Podcast Summary: "How Can I Enjoy My Empty Nest?"
Podcast: Dr. Laura Call of the Day
Host: Dr. Laura Schlessinger
Episode Release Date: July 8, 2025
Introduction to Jennifer's Situation
In this episode of "Dr. Laura Call of the Day," Jennifer, a 53-year-old single mother, reaches out to seek advice as she transitions into an empty nest. With her son about to finish college and her daughter graduating high school, Jennifer is contemplating embarking on a long-held dream—to hike the Appalachian Trail.
Jennifer shares:
"I'm 53. I'm a single mom. I've been single or divorced for the last... Oh gosh, it's been forever. But my kids are... I have a son who's 19 and my daughter's gonna be 18 next month."
(00:19)
Desire to Hike the Appalachian Trail
Jennifer elaborates on her aspiration to hike the Appalachian Trail, viewing her empty nest as the perfect opportunity to pursue this goal. She references her past experience hiking the Pacific Crest Trail in 2001 and her previous plans to hike the Appalachian Trail in 2002, which were derailed due to dental work.
Jennifer explains:
"I actually hiked the Pacific crest trail in 2001 and I was supposed to hike the Appalachian Trail in 2002 with a friend, but I needed some dental work and those plans fell through for me."
(01:24)
Dr. Laura Questions Physical Readiness
Dr. Laura promptly addresses concerns about Jennifer's physical readiness for such an endeavor. She emphasizes the importance of medical clearance and physical conditioning before undertaking a demanding hike.
Dr. Laura asserts:
"Do you have a doctor who can do a total physical and see how flexible you are, how strong your legs are, et cetera, et cetera, that it would be a wise thing for you to do?"
(01:39)
Jennifer reassures Dr. Laura of her physical fitness, stating she has no health issues and leads an active lifestyle.
Jennifer responds:
"Yes, I'm very. I don't have any health issues at all. I'm very, very active."
(01:56)
Logistical Challenges: Childcare Arrangements
The conversation shifts to the practical aspects of Jennifer's plan, specifically regarding childcare. Dr. Laura probes whether Jennifer has a support system in place to look after her adult children during her absence.
Dr. Laura probes:
"Can you get somebody to babysit while you take the hike? How's that?"
(03:00)
Jennifer explains the complexities of her custody arrangement and the age of her children, making it clear that traditional babysitting isn't feasible.
Jennifer explains:
"Well, I split. So for the last 10 or so years, I've split 50, 50 time with my custody, with my ex-husband and actually in the last year or so."
(02:17)
"No, there's nobody. That means. But my son's 19 and my daughter's 18."
(03:05)
Dr. Laura's Candid Advice
Dr. Laura becomes increasingly direct, expressing skepticism about Jennifer's ability to manage the hike alone and urging her to reconsider her plans.
Dr. Laura candidly states:
"That was a yes. No again. How are you going to do this hike by yourself? You can't stop talking. You're going to be alone. I don't know how you're going to survive this."
(03:14 - 03:45)
She advises Jennifer that her adult children need to develop independence and that her constant presence may be hindering their growth.
Dr. Laura emphasizes:
"Kids need you not to spend your time thinking they need you because it makes them feel incompetent and scared and anxious if their mommy believes they can't rely on themselves and have somebody to call in a problem."
(04:12)
Conclusion
Despite the blunt nature of Dr. Laura's advice, Jennifer appreciates the honesty and contemplates the impact of her decisions on her children's independence. The episode underscores the delicate balance parents must navigate between supporting their children and fostering their autonomy, especially during significant life transitions.
Notable Quotes:
-
Dr. Laura:
"Do you have a doctor who can do a total physical and see how flexible you are, how strong your legs are..." (01:39)
"Kids need you not to spend your time thinking they need you..." (04:12) -
Jennifer:
"I'm 53. I'm a single mom..." (00:19)
"I actually hiked the Pacific crest trail in 2001..." (01:24)
This episode of "Dr. Laura Call of the Day" provides listeners with a candid exploration of the challenges faced by parents transitioning to an empty nest and the importance of fostering independence in adult children.