Trippin On Empty

Lyss

Trippin’ on Empty is a podcast for empty nesters with no map and low fuel. The show explores grief, identity loss, healing, and the uneasy space between who you were and who you’re becoming. Most empty-nest conversations jump straight to advice or forced optimism, which when you’re stuck on the couch is the last thing you want to hear. We talk honestly about how immobilizing this chapter can be, how deep the depression can run, and create a place where you feel less alone.

Episodes

  1. JAN 12

    Welcome to the Quiet

    Welcome to Trippin On Empty. I'm Lyss, and this is my very first episode. I was 20 when I had my daughter. My entire adult life was built around being her mom. It was always just the two of us. We grew up together. So when she left for college in fall 2024, I didn't just lose my co-pilot - I didn't know how to fly the plane. In this episode, I break down a Reddit post that perfectly captures what no one tells you about empty nesting: that "freedom" can feel like loss, that you can be proud AND devastated, and that the myth of the "happy mother" makes it so hard to admit when we're struggling. This podcast is for anyone who's been told they should be celebrating when they're actually grieving. You're not broken. You're not doing it wrong. And you're not alone. If you're going through this too - or you love someone who is - I'd love to hear from you. Reach out at trippinonempty.com. Keywords empty nesting, grief, identity, motherhood, transition, community, self-discovery, emotional support, parenting, personal growth Summary In this inaugural episode of 'Trippin' On Empty', Lyss shares her personal journey through the emotional challenges of empty nesting. She discusses the profound sense of loss and identity crisis that accompanies the transition of children leaving home, emphasizing the importance of community and understanding in navigating these feelings. Through shared stories and reflections, Lyss creates a safe space for listeners to acknowledge their grief and explore their new identities beyond motherhood. Takeaways The quiet after children leave can feel overwhelmingly loud.Empty nesting is often minimized by societal expectations of celebration.Grieving the loss of daily interactions with children is normal and valid.Transitioning to an empty nest is a significant life change, not just an absence.Mothers often lose their sense of identity when children leave home.It's okay to feel both proud and heartbroken at the same time.Community support is crucial during the empty nesting phase.The journey of self-discovery begins after children leave home.Emotions during this transition can be complex and multifaceted.It's important to allow oneself to grieve without the pressure to 'move on'. Sound bites "Both things can be true." "I want to hear your stories." "You're not alone in this."

    28 min

About

Trippin’ on Empty is a podcast for empty nesters with no map and low fuel. The show explores grief, identity loss, healing, and the uneasy space between who you were and who you’re becoming. Most empty-nest conversations jump straight to advice or forced optimism, which when you’re stuck on the couch is the last thing you want to hear. We talk honestly about how immobilizing this chapter can be, how deep the depression can run, and create a place where you feel less alone.