In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, host Sarah Colbert, creator of West Metro Mom, explores what it really feels like to enter the pre-empty nest stage — that quiet, in-between season when your kids still need you, but not quite in the same way. If you’re a midlife mom navigating the early signs of the empty nest, this episode will help you rediscover your purpose, reimagine your identity, and find peace in the transition. Sarah shares her personal story of noticing the subtle shifts at home, learning to let go of control, and using new pockets of time to reconnect with herself. Through honest reflection and practical encouragement, she reminds us that this season isn’t about losing your purpose — it’s about remembering who you are and what lights you up outside of motherhood. Key Takeaways: Recognizing the Pre-Empty Nest Stage: Spot the subtle signs that your parenting role — and your daily rhythm — are changing. Redefining Your Role: Why this transition can be a powerful chance to rediscover who you are beyond your kids. Embracing the In-Between: How to hold space for both pride and sadness as your teens grow more independent. Practical Shifts: Simple, meaningful ways to use newfound time for reflection, hobbies, or faith growth. Mindset Matters: Why this isn’t the end of something, but the beginning of rediscovering you. About Your Host: Sarah Colbert is the voice behind Midlife Unscripted, a podcast for moms navigating the in-between years — when your kids still need you, but not in the same way. A former journalist turned storyteller and mom of three teens, Sarah helps women rediscover purpose, peace, and confidence in the pre-empty nest years through honest stories, practical conversations, and a little humor along the way. Learn more at westmetromom.com or follow along or Book a FREE call now. If you want more encouragement, join me in the Facebook community, Midlife Moms Connect, or email Sarah anytime at sarah@westmetromom.com Keywords: pre-empty nest stage, midlife moms, rediscover yourself, motherhood identity, empty nest transition, letting go, finding purpose again, midlife confidence, balance and change, parenting teens, motherhood growth, west metro mom, midlife unscripted podcast

Hey moms—are you in that in-between season, wondering what’s next now that your kids are getting older? In this episode, I chat with Karen Johnson, a midlife mom who gave up her career to raise her kids and is now figuring out life after kids, rediscovering herself, and exploring her next chapter. If you’re navigating the pre-empty nest, feeling stuck in your mom identity, or ready to start something new, this conversation is packed with honest encouragement and practical ideas for thriving in midlife. If you loved this episode: Grab Karen's book: What Do I Want to Be When They Grow Up? And Other Thoughts From a 40-Something Mom (purchase book now) Connect with Karen on Facebook Join me in the upcoming four-part series on the pre-empty nest season—starting next week! Share your thoughts in my quick [market research survey]to help shape future episodes and resources for moms in this in-between season. xoSarah__________________________If you want more encouragement, join me in my free Facebook community, Midlife Moms Connect, or email me anytime at sarah@westmetromom.comTo connect or learn more about working with me go to www.westmetromom.com/coaching

Ever feel like you’ve lost touch with the things that used to light you up? I know that feeling all too well. In this episode, I’m sharing how we, as midlife moms, can reignite passions we’ve put on pause—whether that’s painting, journaling, running, baking, reading for fun, or simply doing something that makes us feel alive again. If you’ve been feeling stuck, unmotivated, or like you’ve lost a piece of yourself in the busyness of motherhood, I want you to know—you’re not alone. Together, we’ll walk through simple, doable steps to rediscover your creativity, confidence, and sense of purpose—without guilt, pressure, or perfection. I’ll share what happened when I finally picked up something I hadn't in a long time and how that moment reminded me that my joy matters. You’ll also learn how to carve out time for yourself, why reigniting your passion brings back energy and balance, and how small sparks of creativity can help you feel more grounded, fulfilled, and like you again. This episode is for every midlife mom navigating identity shifts, burnout, or that strange “in-between” season of motherhood. You’ll leave encouraged to take the first small step toward rediscovering who you are—beyond your to-do list.xoSarahIf you want more encouragement, join me in my free Facebook community, Midlife Moms Connect, or email me anytime at sarah@westmetromom.comTo connect or learn more about working with me go to www.westmetromom.com/coaching

Do you ever feel like if you didn’t do it, it just wouldn’t get done? The laundry, the appointments, the meals, the moods, the mental checklists that never seem to end. It’s called the mental load of motherhood — and if you’re the default parent, it can feel like you’re carrying the world on your shoulders. In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, we’re talking about how to share the weight without losing yourself. You’ll learn how to recognize the invisible load you’ve been carrying, why resentment sneaks in when it goes unspoken, and how to step out of “martyr mom” mode into real partnership at home. Through honest conversation and faith-filled encouragement, we’ll look at what it means to let go of control, set healthy boundaries, and trust God to carry what we can’t. Because in this season of midlife motherhood, you don’t have to do it all — and you were never meant to. If you’ve been feeling unseen, overwhelmed, or stuck in “I’ll just do it myself” mode, this episode will help you find peace, strength, and confidence again. ✨ You’ll learn how to: Recognize and name the invisible load you’re carrying Stop letting resentment quietly damage your relationships Ask for help and create partnership in your home Let go of guilt and trust God with what’s too heavy to carry alone Tune in to rediscover your energy, confidence, and joy — one small shift at a time. Listen now and share this episode with a mom friend who’s been carrying it all — because we’re not meant to do motherhood alone. xoSarah If you want more encouragement, join me in my free Facebook community, Midlife Moms Connect, or email me anytime at sarah@westmetromom.comTo connect or learn more about working with me go to www.westmetromom.com/coaching

I know how real the quiet grief of midlife motherhood can feel—the ache when teens don’t need us the same way anymore, the bittersweet shift when the house feels quieter, and the reminder that we’re no longer at the center of their world. In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, I’m talking about that hidden grief, why it feels so heavy, and practical ways to move through it with hope. My heart is that you’ll feel less alone, find words for what you’re carrying, and start to see what’s possible in this new season of motherhood.xoSarah If you want more encouragement, join me in my free Facebook community, Midlife Moms Connect, or email me anytime at sarah@westmetromom.comTo connect or learn more about working with me go to www.westmetromom.com/coaching

Have you ever wondered if it’s too late to start something new in midlife? In this episode, I sit down with Courtney Cárdenas—a fifth-generation Texan, former teacher, and now an award-winning children’s book author. Courtney has walked through the same midlife transitions so many of us face: raising kids, navigating health challenges, and figuring out what’s next when life looks different than you imagined. Her story is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to have it all figured out to take the next step. Whether you’re dreaming of writing, starting a business, or simply rediscovering what lights you up, this conversation will inspire you to believe it’s possible—even in the middle of real life. If you’ve been feeling stuck or unsure of your next chapter, this episode will give you hope, encouragement, and a fresh perspective on the possibilities waiting for you in midlife. xoSarah Resources & Links Mentioned: Connect with Courtney: Instagram or Her Book 💌 Join my weekly newsletter, Midlife Moms Connect, for encouragement, practical tips, and midlife inspiration: [newsletter link] 🌟 Explore 1:1 coaching to help you find clarity, confidence, and courage in midlife transitions: [coaching link] 📘 Join our supportive Midlife Moms Connect Facebook Group to connect with other midlife moms: [link] ✉️ Reach out and connect via email: sarah@westmetromom.com

Have you ever thought, “It’s too late for me to start something new”? In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, I’m breaking down the myth that opportunity only belongs to the young. Midlife is not the end of your story—it’s the launchpad for fresh dreams and renewed purpose. Together, we’ll explore why this season is uniquely powerful for moms of teens, how to start small without overwhelm, and the faith-based truths that remind us we are right on time. xoSarah Resources & Links Mentioned: 💌 Join my weekly newsletter, Midlife Moms Connect, for encouragement, practical tips, and midlife inspiration: [newsletter link] 🌟 Explore 1:1 coaching to help you find clarity, confidence, and courage in midlife transitions: [coaching link] 📘 Join our supportive Midlife Moms Connect Facebook Group to connect with other midlife moms: [link] ✉️ Reach out and connect via email: sarah@westmetromom.com

Have you ever felt like the ground beneath you suddenly gave way—through a crisis, a transition, or unexpected change? In this episode, I share my personal story of sudden financial loss and uncertainty—and how faith, mindset, and small practical steps helped me navigate the chaos.I truly hope that episodes encourages you that it is possible to regain footing, find courage, and embrace your next chapter in midlife.XOSarah Questions to consider: Where in your life right now do you feel like the ground is shaky? What’s one small step you could take this week to regain your footing? Who—or what—can remind you that you’re not walking this season alone? Resources & Links Mentioned: 💌 Join my weekly newsletter, Midlife Moms Connect, for encouragement, practical tips, and midlife inspiration: [newsletter link] 🌟 Explore 1:1 coaching to help you find clarity, confidence, and courage in midlife transitions: [coaching link] 📘 Join our supportive Midlife Moms Connect Facebook Group to connect with other midlife moms: [link] ✉️ Reach out and connect via email: sarah@westmetromom.com Scripture Inspiration:Isaiah 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Your next chapter matters. Take one step, make one choice, and trust that God is already making a way forward.

In this honest and heartfelt episode, I open up about walking through a season marked by fear, shame, and feeling stuck—and how faith, community, and gratitude helped me find my footing again. You’ll hear the story of how I took small, shaky steps toward resurrecting a dream I had quietly tucked away, and what I learned about courage along the way. We’ll talk about how to recognize when fear is keeping you stuck, how to lean on prayer and the people who lift you up, and how to move forward even when you don’t have it all figured out. If you’ve ever felt like you’re in a season of “in-between,” this one’s for you. My hope is that it reminds you: you’re not behind, you’re not alone, and it’s never too late to take the next faithful step toward what God’s calling you to. XOSarah ✨ Want extra encouragement each week? Subscribe to my Midlife Moms Connect newsletter for tips, inspiration, and reflections to help you confidently navigate what’s next. OR connect with the Midlife Moms Connect private facebook group ✨ Looking for personal guidance? I offer coaching for midlife moms who want clarity and confidence as they step into their next chapter—find out more here. ✨ Let’s connect directly: email me sarah@westmetromom.com

In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, I chat with Karey Hall, founder of Halloway Vacation Retreats, about how one family cabin sparked a fulfilling next chapter in her life. Karey shares how she tapped into her gifts and passions from before motherhood, creating meaningful opportunities in creativity, hospitality, and community—without turning her life upside down, all while still raising her kids. If you’re a midlife mom looking to rediscover your gifts, explore what’s next, and pursue new passions while balancing family life, this episode is full of practical inspiration and encouragement. Want more weekly guidance, tips, and encouragement? Join my email list to get insights straight to your inbox. And if you’re ready to take a deeper step into designing your next chapter, explore 1:1 coaching to clarify your gifts, passions, and what’s next for you. Book a FREE call today!You can always email me at sarah@westmetromom.com. I'd love to hear from you!XOSarah

Ever feel like you’re waiting for the perfect moment to finally focus on yourself? You’re not alone—so many midlife moms put their own dreams on hold while raising kids, running a household, and supporting everyone else. In this episode, I’m sharing four powerful mindset shifts that helped me stop waiting and start saying yes to the things that make me come alive—even when life was messy and I didn’t feel ready. You’ll learn how to build confidence, embrace the imperfect middle, ask for help, and give yourself permission to evolve.Let's get to it!XOSarah________________________ ✨ Ready for more support? Join my free Midlife Moms Facebook Group [link] where we talk about rediscovering yourself beyond motherhood.Book a FREE discovery call NOW! Or email me sarah@westmetromom.comAnd if you’re ready for deeper transformation, check out my 1:1 Coaching Program designed to help midlife moms stop waiting and start living their next chapter with confidence. 

Feeling overwhelmed, overcommitted, and just plain over it? You’re not alone, friend. In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, we’re getting honest about what happens when being capable turns into constantly doing too much. If you’re a high-capacity midlife mom juggling growing teens, full calendars, and zero margin—you need this conversation. We’ll unpack why your exhaustion isn’t a failure, how to know when you’re carrying more than what’s actually yours, and the subtle difference between peace and pressure when making decisions. You’ll learn: ✅ How to tell if you’re doing too much (even when you can handle it) ✅ Why saying “no” might be the most faithful thing you do this season ✅ A simple mindset shift to reclaim purpose and margin—without blowing up your life ✅ One powerful question to ask before saying yes again This episode is for the midlife mom who’s ready to stop striving and start stewarding her energy, calling, and identity with more wisdom and less burnout. 🎧 Tune in and get practical steps to lighten your load, reclaim your purpose, and move forward with clarity.XOSarah🔗 Links + Next Steps:→ Join The Unscripted Circle for ongoing support→ Interested in coaching? Learn about The Midlife Momentum Method or email sarah@westmetromom.com→ Don’t miss next week’s episode: Are you doing to much? We'll talk about how you can tell and why it may be holding you back in this season of life.

Feeling stuck in midlife? Learn how one simple gratitude mindset shift can help you find peace, clarity, and purpose—even in hard times. In this episode, you’ll discover realistic gratitude practices for busy moms, how to stop comparison from stealing your joy, and ways to hold space for both the hard and the hopeful._________________________ Ever look at your life and think, "I should be further along by now.” Same. I’ve been there—especially in those in-between seasons where you’re not quite where you were, but not yet where you want to be. In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, I share the story of how one simple gratitude mindset shift helped pull me out of that funk—and how it can help you, too. If you’ve been searching for: How to get unstuck in midlife Practical gratitude practices for busy moms How to find peace when life feels hard…this conversation is for you. ✨ Here’s what you’ll learn: Why gratitude isn’t just a “nice idea”—it’s a proven mindset tool that brings clarity, peace, and emotional resilience What to do when the want of more starts stealing your joy Simple, realistic daily gratitude habits you can start today How to hold space for both the hard and the hopeful If you’re a midlife mom feeling stuck in the what’s next space—or wrestling with comparison, burnout, or frustration—this episode will meet you right where you are. You don’t have to have it all figured out to start moving forward with purpose. XOSarah 🔗 Links + Next Steps:→ Join The Unscripted Circle for ongoing support→ Interested in coaching? Learn about The Midlife Momentum Method or email sarah@westmetromom.com→ Don’t miss next week’s episode: Are you doing to much? We'll talk about how you can tell and why it may be holding you back in this season of life.  

To start rebuilding your confidence and renewing your purpose in midlife, you don’t need a total life overhaul—just three simple steps to get unstuck and move forward. If life’s felt like autopilot and you’re ready to reconnect with who you really are, this episode is your roadmap back to you and a clearer vision for what’s next. ✨ Clarity: Choose one area—marriage, health, parenting, or faith—and build a simple rhythm around it.✨ Intentional Connection: Reconnect with yourself, your faith, or your people—even when time feels tight.✨ Consistent Rhythms: Use the 66-day rule and science-backed habits that actually stick. By the end, you’ll have:✔️ One clear focus area to try this week✔️ A simple, doable 7-day rhythm✔️ A sticky-note coaching prompt to keep you moving forward Whether you’re navigating empty-nest feelings, hormonal shifts, or rediscovering your identity after caregiving, this episode offers a gentle reset to rebuild your confidence and renew your vision. Looking for: How to feel like myself again in midlife How to rebuild confidence at 40+ Easy habits for women over 40 Midlife mom routines that work Renewing purpose after raising kids 👟 Ready for your next step?Grab a sticky note and fill in this prompt:“I’m focusing on ____________. I’ll practice this rhythm: ____________ so that ____________.” Then join us inside The Unscripted Circle—we’re on this journey together. 💛 🔗 Links + Next Steps:→ Join The Unscripted Circle for ongoing support→ Interested in coaching? Learn about The Midlife Momentum Method or email sarah@westmetromom.com→ Don’t miss next week’s episode: Real talk about gratitude in the chaos of midlife (the messy, honest kind).

Hey friend—Let’s talk about the daily rhythms that actually work for midlife moms juggling teens, never-ending schedules, and the weight of being the default parent. In this episode, I’m sharing: ✔️ Why strict routines often fall flat in midlife✔️ The power of sustainable rhythms (and how they flex with your real life)✔️ A simple tradition that opened the door to deeper conversations with my teen daughters✔️ Practical rhythms that boost confidence and connection—without adding pressure 💡 Rhythms We Cover: Morning quiet time (even just 5 minutes) Gentle movement—no gym required Hydration habits that don’t feel forced Weekly connection points with your spouse or kids One game-changing sleep rhythm (that 10-3-2-1-0 rule you’ll want to steal) If your days feel unpredictable and you're craving calm, this episode is your permission slip to start small and show up with grace. 💛 Let’s Keep Going—Together: 👉 Join The Unscripted Circle on Facebook—our private group for midlife moms. We share wins, real-life struggles, and encourage each other in every season. 👉 Need more personal support?I offer 1:1 coaching to help you build rhythms that work for your actual life—with clarity, connection, and confidence.📩 Email me at sarah@westmetromom.com to schedule a FREE discovery call TODAY!

Feeling disconnected in your marriage—but waiting for things to “calm down” before doing something about it? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re tackling one of the biggest myths in midlife marriage: that connection can wait. Whether you’re raising teens, navigating career shifts, or rediscovering yourself, the truth is—life doesn’t slow down. And waiting to reconnect with your spouse could be slowly chipping away at your confidence. In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, I’m sharing: 3 big truths that break a common myth about marriage and timing How to create intentional connection—even in the chaos Why reconnecting in your marriage is a powerful step toward rebuilding your confidence You don’t need a weekend getaway or a perfect plan. Just a little intention, and a reminder that your relationship still matters—right here, right now. 💬 This episode is for you if: You feel more like roommates than partners You’re craving connection but feel too overwhelmed to start You want to build confidence by strengthening your marriage 🎧 Listen now and learn how to reconnect in the middle of your messy, beautiful, real life.XOSarah Ready to rebuild your confidence and get clear on your next steps? If this episode resonated with you, imagine what personalized 1:1 coaching can do. I work with midlife moms of tweens and teens who want to strengthen their faith, shift their mindset, and rediscover themselves with confidence. Let’s walk this season together—so you can show up for yourself and your family with clarity and purpose. 👉 Email sarah@westmetromom to lbook your free 15-minute discovery call. I can’t wait to connect with you!

If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “I don’t even know what I want anymore,” this episode is for you. As midlife moms, our lives are full—but our sense of direction can feel cloudy. Kids are growing up, the day-to-day looks different, and it’s easy to lose sight of ourselves in the shift. That’s where I was a few years ago—caught in the tension of being needed less, but still constantly on call... and quietly wondering, what now? In this episode, I’m sharing how I got back to the drawing board—starting with an old journal, a messy list of dreams, and a deep need to reconnect with who I was becoming. It turns out, the first step to rebuilding confidence in midlife is getting clear on what you actually want—not someday, but now. We’ll talk through: Why clarity matters more than ever in midlife What to do when you’ve lost vision for your life How to name your desires (even if they feel big or blurry) Where to begin—with your faith, your mindset, your daily rhythms Confidence doesn’t start with having it all figured out. It starts with one small moment of clarity. Let’s take that first step—together.XOSarah Looking for community? Come join me in our FREE Facebook community The Unscripted Circle Ready to rebuild your confidence and get clear on your next steps? If this episode resonated with you, imagine what personalized 1:1 coaching can do. I work with midlife moms of tweens and teens who want to strengthen their faith, shift their mindset, and rediscover themselves with confidence. Let’s walk this season together—so you can show up for yourself and your family with clarity and purpose. 👉 Email me at sarah@westmetromom.com  to learn more and book your free 15-minute discovery call. I can’t wait to connect with you!

Welcome to the first episode in my four-part series, Confidence in the Chaos, here on Midlife Unscripted. If you’re a midlife mom feeling stuck, unsure, or like your confidence has taken a hit, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too. In this episode, I share my own journey through the midlife motherhood shift—the confusing season when hormones change, relationships evolve, and your identity starts to feel shaky. Several years ago, I felt lost and disconnected. But setting one small goal—a single pull-up—helped me begin rebuilding my confidence from the inside out. I’ll talk about: Why confidence often dips in midlife motherhood How you can start rebuilding your confidence with three simple anchors: clarity, connection, and consistent rhythms Why confidence isn’t about working harder—it’s about keeping promises to yourself Whether you’re parenting teens, facing perimenopause, or just wondering what’s next, this series is here to help you build real confidence in the middle of all the change. I hope you’ll tune in and join me on this journey.XOSarahWant to take this journey even deeper? I help moms who are ready to stop spinning their wheels and start moving forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Reach out to book a FREE discovery call: sarah@westmetromom.comJoin The Unscripted Circle Facebook Community

Feeling stuck in midlife? You’re not alone—and you’re not done. In this episode, I’m sharing 5 things I had to quit to finally gain momentum to rediscover purpose beyond motherhood. These small mindset shifts helped me move forward with clarity, confidence, and deeper faith. ✨ We’ll unpack: The avoidance habit(s) stealing your focus Why comparison keeps you stuck What perfectionism is really costing you How to rewrite your self-talk The power of quitting what no longer serves your season This one’s for every midlife mom ready for a fresh start. Press play—you don’t have to stay stuck.Want to take this journey even deeper? I offer a limited number of 1:1 coaching spots for midlife moms who are ready to stop spinning their wheels and start moving forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Reach out to book a FREE discovery call: sarah@westmetromom.comJoin The Unscripted Circle Facebook CommunityXOSarah

Do you ever catch yourself thinking, “I’m failing at this,” or “I’m just not good enough”? In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, I'm sharing a real-life moment from a Macy’s fitting room that shook my heart—and challenged my mindset. If you’ve struggled with mom guilt or that relentless inner critic, you are not alone. I open up about how one painful moment with my daughter revealed a deeper battle with my own thoughts. You’ll hear: How negative thoughts (like sticky notes) can quietly pile up and weigh you down Why mindset matters more than ever in midlife A powerful reminder about the influence of your words—on your kids and on yourself Three practical ways to renew your mind and speak truth over your thoughts How faith plays a foundational role in confidence and healing This episode is a must-listen for midlife moms navigating the tension between showing up for their families and rediscovering their own voice. If you’re ready to stop spiraling and start standing in truth, this one’s for you.👣 Action Step Included: You’ll walk away with a simple exercise to reframe your mindset and reset your inner dialogue.Link to the daily devotional referenced in today's episode.Want to take this journey even deeper? I offer a limited number of 1:1 coaching spots for midlife moms who are ready to stop spinning their wheels and start moving forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Reach out to book a FREE discovery call: sarah@westmetromom.comJoin The Unscripted Circle Facebook Community 🌟 Next up: We’re diving into 5 things I quit to move from stuck to steady. You won’t want to miss it!XOSarah