Navigating Empty Nest Grief: Identity, Transitions, and Self-Compassion
In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, delves into the complex emotions surrounding the empty nest transition. Dr. Taylor discusses the profound grief that can accompany this phase of life, even though it's often viewed as a joyful milestone. She addresses how parents, especially those who have been primary caregivers, can experience a seismic shift in their identity, sense of purpose, and daily...
Navigating Empty Nest Grief: Identity, Transitions, and Self-Compassion
In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, delves into the complex emotions surrounding the empty nest transition. Dr. Taylor discusses the profound grief that can accompany this phase of life, even though it's often viewed as a joyful milestone. She addresses how parents, especially those who have been primary caregivers, can experience a seismic shift in their identity, sense of purpose, and daily routines. The episode emphasizes the importance of honoring these feelings of grief, taking time to reconnect with personal desires, and creating new routines. Dr. Taylor shares insights from her clinical experience, offering practical strategies for navigating this new chapter with compassion and support. Listeners are encouraged to feel their emotions, name their grief, and avoid rushing through the transition. The episode closes with an invitation to write letters to past or future selves as a way to reflect on and honor their journey.
00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal
00:26 Understanding Empty Nest Grief
02:44 Client Story: Preparing for the Empty Nest
06:15 Coping Strategies for Empty Nest Grief
08:34 Navigating Relationship Dynamics Post-Empty Nest
09:44 Conclusion and Gentle Invitation
12:24 Resources and Final Thoughts
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Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives.
Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone.
No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through.
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Opening & Closing Music by The Dadicorns
Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor
All Rights Reserved.
This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
