The Empty Nest: Mothering Adult Children

In this episode of "Motherhood Unveiled," host Ashley welcomes menopause consultant and coach Lisa Boate to discuss the evolving identity of mothers as children grow into adulthood. Lisa shares her personal journey through empty nesting, grief, and rediscovering herself beyond motherhood. The conversation explores the intersection of midlife transitions, perimenopause, and societal expectations, emphasizing the need for honest dialogue about the challenges and joys of later-stage motherhood. Lisa advocates for embracing one’s full identity and breaking the myth that a woman’s value lies solely in her role as a mother.

Meet Lisa

Lisa Boate is the Founder of Liberated Menopause Consulting and Coaching and the host of the Transforming 45 podcast. With over two decades of experience in education and a deep understanding of the systemic challenges women face in midlife, Lisa empowers individuals and organizations to navigate menopause with confidence, clarity, and compassion. Through keynote speaking, coaching, and her signature "Doctor Ready" sessions, Lisa helps women reclaim their quality of life and supports workplaces in becoming menopause-empowered environments.

Timestamps

Lisa’s Personal Introduction and Identity (00:03:20)

The Evolution of Self and Motherhood (00:05:06)

Being vs. Doing in Motherhood (00:06:43)

Summer Camp and Identity Through Life Stages (00:08:44)

Motherhood as a Destination (00:12:14)

Transitioning Beyond the “Happy Ending” (00:14:03)

The Ongoing Evolution of Parenting (00:18:16)

Letting Go and Redefining Roles (00:20:05)

Navigating the Empty Nest Transition (00:25:30)

Grief and the Nuance of Motherhood (00:28:23)

Processing Grief and Major Life Changes (00:34:51)

Redesigning Life and Embracing Joy (00:38:47)

Encouraging Individuality in the Next Generation (00:40:47)

Motherhood’s Role in Midlife Crisis (00:43:36)

Intersection of Motherhood and Menopause (00:47:20)

Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause (00:48:25)

Societal Narratives and Suffering in Silence (00:54:29)

The “Superhero Mom” Myth (00:56:00)

The Greatest Gift of Motherhood (00:59:30)

Dispelling the Myth of Motherhood as Value (01:01:35)

Links

1. Connect with Lisa Boate: Liberated Menopause Consultant and Coach
2. Transforming 45 Podcast
3. Postpartum depression article - symptoms can occur well after birth

Connect with Ashley on IG (@ashleybcoach) or LinkedIn
Cover Art: Abigail Murphy Photography