter isn’t an ending—it’s a chance to redefine, rediscover, and reignite your life. If today’s episode resonates with you, take that first step and visit thisemptynestlife.com to start your journey. Support the show WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE? Send Jay Ramsden a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thisemptynestlife BECOME A VIP SUBSCRIBER (Join Today!) Bonus Content for Subscribers OnlyEpisode ShoutoutsThank You EmailsPrivate Meet & Greets via Zoom+ MoreENJOY THE SHOW? Don’t miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more. Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we’d appreciate your support greatly.

    31 min
  4. MAR 21

    136. From Newspaper Jokes To 40 Million Views with Leighton Hart

    Send Jay comments via text Ever catch yourself thinking, “If I really tried, I’d be good at that”? This protective thought often keeps us from taking risks, especially during midlife transitions. In this compelling episode, we sit down with Leighton Hart, the creator behind Leighton Writes, to explore the journey of modern midlife reinvention. Leighton shares his insights on navigating early creative sparks, blogging while raising young kids, falling silent during corporate seasons, and eventually deciding to build a public voice online. He emphasizes that showing who you are is more impactful than simply telling, and explains how to maintain a clear personal brand while doing brand stewardship effectively. We also dive into the messy aspects of this transition: the sting of criticism, the urge to quit just before achieving momentum, and the identity shifts accompanying the empty nest phase. Leighton’s grounding message is simple: chase your curiosity, take the shot, and avoid the regret of wondering what could have been. Key Highlights & Takeaways: Discover the spark that fuels creativity and storytelling.Learn how to build a public voice with a personal brand on social media.Understand the realities of entrepreneurship at 40 and 50.Explore the importance of consistency and resilience in your journey.Embrace the power of curiosity in creating a fulfilling second act.Leighton Hart Bio: Leighton Hart is the creator behind Leighton Writes, a fast-growing social media presence known for its humor, insight, and relatable take on mid-life reinvention. Before becoming a full-time creator, Leighton spent two decades building and selling businesses. Leighton also serves as a content creator and marketing strategist for Turtleson, a national men’s apparel brand, where he helps shape storytelling, social strategy, and ambassador relationships. His content offers a grounded, funny, and encouraging perspective for anyone navigating the middle stretch of life or seeking a fresh creative spark. Find Leighton Online: LinkedIn, Instagram, Website Support the show WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE? Send Jay Ramsden a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thisemptynestlife BECOME A VIP SUBSCRIBER (Join Today!) Bonus Content for Subscribers OnlyEpisode ShoutoutsThank You EmailsPrivate Meet & Greets via Zoom+ MoreENJOY THE SHOW? Don’t miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more. Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we’d appreciate your support greatly.

    39 min
  5. MAR 9

    135. From Survival To Sisterhood: Joy Rowland On Confidence, Community, And Redefining Success After 40

    Send Jay comments via text What if the second half of your life is where your real story begins? In this energizing episode, mentor and speaker Joy Rowland joins us for a raw conversation about rebuilding confidence, cultivating true sisterhood, and using neuroplasticity to change what seems unchangeable.  From her journey of overcoming poverty in northern Nigeria, through a decade of grit in London, to a fresh start in Canada, Joy shares her battle with imposter syndrome and language barriers, and how she learned that success is not just for others. Step by step, she teaches us how to question old programming and practice new thoughts, leading to transformative results. We dive deep into why community is more powerful than willpower, especially after 40 and through the empty nest phase. Joy provides practical tips for making new connections—starting with simple greetings, compliments, and showing up consistently. She explains how therapy and coaching can work together to help process old wounds and move forward clearly. If you’re feeling invisible, burnt out, or stuck, this episode offers a grounded roadmap filled with evidence-based confidence and accountability.  Key Takeaways: Redefine success in your 40s and beyond.Discover why community accelerates personal growth.Simple ways to forge meaningful friendships online and offline.Combine therapy and coaching for holistic healing.Use neuroplasticity to reshape your beliefs and actions.Joy Rowland's Bio: Joy Rowland is a certified Next Level Mentor and the creator of the Next Level Women brand. She is passionate about helping women entrepreneurs create real momentum, stay motivated, and reach their next level — personally, professionally, and financially. She does this by creating a supportive, loving and inspiring place where women can find sisterhood, inspiration, accountability, and support to reach their next level. Find Joy Online: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Podcast  Support the show WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE? Send Jay Ramsden a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thisemptynestlife BECOME A VIP SUBSCRIBER (Join Today!) Bonus Content for Subscribers OnlyEpisode ShoutoutsThank You EmailsPrivate Meet & Greets via Zoom+ MoreENJOY THE SHOW? Don’t miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more. Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we’d appreciate your support greatly.

    30 min
  6. FEB 28

    134. From Burnout To Values: A Guide For Gen X

    Send Jay comments via text Tired of treating boredom and busyness as “just the way it is”? Join us as we sit down with coach Shelley McIntyre, host of Burn the Map, to explore midlife reinvention. Shelly guides Gen X professionals and empty nesters in trading status shorthand for true identity, using values as the foundation for lasting change. We identify real signals of misalignment: workplace resentment, fatigue, and the feeling that you’re not yourself. Shelley shares techniques to slow down, listen to your inner voice, and gather external feedback when self-reflection feels challenging. We discuss the importance of redefining self-identity beyond job titles, shifting the conversation from “What do you do?” to “What do you love?” If burnout has stifled your curiosity, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Borrow courage, take beginner classes, or run small experiments to explore new paths safely. We debunk myths about midlife changes, distinguish between career pivots and life resets, and encourage reclaiming joy through the essence exercise, which gathers insights about your best self. Ready to design a second act filled with meaning and authenticity? This conversation offers a clear roadmap to get started. Key Takeaways: Recognize signs of misalignment as valuable signals.Slow down and hear your inner voice.Reframe identity beyond job titles for deeper connections.Execute tiny experiments to reignite curiosity.Shelley McIntyre Bio: Shelley McIntyre is a coach for GenX professionals who want to design intentional and vibrant third acts. After a 25-year career in technology and corporate strategy, Shelley pivoted to coaching to help people get in their own way. Shelley believes that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. It’s time to reclaim your identity and forge a new path.   Find Shelley Online: LinkedIn, Instagram, Website Support the show WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE? Send Jay Ramsden a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thisemptynestlife BECOME A VIP SUBSCRIBER (Join Today!) Bonus Content for Subscribers OnlyEpisode ShoutoutsThank You EmailsPrivate Meet & Greets via Zoom+ MoreENJOY THE SHOW? Don’t miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more. Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we’d appreciate your support greatly.

    34 min
  7. FEB 21

    133. How Biking Became A Roadmap For Marriage, Faith, And Life After Kids

    Send Jay comments via text What happens to love, purpose, and identity when the kids launch? In this uplifting episode, author Linda Hanstra shares how she turned her love of cycling into a joyful roadmap for her second act. We explore Linda’s “winter training” approach for life transitions, emphasizing small practices like date nights that build resilience in relationships. Her “MIGHTY NEST” framework blends shared adventures with solo passions, creating space for exploration and calm. With faith as her anchor, Linda discusses how morning practices of prayer and writing help process grief and celebrate growth. We dive into her parenting journey with four unique children, underscoring the power of sharing their stories. If you're seeking purpose after the empty nest or looking to rekindle connection, this episode is for you. Press play and embrace your next chapter! Key Takeaways: Strategies for effective communication.Rebuilding connections through shared experiences.Practical steps for aspiring authors.Linda Hanstra's Bio: "Linda Hanstra is a semi-retired speech-language pathologist who writes about what brings joy to her empty nest, including topics of faith, family, cycling, travel, grandparenting, and more. Linda is the author of two books—"Lent through the Little Things" and her new release, "Empty-Nest Joyride: Hope, Love, and Purpose on the Road to Contentment." Linda and her husband, Tom, live in southwest Michigan and spend summers “Up North” in Minnesota—their home away from home. With four adult children, a daughter-in-law, a soon-to-be son-in-law, and two adorable grandchildren, Linda is cruising along on her “empty-nest joyride!” Find Linda Online: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Website Support the show WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE? Send Jay Ramsden a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thisemptynestlife BECOME A VIP SUBSCRIBER (Join Today!) Bonus Content for Subscribers OnlyEpisode ShoutoutsThank You EmailsPrivate Meet & Greets via Zoom+ MoreENJOY THE SHOW? Don’t miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more. Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we’d appreciate your support greatly.

    30 min
  8. FEB 14

    132. Choose Your Second Act By Being Who You’ve Always Been

    Send Jay comments via text Ever wonder why those you love make baffling choices, like craving roller coasters while you seek calm? In this episode, we sit down with educator and life coach Eric Gee, author of The Power of Personality and The Utopia Project, to explore a values-first system that clarifies the tension between safety and excitement, and structure and freedom. Eric introduces his 16 animal types, grouped into four core “packs,” revealing why we act the way we do. We discuss his journey from teaching students to guiding adults through midlife pivots, highlighting how Gatherers, who value responsibility, influence families and schools. Tune in to learn how naming underlying values can resolve conflicts between Hunters seeking thrills and Gatherers who need predictability. Whether you’re navigating an empty nest or seeking clarity in your relationships, Eric’s insights provide a roadmap for reconnecting with your core values. Key Takeaways: Understand the core conflict between safety and excitement.Explore the four packs and 16 animal types.Realign your life with what you truly value.Take Eric’s free test at projectyoutopia.com and discover the truth behind your choices!  Eric Gee's Bio: Eric Gee has administered personality-based life coaching for more than twenty years. He built a successful education company that used his personality typing method to better the lives of more than twenty thousand students, parents, and teachers. His book, The Power of Personality, is the culmination of decades of research and application. As creator of the Youtopia Project website and the Youtopia 16 assessment, he has disseminated his method to over half a million users since the website’s creation in 2016.  Find Eric Online: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Website Support the show WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THIS EMPTY NEST LIFE? Send Jay Ramsden a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thisemptynestlife BECOME A VIP SUBSCRIBER (Join Today!) Bonus Content for Subscribers OnlyEpisode ShoutoutsThank You EmailsPrivate Meet & Greets via Zoom+ MoreENJOY THE SHOW? Don’t miss an episode, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify and many more. Review us on Love the Podcast, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify -- reviews and ratings help others find us and we’d appreciate your support greatly.

    37 min
5
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

Embark on a transformative journey with Jay Ramsden, the enlightening voice behind The Empty Nest Coach on TikTok and Instagram. Jay’s show will help you navigate the uncharted seas of mid-life and empty nesting as he thoughtfully unravels the threads of change, growth, and self-discovery in what has become your new normal. Jay will help you discover the endless opportunities awaiting you in this new phase of life because life doesn't end in your 40s, 50s, and beyond -- it begins again.Subscribe now to gain invaluable insights on navigating the challenges of change. Want to be a guest on This Empty Nest Life? Send Jay Ramsden a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thisemptynestlifeGet This Empty Nest Life Swag: https://www.thisemptynestlife.com/merchandise

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