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Episode #38
Loss, Grief and Living Your Gospel
Losing my cousin Michael has left such a void in my life and in that of our family. Michael was a blessing and his life was a bright light in this world.
In this short episode, I share some thoughts about loss, grief and how that affects our lives. Hopefully, with every loss we experience, we are reminded that our lives matter and how we live does too. Thankfully, I served at a hospice facility with my therapy dog, Fitz shortly after losing Michael. I picked up some helpful Care Notes booklets about how to care for yourself and others while grieving. (You can find these books here.) These booklets helped me tremendously and sure will in the future as well. I hope my words from what I learned will bless you.
Also, in preparing my thoughts about Michael’s life, I reflected on some dear words I heard at my friend’s brother’s Celebration of Life. He reminded us that our lives are a gospel and asked What does the gospel of you say? Tune in to this episode to hear more.
Your life and your time are blessings to me. Loss and grief are so hard. Thankfully, we have a Comforter and a Creator. Jesus understands and so desires to walk through sorrows with us. Another of His names is Son of Suffering. May He bless you if you are grieving today.
Thanks for listening.
Charlotte
To reach Charlotte: https://charlotteguest.com
To see more Care Notes on other topics: CareNotes Inspirational Booklets | Carenotes
To read some YouVersion Bible plans, written by Charlotte: Charlotte Guest | YouVersion Search | The Bible App
Episode #37
With George Stahnke, Focus on the Family
Mothers, Adult Sons & Empty Nesting (Guest: George Stahnke from Focus on the Family) As a son grows into a young man, he needs his mother’s love and, now, more than ever, her respect. This respect needs to be unconditional. We need to understand our son’s masculine drives, their desire to achieve, provide and protect. and his need for friendship with us.
Listen in as Charlotte and George Stahnke from Focus on the Family discuss some key points from Dr. Emerson Eggerichs’ new book entitled: Mother and Son – The Respect Effect. Your son does want to connect with you, but on his own terms. “Men do not fear transparency,” says Eggerichs, “they fear shame, disapproval or a lecture. They fear disrespect.” Charlotte and George dive in to unveil helpful understandings of your son and his need for your respect to establish deeper levels of trust in your relationship. Listen in to hear how to do life “shoulder to shoulder” with your son and more. Other topics discussed include:
- What to do when your son does not deserve respect.
- What to say during times of conflict.
- How to handle when your son is angry with you.
- How to honor their family unit.
- How our need to ask our son’s advice is important.
- Listen more than you talk.
- Let your son see that you have your own life.
- Affirm him and his dreams.
As we mothers believe in our sons and the person God made them to be, we can get through difficult seasons and enjoy the blessings found in good times together. Special thanks to George for his time and his own wise insight. Remember… “the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinth. 13:13.
To reach George Stahnke: george@renewalcs.org For countless resources from Focus on the Family: https://www.focusonthefamily.com/ To reach Charlotte: https://charlotteguest.com/
Episode #36
With Jana Love
Personal trainer and health coach, Jana Love offers inspiration and insight regarding our health and wellness during the empty nest years. Charlotte & Jana discuss what is unique about self-care during this phase of life.
More about Jana: – Certified Whole Food Plant-Based Health Coach – Married to husband Rich for 30 years – Mom to two adult sons – BSF Leader for 5 years – Youth Mentor – Women’s Ministry Deacon – Jana Love, M.S. Exercise Physiologist – Certified Personal Trainer – Certified Mat Pilates|SPIN|Bender Barre – Certified Whole Food Plant-Based Health Coach – Inspire.Motivate.Encourage – LoveWorks Fitness & Wellness | The Farm janarlove@me.com
Click here: https://charlotteguest.com/about/ for more about Charlotte and to reach her regarding this podcast.
Episode #35
Let’s Pray AND Rebuke When times are tough, most of us know about the power of prayer. But… What about when times are REALLY tough? – What do you do with a health diagnosis that is unexpected? – How about when you feel oppressed, stressed and sense something bigger is at play? You know what? It probably is. Spiritual warfare is swirling about us all every day. In this video, Charlotte discusses the importance of rebuking illness and dis-ease. Recently diagnosed with RA and a strange tick-borne illness call Alpha-Gal, Charlotte has really suffered lately with inflammation, immobility and has needed a season of rest. Sickness is a hard part of life BUT, as believers, we do not have to accept a diagnosis lightly. There is power in prayer and much to learn about what rebuking is. Mark 4:36-40 talks about Jesus rebuking the wind and said “Peace, be still…” The wind ceased and there was a great calm. Luke 4:38 & 39 shares how Jesus rebuked a fever “and it left…” Friends, we, too, can rebuke in Jesus’ name because, as believers we have Him living inside of us. Listen in how you can pray and harness the awesome power of rebuking.
To reach Charlotte about this topic go to: https://charlotteguest.com Thanks for tuning in. YOU will be in my prayers, especially if you are dealing with illness.
Please share your prayer request here and I promise to pray for you. (Hey, I’d appreciate yours too! RA is tough! ) Charlotte Guest Podcaster & Writer CharlotteGuest.com | chargordy@cox.net
Listen to Empty Nest Guests – The Podcast Check out my YouVersion Bible Plans For this podcast and other amazing Christian podcasts, visit Edifi Podcast Network | Edifi Empty Nest Guests is part of the Spark Media Collective. Spark Media “May the God of hope fill you with joy & peace.” Rom. 15:13
Episode #34
Let’s Stay Encouraged in These Encore Years & Please Stay In Touch Thank you listeners for joining Charlotte on her podcasting journey!
In this episode, Charlotte recaps the key messages shared on her past 33 episodes. She has been so blessed with incredible guests who have shared wisdom and insight for living our best lives now. Charlotte is excited as she will be on a hiatus for a bit and plans to concentrate on some writing. (Please keep her in your prayers as she writes.) She’ll be working on a book that summarizes the podcasts thus far and offers encouragement for the encore years.
She also loves children’s books and will work on those as well. Charlotte hopes you’ll enjoy this podcast that offers key tips from past episodes and suggests you re-listen to past episodes too!
Here’s a note from Charlotte: “Thank you, thank you listeners for sharing your valuable time with me on Empty Nest Guests. We’ve had some great shows together and I have loved every minute and learned so much from my incredible guests. As I spend writing time outside of the recording studio, please reach out to me at https://charlotteguest.com for encore year topic suggestions. You all stay in my prayers and I thank you for your wonderful support of me, my guests and the podcast. Stay healthy and hopeful and keep shinin’! These can be your best years yet!” With love, Charlotte
For this podcast and other amazing Christian podcasts, visit Edifi Podcast Network | Edifi Empty Nest Guests is part of the Spark Media Collective. Spark Media
Episode #33
With Carole Jeanne Runnels, R.N.
Getting Beyond Burnout When You Are Barely Hanging On As a Caregiver Adult caregivers, you can avoid burnout as you care for your loved one. It’s sure not easy and, often, we forget to care for ourselves in the process. “Honor your father and mother,” in Exodus 20:12 is a commandment with a promise. The Lord shares that if we honor our parents, our days may be long in the land He gives us. Being a caregiver of your own parents or an aging adult is both a labor of love and a responsibility. The task comes with many stressors that affect your mental and emotional health, your ability to relax, sleep well and overall quality of life. Often, your own finances are affected as is your work/life balance and time with your immediate family, perhaps your own children.
Join Charlotte and Carole Jeanne Runnels, R.N. as they talk about caring for yourself in the process of caregiving while ensuring your loved one receives the best possible care. Carole Jeanne is a committed Christ-follower, a dear friend of Charlotte’s, and lovingly cared for her mother, father, aunt and uncle for 12 years into their end-stages of life. Her nursing career of 38 years included serving as an oncology nurse, an educational programs coordinator and as a school nurse.
Caregiving is hard. Yet it is priceless time to help your loved ones finish out their lives well. Keeping your spiritual tank full, involving Christian community and finding small things that bring you joy are helpful as is taking the scenic route and remembering the fullness of your aging adult’s life. Carole Jeanne suggests sharing the freedom that comes from the ability to discuss everything and to serve as your loved ones advocate. Tapping in to community resources and offering yourself a bit of grace will help you “do the next right thing” as you care for your loved one.
Tune in to hear more from this insightful conversation. These scriptures helped Carole Jeanne and they can help you: “The Joy of the Lord is my strength,” Nehemiah 8:10 “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Phil. 4:13. A suggested book for help is Cruising Through Caregiving by Jennifer FitzPatrick, MSW, LCSW-C, CSP. You can purchase it here: Amazon.com : cruising through caregiving. To reach Charlotte: https://charlotteguest.com Empty Nest Guests is part of the Spark Media Collective. For this podcast and other amazing Christian podcasts, visit the Edifi Podcast Network | Edifi.
Episode #32
You Have a Fierce Calling Yes!
Even in the encore years you have a call on your life. God has great purposes for you.
Your life has meaning and, each day, He has a mission for you. Why do we forget that as empty nesters?
Listen in as Charlotte and Doris Swift, host of the Fierce Calling podcast, talk about:
- What having a “call” on your life means (and one that is “fierce”)
- Why some empty nesters have lost a calling
- How we need to surround ourselves with “dream defenders”
- Why we need to NOT compare our calling with others (and what Jesus says about that)
Before being called into something, we are called to some One. Jesus calls us to Him to carry out the very missions He created us to do.
Doris is a devoted follower of Jesus. She is passionate about discipleship and encouraging others to walk deeper in biblical truth and in their calling.
As a leader and lay counselor, Doris is blessed to assist people in discovering God’s solutions to their needs.
She loves unveiling how they can use their gifts to impact the world for the furtherance of the Kingdom of God. Her Fierce Calling Podcast will encourage, equip, and engage you to walk deeper in God’s word, bloom in your fierce calling, and use your gifts to impact the world for Christ.
Learning through community is an amazing thing and our voices matter.
We all have a sphere of influence. God places us where we are for a reason.
In ministry for over 30 years, Doris is blessed to be on staff at her church and serves as a Christian lay counselor. She is an author, speaker, and podcast host who loves encouraging people to flourish in their calling and purpose.
Charlotte and Doris agree that God has plans for each one of us. God knows us personally and He is calling us to know Him more. He is also calling us to tell others about Him so they can know Him more.
It’s exciting to see those plans come to life in the encore years! We’d love to share some time with you.
Scriptures for our podcast: * Eph. 3: 16 – 19 “I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” * Romans 8:16 “For His Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children.”
* Romans 15:13 “I pray that God, the source of hope will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then, you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.”
* John 15:5 “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me and I in them will produce much fruit. For apart from me, you can do nothing.” To reach Doris: FIERCE CALLING PODCAST WITH DORIS
SWIFT part of the Spark Network and Fierce Calling Ministries ⋆ …BECAUSE EVERY WOMAN OF GOD HAS A FIERCE CALLING Click to join Doris’s email list. To reach Charlotte: Charlotte Guest To join Charlotte’s e-mail list: Contact | Charlotte Guest To see Charlotte’s Etsy shop for art cards that help fund Empty Nest Guests: CharlotteGuestArt | Etsy Charlotte Guest Podcaster & Writer
Episode #31
Finding Joy in the Empty Nest Discover Purpose and Passion in the Next Phase of Life Join best-selling author and President of Home Word, Jim Burns, and Charlotte as they talk about JOY!
Sometimes, in the empty nesting years, you need to look for joy to find it, as well as purpose and passion.
Jim and Charlotte will discuss some treasures from his latest book: Finding Joy in the Empty Nest, Discover Purpose and Passion in the Next Phase of Life. Whether you’ve been looking forward to it, or dreading it, the experience of coming home to the empty nest brings with it a well of emotions, realizations and one gigantic, all-consuming thought: Now what? As an empty nester, the options before you are practically limitless -a fact that can be as exciting as it is terrifying. In his new book, Jim Burns combines his personal experiences with extensive research, interviews with other empty nesters and his professional work as a family educator to help you navigate your new life as an empty nester and find JOY in the opportunities for life-change before you.
In this conversation, Jim and Charlotte will encourage you to lean in to the source of all joy, Jesus Christ.
They will encourage you to pursue a few fresh starts, to get to know and re-invent yourself and life and thrive beyond this new stage.
Jim offers practical advice and timeless principles, including how to:
- change the relationship you once had with your children – for the better,
- face big issues (like aging parents, finances and kids returning home) with confidence,
- rekindle your fire and purpose to live with passion day by day.
Charlotte and Jim agree…these next years offer countless blessings and wonderful opportunities for you to seize and offer joy.
Thanks for listening and sharing time with us! Scriptures about JOY: James 1:2 – “When troubles come, of any kind, consider it an opportunity for great joy.” Gal. 5:22 – “But the Holy Spirit produces joy.” Phil. 4:4 – “Always be full of joy in the Lord…” Psalms 126:5 – “Those who plant in tears will harvest shouts of joy!” Romans 15:13 – “I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him.
Then, you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” To reach Jim Burns: HomeWord | Helping Families Succeed HomeWord seeks to advance the work of God in the world by educating, equipping, and encouraging parents and churches to build God-honoring families from generation to generation.
HomeWord is non-profit, donor supported ministry. If you would like to partner with HomeWord in our effort to help more parents and families you can make a donation.
Your investment will allow us to expand this ministry and is deeply appreciated. To reach Charlotte: Charlotte Guest Empty Nest Guests is on the Spark Network which can be found on the Edifi app. Edifi offers thousands of Christian podcasts; download that awesome app today. Visit Charlotte’s Etsy shop purchase art cards that help fund Empty Nest Guests. Thank you for listening! Your time is valuable. Thanks for spending it with Empty Nest Guests. Charlotte Guest Podcaster & Writer CharlotteGuest.com | chargordy@cox.net Listen to Empty Nest Guests – The Podcast Check out my YouVersion Bible Plan “May the God of hope fill you with joy & peace.” Rom. 15:13
Episode #30
Parenting Aging Parents
Kim & Mike Barnes are former, award-winning TV journalists.
They created Parenting Aging Parents for those of us who are: stepping in more to help our parents as they get older.
Whether you’re providing hands-on caregiving, helping manage doctor’s appointments, finances, or anything in between, it can be challenging and confusing. It’s easy to feel like you’re the only one going through this. Charlotte, Kim and Mike want adult children and other caregivers to know they’re not alone.
Listen in as Charlotte visits with Kim and Mike about common topics those parenting aging parents share in common:
- Practical questions everyone 40+ needs to have with their parents
- How to have uncomfortable conversations with aging parents
- 5 tips to prepare caregivers for the challenges ahead
- How to protect your parents from scams
- Elderly dating – what you need to know may shock you & more
There’s so much to know. Learn about the resources they’ve gathered and join their supportive community in the free private Facebook group. Kim and Mike, through Parenting Aging Parents, desire to be the bridge to help others make the connections they need.
To Reach Kim and Mike:
Email: info@parentingagingparents.com·
Website: https://parentingagingparents.com/Find them on:·
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parentingagingparents·
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMvOBPk9VRiHiGDLpvocHJQ
For more about Charlotte: For more about Charlotte: Charlotte GuestFor Charlotte’s YouVersion Bible Plan about Amazing Grace and Loving Aging Adults, visit here: https://www.bible.com/en/reading-plans/26626
Charlotte GuestPodcaster & WriterCharlotteGuest.com | chargordy@cox.netListen to Empty Nest Guests – The PodcastCheck out my YouVersion Bible Plan
“May the God of hope fill you with joy & peace.”Rom. 15:13
Episode #29
The Struggle is Real, But So is God
With Misty Phillip
Struggles are real. Thankfully, so is God. Misty Philip knows this, wrote about it, a study that is an award-winning #1 Amazon new release bible study, and shares more on this podcast.
Misty is a dreamer and a doer passionate about helping spark your soul message. She encourages people to use their story to give God glory. She is the host of the By His Grace Podcast ranked in the top 1.5 percent of all podcasts.
She’s a Sought-after inspirational speaker and the author of the award-winning #1 Amazon New Release Bible Study, The Struggle is Real: But so is God, and the Spark Podcast Planner. Scripture promises that we will have tribulation. It also promises us that we can have hope in the very midst of what brings us down.
Through a massive career upheaval, loss of loved ones, family health crises, her own two broken arms at the same time and a closed door on her calling, Misty has brought her desperation to the Lord over and over. Her story and strength will inspire you and so will her book.
The Struggle Is Real, But So Is God is a 6-week journey through the Bible that will: ·
- Equip you with empowering wisdom. ·
- Help you grow spiritually by claiming God’s promises as your own. * Teach you how to declare scripture over yourself to strengthen your inner being. ·
- Show you how to conquer challenges by activating God’s Word in your life. *
Experience just how real God is and know that He is right there with you in the middle of it all. The Founder of Spark Media, Misty equips Christian Communicators and podcasters through virtual and live events, podcast network, magazine, and a thriving membership community.
Listen in as Charlotte and Misty encourage you about clinging to God in the midst of struggles. Scriptures shared today: “We are in this struggle together. You have seen my struggle in the past and you know I am still in the midst of it.” Phil. 1:30 “This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers.” 1 Tim. 4:10
Sometimes you just can’t be an active participant in a struggle or struggling physically. That’s why I love this scripture” “The Lord himself will fight for you. You need only to be still.” Ex. 14:14 For more about Misty: Book – By His Grace (mistyphillip.com)
Episode #28
Launch Strategies and Leaving a Legacy
With Marci Seither
Listen in as Charlotte and Marci Seither talk about some helpful stragegies for launching children from the nest. The emptying nest and the empty nest have differences. Marci shares valuable insight about a few things that caught her off guard when her own children began to move away.
Stress within the nest is a natural process for growing strong. Marci’s suggestions for coping are helpful. She encourages us to begin to prepare early so the transition to an empty nest doesn’t feel so abrupt.
This time of life can be a wonderful time to stretch your own wings as your children fly. Marci’s also an advocate of leaving a legacy that matters to those you love during the launching years.
Marci’s an author, speaker, wife, mom to six and loves inspiring others. She loves cooking and makes marshmallows from scratch. You can find her books on Amazon at the links below.
For more about Marci: About Marci Seither
Links to her books: Empty Nest: Strategies to Help Your Kids Take Flight
Episode #27
Avoiding Divorce Court & Aging With Humor
Join Charlotte and Shel Harrington, the divorce attorney who does not like divorce. Shel is a family lawyer who truly tries to help her clients avoid divorce.
Both adultery and domestic abuse are serious issues that can destroy marriages, but neither is the most common reason for divorce. Small behaviors add up to big marital damage. Shel says, once identified, they can be avoided.
She also encourages listeners to “Pray, Play and Stay.” Loving, honoring and enjoying your spouse is biblical.
Sometimes, we forget to “enjoy”. Shel shares intentional ways to have fun with your spouse.
She also offers newlyweds tips for avoiding mistakes and disasters. If you have to go through with divorce, Shel shares tips to get you through itas well as strategies for helping you and others (including children).
Then, in the second half of this podcast…we are gonna laugh! Fat Bottom Women Get Fierce is Shel’s hilarious and fun Facebook group.
Q. Do you know what a “Dryjoe” is?
A. It’s when you forget to add the water to your coffee pot and brew a cup of air.
Sometimes, we are forgetful in our encore years and slow down in more ways than one. Shel’s book about “quinbloits” will have you in stitches. (We’ll tell you what these are when you tune in.)
Episode #26
My Husband Is Retiring … What Next?
Join Charlotte and Jim Burns, President of HomeWord and best-selling author and speaker as they discuss how couples can look at retirement as a rite of passage, something to be celebrated and not feared.
Many find the retirement season difficult in the empty nesting years. Couples now must adjust to a new routine as well as doing life with adult children. Retirement is a time to reconnect, reinvent and reboot your life, marriage and your future.
It’s NOT a time to stay in a rut or park yourself in a recliner.
Listen in and learn how to prevent a “gray divorce” – a common occurrence in couples over the age of 50. Jim also shares wonderful insight from two of his books:
Have Serious Fun and 12 Other Principles to Make Your Life Count
&
Finding Joy in the Empty Nest: Discover Purpose and Passion in the Next Phase of Life
The “what next?” years can be full of your best years yet!
To reach Jim at HomeWord:
Contact Us – Homeworld
Episode #25
Affair Repair – How God Used the Other Woman
with Tina Konkin
How God Used the Other Woman by Tina Konkin is an incredible book that shares how Tina and her husband Ron saved their marriage after his affair and fought to make it better than before.
When Tina Konkin, renowned marriage expert and speaker finds out her husband Ron, a speaker and marriage expert in his own right, is having an affair with her close friend, God transforms this disaster into one of His promises that what was intended for evil He would turn to good.
After a spouse has been unfaithful, salvaging the relationship may seem inconceivable. Marital infidelity sparks pain and chaos that is difficult to navigate. But there IS hope for recovery and redemption.
Join Charlotte and author Tina Konkin on this podcast. Tina shares her story, and how God transformed the brokenness of an affair into a redeemed marriage.
You can find grace and strength to forgive too. There IS joy on the other side and you can emerge from this crisis and seek restoration together.
Listen in and learn three powerful healing principles that encourage rebuilding your marriage in a lasting way. Not only can your marriage survive; it can thrive!
Tina’s courage and perseverance blesses so many. Her true story of faith, love and in light of overwhelming odds is inspiring.
To reach Tina: Contact | Tina Konkin
Episode #24
Stepping Out of Brokenness Into Purpose
with Lisa Bain
Join Charlotte and Lisa Bain, from Lisa Bain Ministries. as they talk about fact that breakthroughs can come from being broken.
Lisa Bain is an author and speaker who shares about illness, loss and her journey through broken relationships.
She is the founder of Lisa Bain Ministries, a non-profit organization that provides encouragement, support, and practical tools for those in broken places. Lisa writes regularly on her blog and hosts Treasure Talks, a vlog featuring interviews with heroes who are making a difference in the community.
Charlotte and Lisa discuss stepping out of our boxes of fear and doubt and stepping into the amazing treasures God has waiting for us.
They believe you can emerge from hardships to find purpose and freedom.
Lisa was born in Nashville, Tennessee, and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She graduated from Oral Roberts University with a degree in Social Work.
She shares with honesty and authenticity. When her mother was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer and Lisa was diagnosed with a debilitating autoimmune disease in the same week. She was determined to find joy in the midst of her difficult circumstances.
Lisa has written three books, Joy in the Journey: Finding Laughter and Miracles in Very Dark Places, Life Outside the Box, and It’s Better Out Here, Stepping out of Brokenness into Purpose.
Lisa and Charlotte are passionate about animal therapy. Both volunteer with their therapy dogs to help spread love and light to those who are hurting.
Lisa especially enjoys visiting with her dogs at cancer treatment centers, hospitals, senior living facilities and hospice care centers.
Charlotte serves at a few places in Tulsa including The Little Light House and the Salvation Army.
Both Charlotte and Lisa are members of The Alliance of Therapy Dogs.
You are never to broken to experience the breakthrough that can change the course of your life.
Tune in today and be encouraged.
For more about Lisa: About Lisa – Lisa Bain
Episode #23
Are You Struggling With a Difficult Mother-Daughter Relationship?
Dr. Helen McIntosh and Blythe Daniel
Join Charlotte as she visits with Dr. Helen McIntosh and Daughter Blythe Daniel, authors of Mended – Restoring the Hearts of Mothers and Daughters.
(This wonderful book is endorsed by Lysa TerKeust, Stasi Eldredge and other best-selling authors.)
Relationships between mothers and daughters can be messy and hurtful.
In their book, Helen and Blythe share how they’ve built, guarded and renewed a relationship centered around respecting and listening first…then talking.
In this podcast, Charlotte, Helen and Blythe will walk you through the steps to restoring what’s between you and include conversation starters that are welcoming. They also share how to experience freedom when you aren’t able to mend or reconcile.
Listen in and learn how to:
- Choose the relationship above your difference of opinion
- Focus on not changing or controlling the other person
- Recognize and remove behaviors that have carried over from generations
- Confront hurts today – not digging through the mess of yesterday
- Cope when reconciliation is not possible
- Experience healing when your mother or daughter is no longer in your life and more.
For more information about Mended – Restoring the Hearts of Mothers & Daughters & to buy the book:
Mended – Restoring the Hearts of Mothers and Daughters (ourmendedhearts.com)
Episode #22
“Help…I need my husband to lead us.”
With George Stahnke from Focus on the Family.
If you find yourself saying or even thinking this, this podcast is for you.
Empty nesting can be hard on both women and men.
As some men question their purpose at this stage in life, they often turn inward and shut down emotionally. Others dive into work or a hobby instead of putting energy into leading a much smaller nest and loving others well.
Join Charlotte and George Stahnke from Focus on the Family as they have an authentic conversation about this common occurrence in these encore years.
George offers an insightful male perspective and some meaningful tips about how to encourage your husband to love and lead you well.
It’s also equally important for us to love well.
You are not alone, and help is here. Tune in and be blessed.
To reach George at Focus on the Family: kaylee.heck@fotf.org
For countless resources from Focus on the Family: www.focusonthefamily.com/
Episode #21
Mothers-in-Law vs Daughters-in-Law – Let There Be Peace
with Janice Mathers
The conflict between a mother-in-law and her daughter-in-law has existed throughout all of history.
Now, thousands of years later, after Rebekah’s story from the Bible, many continue to complain about in-laws, often even hoping they won’t ever come visit.
Mothers-in-Law vs. Daughters-in-Law examines this in-law conflict and aims to draw readers into a different perspective: that women will learn to recognize their in-laws as a beneficial relationship—a gift—to and for the entire family.
Join Charlotte and author Janice Mathers as they discuss how to have peace with in-laws.
A mother-in-law can have a special and close bond with her daughter-in-law.
This podcast offers sound biblical wisdom, clever insights and shares how to do just that. ‘
To reach Janice, click here
To buy Janice’s book on Amazon, click here
Episode #20
A 9/11 Widow’s Journey – With Jennifer Sands
Jennifer’s nest become tragically empty on 9/11 when she lost her husband, best friend, scuba diving partner and love of her life. Jim died as the World Trade Center Towers fell. For a long time after 9/11, Jennifer looked at God through the eyes of anger and contempt. Through a series of events, her anger was downgraded to disappointment, then it changed to curiosity. Eventually Jennifer looked at God thru the eyes of acceptance and trust.
Now, she shares of her love and trust in Him.
She gazes at Him through the eyes of reverence, love, adoration and gratitude. Today, Jennifer encourages widows and others. She is thankful for God, who brought her blessings from brokenness.
When she made a commemorative scuba dive in Jim’s honor, and underwater memorial dive, the Holy Spirit spoke to her and she gave her life to Christ.
Jennifer often shares Gen. 50:20. What Joseph said to his Israelite brothers, she now says to the 9/11 terrorists: “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, in order to bring about His present result, the saving of many lives.”
Tune in and be encouraged!
To reach Jennifer: click here.
Episode #19
Doing Life With Your Adult Children
With Best-selling Author Jim Burns
Tune in and hear best-selling author Jim Burns and Charlotte talk about practical advice and hopeful encouragement for the tough, yet rewarding transition of parenting grown kids.
Jim is President of HomeWord. He speaks to thousands of people around the world each year.
He has close to 2 million resources in print in 20 languages.
If you have an adult child, you know that parenting doesn’t stop when your child turns 18.
In many ways, it gets more complicated, involving your head…and your heart.
Whether your child lives under your roof, or rarely stays in contact, this podcast is for you.
Jim offers insight to help you navigate this season of parenting. Speaking from his own personal
and professional experience, Jim answers several questions on this podcast including:
How can offering unsolicited advice to my adult child backfire?
What does the term “emerging adult” mean? How is this different from other generations?
What do I do when my child is violating my values? What about cohabitation?
We have differing political views. What do I do?
My child has strayed from faith. How can I help them come back to God?
How can grandparents influence grandchildren? How can we leave the best legacy?
Charlotte and Jim look forward to sharing this time with you.
Reach Jim here.
Episode #18
Empty Nesting In Adversity
When trials come, they often drive us to our knees in search of answers and comfort.
Join Charlotte and Shannon Wilburn as they talk about empty nesting in adversity.
Shannon is the co-founder of the global franchise Just Between Friends. She’s also a wife to Mitch Wilburn, a pastor in Tulsa, OK who miraculously survived 45 days in the hospital, near death with Covid.
When Shannon’s father went from oil company CFO to being disabled, wheelchair bound and unemployed, 12-year-old Shannon began to learn how to relay on faith and fortitude. That same faith and reliance on God has helped Shannon through many adversities including Mitch’s health trials, her own season of temporary hair loss and more. Listen in to hear more.
As we empty nest, we must fight to keep not just a positive attitude but also a Christ-centered one. Often, we must step out in faith and cling to God for help.
Can we have joy and hope in trials? Shannon and Charlotte both say “Yes!” and share how.
God promises in 2 Corinthians 1: 3-5 that not only does He comfort us during difficulties…He equips us through our own suffering to be able to minister to others.
Tune in and be inspired as we talk about empty nesting in adversity.
To reach Shannon: mwilburna@aol.com
Episode #17
Is it Alzheimer’s, Dementia or Memory Loss?
Alzheimer’s disease is the most well-known and common form of dementia but not everyone with dementia has Alzheimer’s disease.
And, just because you are forgetful, during these empty nesting years, doesn’t mean the worst.
Charlotte and Erin Powell, from the Alzheimer’s Association, discuss this topic on today’s podcast.
Learn the top warning signs, how these conditions and diagnoses affect empty nesters and elders.
Learn about valuable resources to help you care for a loved one and more! Caring for loved ones with any form of dementia requires a team effort. You are not alone.
To reach Erin Powell, email epowell@alz.org
Virtual Alzheimer’s and dementia education events are available – check www.alz.org/crf for details on meetings and events.
The Alzheimer’s Association is available 24/7 for around-the-clock care and support at 800.272.3900 and alz.org
Episode #16
Sleep, Wellness and Balanced Empty Nesting Health
Are you sleeping well? How is your energy level each day? Do you experience brain fog?
You are NOT alone.
Join Charlotte and Jane Wenning, a Certified Medical Technologist, Certified Athletic Trainer and Health Coach who has been helping women improve their mental and physical health for over 20 years.
During high school and college, Jane was overweight, struggled with eating disorders, had low self-esteem and experienced brain fog. After having two unhealthy but successful pregnancies, she struggled with postpartum depression and knew she had to make health changes…and she did!
Jane researched and studied nutrition, brain health, longevity, sleep, emotional intelligence, interval training, fasting and epigenetics and estrogenics. Now, she equips business professionals and people with the tools to become leaner, stronger, healthier and creates changes that last beyond retirement.
Charlotte and Jane talk about sleep and how Jane learned to adjust her lifestyle and schedule to allow for proper restorative sleep.
They also discuss Jane’s favorite “four pillars” of wellness:
· Recovery
· Emotional Energy
· Nutrition
· Movement
Tune in and take charge of your health today!
Learn more about Jane Wenning on Instagram and at: 4-pillars-health.mykajabi.com/
Episode #15
Empty Nesting and Friendship.
Friendships are such a gift. They also are important to well-being. Listen and learn the value of making and nurturing friendships with the best friend – God, yourself and others. Learn the difference between loneliness and solitude. Charlotte and Michelle Van Loon author of Becoming Sage, Cultivating Maturity, Purpose, and Spirituality in Midlife, published by Moody Publishers, discuss the many facets of friendship in the encore years. Then, Charlotte talks with the founders of Balcony Women, – a company formed to lift up, support and love the precious women in our communities. Learn from them how to be friends with others as God desires. To reach Michelle: https://michellevanloon.com/ To reach Charlotte: https://charlotteguest.com Melissa Phenice & Shae Hedrick) To reach Balcony Women: https://balconywomen.com
Episode #14
Parenting A Prodigal & Hope for the Journey with Joannie DeBrito – Director of Parenting at Focus on the Family Loving a prodigal can be a long, lonely, misunderstood, and often desperate road. Will a phone call come from jail or the hospital? Living with fear, worry, anger, and self-recrimination wears you down. Words of love and words of threats can co-exist. You search for help yet feel shame. “How long, Lord?” is your heart’s cry. Joannie DeBrito, from Focus on the Family, and Charlotte talk about the hardship of parenting prodigals. They offer helpful words of wisdom and reminders that, with God, all things are possible. May this podcast help sustain you, offer grace, hope, and strength, and a reminder that God will get you through this valley. Joannie DeBrito PH.D., LCSW, LMFT is the current Director of Parenting and Youth at Focus on the Family. DeBrito draws from over 30 years of diverse experience as a parent educator, family life educator, school social worker, administrator, and licensed mental health professional.
To reach Joannie, email: Savannah.Light@fotf.org
For helpful articles by Joannie: click here.
Episode #13
The Empty Nest Guest Podcast with Michelle Van Loon author of Becoming Sage, Cultivating Maturity, Purpose, and Spirituality in Midlife, published by Moody Publishers. On this episode, Charlotte talks with Michelle Van Loon, author of Becoming Sage, Cultivating Maturity, Purpose, and Spirituality in Midlife, published by Moody Publishers. In Chapter 8 of her book, Michelle shares her own journey through the valley of depression. (Charlotte’s been there too as she experienced post-partum depression years ago.) Most empty-nesters experience bouts of the blues. How do you know where mid-life malaise ends, and depression begins? Michelle also shares about spiritual apathy, also known as acedia. Sometimes our soul is weary as we empty nest. Thankfully, God is at work through our emotions. In Him and with Him, there is hope! Listen in and learn more. You’ll be glad you did. For an emergency, dial 911 The National Suicide Prevention Line – 1-800-273-8255 Focus on the Family’s helpline: tel://1-855-771-4357/ The Hope Line – www.thehopeline.com (Recommended by Focus on the Family) National Alliance for Mental Illness (nami.org)
To reach Michelle: michellevanloon.com
Episode #12
Welcome Empty Nesters! We are glad you are tuning in. Charlotte and Joannie DeBrito, Director of Parenting and Youth at Focus on the Family, discuss Parenting Emerging Adults: Boundaries and Limits & Parenting and Prodigals. We are seeing a cultural shift, partly due to Covid and as a sign of the times, in how parents relate with their older children. What kind of boundaries and limits do we need to offer grace and space? Joannie also shares advice and encouragement for parents of prodigals. Listen and learn wonderful tips from Joannie and valuable resources from Focus on the Family. To reach Joannie at Focus on the Family: Joannie.DeBrito@fotf.org
Episode #11
Welcome back, Empty Nesters! Today we begin Season 2 and you are in for a treat! Best-selling author of Empty Nest, Full Life – Jill Savage – and Charlotte talk about the balance of letting go & holding on. Are you caught between grief and delight? Empty nesting can be disorienting. The good news is that your encore years can be FULL of purpose and passion. Jill shares wisdom, encouragement & ideas from her own life experiences. Tune in and be inspired. To reach Jill, go to www.jillsavage.org
To reach Blake go to www.legacyletterchallenge.com/emptynesters
Episode #10
Go to https://charlotteguest.com/about/ more about Charlotte and to reach her regarding this podcast. What legacy would you like to leave your children? If you died today, would your voice still be guiding your children? Have you said everything that needs to be said to your children? Is it written down? This podcast will help you learn more about writing a Legacy Letter. You can leave a written, treasured legacy that will last forever. Join me, Stephen, producer of Empty Nest Guests, Charlotte and Blake Brewer, Founder of The Legacy Letter Challenge as we talk about leaving your children a written, cherished legacy letter.
To reach Blake go to www.legacyletterchallenge.com/emptynesters
Episode #9
Join best-selling author, Stasi Eldredge and Charlotte as they discuss Spiritual Warfare. Rejection, addiction, fear and tiny voices that condemn…there IS a cosmic war, and we are the battlefield. We bump into this warfare every day. Sadly, so many don’t recognize this or know how to combat it. This podcast exposes what warfare is and will help you learn to battle against it. It’s time to fight! See you next week! Stay healthy and hopeful!
Episode #8
Join Charlotte and life coach, Julie Miles as they discuss the benefits of life coaching – What is it? Do I need it?
Julie spent 28 years running a successful company with her husband while parenting her growing sons. She then found herself navigating a divorce and a completely new chapter of life.
After a few years of searching for direction, at the encouragement of longtime friend and Lead Self Lead Others founder, Dr. Nathan Baxter, Julie completed the leadership coaching process as a client. The experience was life-changing, and Julie discovered her passion and gifts for coaching others. Tune in to hear Julie share her journey and expertise in the exciting process of self-assessment and growth. She partners with women and people of all ages and backgrounds from around the globe, helping them:
Episode #7
Listen in as Charlotte and her accountability partner and close friend, Linda Pulver, discuss what accountability means in the empty nesting years. Linda and Charlotte have been accountability partners for several years and have experienced many of life’s ups and downs together. Having a confidential, safe, and trusting person to “do life with” has many blessings. Sharing honestly, asking hard questions, and making helpful observations has kept them authentic and living their best lives now. In 2017, Linda founded Hope is Oxygen, a non-profit that offers hope restoration to countless people, including suicide prevention and postvention. Linda also is a top producing realtor, a wife, mom, grandmother, and was the director of children’s ministry at a local celebrate recovery. To reach Linda, visit www.hopeisoxygen.org. Click here to learn more about Charlotte and how to reach her. Please write a review and share your ideas about what you’d like to hear on the podcast. She’d love to hear from you! Stay healthy and hopeful!
Episode #6
Shirley Staires is 84 years young. She’s a mentor to countless women, author of several Christian books, and founded Shepherd’s Fold Ranch. Join Shirley and Charlotte as they discuss the importance of developing a personal mission statement during the empty nesting years. Knowing whose and who you are during these special encore years is life-changing and life-giving. Visit Amazon for Shirley’s books. Click here to learn more about Charlotte and how to reach her. Please write a review and share your ideas about what you’d like to hear on the podcast. She’d love to hear from you! Stay healthy and hopeful!
Episode #5
Welcome back, Sydney Black! Individual, marital & family licensed therapist, Sydney discusses parenting adult children during the encore years. Parental roles are ever-changing during the empty nest years. As parents step to the sidelines, our roles can become more advisory and challenging. Charlotte and Sydney talk about letting go intellectually and emotionally and how to lean in when needed as our relationships with our adult children evolve. Sydney also shares some tips and tools for the holidays and the importance of navigating change while preserving relationships. Sydney is located at 7151 So. Braden in Tulsa. She can be reached at (918) 499-0300 for in-person or virtual appointments. Click here to learn more about Charlotte and how to reach her. Please write a review and share your ideas about what you’d like to hear on the podcast. She’d love to hear from you! Stay healthy and hopeful!
Episode #4
How do men and women process the empty nesting years? “Often VERY differently,” according to licensed marriage and family therapists, Brent and Janis Sharpe. In their book, The Making of a Marriage, they share about the formation of a healthy and thriving marriage. The same principles are needed as men and women navigate this new phase of life. Join Brent and Janis, Charlotte, and her husband, Gordy, share about common male and female responses to the encore years. The empty nest can be fulfilling and freeing as a couple seeks to understand the unique ways each is coping. For virtual or in-person counseling with Brent and/or Janis you may reach them at 918-496-9588 or info@lifconnectioncounseling.com. Their office is located at 7145 So. Braden in Tulsa. Click here to learn more about Charlotte and how to reach her. Please write a review and share your ideas about what you’d like to hear on the podcast. She’d love to hear from you! Stay healthy and hopeful!
Episode #3
Personal trainer and health coach, Jana Love offers inspiration and insight regarding our health and wellness during the empty nest years. Charlotte & Jana discuss what is unique about self-care during this phase of life.
More about Jana:
- Certified Whole Food Plant-Based Health Coach
- Married to husband Rich for 30 years
- Mom to two adult sons.
- BSF Leader for 5 years
- Youth Mentor
- Women’s Ministry Deacon
- Jana Love, M.S. Exercise Physiologist
- Certified Personal Trainer
- Certified Mat Pilates|SPIN|Bender Barre
- Certified Whole Food Plant-Based Health Coach
- Inspire.Motivate.Encourage
- LoveWorks Fitness & Wellness | The Farm
- janarlove@me.com
Click here for more about Charlotte and to reach her regarding this podcast.
Episode #2
Enjoy listening to Laura Dennis, a blogger, speaker, and creator of Almostemptynest.net. She started Almost Empty Nest on a whim after her oldest child left for college. Through her blog and News from the Nest newsletter she inspires, uplifts, and empowers women who are transitioning from a full nest to an empty nest so that they are able to let go, find their way, and celebrate their empty nest.
Charlotte & Laura discuss common feelings of empty nesters. There are many things we need to let go of and things to hang on to.
They also discuss unmet expectations, bad habits & favorite resources Laura has found to be beneficial.
Laura also provides resources for college preparation and helping parents have a positive relationship with their adult children.
She has been married to her college sweetheart Brent for 29 years. Together they have successfully launched three children into the world. They are active members of the Park Church of Christ in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Reach Laura at www.almostemptynest.net
Click here for more about Charlotte and to reach her regarding this podcast.
Episode #1
Individual, marital & family licensed therapist, Sydney Black discusses common empty nest emotions.
People process the empty nest differently and all emotions are real, unique and vary.
Sydney encourages listeners to reconnect with themselves and offers tips about how to navigate relationships during this phase with family, friends, aging parents & others.
The empty nest years can be the best years for rediscovering & reinventing yourself, finding new roles and purposes and investing in meaningful people and passions.
Sydney is located at: 7151 So. Braden in Tulsa.
She can be reached at: (918) 499-0300 for in person or virtual appointments.
Click here for more about Charlotte and to reach her regarding this podcast.