Life after Kids with Drs. Brooke and Lynne

One of the biggest struggles for moms is connecting with our older kids on a deeper level to improve our relationship as they leave the nest. In this episode of Life after Kids with Doctors Brooke and Lynne, we delve deep into the complexities of connecting with grown children. This discussion serves as a guide for parents who yearn to maintain and strengthen the bond with their children as they transition into adulthood. We provide insights and practical advice as a resource for parents navi...

In the latest episode of Life after Kids, we welcome you into an intimate and nostalgic conversation that takes a delightful stroll down memory lane. Join us in a lively discussion about the quirks, the culture, and the cherished memories that define our experiences of motherhood and the evolution of personal technology from our childhood years.This episode touches on the heartfelt simplicity of Mother's Days past while reflecting on the joys of motherhood and the significance of Mother's Day...

No matter how old we get or how old our kids get, we never STOP WORRYING ABOUT THEM! Worrying is often what mothers do best…In this heartfelt and genuine discussion, we dive into the universal experience of parental worry as their children grow older and gain independence. We explore how to cope with children leaving for college and embarking on their lives beyond the family home, offering insight to listeners navigating similar situations.The episode of Life after Kids opens with our typical...

In this episode of Life after Kids, we discuss how to find motivation and purpose when you have more time on your hands, particularly after entering the empty nest phase of life. We explore the complexities of adjusting to life when the busyness of raising children subsides, offering tangible advice and insights to those searching for fulfillment in this new chapter.Key Takeaways:Parkinson's Law: Work expands to fill the available time, illustrating why you may feel less productive when you h...

It’s said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. If that’s the case, of all the people we think beautiful, we should be enamored with what we see in the mirror most of all.You’re invited into an honest and nuanced discussion about body image, aging, and self-acceptance on this week’s episode of Life after Kids. Delve with us into what it means to feel comfortable in your own skin as you get older and how to navigate the changes that come with age, including physical appearance...

In this engaging episode of Life after Kids, we unpack the essentials of creating successful partnerships and collaborations, whether in business, personal relationships, or friendly endeavors. Today’s conversation is perfectly tailored for women who are at the crossroads of self-expression and expansion after their children have grown up. Key Takeaways:Partnerships should come naturally and not be forced, highlighting the compatibility factor as a green flag.A successful partnership mus...

In this episode Life after Kids with Drs. Brooke and Lynne, we dive into the complexities of relationships, particularly the dynamic between adult children and their aging parents. As members of the "sandwich generation," many adults face the dual responsibilities of caring for their kids and their own parents simultaneously—a situation ripe for emotional challenges and opportunities for personal growth. We maneuver through the tough terrain of FORGIVENESS, a topic that could not be more rele...

If you’re feeling a bit lost now that the kids are grown and you want to get to know yourself again, consider travel and new hobbies as a means of self-discovery and growth.In this episode of Life after Kids, we explore how to find joy and meaning in activities such as solo travel and engaging in new hobbies. And, we offer practical tips and considerations for those contemplating solo adventures, from ensuring safety on trips to maximizing the growth and learning opportunities that travel off...

Don’t let these 2 things stop you from living a fabulous life now that your kids are grown!On today’s episode of Life after Kids, we’re delving into the common hurdles of jealousy and pride, discussing how these two things can rob us of joy during a pivotal time of life transition. And we’re having a candid discussion about the nuances of finding happiness after the kids have moved on. We combine personal stories, reflections, and actionable advice to make this conversation a must...

We all want to be fulfilled and happy in this phase of life, but somedays it feels like we’re swimming upstream. There are a few basic things that all of us need to flourish in this phase of life, but many of us don’t know what they are. In this episode of "Life after Kids," we’re talking about the primary needs that are fundamental at all stages of life but take on particular significance now that the kids are growing up and we’re entering a new season of life. It’s importa...

Would you agree that bigger kids mean bigger problems? In this phase of life, one of our biggest struggles is learning how to best parent our older kids. We all seem to be getting a crash course in letting go. In this engaging episode of Life after Kids we’re examining the evolving challenges of parenting as children grow older, moving from the simplicities of potty training to the complexities of existential issues in adulthood. We illuminate the timeless struggle of ...

If you’re ready to explore what’s next now that the kids are grown and you want your presence to make an impactful difference, it might be time to get out of your own way and leave your comfort zone behind!In this episode, we’re having an honest conversation about embracing risks and the importance of personal growth in midlife. Seeking comfort may no longer be the ultimate goal. Instead, stepping outside of our comfort zone can lead to meaningful experiences and a fulfilled life.Key Ta...

Is there anything that keeps a mom of grown kids up more at night than worrying about whether you prepared them enough to be independent in the world? This is an issue for so many of us and let’s face it, “mom guilt” is real, so, in this episode of Life after Kids we’re diving into the often-challenging journey of parenting older kids and the process of letting go of the controls as they transition into adulthood. Dr. Brooke shares a personal story that sparks a rich and relatable discu...

If there’s one thing that will keep us from finding new purpose in this phase of life more than anything else, it’s the fear of not being perfect or good enough followed by a whopping dose of procrastination!In this week’s episode of Life after Kids we unravel the intricate relationship between procrastination and perfectionism. We discuss how these behaviors not only affect women but also pose a universal challenge to personal growth and happiness. And, we give practical strategies for...

The most commom cause of death in women over 40 is heart and cardiovascular disease. After all these years, the number one threat to our health and our life is heart issues. And since it’s Valentine’s Week and American Heart Month, we thought a discussion on best practices for keeping your heart healthy naturally would be prudent. In this episode, you’ll hear our trademark banter, personal anecdotes, and expert perspectives on maintaining a healthy heart through practical li...

We’re breaking down our unique Find Your Purpose Quiz so you’ll have a better understanding of your results and what to do with them We meticulously break down the possible outcomes of the quiz, and we provide actionable advice on how you can leverage this newfound knowledge to pursue meaningful and fulfilling endeavors that align with your natural abilities and goals. Peppered with personal anecdotes and expert tips, this episode will encourage you to reimagine your identity and potent...

Most of us struggle with feelings of loneliness and even grief in this phase of life, we’re tackling the often-under-acknowledged issue of finding joy and fulfillment after the kids have grown and flown the nest. This episode of Life After Kids explores the complex emotions and challenges that arise when parents are left to rediscover their own identities and interests.Key Takeaways:The importance of self-reflection and personal growth, especially when transitioning to a life with less ...

Fear is at the root of so many issues in midlife. There are so many things that we dwell on and we're fearful about that we just need to let go of already!In this episode of Life after Kids, we delve into the complexities of fear through the lens of the Enneagram, an ancient personality framework. And we have a profound discussion about how understanding one's Enneagram type, particularly type six, which is prone to fear and anxiety, can unlock paths to personal freedom and healing.Key ...

Hormone shifts, emotional upheaval, and big life changes…Without a doubt, this season of life has its own set of struggles. The questions we must ask ourselves are, “what are we going to do about it?”, and “How are we going to choose to handle the difficult times?”In today’s episode of Life after Kids, we’re discussing the importance of accepting and embracing the times in this season of life when we are not okay. And we’re talking about discerning between when we need to push thr...

Why is it at our age and with our experience so many of us still tend to minimize ourselves? In this episode of Life after Kids, we’re discussing the importance of focusing on our strengths rather than weaknesses.Key Takeaways:Focusing on strengths and talents leads to greater happiness and fulfillment.Comparing ourselves to others and focusing on weaknesses can hinder personal growth.Understanding and embracing our own strengths allows us to appreciate and support others.Don’t minimize...

Have you taken time to think through all the incredible things you’d like to do in 2024? Have you thought about TRAVELING in the New Year? In this episode, we’re discussing all things travel, including planning, saving, being intentional, and our favorite destinations! As with any goal you have in life, you either have a plan or you plan to fail. Travel is no different. Listen to this episode for help planning out your travel in the year ahead!Read our artic...

There’s a time and place for everything and sometimes you just need a light-hearted fluff conversation and an opportunity to relax, and binge watch a little tv. In this episode of Life after Kids, we’re keeping it casual and discussing our favorite binge-worthy shows just in time for the holiday breakKey Takeaways:Historical dramas like "Downton Abbey" and "Poldark" provide a glimpse into the past and can be educational.Comedies like "New Girl" and "Ted Lasso" offer lighthearted entertainment...

What if we told you, it’s possible to eat the foods you love during the holidays without suffering for it in January? In this episode of, we’re sharing practical tips for managing weight during the holiday season, so you don’t get to the New Year feeling inflamed, bloated, 10 lbs. heavier, and just plain blah.Key Takeaways:Focus on physical health rather than appearance during the holidays.Slow down when eating & chew food well to aid digestion.Start meals with protein to feel fulle...

Be still all of our hearts! It’s the holiday season and if you’re like us, you know how rapidly time is marching on and you want to make the most of every moment you have with your grown kiddos! Whether your kids are in school, coming home from college, or out on their own and visiting for the holiday, you’ll want to listen to this week’s episode of Life after Kids as we discuss ways to make this time of year more meaningful and memorable with your older children. We s...

How is the holiday season possibly upon us again?! Is it just us, or is time flying by now that the kids are getting older? If you’re looking for a unique gift this holiday season for yourself or another special woman in your life, we got you covered. Whether it’s a bestie, a sister, or your mother, we can help with the perfect present. On this episode of Life after Kids, we’re sharing our favorite gift ideas for the holiday season, and we personally use and love every...

In this phase of life, the simple things seem to become more and more important. And while we love to enjoy a warm beverage almost any time of day, what you choose to sip on matters. When it comes to your health in midlife, not all hot drinks are created equal. In this episode, we discuss the downsides of coffee and offer alternative hot beverages that are both delicious and beneficial for health. This holiday season, be sure to take moments for yourself to rest ...

You cannot be in a state of fear or anger and gratitude at the same time. So, if you’re heading into Thanksgiving week with angst, anger, or stress, it’s the perfect time to stop for a moment and think about the blessings in your life. As disheartening as the current state of the world may seem, there’s still always something to be grateful for, and If you look for it, you will find it. In today’s episode of Life after Kids we’re discussing how to find gratitude in this phase...

Today we’re discussing the topic of inflammation and its impact on overall health. Inflammation is the root cause of many diseases and can occur in various parts of the body, including the gut, brain, and blood vessels. The older we get, the more importance it becomes to understand inflammation and take preventative measures to reduce chronic inflammation.Key Takeaways:Sugar and certain oils, such as canola oil and soybean oil, are highly inflammatory.Alternatives to sugar include raw honey, ...

Today on Life after Kids, we’re discussing the practical uses for essential oils in the fall and holiday season. We highlight our favorite scents to diffuse in lieu of candles, discuss the best oils for immune system support, and touch on essential oils for keeping your home clean and disinfected. Plus, we discuss our favorite oils for stress relief. Key Takeaways:Essential oils are concentrated extractions from plants and have both pleasant scents and health ben...

Now that the kids are growing up and you’re entering a new phase of life, you might be looking for ways to make a difference or have a bigger impact on the world around you. As we often say, having a sense of purpose and meaning not only leads to more happiness, but also better health and a longer life. Sometimes the easiest way to have an impact on the world around you is simply performing a small act of kindness. On today’s episode of The Life after Kids Podcast, we’re having a ...

If you’ve ever been in a situation where you wanted to create change for yourself, like losing weight or starting an exercise routine, but you just couldn’t bridge the gap or stick to it, you have to listen to today’s episode of Life after Kids. In this episode, we’re discussing the key thing needed to create lasting change in midlife, and that’s our identity, or how we see ourself. And, we provide examples of how our self-perception can affect our ability to achieve our goals.Key Takeaways:O...

In Life after Kids, we talk a lot about who we want to be and what goals and desires we have for ourselves now that the kids are grown. Have you ever stopped to consider that your home environment can play an important role in achieving your goals because your environment impacts your emotional health, how you manage stress, and how you think and process. In this episode of Life after Kids, we’re discussing the importance of creating a beautiful and organized home environment and how it impac...

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------What would you say is the single most important factor needed for a long, fulfilling life? Health? Exercise? Vitamins and Minerals? Money?...You could argue that each of these are necessary in one way or another, but current research out of Harvard tells us that the main thing everyone must have for a long and happy life is love and connection! So today on Life after Kids, we’re breaking down the horm...

Your health and wellbeing should be a top priority in this phase of life, and if you want to age vibrantly then you may want to consider alternative health care. There are many types of health care providers that can help you with things like nutrition, supplements, healthy life style, and even stress management. In this episode of Life after Kids, we’re breaking down the various types of alternative health care providers to help clear up any confusion or questions you might have....

On today’s episode of Life after Kids, we’re discussing the importance of asking for help and the challenges that come with it. We explore the societal pressures that make women feel like they have to do it all and the guilt that comes with asking for assistance. We also share personal stories and examples to illustrate the benefits of asking for help and the positive impact it can have on relationships and personal growth.Key Takeaways:1. Asking for help is a sign o...

In this phase of life, it’s not uncommon to feel a little more drained or worn out than you once did. Loss of energy can be due to many things, but very often, it’s as simple as not getting the proper nutrients from our diet. Therefore, it’s important to prioritize supplements for optimal health in midlife. On today’s episode of Life after Kids, we’re discussing the best daily supplements for better health and energy in midlife. Key Takeaways:1. Ph...

In today’s episode of The Life after Kids Podcast, we’re discussing the controversial topic of chivalry and femininity. We explore the historical origins of chivalry and how it has evolved over time. We question whether or not there is a reason to be concerned about the current state of gender roles and the potential for going too far in the pursuit of equality. We believe it’s important to celebrate the differences between men and women while still advocating for equal opportunit...

Most of us know by now that what we eat or put into our body has a huge impact on our health and the way we will age, but, did you know that what we put on our body, what comes in contact with our skin, is every bit as important to our health and aging as the food we eat. In this week’s episode of The Life after Kids Podcast, we discuss the importance of using non-toxic beauty products. You’ll learn how the chemicals in many beauty products can be harmful to our health, especially as we...

When our kids were little, this time of year always brought a sense of nostalgia and a little bit of heart ache, realizing that another summer flew by and the kids were one more year older. These days, with grown kids, back to school brings even more nostalgia and even bigger heart ache, especially if you’re dropping off a kid at college for the first time or heading into the last few years of high school. So, we’re here to help! In this episode of The Life after Kids Podcast, we discuss...

Most women, even at our age, would get an A+ in people pleasing. Would you agree?After all of these years, and all of our life experience, many of us want to be accepted and feel connected so badly that we hide our true selves or attempt to be something that we aren’t. In this episode of The Life after Kids Podcast, we’re discussing the masks that women often wear and the personas we present to the world. We explore the reasons behind these masks, such as the fear of rejection, an...

Life is too short not to drink good wine.Here’s the deal, alcohol really isn’t good for you, there’s just no way around it, so don’t make the mistake of thinking wine is a health food. However, sometimes there’s nothing quite like enjoying a fabulous glass of wine, especially with a delicious meal. It’s enjoyable and relaxing. The good news is, there are healthier and safer ways to enjoy a glass or two of wine, and on today’s episode of the Life after Kids Podcast, we’re dis...

As the kids grow up, many of us find ourselves with more free time, and we’re left wondering what to do next. Travel is a great way to learn more about the world, energize and grow yourself, and even strengthen relationships with your spouse/partner or friends. Now is the time to take advantage of all this phase of life has to offer and one of those things is indeed travel. So, on today’s episode of The Life after Kids Podcast, we’re discussing the art and science of packing...

Female friendships in midlife can be a challenge, particularly in the context of comparison culture. Comparing ourselves to others can hinder our ability to form meaningful connections with other women. Not only that, but comparing ourselves and our lives to others can leave us feeling inadequate and unhappy. In today’s world of technology, social media, and way too much information at our fingertips, feeling less than enough and dissatisfied with life is more common than ever before. &...

You just may not know it yet, but this is very important to your well-being in midlife. This isn’t an idea, it’s actually a fact…We have not one, but two brains. There’s the brain in our head of course, but there’s also the brain in our gut, and the two are very closely connected via the longest nerve in our body, the vagus nerve. The Gut Brain Connection is not only important to our physical health, but it’s also massively connected to our emotional health. So, on today’s episode of th...

Intermittent fasting is a powerful tool for physical health and should be considered as part of a wellness routine in midlife. Benefits of intermittent fasting include stem cell regeneration, improved digestive health, weight loss, balanced blood sugar levels, and better hormone health. We’re discussing all of this and more in this week’s episode of The Life after Kids Podcast. Giving the body significant breaks between meals with intermittent fasting, enables it to enter a state ...

Gone are the days of a shared household phone hardwired to the wall, and ridiculously slow dial up internet that tried our patience. Today, we have our very own cell phone that goes with us wherever we are, and we have the luxury of WIFI that keeps our computers, tablets, phones, and other technology running at high speed. And while the convenience is fabulous, these advances in technology don’t come without downfalls, because all of these devices emit continual electromagne...

Sleep can certainly be elusive in this phase of life. Whether it be difficulty falling asleep or difficulty staying asleep, most of us have struggled with our sleep at one point or another. So, in this episode of The Life After Kids Podcast, we’re discuss the importance of the "golden hour" before sleep, how it can impact your subconscious mind, help you sleep better, and improve the start of your day the next morning. The golden hour is the last hour to hour and a half before bed, and ...

In this episode of Life After Kids we discuss optimizing blood sugar with natural ways to curb a sweet tooth. We’ve focused on health and wellness with our patients for over 20 years, specializing in helping women optimize their health and hormones, balancing blood sugar is a huge piece to this puzzle which is why finding healthy substitutes that are delicious to combat your craving for sweets is so important.Learn healthier ways to indulge in sweets, rather than consuming refined sugar...

In this episode of Life after Kids, Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne emphasize the importance of investing in relationships with significant others for a more fulfilling life as the kids grow up. They recommend and discuss the book "Strength Based Marriages" by Jimmy Evans and Alan Kelsey for practical tips on improving relationships. The hosts stress the need for love and connection as a basic human need and acknowledge that those in abusive or struggling relationships may need therapy or interventi...

On this episode of Life after Kids, we’re discussing practical tools for living longer. And, we’re breaking down the key points to the little energy factories in our cells called mitochondria. You’ll learn easy ways to keep your cells and mitochondria working efficiently so you can achieve better longevity and metabolism. Note that mitochondria are microscopic organelles that break down the food we eat on a cellular level to provide our body with energy. If your mitochondri...

On today’s episode of Life after Kids, we’re discussing the power of epigenetics to affect both our health and the way we age. Epigenetics is a term used to describe how the environment can influence gene expression. Our environment and life style choices influence what genes are expressed and can make a difference in whether or not the gene is expressed in a harmful way. This is why our daily choices are so important in regards to our health, well-being, and longevity. For example, even if a...

On today’s episode of The Life After Kids Podcast, we’re discussing the importance of time management. Time is the one resource that cannot be replaced or regained, and the contrast of the pandemic slowing things down followed by life speeding up again has made time feel even faster. Time management is important for reducing stress, maintaining emotional balance, and increasing productivity. It’s a form of selfcare, just like exercise and eating well. Taking control of our time and managing o...

On today’s episode of Life After Kids, the topic of discussion is setting a daily code of conduct in order to have more meaning in midlife. This code of conduct aims to bring more joy, intention, and purposeful emotions into your day. We’re in our late 40s, with Dr. Lynne turning 50 next year, and we both agree that turning 30 and 50 is rougher than 20 and 40. One way to overcome emotional distress and doldrums in this phase of life is with a daily code of conduct. A code of conduct is ...

On today’s episode of Life after Kids, we’re discussing the topic of parenting teen and young adult children. As our kids grow up, we can struggle with the balance between having a friendship relationship with them and still being the parent. It can be hard to establish and maintain boundaries with older children and teens. Being firm and consistent with our expectations and rules while also being understanding as we navigate our kids’ emotional and physical changes is so importan...

Hi! We’re Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne, best friends and cofounders of Life after Kids, a community for midlife women seeking to make the next phase of life the best yet, with more meaning and purpose, better health, emotional balance, and natural beauty. Today is the very first episode of the new Life After Kids Podcast. In this episode, we introduce ourselves, share our background and some of our history together, and explain why we decided to start the podcast- to share our knowledge and...