Episodes

Finding Flow and Connection with Laura Silverstein Finding Flow with Laura Silverstein Welcome back, fellow Open Nesters! In honor of Love Month, we recently had the absolute pleasure of hosting Laura Silverstein, author of Love is an Action Verb, for a deeply resonant encore discussion about finding more flow and connection in our relationships. As we navigate this “open nest” phase—a term we prefer over “empty nest” to reflect hearts and lives open to endless possibilities—having an expert l...

Radical Compassion (Season 6 | Episode 223) with Ukumbwa Sauti Trading “Empty” for “Open”: The Courage to Speak Up Welcome back to the Open Nesters podcast, where we are flipping the script on aging and trading an “empty” nest for a life wide open. This month, we have been diving deep into the theme of courage, and I can’t think of a more vital conversation than the one I recently had with Ukumbwa Sauti. Ukumbwa is a consultant, educator, and a leader in men’s work who is helping us look at th...

Embracing the “Open” in Open Nesting (Season 6 | Episode 222) with Joy Rose (Season 6 | Episode 222) This week on the Open Nesters podcast, my co-host Amir and I had the absolute pleasure of revisiting a truly boundary-breaking conversation with the incredible Joy Rose. As an artist, activist, and the visionary founder of the Museum of Motherhood, Joy is a master at helping us deconstruct the heavy labels we carry and reclaim the narrative of our own lives. If you are currently navigating you...

Aging | A Practice of Possibility (Season 6 | Episode 221) with Laura and Martha (Season 6 | Episode 221) [TESSA] In our latest episode of the Open Nesters Podcast, I had the profound pleasure of sitting down with a truly inspiring mother-daughter team, Martha and Laura. At 85 and 58 respectively, they joined me to flip the script on what it means to grow older. Instead of viewing aging through a lens of desperation or limitation, they shared how they have cultivated “possibility” as a daily ...

THE RADIO VAGABOND (Season 6 | Episode 220) Trading Empty for Open with Palle Bo (Season 6 | Episode 220) [TESSA] Are you ready to flip the script on aging and discover a life wide open? On this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast Amir and I welcome back a true legend of the open road, Palle Bo. Palle is the definition of an “Open Nester”—someone who decided that once the kids flew the coop, it was time to open the door to endless possibilities. Known as the “Radio Vagabond,” Palle traded his...

Courage (Season 6 | Episode 219) An Interview with Tessa & Amir (Season 6 | Episode 219) [TESSA] In this episode, we delve into the profound themes of relationships, sexuality, and spirituality as part of our exploration of how to embrace aging with vitality. As empty nesters transitioning to a phase of life filled with endless possibilities, my partner and I share our journey into being “open nesters,” a term capturing our commitment to experiences, adventure, and deeper connections rather t...

Leaning in to Better Lives with Alia & Hayden (Season 5 | Episode 218) [TESSA] In this compelling episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we delve deep into personal transformation, intergenerational healing, and the evolving dynamics of relationships in adulthood with guests Alia Stewart-Silver and Hayden. Both are navigating their unique journeys while pursuing a vision centered around eco-cultural regeneration and personal development. The discussion emphasizes the concept of “open nesting,” ...

Reflect and Celebrate The Open Nesters (S5 | E217) with Tessa and Amir In this episode, we celebrate completing five seasons of The Open Nesters Podcast, a platform dedicated to redefining the empty nester experience. We take a moment to reflect on our journey and the incredible community we’ve built around the concept of “open nesting.” Instead of viewing the empty nest as a void, we embrace it as an opportunity for growth, adventure, and deeper relationships. By keeping our hearts and minds o...

Evolution, Intimacy (S5 | E216) with Lara and Michael Blackin [TESSA] In this episode, I sit down with Lara and Michael Blackin, visionaries behind Temple in the Trees, a vibrant new community center located in Leesburg, Virginia. We delve deep into the philosophy of open nesting—a refreshing take on the empty nester experience, inviting listeners to redefine what this life stage can mean. The Blackins embrace a mindset of unfettered growth and exploration, highlighting how their mid-life journ...

THANK AND GROW RICH (S5 | E215) with Pam Grout The book “Thank & Grow Rich” is for anyone interested in hooking up with the magnanimous energy field of the cosmos. Author Pam Grout, who likes to call herself the Warren Buffet of Happiness, says it all starts with getting on the frequency of joy and gratitude. Thank and Grow Rich [TESSA] In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we delve deep into the transformative power of gratitude and personal growth through a heartfelt interview with ...

Give Thanks (S5 | E214) with Tessa and Amir In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we delve into the concept of open nesting, redefining what it means to be an empty nester. We explore the endless possibilities that arise when parents embrace new adventures, relationships, and passions. This week, as we approach Thanksgiving, we address the complexities of family dynamics, expectations, and the importance of gratitude during this unique holiday. Give Thanks with Tessa and Amir Thanksgi...

The Permission to Desire (S5 | E213) with Dr. David Freeman In this episode, we continue our enlightening conversation with Dr. David Friedman, as we delve into the transformative journey of open nesting, vitality, spirituality, and the nuanced aspects of sexuality, including BDSM. As an open nester himself, David shares profound insights into how this life transition opens up new dimensions of exploration and personal growth. We navigate the complexities of changing relationships with adult c...

What Do Women Want? (S5 | E212) with Vicki Larson What Do Women Want? In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we dive deep into the world of open nesting with a returning guest, Vicki Larson, a researcher and writer who is flipping the script on aging for women. She challenges the stereotype that women over a certain age are invisible, irrelevant, or unworthy of vibrant experiences. Larson presents a powerful narrative that underscores the importance of curiosity, agency, and intention, ...

From Engineer to Erotic Healer (S5 | E211) with Dr. David Freeman From Engineer… This episode of The Open Nesters Podcast delves into the inspiring journey of Dr. David Freeman, who has transitioned from a successful engineering career to a life dedicated to exploring intimacy and sexual well-being. In this enlightening two-part conversation, we engage with David about the concept of “open nesting”—embracing new possibilities and experiences at this stage of life. To Erotic Healer David sha...

Relationship Anarchy (S5 | E210) with Josh and Tammy RELATIONSHIP ANARCY In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we dive deep into the dynamic and evolving relationship of Tammy and Josh, returning guests who previously shared their experiences with non-monogamy and emotional intimacy. With a lens focused on the complexities of open relationships, they reflect on their journey since their last appearance and how their connection has grown amidst challenges and changes. Tammy shares her ...

The Balance Between Us (S5 | E209) with Tessa and Amir THE BALANCE BETWEEN US In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we dive into the often-asked questions we’ve received from our dedicated listeners and friends about embracing this unique stage of life we call “open nesting.” Rather than viewing ourselves as empty nesters, we embrace new opportunities for adventure, relationships, and personal growth. Together, we explore what it means to be open to endless possibilities, including the...

Becoming Beloved (S5 | E208) with Kari and Steven Cardinale BECOMING BELOVED In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we revisit a thought-provoking conversation with Kari and Steven Cardinale, experts in coaching and thought leadership. Kari, the Senior Vice President of Digital Strategy at the Modern Elder Academy, and Steven, an entrepreneur and author of “Synaptic Alchemy,” share insights into their journey of becoming open nesters and the transformative power of love and relationship...

OUR COSMIC CURRICULUM (S5 | E207) The Open Nesters Podcast A SEASONED ASTROLOGER In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, Tessa engages with Eric Myers, a seasoned counseling astrologer and author, to explore the transformative journey of open nesting—where life beyond raising children opens doors to new adventures and personal growth. We dive deep into Eric’s unique background, starting with his early life in Connecticut and journey into spiritual exploration. His experience in transpers...

EXPANDING EROTIC PLEASURE AS WE AGE (S5 | E206) The Open Nesters Podcast THE PLEASURE MECHANICS (Chris and Charlotte) In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we delve into the concept of open nesting—embracing the opportunities and adventures that arise as we transition into a new phase of life. We are joined by Chris and Charlotte from The Pleasure Mechanics, who share their unique expertise in the realm of pleasure and intimate relationships. This engaging conversation reminds us that ...

Every Day is the Day (S5 | E205) The Open Nesters Podcast Every Day is the Day with Darcy and Gary In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we have the pleasure of continuing our engaging conversation with Gary and Darcy, who shed light on how they embrace the open nesting phase of life with passion and adventure. As they explore themes of aging, vitality, spirituality, and sexuality, they redefine what it means to be in an empty nest, promoting the exciting concept of being “open nesters...

Sex and Laughter with Joyce Saltman (Season 5 | Episode 204) [Tessa] In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, I explore the joy and laughter that come with the journey of aging and the phenomenon of open nesting. Conversing with my dear friend and mentor, Joyce Saltman, we dive deep into the many aspects of what it means to embrace life after our children have flown the coop. Joyce, an inspiring figure who seamlessly blends wit and wisdom, shares her experiences and insights from her life,...

Resilient Hearts, Perfect Match (S5 | E203) The Open Nesters Podcast Darcy and Gary In this eye-opening two-part episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we delve into the transformative journey of our guests, Darcy and Gary, who have successfully navigated the complexities of grief, love, and personal growth in the open nesting phase of their lives. As they share their powerful stories, we explore how they have redefined what it means to edge into new beginnings, emphasizing that being an open n...

Buckle Up and Strap On (S5 | E202) The Open Nesters Podcast Two Sex Educators, One Goal – Give Us All The Opportunity to Expand Our Sexual Horizons In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, Amir and Tessa introduce the concept of “open nesting,” redefining the experience of becoming an empty nester as an opportunity to embrace new adventures, relationships, and passions in the third act of life. They dive deep into the topic of sexuality and personal growth, bringing back an exciting encor...

Joy Among My Tears (S5 | E201) with Guest: Audrey Carlson The Journey of Healing Through Loss [Tessa] In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we delve deep into the incredible journey of resilience and growth through immense tragedy with our guest, Audrey Carlson. A mother, grandmother, and a source of inspiration, Audrey shares her poignant story of navigating profound loss while cultivating a life filled with gratitude and purpose. We explore the concept of open nesting—embracing the f...