In this episode, Brenda and Amelia chat about the challenges and joys of the holiday season when expectations are high and traditions are changing. In this episode, you'll learn to ✅ Pause to consider your legacy and values. ✅ Do what fits your family in this season. ✅ Establish new memories while enjoying the stories of old. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fledgeparentforum 📌 Resources Mentioned: Fledge: Launching Your Kids Without Losing Y...
Jan 06, 2025•25 min•Season 6Ep. 7
In this episode, Brenda and Amelia discuss the "unsettledness" that comes with midlife and adult children growing into their own lives. Much like crossing a bridge, there may come feelings of instability or vulnerability, but firm ground is found in: ✅ Knowing God is working in your child's life. ✅ Being present in the now instead of wishing for what was or worrying about what might be. ✅ Knowing God and that his Word is true no matter what the circumstances. Join the Midlife Moms Community on F...
Jan 06, 2025•31 min•Season 6Ep. 8
In this conversation, Brenda and Amelia discuss what it looks like to be present in your kid's life now that they are older and out on their own. In this conversation, discover: ✅ How to set expectations for involvement for each side. ✅ How to respect their boundaries and what to do if those are crossed. ✅ How to know what they need from you now that your role as a parent is shifting. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fledgeparentforum ➡️ Connect with c...
Dec 09, 2024•29 min•Season 6Ep. 6
In this episode, Brenda and Amelia talk about the reality of changing seasons and how a new chapter inevitably brings an ending to the previous chapter. Remember that: ✅ Endings can trigger unexpected emotions and hit at unexpected times. ✅ Appreciating WHAT IS instead of wishing for WHAT WAS can help you enjoy the present. ✅ Parents and children react drastically different to changes and endings of seasons. ✅ You are not alone in this. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https://www....
Nov 25, 2024•27 min•Season 6Ep. 5
In this episode, Brenda and Amelia share what they wished they would've known as they entered their 40s and how this new season of midlife has surprised them with new opportunities and confidence. In this conversation, think through: ✅ Midlife is not just an end of an era, but the beginning of a new opportunities and pursuits. ✅ Midlife can reveal values and priorities. ✅ Midlife can bring with it a new margin of time and energy to pursue new or postponed joys. ✅ Midlife cannot be planned but yo...
Nov 04, 2024•29 min•Season 6Ep. 4
In this conversation, Brenda and Amelia discuss the challenges and importance of knowing when and how to step back or aside in your children’s lives. In this conversation, discover: ✅ How to encourage your children to build a support structure of their own. ✅ The importance of building your own new support structure for this season. ✅ Why it’s not your “right” to have a certain level of involvement. ✅ Where to turn your eyes and focus instead. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https:/...
Oct 21, 2024•34 min•Season 6Ep. 3
In this conversation, Brenda and Amelia discuss the often uncomfortable, awkward, and insecure stage that midlife can be. Maybe it’s the “junior high” of aging! In this conversation, discover: ✅ How to begin painting on your new blank canvas of life. ✅ How to start navigating the “new features” physically and relationally. ✅ Systems to begin moving forward without always looking backward. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fledgeparentforum 📌 Resources ...
Oct 07, 2024•30 min•Season 6Ep. 2
In this conversation, Brenda and Amelia catch up on all that midlife throws at you in a short span of time and how disorientating it can be. From sending kids back to college to starting (another) senior year to helping young adults adjust to a new season, no wonder nothing feels normal anymore! In this conversation, discover: ✅ Healthy places to process your emotions and grief. ✅ How every year (or sometimes week) is different and new. ✅ The destabilizing effects of this in-between season for y...
Sep 23, 2024•29 min•Season 6Ep. 1
Co-hosts Amelia Rhodes and Brenda Yoder chat about Brenda’s new book, “Uncomplicated: Simple Secrets for a Compelling Life." Amelia and Brenda chat about: The three changes in culture that lead to the book. How God’s natural processes still work even in our fast-paced culture. Biblical principles that apply to daily processes. How uncomplicating your life can happen anywhere a person lives. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fledgeparentforum Pick up Ame...
Feb 26, 2024•31 min
Co-host Brenda Yoder chats with a new Midlife Mom, Amy Yoder. They discuss what it’s like to arrive in your early 40’s and the challenges and priorities of newer midlife moms. Listen as they discuss: How social media has been a part of new the millennial parenting experience. Not fearing midlife, but embracing where you are. How to reminisce with your kids today rather than later in life. Living a full, balanced life as a working woman and mom. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https:...
Feb 12, 2024•31 min
Co-hosts Amelia Rhodes and Brenda Yoder talk about empty spaces, both physically and in a mother’s heart, that occur when kids leave home. Amelia and Brenda chat about: Changes in family systems. How to feel settled when you feel unsettled. How to be autonomous, yet available. Choosing to grow rather than be stuck in the past. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fledgeparentforum Pick up Amelia and Brenda’s books: Uncomplicated: Simple Secrets for a Compe...
Jan 29, 2024•30 min
Co-hosts Amelia Rhodes and Brenda Yoder talk about the challenges of physical and spiritual wellness in midlife. Amelia and Brenda chat about: Unexpected midlife changes. The importance of yearly doctor visits. Listening to you body. How to be gentle with yourself. Practical examples of caring for yourself. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fledgeparentforum Pick up Amelia and Brenda’s books: Uncomplicated: Simple Secrets for a Compelling Life by Brenda...
Jan 15, 2024•29 min
Co-hosts Amelia Rhodes and Brenda Yoder talk about handling loss and changes during the holiday season. Amelia and Brenda chat about: Accepting changes. New ways to connect when routines and traditions change. Core lies and fears. Avoiding comparisons and high expectations. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fledgeparentforum Pick up Amelia and Brenda’s books: Uncomplicated: Simple Secrets for a Compelling Life by Brenda L. Yoder Fledge: Launching your K...
Dec 11, 2023•25 min
Co-hosts Amelia Rhodes and Brenda Yoder talk about holiday expectations when it comes to kids, parents, and get togethers. Amelia and Brenda chat about: Letting go of expectations. Creating a culture of home where children will want to come back to. The idea of invitations vs. expectations. Navigating extended families and holiday gatherings. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fledgeparentforum Pick up Amelia and Brenda’s books: Fledge: Launching your Ki...
Nov 27, 2023•35 min
Co-hosts Amelia Rhodes and Brenda Yoder talk about midlife irritation–something that came up between them in a real life conversation. Amelia and Brenda chat about: What things are annoying in midlife. The role of hormones, stage of life, mental health, and socialization for women. How to advocate for yourself and your needs. How to hunt for humor. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fledgeparentforum Pick up Amelia and Brenda’s books: Fledge: Launching y...
Nov 13, 2023•26 min
Co-hosts Amelia Rhodes and Brenda Yoder talk about how navigating relationships with parents and also children make it feel like you’re in the panini generation– often "hardpressed on every side, but living right there in the middle!" Amelia and Brenda chat about: The whiplash and revolving door of change in activities. Communication with college students. Following midlife dreams and the courage to invest in yourself. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/...
Oct 30, 2023•30 min
Brenda Yoder interviews co-host Amelia Rhodes about the many changes in her midlife, especially launching her oldest into college! In this episode, Amelia and Brenda chat about: How our parents’ decisions affect us and how our decisions affect our children. The importance of physical spaces and a place to land. How to enjoy a new era of creating and learning. How to foster autonomous relationships with our parents and also our children. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https://www.fa...
Oct 16, 2023•29 min
Midlife mom Brenda Yoder sits down with Midlife Mom Jamelle Godlewski, discussing how to handle your worst nightmare, which for Jamelle was her daughter’s recent suicide attempt. In this episode, you’ll glean wisdom about: How important cultivated community is in times of crisis. How to support your adult child after a crisis. Facing your worst nightmare and walking with others through it. God’s faithfulness. Connect with Jamelle at: FB @JamelleGodlewski.Leader Instagram @Jamelle Godlewski www.l...
Oct 02, 2023•27 min•Season 5Ep. 2
Midlife mom Brenda Yoder sits down with Midlife Mom Kim Mishler to discuss the question, “Which is harder as a parent, parenting a five year old, or parenting teens and young adults? In this episode, you’ll glean wisdom about: ✅Shifting from problem-solving fixing to stepping aside and letting you kids figure out life. ✅How to be quiet so your kids feel confident rather than inadequate. ✅How to let Scripture and God’s character shape you as you walk with you adult kids. Connect with Kim at https...
Sep 18, 2023•26 min•Season 5Ep. 1
In this conversation, Brenda interviews Tricia Goyer on her new book co-authored with Robin Jones Gunn: Before You Meet Your Future Spouse. Discover how to: ✅ Equip your teen or young adult daughter to have a healthy perception of herself. ✅ Help your daughter focus on her strengths and interests. ✅ Intentionally build your relationship with your daughter. ✅ Use this book to help encourage your daughter to follow God's Will for her life. Connect with Tricia Goyer https://triciagoyer.com https://...
Jun 12, 2023•32 min•Season 4Ep. 12
In this conversation, Amelia interviews Sarah Broady. Sarah is a wife and mother to three boys, including one with autism. She is a writer, advocate, speaker, and podcaster for her podcast, A Special Hope, available on her website ( Hope in Autism ) and any podcast platform. In this conversation Sarah shares about preparing to launch her son with autism. She offers encouragement for: ✅ not putting your child in a box. ✅ leaning in your support systems. ✅ walking alongside parents with neurodiver...
Jun 05, 2023•31 min•Season 4Ep. 11
In this conversation, Brenda and Amelia chat about May being the season of big endings such as graduations, as both are experiencing high school and college graduations. Discover how to: ✅ relate to seniors who are adults, but not quite yet! ✅ walk in new, vulnerable spaces with family changes. ✅ manage expectations for big life events. ✅ fledge your children, the subject of Brenda’s book “Fledge, Launching Your Kids Without Losing Your Mind.” Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https:/...
May 22, 2023•33 min•Season 4Ep. 10
In this conversation, Brenda interviews Melanie Springer Mock, author of Finding Our Way Forward; When the Children We Love Become Adults. Discover how to: ✅ Have grace for yourselves and your kids. ✅ Forge new, stronger relationships with your adult children. ✅ Foster your calling and that of your adult child. ✅ Better understand your Gen Z young adult. Join Melanie Mock Springer and check out her other books and resources at www.melaniespringermock.com Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebo...
May 15, 2023•28 min•Season 4Ep. 9
In this conversation, Brenda interviews Lori Wildenberg, author of Messy Hope: Help Your Child Overcome Anxiety, Depression, or Suicidal Ideation. Discover how to: ✅ Talk with your child about hard mental health topics. ✅ Create interdependence rather than independence. ✅ Foster realism and resilience in your child. ✅ Feel empowered as a parent whose child struggles with mental health. Connect with Lori Wildenberg and her other books and resources at www.loriwildenberg.com Join the Midlife Moms ...
May 08, 2023•30 min•Season 4Ep. 8
In this conversation, Brenda and Amelia catch up after a podcast break, discussing the busyness and revolving door of emotions and events during midlife. Discover how to: ✅ Manage time to be more present with family. ✅ Manage work responsibilities. ✅ Navigate midlife shifts and changes. ✅ Process varying emotions. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fledgeparentforum 📌 Resources Mentioned: Fledge: Launching Your Kids Without Losing Your Mind by Brenda Yo...
May 01, 2023•30 min•Season 4Ep. 7
In this conversation, Brenda interviews leader & kingdom influencer Jamelle Godlewski. Jamelle is a youth advocate, a midlife mom to a Gen Z-er, and a Masters Graduate of Leadership & Evangelism from Wheaton College. She and Brenda talk about several facets of understanding Generation Z. Discover how to: ✅ Understand the culture of Generation Z. ✅ Communicate with our Gen Z kids. ✅ Be more gentle with Gen Z kids. ✅ Release our Gen Z kids even if we are unsure of their capabilities. Join ...
Feb 27, 2023•28 min•Season 4Ep. 6
In this conversation, Brenda and Midlife Mindset Coach Pamela Henkleman talk about: ✅ The sunny side and opportunities of an empty nest. ✅ Encouragement for women who feel lost in midlife. ✅ The prodigal child and how to love a child who has walked away from Christianity. ✅ New ways to engage with your spouse in the empty nest. 📌 Resources Mentioned: Grab Pamela’s free guide, “Your Kids Are Grown... Now What?” https://view.flodesk.com/pages/6398da43eaedbb325a77626a Instagram: https://instagram....
Feb 13, 2023•33 min•Season 4Ep. 5
In this conversation, Brenda and Amelia talk about several facets of midlife mental health. Discover how to: ✅ Recognize signs of mental health issues. ✅ Be proactive rather than reactive to your mental health needs. ✅ Be a friend to others who may struggle in ways you do not regarding mental health. ✅ Be more gentle with yourself as a midlife mom who was socialized to do everything for others and not care for yourself. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups...
Jan 30, 2023•34 min•Season 4Ep. 4
In this conversation, Brenda and Amelia continue the conversation about what’s on the horizon and how to focus on staying in the present. Discover how to: ✅ Set aside your neverending busyness to be present with your family’s current needs. ✅ Handle your changing emotions and uncertainties in midlife. ✅ Develop a deeper walk with God amidst stress and unknowns in your children’s lives. ✅ Practically transfer your faith to your daily midlife life. Join the Midlife Moms Community on Facebook: http...
Jan 16, 2023•28 min•Season 4Ep. 3
In this conversation, Brenda and Amelia talk about the new life experiences facing high school seniors, college students, and young adults. Discover how to: ✅ take a guiding role, rather than controling role, in your child’s college, career, and life choices. ✅ dispel anxiety your child (and you) may have over life decisions significant life decisions. ✅ encourage your young adult if they are unsure about their present and future. ✅ equip your child to grow and foster resilience. Join the Midlif...
Jan 02, 2023•30 min•Season 4Ep. 2
