Chief Change Officer Podcast Summary
Episode #294: Jodi Silverman: Parenting, Purpose & the Dare to Begin Again — Part One
Host: Vince Chan
Release Date: April 12, 2025

Introduction

In Episode #294 of the "Chief Change Officer" podcast, host Vince Chan engages in a heartfelt and transformative conversation with Jodi Silverman, the founder of the Moms Who Dare community. This two-part series explores themes of personal transformation, parenting, finding purpose, and embracing new beginnings after significant life transitions.

Jodi Silverman's Background and Career Journey

Jodi Silverman opens up about her professional and personal journey, highlighting a seamless blend of career and motherhood. She shares:

Jodi Silverman [05:38]: "I started my career in sales, selling direct mail, marketing, advertising. I found my way in sales. I loved it. I was with a national company, very successful, for about 12 years."

During this period, Jodi met her husband, Sam, and together they navigated the transition from being a single partner to parents of two children, Ellie and Daniel. Jodi’s commitment to balancing her career with family life led her to make bold decisions that would shape her future.

Transition and Emptiness After Children Leave Home

As her children grew and reached adulthood, Jodi experienced the profound transition of an "empty nest." She candidly discusses the emotional complexities of this phase:

Jodi Silverman [08:10]: "I found myself sitting in this really quiet space... I was wondering what was I going to do with all the free time that was about to open up."

This introspective period forced Jodi to confront feelings of unfulfillment despite her successful career and active role as a mother. She highlights the universal challenge many parents face when their children gain independence:

Jodi Silverman [12:30]: "We go from 100% full-time parenthood... to feeling disconnected from your child after 18, 20 plus years being 100% connected. It's a hard one."

Overcoming the Identity Crisis

Jodi delves into the identity crisis that accompanies the transition to an empty nest. She reflects on the dual emotions of joy for her daughter's achievements and sadness over the changed household dynamic:

Jodi Silverman [15:16]: "It was a combination of... I was so happy for her and yet I was going to miss her on a day-to-day basis."

To navigate these emotions, Jodi emphasizes the importance of redefining one's purpose beyond traditional roles:

Jodi Silverman [18:10]: "When I decided I wanted something different, an opportunity for a new business venture was presented to me."

Formation of "Moms Who Dare" Community

Inspired by a transformative experience at a women’s empowerment conference, Jodi founded the Moms Who Dare community. She recounts the pivotal moment that sparked this initiative:

Jodi Silverman [20:15]: "I sat in that room and I thought, I'm daring. That's what I've been doing."

Initially a local Facebook group, Moms Who Dare evolved to include virtual meetups and in-person gatherings, fostering a supportive environment for mothers seeking personal and professional growth. Jodi describes the organic growth of the community:

Jodi Silverman [22:50]: "Now there's a hybrid virtual and in-person community. We still have a nice-sized local community and we do get together four to six times a year in person."

Common Challenges Faced by Group Members

Jodi identifies the primary challenges faced by members of Moms Who Dare, focusing on the sense of disconnection from adult children and the struggle to redefine personal identity outside of motherhood:

Jodi Silverman [24:10]: "The biggest ones are the feeling disconnected from their now adult children. They want to be present in their lives without being that helicopter parent."

Members often grapple with maintaining meaningful relationships with their adult children while seeking personal fulfillment and new purposes.

Solutions and Insights from the Community

Through Moms Who Dare, Jodi facilitates solutions that help mothers navigate their empty nest and rediscover their identities. The community encourages stepping out of comfort zones, pursuing new interests, and building authentic adult relationships with their children. Jodi emphasizes the importance of shifting perceptions:

Jodi Silverman [15:57]: "They can't be your friend. You have to have other relationships. Think about what you share with a friend. That should not be what you share with your children."

By fostering a space for vulnerability and empowerment, Moms Who Dare helps women transition into this new phase with confidence and purpose.

Conclusion and Preview of Part Two

As the conversation draws to a close, Vince acknowledges the profound journey Jodi has undertaken—from managing a successful print business to founding a transformative community. Jodi's insights pave the way for the next episode, where she will delve deeper into:

• Parenting when you are no longer the fixer
• How to rediscover what lights you up
• Why Jodi believes midlife isn't a crisis, it's a comeback

Vince Chen [24:51]: "That's it for today. We heard how Jodi went from print business to purpose, launched a movement by accident, and finally gave herself permission to be more than a mother. But there's more in part two..."

Listeners are encouraged to subscribe and stay tuned for the continuation of this inspiring dialogue.

Key Takeaways

• Embracing Change: Transitioning to an empty nest can be a catalyst for personal growth and new beginnings.
• Redefining Identity: It's essential to explore and redefine one's purpose beyond traditional roles to achieve fulfillment.
• Community Support: Building and engaging with supportive communities like Moms Who Dare can provide the necessary encouragement and resources for transformation.
• Authentic Relationships: Shifting the parent-child relationship from friendship to a more adult dynamic can enhance mutual respect and understanding.

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This summary encapsulates the core discussions and insights from Episode #294 of the "Chief Change Officer" podcast, offering valuable reflections for those navigating similar life transitions.