Empty Nexters

The kids are grown and the nest is empty — now what? Join us as we have real conversations on how to find purpose, fulfillment, and joy in your next season of life. What's your next?

38: Do It Afraid 02/09/2026

38: Do It Afraid In this episode, Crystal shares her inspiring journey of surrender, identity, and God’s unshakable faithfulness. Through fear, comparison, grief, and generational healing, Crystal learns what it means to trust God in every season—and to obey Him even when trembling. This episode invites you to embrace courage, break old patterns, and “do it afraid,” knowing God walks beside you every step of the way. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/39534800

37: Anchors Aweigh 01/26/2026

37: Anchors Aweigh Anchors Aweigh is an invitation to let go of what has held us in place—fear, doubt, and old narratives—and step forward with courage into what God is calling us next. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/39534790

36: My Mother, My Mission 01/12/2026

36: My Mother, My Mission When Marsha's plans for freedom were interrupted by a call to care for the mother she barely knew how to love, she faced a life-altering decision. In this powerful episode, hear how obedience to God led to healing, redemption, and a beautiful transformation through caregiving. A story of faith, family, and the unexpected grace found in saying yes. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/39534775

35: Still in the Game 12/29/2025

35: Still in the Game Shelly breaks down the surprising biblical perspective on retirement and why Empty Nexters are never “done”—just re-fired! This uplifting episode blends humor, Scripture, and encouragement for anyone entering or considering their next chapter. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/39534770

34: No More Excuses 12/15/2025

34: No More Excuses This episode challenges us to stop waiting for the “right time” and start saying yes to God right where we are. Nancy’s story proves that age, health, or circumstance don’t disqualify us from serving—every season holds purpose when we stay willing, available, and ready to move for Jesus. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/38629780

33: Stay Calm and Giggle On 12/01/2025

33: Stay Calm and Giggle On Shelly tackles the real struggle of worry—from midnight panic to money mistakes and everything in between.. If worry has been robbing your joy, this episode is your invitation to give it to God—and maybe even giggle a little along the way. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/38629770

32: Elevation Ties 11/17/2025

32: Elevation Ties This episode reminds us that just like aviation relies on experience to stay safely in the air, our spiritual walk depends on tying ourselves to God’s truth. When we anchor to faith instead of fear, we rise above turbulence with His strength and perspective. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/38629730

31: Seasons Change... So Should I? 11/03/2025

31: Seasons Change... So Should I? Seasons Change… So Should I? Drawing from Ecclesiastes 3:1–8, this devotional reflects on embracing life’s shifts—whether planting, waiting, or harvesting—and trusting the Master Gardener to bring beauty in His perfect time. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/38629690

30: Attitudes & Hearing Aids 10/20/2025

30: Attitudes & Hearing Aids Welcome to the messy middle—where you're raising (or launching) adult kids while also caring for aging parents. In this episode, we talk about the tension, tenderness, and tangled emotions of the sandwich generation. If you’ve ever felt stretched thin but still held by grace, this one’s for you. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/38629670

29: Looking Back, Moving Forward 10/06/2025

29: Looking Back, Moving Forward Join Shelly as she takes us down memory lane, celebrating the anchors, teachers, and treasures of year one—and pointing us with joy and purpose toward the ‘next’ still to come! Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/38487380

28: Eyes on the Prize 09/22/2025

28: Eyes on the Prize When panic rises and waves crash, where are your eyes? This episode unpacks the story of Peter walking on water, the sneaky nature of modern-day golden calves, and how we can stay anchored in Jesus when fear creeps in. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/38112745

27: Man, I Need a Pause 09/08/2025

27: Man, I Need a Pause This isn’t your grandma’s talk about menopause—it’s real talk with a side of grace and a sprinkle of humor. “Man, I Need a Pause” explores how to navigate life’s midlife plot twists without losing your cool—or your faith. With insights from Dr. Krista Springston, practical tips, and a reminder we need to laugh, learn, and lean on God through the hot flashes, mood swings, and new beginnings of this season. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/38112760

26: Contentment in your Next 08/25/2025

26: Contentment in your Next In this heartfelt devotional, Felicia shares her journey into contentment as she navigates the empty nest season. From the pressures of early adulthood and single motherhood to the healing found in rest and intimacy with God, she reflects on how true peace comes not from striving, but from trusting God in every season. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/37745285

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOM!!! 08/16/2025

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOM!!! Shelly's kids are crashing the Empty Nexter Podcast (unbeknownst to Shelly) to say HAPPY Birthday and that they are so proud of her and can't wait to see all the amazing things in store for HER next! Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/37745305

25: Rearview 08/11/2025

25: Rearview "Rearview" is a heartfelt reflection on releasing the past to embrace what God is doing now. For anyone navigating life transitions—like an empty nest, aging, or shifting identity—this episode invites you to stop gazing backward and step boldly into your next season with hope, healing, and purpose. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/37745265

24: Grace Through the Years 07/28/2025

24: Grace Through the Years Listen along to this helpful and real conversation with Vera on faith, aging, legacy. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/37386165

23: The Joy of Boundaries in Your Next 07/14/2025

23: The Joy of Boundaries in Your Next This episode explores how setting healthy boundaries—especially in seasons like empty nesting or retirement—is not selfish but sacred. Its protecting your peace... Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! or visit to learn more! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/37386060

22: Find Your People 06/30/2025

22: Find Your People Discover the power of community! True friendships require intentionality, openness, and love. Using the acronym FIND YOUR PEOPLE, we’ll explore how to cultivate meaningful relationships that reflect God’s design. Let’s build connections that encourage, uplift, and grow in faith together Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/36945115

21: Bye Bye Buts 06/16/2025

21: Bye Bye Buts A faith-filled call to ditch the excuses, draw near to Jesus, and boldly step into your God-given purpose—no more ifs, ands, or ‘buts.’ Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/36945055

20: Don't Limit His Scope 06/02/2025

20: Don't Limit His Scope Beth shares a personal journey of feeling unqualified when called to lead a church outreach ministry, struggling with doubt and self-perceived inadequacy. Despite past experience in office work, the gap in technology skills led to hesitation. However, stepping out in faith led to seeing God's provision, wisdom, and guidance in unexpected ways. And not to limit His Scope. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/35822490

19: Calling All Golden Girls 05/19/2025

19: Calling All Golden Girls Aging is a gift, so why is it so hard to embrace? In this episode, Shelly shares how getting older isn’t something to fear—it’s something to look forward to! She talks about having a golden state of mind—a heart full of gratitude, embracing the joy of today, and trusting that God’s grace and purpose are always at work in our lives. Our best years aren’t behind us—they’re still unfolding! Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/35822435

18: Thriving In Your Next 05/05/2025

18: Thriving In Your Next In this episode Mona reflects a personal journey of discovering what thriving and wellbeing look like on an individual level. It explores the importance of self-awareness, intentionality, and faith in navigating life’s challenges—especially during times of transition, like when children leave home. The speaker emphasizes the need for personal clarity about meaning and purpose, independent of societal roles or external expectations. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/35822380

17: I'm Not Afraid Anymore 04/21/2025

17: I'm Not Afraid Anymore I'm not afraid anymore—no longer bound by comparison or insecurity. Instead of chasing someone else’s version of success, we should embrace who God made us to be. Let’s defend our minds from lies, walk in gratitude, and live boldly in our unique purpose. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/35822325

16: Finding Calm in Your Next 04/07/2025

16: Finding Calm in Your Next After years of busyness, caregiving, and striving to meet expectations, Kelley experienced a health crisis that led to a season of rest and self-reflection. Through embracing calm, setting boundaries, and seeking her identity in Christ, she has learned to prioritize her well-being without guilt, recognizing that true peace and joy come from God. No more Fight, flight or freeze… Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/35822250

15: Say Yes to the Word No 03/24/2025

15: Say Yes to the Word No In this episode, Shelly encourages you to "Just Say Yes to the Word NO." This calls for trusting God's guidance by embracing His purpose and setting healthy boundaries. This perspective shifts the focus from relentless striving to intentional living, ensuring that each ‘yes’ aligns with faith, purpose, and the season of life. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/35822160

14: Trusting God in the Waiting 03/10/2025

14: Trusting God in the Waiting In this episode Kowanna reflects on her journey of surrendering her life to God, the pain of fractured family relationships, and the power of persistent prayer over decades. Throughout the conversation, she shares profound spiritual insights, such as trusting God’s timing, acknowledging God's "night shift" work, and speaking life into difficult situations. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/35588665

13: Count it all Joy 02/24/2025

13: Count it all Joy In this episode Shelly shares a heartfelt reflection on the challenges of navigating life’s trials, especially during hard seasons. The phrase Count It All Joy comes from James 1:2. This verse encourages us to let trials produce growth in our lives. Shelly emphasizes the importance of finding joy and peace through God’s presence, patience and praise. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/35390230

12: Adventures in Your Next 02/10/2025

12: Adventures in Your Next In this episode, Shelly sits down with her lifelong friend Sharlott to explore the theme of "Adventure in My Next."Sharlott shares how she is stepping into new adventures and encourages us to embrace the exciting opportunities God places in our path—whether through exploring nature or building meaningful relationships. She reminds us to live with our eyes wide open, ready for the journey ahead. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/35213400

11: Because I Said So 01/27/2025

11: Because I Said So Why is it so hard to siimply trust and obey? This episode of Empty Nexters draws parallels between trusting and obeying authority figures, such as parents, and trusting in God's guidance, even when His plans are unclear. Through biblical examples (like Abraham and Noah), and practical applications, the message emphasizes faith, obedience, and the peace that comes from trusting God’s purpose, even in challenging seasons of life. The episode concludes with encouragement to embrace trust and obedience as a pathway to spiritual growth and fulfillment. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/35005710

10: Fighting for Your Health (Kathy's Journey) 01/13/2025

10: Fighting for Your Health (Kathy's Journey) On this episode of the Empty Nexters Podcast, Shelly welcomes her best friend of over 30 years, Kathy, to share her powerful story of overcoming struggles with weight, self-esteem, and unhealthy habits. Through faith and determination, Kathy found strength to transform her life and health. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about breaking cycles and embracing purpose-driven wellness. Have questions, comments or suggestions for future episode topics? Feel free to reach out! /episode/index/show/26ee8349-1a75-455f-ad29-e15b3d15dcd4/id/34805765

Empty Nexters

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