The Open Nesters

The Open Nesters
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  • Personal Journals
  • Updated Biweekly

Re-Imagining the Empty Nest

  1. 1d ago

    Deep and Generous Friendship (S6 | E255)

    Deep and Generous Friendship (Season 6 | Episode 255) As our nests empty and life expands into new territory, the relationships we cultivate become the foundation of our vitality, joy, and resilience. In this week’s episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, host Tessa sits down with her two closest friends of 42 years, Denise and Shira, to explore the transformative power of lifelong friendship. First meeting at age 18 and now thriving in their sixties, the trio unpacks how their bond has evolved from youthful adventures into an unshakable sisterhood that anchors their open-nesting years. Society often programs us to believe that a romantic partner must be everything—our sole confidant, emotional anchor, and social universe. The trio challenges this notion by championing the concept of “OSOs” (Other Significant Others). Rather than detracting from a marriage or family, deep platonic friendships enrich our lives by serving as a non-judgmental mirror and a trusted “suggestion box.” When we are held in unconditional love by friends who know our history inside and out, we gain the clarity and freedom to show up more fully in every area of our lives. Other Significant Others (OSOs) Lifelong sisterhood Intentional connection Unconditional support Compersion Nurturing these connections often requires courage and conscious boundary-setting within our partnerships. Shira shares a candid reflection on how her friendships took a back seat during her 30-year marriage due to subtle restrictions and the lack of individual autonomy. Her journey toward reclaiming her identity began when she chose to join an eight-woman circle in South Florida without seeking permission. Her experience highlights a vital lesson for open nesters: honoring your friendships is an act of self-preservation, not disloyalty to your partner. True friendship also acts as an indispensable safety net during life’s deepest heartaches. Over the past few years, the group rallied around each other through profound losses, including the passing of Shira’s sister Lisa and immense family grief for Denise. As Denise noted, when grief threatens to shatter us, authentic sisterhood provides the steady ground that keeps us whole. Echoing the sentiment that a true friend remembers the song in your heart and sings it back to you when you have forgotten the words, their bond proves that shared tears are just as vital as shared laughter. Maintaining closeness across decades and continents does not happen by accident; it requires deliberate, ongoing investment. With Denise living in Israel, Shira in South Florida, and Tessa in New England, the women commit to a weekly one-hour WhatsApp video call structured around intentional growth and personal prompts, alongside an annual in-person trip. In midlife, friendship is not merely about casual catch-ups or social convenience—it is a scheduled priority that honors the sacred space between busy lives. The conversation also explores how open nesters can expand their social landscape beyond traditional boundaries. Embracing “compersion”—the genuine joy in seeing someone you love thrive with others—allows friendships to flourish without jealousy or comparison. By welcoming meaningful platonic bonds across genders and forming intergenerational connections with mentors and younger peers alike, we tap into a vibrant exchange of wisdom and energy that keeps us curious, engaged, and ageless. Stepping into your open-nesting chapter is an invitation to decide who walks beside you as you write your next story. As we watch our adult children build their own futures, leaning into deep, intentional friendships ensures our own lives remain wide open with purpose, adventure, and love. For practical wisdom on inviting deeper connection into your world, tune in to the full conversation, and stay tuned for Tessa’s forthcoming book, The 5 Doors of Friendship, releasing October 20th. Resources for You 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 About Tessa How do old relationships evolve and new ones beckon? Friendship is the heartbeat of a life well-lived. Despite our need for meaningful connection, friendship can seem surprisingly difficult to find. But what if friendship isn’t something we find at all, but something we learn to create? That journey begins with oneself and the exploration of the quiet places within our hearts. As we become more heart-centered, we are willing to see one another not only for who we have been, but for who we are becoming, allowing for more curiosity, growth and change in ourselves and our friendships. Old relationships evolve and new ones beckon. Stacey Tessa K. Battat–through her years exploring what makes friendships deepen, endure, and come alive–has uncovered for herself how old relationships can evolve and new ones can beckon. She identified five doors to open ourselves and create richer connections: Play, Inspiration, Generosity, Value Alignment, and Creative Alchemy. The Five Doors of Friendship is an invitation to welcome possibility in both old and new friendships, softening the path to feel seen, energized, challenged, accepted, and celebrated!

    Deep and Generous Friendship (S6 | E255)

  2. Sep 3

    An Interview with Tessa on Reinvention Rebels Podcast (S6 | E254)

    When children leave home and the rhythm of daily life suddenly pivots, society often frames the transition as a quiet loss—the proverbial empty nest. But on a standout episode of the Reinvention Rebels podcast, host Wendy Battles and guest Tessa Krone Batatt turned that tired script completely on its head. Tessa, author of The 5 Doors of Friendship and co-host of The Open Nesters, makes the case that midlife isn’t an ending to mourn; it’s an expansive, wide-open threshold. Instead of guarding a quiet house, women over fifty have an unprecedented invitation to bet on themselves, reclaim their vitality, and reinvent who they are—starting with the people they invite into their lives.

  3. Aug 26

    The Five Doors of Friendship (S6 | E253)

    The Five Doors of Friendship (Season 6 | Episode 253) [TESSA] Amir and I are so thrilled to continue trading the empty nest for the open nest with you as we explore vibrant health, relationships, and spirituality. We kick off a brand-new series exploring the beautiful, life-sustaining concept of friendship. I am especially excited because this discussion ties perfectly into the upcoming launch of my new book, The Five Doors of Friendship: Discover New Ways to Open, dropping on October 20th. Friendship isn’t just a fun addition to our social lives; it is a vital survival mechanism that fuels our longevity and deeply feeds our souls. The Five Doors of Friendship Open Nesters Podcast Male vs female friendships Deepening adult friendships Empty nest relationships During our conversation, Amir and I explore the fascinating differences in how men and women naturally cultivate their bonds. As women, we often gather “face-to-face,” easily finding the emotional vulnerability to open up to one another over a simple cup of coffee. Amir candidly shares the male perspective, noting that men tend to bond “shoulder-to-shoulder” through shared missions, like a round of golf or a shared project. Because this dynamic can sometimes leave men struggling to cultivate deeper emotional connections, it is so crucial for all of us to discover new ways—or doors—to deepen the relationships we already have. The Five Doors of Friendship In this episode, we begin unpacking the framework of my book by exploring the first two doors: Play and Inspiration. The door of Play is all about engaging in activities strictly for the joy of it, without any heavy agenda—something Amir rightfully points out is a very natural starting point for many men. From there, we move into Inspiration, which focuses on mutually elevating one another. Whether it is finding a friend who pushes you to grow in your career or simply admiring someone’s spiritual openness, walking through this door means connecting with people who naturally inspire you to become a better version of yourself. Next, we discuss the incredibly important door of Generosity. When Amir and I talk about being generous in a friendship, we aren’t just referring to picking up the check at dinner, although mutual respect in those practical matters is always appreciated! True generosity means offering your full presence, time, and emotional availability to those you care about. It is about actively showing up for a friend when they need help, or listening without judgment when they just need to process their feelings. Real generosity requires us to stretch beyond our busy schedules to truly support our tribe. Finally, we round out our discussion with Value Alignment and Creative Alchemy. Value alignment ensures our friendships are rooted in shared ethics and worldviews, forming a stable foundation of loyalty and trust. The fifth door, Creative Alchemy, is where the real magic happens—it is that beautiful, sometimes mysterious space where friends come together to build something much greater than themselves, a process deeply supported by our own comfort with quiet solitude. I invite you all to listen to the full episode, reflect on your own connections, and step through these doors with us. Resources for You 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 About Tessa How do old relationships evolve and new ones beckon? Friendship is the heartbeat of a life well-lived. Despite our need for meaningful connection, friendship can seem surprisingly difficult to find. But what if friendship isn’t something we find at all, but something we learn to create? That journey begins with oneself and the exploration of the quiet places within our hearts. As we become more heart-centered, we are willing to see one another not only for who we have been, but for who we are becoming, allowing for more curiosity, growth and change in ourselves and our friendships. Old relationships evolve and new ones beckon. Stacey Tessa K. Battat–through her years exploring what makes friendships deepen, endure, and come alive–has uncovered for herself how old relationships can evolve and new ones can beckon. She identified five doors to open ourselves and create richer connections: Play, Inspiration, Generosity, Value Alignment, and Creative Alchemy. The Five Doors of Friendship is an invitation to welcome possibility in both old and new friendships, softening the path to feel seen, energized, challenged, accepted, and celebrated!

    The Five Doors of Friendship (S6 | E253)

  4. Aug 20

    Finding Vitality in Life’s Final Transitions (S6 | E252)

    Finding Vitality in Life’s Final Transitions (Season 6 | Episode 252) When we think about midlife, the empty nest, and the chapters that follow, we often talk about reinventing ourselves, traveling, or picking up long-forgotten passions. But being an Open Nester also means opening our hearts to the entire spectrum of the human experience—including the profound transitions of aging, loss, and death. In this encore episode, I had the deep joy of welcoming back my dear friend Lynnea Brinkerhoff, a gifted coach, consultant, and death doula who brings remarkable warmth, playfulness, and grounding to life’s most tender moments. Somatic grief and movement Death doula end-of-life care Navigating parental loss in midlife End-of-life rituals and presence Open Nesters life transitions Lynnea and I first connected years ago during a graduate program on consciousness, and our bond has always been anchored in laughter, shared curiosity, and deep presence. Over the last decade and a half, we’ve walked alongside one another through personal milestones and profound family losses. When my own mother was passing, Lynnea was right there to help me hold that sacred space—guiding me to ground myself physically and emotionally so I could step into loving leadership for my family. Finding Vitality in Life’s Final Transitions One of the most powerful insights Lynnea shared in our conversation is that holding space for loss doesn’t mean drowning in solemn heaviness. We often view grief as an obstacle to avoid, yet true growth comes from finding vitality in life’s final transitions and dancing with both the “ten thousand joys and the ten thousand sorrows.” In somatic work, even the smallest physical movement—a gentle sway, a conscious stretch, a deep exhale—can unstick old tension held deep in our core, creating the emotional capacity we need to face heartbreak without shutting down. Lynnea shared a moving story about her work with Pearl, a 99-year-old elder full of humor and fire. When Pearl’s final moments arrived, surrounded by care and tenderness, her gaze softened into the universe and the only word she spoke was a quiet, awe-filled, “Wow.” Lynnea was also able to guide Pearl’s son from frozen avoidance into intimate, heartfelt connection at her bedside, giving him a transformative moment of closure and truth that will stay with him for the rest of his life. This poignant work centers on finding vitality in life’s final transitions rather than viewing death simply as a clinical, medical event. It is a sacred human passage that deserves ritual, presence, and sensory connection. Simple acts—lighting a calming scent, gently washing hands, listening to unspoken wishes, or stepping outside to look at the moon together—reconnect us to the present moment. In a culture that spends so much energy attempting to control the uncontrollable, allowing ourselves to feel the rhythm of life and death is where deep healing actually begins. As Open Nesters, many of us find ourselves navigating the loss of our parents while redefining our own relationships and purpose. Rather than turning away from the tenderness of these moments, finding vitality in life’s final transitions offers us an opportunity to show up fully in love, humor, and embodiment. When we learn to face our fears of the unknown, we discover that grief isn’t the opposite of joy—it’s the deep emotional ground that makes every breath, every laugh, and every connection so infinitely precious. To explore more of Lynnea’s compassionate work and end-of-life resources, you can connect with her through Virtual Memorials. We invite you to join our vibrant Open Nesters community, share your own stories in our private discussion group, and keep tuning in as we explore what it truly means to live life wide open. Resources for You 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 About Tessa How do old relationships evolve and new ones beckon? Friendship is the heartbeat of a life well-lived. Despite our need for meaningful connection, friendship can seem surprisingly difficult to find. But what if friendship isn’t something we find at all, but something we learn to create? That journey begins with oneself and the exploration of the quiet places within our hearts. As we become more heart-centered, we are willing to see one another not only for who we have been, but for who we are becoming, allowing for more curiosity, growth and change in ourselves and our friendships. Old relationships evolve and new ones beckon. Stacey Tessa K. Battat–through her years exploring what makes friendships deepen, endure, and come alive–has uncovered for herself how old relationships can evolve and new ones can beckon. She identified five doors to open ourselves and create richer connections: Play, Inspiration, Generosity, Value Alignment, and Creative Alchemy. The Five Doors of Friendship is an invitation to welcome possibility in both old and new friendships, softening the path to feel seen, energized, challenged, accepted, and celebrated!

    Finding Vitality in Life’s Final Transitions (S6 | E252)

  5. Aug 13

    Redefining Love, Long Distance, and Returning to the Nest

    Redefining Love, Long Distance, and Returning to the Nest (Season 6 | Episode 251) When Amir and I sat down with Jennifer and Chris for this episode, I knew we were in for something special. There is a quiet, profound sweetness in the way these two understand each other—a connection honed not by daily routines in the same living room, but through years of intentional presence across continents. As open nesters, so many of us are searching for ways to rewrite our stories once our kids begin to fly, and Jennifer and Chris offer a breathtaking map of what happens when you dare to choose an unconventional path. Open Nesters Podcast Ethical Non-Monogamy in Midlife Long-Distance Polyamory Relationships Navigating Relationships with Adult Children Redefining Intimacy and Relationship Design Their story began decades ago as high school sweethearts who eventually went their separate ways, traveled the world, and reconnected later in life via long-distance emails and letters. What struck me immediately was how they built a foundation of compersion—that rare, beautiful feeling of genuine joy for your partner’s happiness outside of yourself—long before they even attached a label to their relationship. By the time they officially stepped into an adult relationship together, they had already learned how to cheer each other on from afar, establishing a deep sense of trust that would soon be tested and expanded in ways neither expected. When Jennifer brought up the idea of exploring ethical non-monogamy, it wasn’t a reckless leap; it was a conscious invitation to growth. For Chris, taking those first steps into polyamory while separated by an ocean was a radical, challenging shift that required deliberate inner work. They immersed themselves in books, attended meetup groups, and established dedicated two-hour check-ins to hold space for the hard, uncomfortable conversations. Through navigating long-distance dating, time zone hurdles, and emotional friction, they discovered that opening their relationship didn’t pull them apart—it built an indestructible framework for radical honesty and deep self-awareness. What I love most about their dynamic is how fluidly they allowed their relationship to evolve. After several years of practicing polyamory, both Jennifer and Chris found themselves naturally transitioning back toward a committed, monogamous bond. Their time exploring open relationships wasn’t a “failed experiment”—it was a transformative bridge that taught them how to express their desires, set healthy boundaries, and bring a renewed sense of erotic novelty and intimacy back to each other. It’s a powerful reminder that we have full permission to design our relationships in seasons, choosing what serves our growth at any given stage of life. This spirit of openness inevitably ripples into our homes and how we show up for our adult children. Both Jennifer and Chris recently experienced the unexpected gift of having their adult daughters move back home—Jennifer’s 26-year-old daughter for ten months, and Chris’s daughter while pursuing her PhD in Germany. As parents, watching our children navigate their own adult transitions allows us to model a life of continuous self-discovery. By letting go of traditional expectations in our own lives, we create a supportive, judgment-free space where our children feel safe to grow, return, and eventually take flight again. As we move through midlife, there is so much grace in giving ourselves permission to ask for what we need, whether that’s in the bedroom, in our careers, or in our living arrangements. Aging doesn’t mean settling into static routines; it’s an invitation to step out of the “vanilla” defaults society hands us and try something new from the menu. When we embrace the pauses, practice active listening, and give ourselves grace, we realize that midlife isn’t about holding onto control—it’s about opening our hearts to whatever rich experiences are waiting for us next. Reframing “Addiction” If there’s one takeaway from my conversation with Jennifer and Chris, it’s that there is no single right way to be an open nester. Whether you are navigating long-distance longing, rethinking your relationship design, or welcoming adult kids back into your spare room, the secret lies in savoring every season for what it is. I encourage you to pause, listen closely to your partner and yourself, and step boldly into your next chapter. What is one area in your relationship or life where you could give yourself more permission to grow this week? Resources for You 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 About Tessa Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters. Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster. Her offerings are based in her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower,    it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open hearted lives. Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question: What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE… Adventure  Freedom of Expression  Exploration and Fun  Body Movement  New circles of friends  Deep love relationships

    Redefining Love, Long Distance, and Returning to the Nest

  6. Aug 6

    Sobriety, Recovery & Family Healing (S6 | E250)

    Sobriety, Recovery & Family Healing (Season 6 | Episode 250) Healing, Recovery, and the Courage to Reclaim Our Light Welcome back, my beautiful Open Nesters community! In this episode, we stepped into a deeply powerful, honest, and necessary conversation about recovery, healing, and the real work of reinventing ourselves in “Act 3″—that transformative stage of life when our kids have left or are leaving the nest. Joining me for this rich panel were three incredible guests: Andrea Cashman, a yoga and mindfulness facilitator; Kelvin Young, a certified sound healer and recovery support specialist; and DeDe Armstrong, a recovery coach with master’s degrees in social work and addiction counseling. Together, we explored how recovery isn’t just about stepping away from a substance; it’s about opening our hearts, transforming our family dynamics, and rediscovering our inner vitality. Reinventing life in Act 3 Recovery and healing Holistic recovery practices for addiction How to support a loved one in addiction recovery Midlife sober living and mindfulness When our children fly the nest, many parents find themselves standing in an unfamiliar quiet. For some, this shift brings up sudden loneliness or a lack of purpose, which can easily lead to coping mechanisms like alcohol or other habits. But as our guests pointed out, Act 3 offers a fresh canvas. Andrea shared how her own path into sobriety initially grew out of caring for both her aging parents and her children simultaneously. The sheer stress made her realize she needed to stay clear and clear-headed. What began as a necessity transformed her entire outlook, unlocking a brighter, lighter enthusiasm for living, dancing, and teaching that she now shares with others. One of the most touching themes of our discussion was how our personal healing ripples throughout our entire family system. DeDe, who has been in recovery for 23 years, reflected on how her relationship with her four adult children shifted when alcohol was no longer the center of family gatherings. Instead of trying to manage or control her children, she focuses on open communication, healthy boundaries, and showing up with pure presence. Her children now bring friends who are struggling to her for support, proving that living transparently creates a safe harbor for the next generation. Navigating this massive shedding process is rarely something we can do alone, yet Staci highlighted a critical gap in our modern culture: a stark lack of mentors for this specific season. When she found herself surrounded by snakes and overwhelmed by the shifting dynamics in her marriage and parenting, she realized she desperately needed navigational tools and a wise female guide. Unfortunately, she couldn’t easily find a mentor to help her understand why her voice suddenly felt different or why she couldn’t remember what used to bring her joy as a child. This gap is exactly why we have these conversations—to build a community where we can share wisdom and support each other through our personal evolutions. Kelvin’s story offered a raw and profound testament to the power of inner motivation and redemption. Having experienced incarceration and active addiction earlier in life, Kelvin found his sobriety while in prison, fueled by a desire to become a father his 26-year-old daughter, Tatiana, could be proud of. Today, almost 15 years sober, Kelvin travels the country offering sound healing and breathwork. When his daughter watched the documentary detailing his journey, Uprooted Addiction, and told him how proud she was, it underscored a vital truth: recovery restores the priceless relationships that matter most. We also tackled the tricky question of how to support loved ones who may be struggling without stepping into judgment or unwanted interventions. DeDe reminded us that our primary job is to be present, listen, and model a life that feels appealing and whole. Recovery works through attraction rather than coercion. When we meet people with curiosity instead of criticism, we honor their individual journey. Rather than forcing an agenda, holding space with an open heart allows others to ask questions when they are truly ready to seek change. Reframing “Addiction” Reframing how we view addiction is crucial for systemic healing. Kelvin highlighted that addiction is a human experience, not a human identity. Behind any struggle with substances, technology, or other behaviors is often a person trying to soothe underlying trauma, chronic stress, or emotional distress. In a culture that constantly keeps our nervous systems in fight-or-flight mode, reaching for external relief is an understandable response. By approaching addiction with compassion rather than damaging labels like “addict,” we empower individuals to look past the substance and focus on building a meaningful, purposeful life. Recovery looks completely different for everyone, and there is no one-size-fits-all formula. As our panel pointed out, pathways can range from 12-step programs and harm reduction to sound healing, yoga, therapy, and mindfulness practices. DeDe emphasized the importance of a holistic approach that treats the whole person—addressing sleep, physical wellness, mental health, and spiritual alignment alongside medical support. Sobriety isn’t just about abstaining; it’s about giving ourselves permission to feel our genuine emotions, face life’s pain, and embrace true freedom. As Open Nesters, this chapter of life is ours to reclaim. Whether you are navigating your own recovery, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about making a lifestyle shift, remember that your light is meant to shine bright, not be dimmed. I invite you to explore the work of our wonderful panelist guests: find DeDe at dedearmstrong.com, Andrea at andreacashmanyoga.com, and Kelvin at soulcarelovellc.com. Let’s continue to trade “empty” for “open,” step into our vitality, and keep our hearts wide open to endless possibilities! Resources for You 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 About Tessa Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters. Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster. Her offerings are based in her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower,    it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open hearted lives. Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question: What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE… Adventure  Freedom of Expression  Exploration and Fun  Body Movement  New circles of friends  Deep love relationships

    Sobriety, Recovery & Family Healing (S6 | E250)

  7. Jul 30

    Miracles and Mentors with Staci McCormack (S6 | E249)

    Miracles and Mentors with Staci McCormack (Season 6 | Episode 249) Opening the Nest to New Discoveries Welcome back, fellow Open Nesters! In our latest episode of season six, we are once again trading the concept of an “empty” nest for an open one, opening the doors to vibrant health, renewed relationships, and deep spirituality. Today, I am thrilled to share the insights from our deeply soulful guest, Staci McCormack, an author, retreat leader, and life coach. Staci joined us to discuss the incredible, and sometimes incredibly messy, journey through the second half of life. She reminded us that this stage is an opportunity to step into our wisdom and embrace the wide-open possibilities ahead. Her story is a beautiful testament to the fact that while this period can feel disorienting, it is ultimately a profound invitation to rediscover our authentic selves. Empty nest marriage transition Finding purpose after kids leave Changing friendships in midlife Midlife spiritual growth Staci McCormack author Trudging Through the Muck During our conversation, Staci beautifully articulated a feeling that I know so many of us can relate to: the realization that we’ve spent decades caught in a relentless cycle. She described this early phase of adulthood as a treadmill of running, striving, struggling, and searching. Staci shared a poignant memory of standing in her living room in her mid-forties, looking at a rather dull Christmas tree while her teenage son entered his “grunt stage,” and realizing she was merely playing out a theatrical script. It was a powerful awakening to the fact that we cannot fully experience the “new” until we are willing to trudge through the “muck” of our established, often exhausting routines. The Spiritual Symbolism of Snakes The universe has a funny way of forcing us to pay attention when we ignore the signs that it’s time for a change, and for Staci, that wake-up call came in the form of actual snakes. She shared a truly wild situation that manifested in her life: her home became infested with hundreds of them! At first, they were a terrifying nuisance that sent her running for the hills, but as she deepened her spiritual understanding, she realized they represented a vital metaphor. Just as a serpent must shed its skin to unfold and grow, we too must shed our outdated identities and the protective layers we’ve built up over the years to truly become ourselves. Navigating this massive shedding process is rarely something we can do alone, yet Staci highlighted a critical gap in our modern culture: a stark lack of mentors for this specific season. When she found herself surrounded by snakes and overwhelmed by the shifting dynamics in her marriage and parenting, she realized she desperately needed navigational tools and a wise female guide. Unfortunately, she couldn’t easily find a mentor to help her understand why her voice suddenly felt different or why she couldn’t remember what used to bring her joy as a child. This gap is exactly why we have these conversations—to build a community where we can share wisdom and support each other through our personal evolutions. Welcoming Unexpected Miracles Sometimes, when we finally surrender control and admit we are in over our heads, the universe delivers exactly what we need—even if it’s not the traditional mentor we envisioned. For Staci, her miracle arrived in the completely unexpected form of a puppy. After neighbors gifted her teenage son a new dog, Staci and her husband were initially resistant, questioning their capacity to take on a pet during such a chaotic transition. Ironically, this very puppy turned out to be a natural hunter that methodically cleared the snakes from their property, one by one. It was a beautiful, humorous lesson in releasing our grip on how we think our problems should be solved and remaining open to unexpected forms of grace. Coming Home to Ourselves With the snakes gone and the metaphorical air cleared, Staci and her husband were able to embark on the crucial work of coming “home” to themselves. They recognized that after forty years together, they were two completely different individuals than when they first met, and they needed to intentionally redesign their relationship. This meant giving each other the literal and emotional space to reconnect with the girl and boy they once were, taking time apart for personal discovery, and establishing a new commitment to communicate openly. Returning to our authentic selves requires a willingness to step off the treadmill and give our partners the freedom to do the same. Embracing the Wide-Open Life Our conversation with Staci was a vibrant reminder that this stage of life is not a closing chapter, but a wide-open door. As we open ourselves to better relationships with our adult children, our partners, and most importantly, ourselves, we invite endless vitality into our days. If you are feeling lost in the muck or overwhelmed by the shedding of your own skin right now, please know that it is entirely okay to pause, take space, and figure out what lights you up. We are all in this beautiful, messy process of aging and evolving together, and I am so grateful to share this open nest with all of you. Resources for You 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 About Tessa Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters. Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster. Her offerings are based in her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower,    it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open hearted lives. Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question: What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE… Adventure  Freedom of Expression  Exploration and Fun  Body Movement  New circles of friends  Deep love relationships

    Miracles and Mentors with Staci McCormack (S6 | E249)

  8. Jul 23

    Embracing the Unknown: A conversation with Sue Jaye Johnson and Joe Richman (S6 | E248)

    Embracing the Unknown A Conversation with Sue Jay Johnson and Joe Richman (Season 3 | Episode 248) Welcome back, beautiful listeners, to another reflection from the host’s chair of The Open Nesters Podcast. As Amir and I wrap up this incredible season, we had the absolute privilege of welcoming back two of our favorite returning guests, Sue Jaye Johnson and Joe Richman. Since we last spoke with them a couple of years ago, they have fully transitioned into this vibrant, sometimes chaotic chapter we affectionately call “open nesting.” Sitting down with them felt like catching up with old friends who have just returned from a profound expedition, brimming with wisdom about relationships, sexuality, and the spiritual journey of aging. OPEN NEST VS EMPTY NEST RELATIONSHIP TRIPPING FOR COUPLES INTIMACY AFTER KIDS LEAVE RADICAL TRUST IN PARENTING SPIRITUAL GROWTH IN MARRIAGE Joe and Jaye work with groups/couples in which they see inside each other’s relationships. You can learn more here: Relationship Tripping. And you can hear our first interview with these two remarkable people in our first interview – Rituals, Adventure and Relationships. The Pleasure Report THE PLEASURE REPORT, created by writer, journalist, and filmmaker Sue Jaye Johnson, is a publication and community dedicated to investigating our relationship to pleasure. We are defining pleasure in an infinitely broad sense. We interrogate our pleasure in grief, in rage, in pain, in culture, in politics, and in our longing for a better world. Each month we have a theme. We can experience pleasure passively, or, we can MAKE our pleasure. Together, we will explore the tenants of pleasure: attention, awareness, sensation, and acceptance. You will learn tools, be exposed to new ways of thinking, and being in your body, in this world. We are an engaged community of pleasure researchers. I invite you to join us. #default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e { border-radius: 14px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px; } .btn-shadow#default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e { box-shadow: 0 1px 6px rgba(0,0,0,0.12); transition: box-shadow 0.2s ease-out, opacity 0.45s; } .btn-shadow#default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e:hover { box-shadow: 0 5px 11px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.18), 0 4px 15px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); } .btn-3d#default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e { box-shadow: 0px 2px 0px 0px #4a29e6; } .btn-3d#default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e:hover { box-shadow: 0px 2px 0px 0px #0c1d2b; } .btn-flat#default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e { box-shadow: none; } .btn-flat#default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e:hover { box-shadow: none; } #default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e.ico-right-side > i { margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 8px; } #default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e > i { margin-right: 8px; font-size: 16px; } #default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e:not(:hover) { border-width: 0px; border-color: #1ee3cf !important; color: #ffffff; background: #6d4efe !important; padding: 12px 18px 12px 18px; } #default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e:not(:hover) * { color: #ffffff; } #default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e:hover { border-width: 0px; border-color: #0d3f67 !important; color: #1ee3cf; background: #0d3f67 !important; padding: 12px 18px 12px 18px; } #default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e:hover * { color: #1ee3cf; } #default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e.ico-right-side > i { margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 8px; } #default-btn-9c94faa970191e3eb776646e2ee4ca9e > i { margin-right: 8px; }Subscribe to the Pleasure Report The Grief and Grace of Letting Go Transitioning away from full-time parenthood isn’t just about reclaiming your living room or enjoying a quieter house; it is a profound and often jarring emotional shift. Sue was incredibly candid about her own experience, describing the departure of her kids as a deeply moving process that she intentionally leaned into during an artist residency on Cape Cod. Letting go of the daily caretaking role requires us to face our own identities outside of being “Mom” or “Dad,” which can be utterly terrifying if we don’t hold space for the transition. “It’s a little mini death, you know? It’s like a death of an era… I wanted to just feel all the feelings of it. Because I knew if I didn’t, it would come out sideways.” – Sue Jaye Johnson Practicing Radical Trust One of the most challenging aspects of this new chapter is stepping back from fixing our children’s problems, a hurdle Sue and Joe tackled through an intentional practice of radical trust. They committed to trusting their younger daughter’s decisions completely for two months, consciously stopping themselves from jumping in with solutions or unprompted advice as she navigated her gap year. This wasn’t a passive withdrawal, but an active, disciplined choice to let their child fall, fail, and ultimately succeed on her own terms. It is a powerful reminder that our ultimate job is to raise capable adults, and at a certain point, our constant intervention actually hinders their magnificent growth. Fierce Independence and Deep Connection What truly struck me during our conversation was how beautifully Sue Jaye and Joe balance their deep, intentional connection with a fierce sense of personal independence. They aren’t afraid to travel separately—Joe taking solo trips to explore, and Sue Jaye embarking on adventures with her girlfriends—recognizing that time apart only enriches the energy they bring back to their shared New York City apartment. This level of autonomy requires a rock-solid foundation of security and a mutual understanding that personal growth doesn’t threaten the relationship; it actively feeds it. Relationship Tripping and the Love Lab Joe and Jaye aren’t just navigating this territory quietly; they are actively building tools and communities for others through their initiatives like Relationship Tripping and the Love Lab. They shared incredible insights from their six-week programs, where they guide couples through the universal stumbling blocks of long-term intimacy by turning the relationship itself into a vehicle for exploration. Their approach provides a structured yet expansive way to communicate without triggering old defenses. The Mirror: Recognizing that your partner reflects your own inner landscape. The Teacher: Viewing conflicts and triggers as essential lessons for personal growth. Fear and Desire Practices: Creating a safe container with a timer to voice deep-seated needs without interruption. Looking Ahead to the Next Adventure This episode was a beautiful, raw reminder that our roles as parents don’t vanish; they just evolve into something requiring less management and more observation. Amir and I are so deeply grateful to Sue and Joe for bringing their authentic selves to the studio and breaking the conventional paradigms of aging and partnership. For anyone feeling the sting of the changing seasons in their own home, I highly encourage you to listen to this episode, check out their upcoming book, and explore their adventurous new dating events in Manhattan. The nest isn’t empty, my friends—it’s just finally wide open. Resources for You 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 About Tessa Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters. Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program and journey facilitator & leader, author and, of course, Podcaster. Her offerings are based in her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature.  If she had one superpower,    it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open hearted lives. Please email Tessa to make a connection. If you like, please answer the question: What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE… Adventure  Freedom of Expression  Exploration and Fun  Body Movement  New circles of friends  Deep love relationships

    Embracing the Unknown: A conversation with Sue Jaye Johnson and Joe Richman (S6 | E248)
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About

Re-Imagining the Empty Nest

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  • Creator
    The Open Nesters
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    255
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © The Open Nesters 2021
  • Show Website
    The Open Nesters

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