CHEERS! with Avery Woods Episode: Back to California | Avery Woods
Release Date: March 31, 2025

Introduction: A Fresh Start Back in California

In this heartfelt episode of CHEERS! with Avery Woods, host Avery Woods shares the emotional and logistical journey of moving her family back to California after five and a half years in Arizona. The episode delves deep into the motivations behind the move, the challenges encountered, and the hopeful outlook for the future.

Reasons for the Move: Family, Community, and Career

Avery begins by explaining the primary reasons for relocating to California:

• Family and Community: "We have so many loved ones here," Avery mentions at [02:30], emphasizing the importance of having a support system close by, especially with young children.

• Career Transition: Avery highlights her shift from a demanding nursing career to a more flexible role in social media, allowing her to be more present with her family. At [04:15], she states, "Leaving nursing was not just about the job; it was about being home with my kids and not missing those major holidays and milestones."

• Children’s Well-being: Concerned about her children, aged 6 and 3, Avery shares her desire for them to establish lasting friendships and routines without the disruptions of frequent moves. She reflects, "I remember moving so much as a kid, and I don't want Ziggy and Stevie to experience that instability" [05:45].

Challenges During the Move: Navigating the Rental Market and Unexpected Setbacks

The move was not without its hurdles. Avery details the difficulties in securing a suitable rental in California:

• Rental Market Competition: At [10:20], Avery describes the intense competition for rentals post the Palisades fire, stating, "It became a bidding war, with rents doubling and owners demanding three years upfront—all of which was unfeasible for us."

• Emotional Setbacks: The unexpected burning down of their dream rental in Pacific Palisades added emotional strain. Avery shares her empathy for those affected, saying, "We couldn’t rightfully be upset because we knew people who lost everything" [09:50].

• Secure Alternative: Fortunately, through a family friend, Avery secured a furnished short-term rental, allowing them to settle temporarily while continuing their house hunt. "We found a family friend's second home, fully furnished, and it was a perfect fit," Avery explains at [12:10].

Adjusting to California: Embracing a New Community and Lifestyle

Settling into California has been a mix of excitement and adjustment:

• Community Integration: Avery emphasizes the importance of community, especially after feeling isolated in Arizona. "When I gave birth to Ziggy and lived in San Diego, I felt beyond isolated," she recalls [15:35].

• Lifestyle Changes: From dealing with the intense Arizona heat to enjoying California’s more temperate climate and proximity to the beach, Avery appreciates the healthier environment for her family. "I want my kids to grow up by the beach and be one with nature," she shares at [18:00].

• Support System: Avery introduces Scott, a close friend who moved with them, highlighting his role in their support system. "Scott belongs here. He’s the best, brightest, gayest man in all the land," Avery affectionately notes [21:45].

Personal Reflections: Social Media Detox and Family Focus

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Avery’s personal growth and the positive changes stemming from disconnecting from social media:

• Social Media Break: Avery reveals that she has stayed off social media for two months, leading to increased presence with her family. "The best thing I can do for myself is to protect my peace by not looking [at social media]," she confides at [26:30].

• Mental Health Benefits: This detox has allowed her to focus on her family's well-being and reduce the toxicity she experienced in Arizona. "Leaving Arizona helped me escape a lot of toxicity, and being offline has given me more free time for my family," Avery explains [27:50].

• Enhanced Family Life: Avery discusses the joy of being more present, from making dinner with her kids to creating a cozy home environment. "I’m so excited to be present with my family and make our house cozy and warm," she shares [29:10].

Future Plans: House Hunting and Building a Dream Home

Looking ahead, Avery outlines her plans and goals for establishing a permanent home in California:

• House Hunting Series: Inspired by her love for house tours, Avery plans to start a house hunting series on TikTok. "Nothing makes me hornier than Zillow," she humorously comments [31:20].

• Home Ownership Goals: Key objectives include buying a house by July, selling their Arizona home, and enrolling their children in schools. "Our goals are to buy a house, get our Arizona home sold, and enroll the kids in school," Avery states [32:05].

• Remodeling and Decorating: Due to the high cost of properties in California, Avery anticipates needing to remodel their new home. "We're probably going to have to do some remodeling, so I hope we find a house that needs work sooner rather than later," she shares [30:45].

Conclusion: Gratitude and Optimism for the Future

Avery wraps up the episode by expressing her gratitude and excitement for the new chapter ahead:

• Gratitude: "I'm so grateful for the support of my family and friends during this move," Avery conveys [33:00].

• Excitement for the Journey: She looks forward to sharing their journey with listeners and building a warm, welcoming home for her family. "We're excited for the next few guests and all the fun things coming with this new journey," Avery concludes [33:30].

Notable Quotes

• Emotional Farewell: "I was hysterical driving away and then when I was leaving the driveway, I noticed the kids' height markings in the garage on the door frame. Oh my God, I about lost it." [06:45]

• Social Media Detox: "The best thing I can do for myself is to protect my peace by not looking [at social media]." [26:30]

• House Hunting Enthusiasm: "Nothing makes me hornier than Zillow." [31:20]

Final Thoughts

This episode of CHEERS! with Avery Woods offers an intimate glimpse into Avery's life changes, underscored by themes of family, community, and personal well-being. Listeners are invited to join Avery on her journey as she navigates the complexities of moving, building a new home, and fostering a supportive environment for her family.

Stay Tuned: For a more visual recount of the move, Avery directs listeners to her personal YouTube channel, where she has documented the last two months of the moving process.

Upcoming Episodes: Avery hints at exciting future guests and topics, promising more engaging discussions and insights into life's many facets.

Follow Avery Woods:

• Podcast: CHEERS! with Avery Woods
• YouTube: Avery's Personal Channel
• TikTok: @AveryWoodsHouseHunt

Cheers to new beginnings and the adventure ahead!