Advertise on podcast: Sandwich Season Sanity

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! Ruthie Gray welcomes Lisa Woolery, author and founder of The Widow’s Comeback, for an honest conversation about healing childhood wounds while caring for an aging parent. Lisa shares how losing her husband, grieving her father, and having her mother move nearby brought old emotions to the surface. Together, they explore forgiveness, complicated faith, grief, and the process of learning to show up as an adult daughter rather than as the little girl still hoping her mother will meet unmet childhood needs. Lisa also offers practical guidance for preparing for difficult visits, including healthy boundaries centered on kindness and encouragement. She explains the mindset shift from expecting a parent to fill your emotional bucket to choosing to fill theirs instead. The conversation also highlights Lisa’s widow-focused ministry, memoir, grief calendar, guided journal, and upcoming workshops designed to help widows process painful emotions with honesty and self-compassion. Resources: The Widow's Comeback The Widow's Comeback 365-Day Grieving CalendarThe Widow's Comeback Grief JournalLisa’s WebsiteCoaching with Ruthie Bio: Lisa Woolery is an award-winning author and founder of The Widow’s Comeback, a ministry dedicated to helping widows navigate grief, rediscover who they are, and build a life they genuinely want to live. After the unexpected death of her husband, Eric, in 2019, Lisa found herself raising two children while learning how to make a life—and a future—on her own. Her award-winning memoir, The Widow’s Comeback, shares that journey with honesty, humor, faith, and hope. Today, Lisa creates books, practical resources, workshops, and an online community designed to meet widows where they are and help them take the next step forward. At the heart of everything she does is a simple message: your life is not over. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In Part II of her conversation with Ruthie Gray, bestselling author, speaker, and Clutter Free Academy host Kathi Lipp returns to tackle the deeply personal work of helping a loved one declutter and downsize. This episode moves from managing your own home to stepping into someone else's — with all the emotional weight, family dynamics, and safety concerns that come with it. Kathi and Ruthie navigate the tension between getting things done and honoring a parent's dignity, reminding caregivers that function and safety matter far more than aesthetics. Start with safety, not sentiment. Fall risks, floor clutter, and tangled cords are the first priority — and Kathi shares a practical hierarchy for moving items out of a loved one's space in a way that respects both the person and the process.Begin where there's the right level of pushback. Rather than tackling the most emotionally charged rooms first, Kathi explains how to read the room — literally — and start where you'll make progress without creating conflict.Sentimentality is grief in disguise. Kathi unpacks why aging parents hold onto belongings, connects it to a longing for the past, and shows how understanding that changes how caregivers approach the conversation.Listeners will come away with a room-by-room framework for helping a loved one downsize with grace and without guilt. More than a decluttering strategy, this episode reminds us that peace — not a perfect space — is the real goal of sandwich season. Resources: Clutter Free Academy Podcast - Clutter Free AcademyKathi’s Websitehttps://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/accessibility/aging-in-place/https://youtu.be/i6FSfXp4eWI?si=1Zn9lxKP3T-bQ7oeCoaching with Ruthie Bio: Kathi Lipp is the bestselling author of Clutter Free and The Clutter-Free Home and host of the Clutter Free Academy podcast. For more than a decade she has helped overwhelmed people clear their homes and their heads, one small step at a time — proving you don't need a perfect house to have a peaceful one.  Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! Ruthie Gray talks with bestselling author, speaker, and Clutter Free Academy host Kathi Lipp about simplifying life when caregiving leaves little time, energy, or margin. They cover practical decluttering strategies for overwhelmed caregivers. Kathi brings refreshingly honest, practical wisdom for caregivers running on empty — reframing the goal from perfection to function and offering small, stackable strategies that fit into the margins of an already-packed day. From naming how much energy you actually have to building a nightstand routine that lets you rest without a bathroom trip, this conversation meets caregivers exactly where they are. Triage is a season, not a failure. Kathi explains why caregiving often means simply keeping life from falling apart — and why choosing one "sacred surface" to keep clear can anchor your entire day when everything else feels chaotic.Think systems, not piles. Through a concept called "value stacking," you can attach a small clutter task to an existing habit — like unloading the top dishwasher rack while your coffee brews — so progress happens without demanding extra time or energy.Perfectionism is the real culprit. Kathi identifies the deeper issue behind caregiver clutter: the belief that if you can't do everything, you shouldn't start at all — and why paper plates and grocery pickup are accommodations, not shortcuts.Listeners will leave with practical, guilt-free strategies they can use today, no matter their energy level. Most importantly, they'll have permission to stop chasing perfection and start choosing progress. Resources: Clutter Free Academy Podcast - Clutter Free AcademyKathi’s WebsiteRuthie's guest interview on Kathi's Podcast: Cleaning out your Parent's home without losing your Relationship or your Mind Bio: Kathi Lipp is the bestselling author of Clutter Free and The Clutter-Free Home and host of the Clutter Free Academy podcast. For more than a decade she has helped overwhelmed people clear their homes and their heads, one small step at a time — proving you don't need a perfect house to have a peaceful one.  Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode, Ruthie Gray talks with Jodi Snowdon about the grief and complexity of sandwich season, where caregiving for an aging parent overlaps with launching adult children and navigating major life transitions. Jodi shares how her own journey through divorce, miscarriage, loss, and caregiving led her to write Depth and develop a framework for moving through heartbreak with faith. We discuss how to sit with grief without rushing past it, why trust can coexist with unanswered questions, and how pain can become a place of deeper purpose and perspective. Resources: Jodi’s WebsiteJodi’s Depth Book Bio: Jodi Snowdon is an author, podcaster, and speaker who serves women through her podcast, Depth, and her blog, Heartbreak to Strength. In August 2022, she released her first book, Depth: Growing Through Heartbreak to Strength. Having walked through multiple heartbreaks (divorce, miscarriage, & cancer), Jodi now inspires women to grow deeper in their faith and to find hope, joy, and purpose through their unexpected storms. She lights up the most when she shares her testimony using her cracked clay pot, a visual reminder that God shines brightest through our broken places. She is raising two sons (one in college and one adulting) in Southern California where she teaches science to elementary students in the STEM Lab. Jodi would love to connect with you on her website, jodisnowdon.com or on Instagram @jodi.snowdon Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! Celebrate one year of the Sandwich Season Sanity Podcast with us!!! This episode highlights the top five most-downloaded episodes, shares updates on coaching and upcoming seasons, and offers practical advice for caregivers and parents navigating multigenerational relationships. Resources below are highlighted in this special episode. Please listen and share the podcast, so we can reach more multigenerational caregivers with the message of peace, even in multigenerational mayhem! Resources: Exchanging Expectations of Adult Kids for Peace in Empty Nest ft Jill savageJill’s PodcastJill’s FB GroupBuilding Healthy Connections with Adult Children and In-Laws ft. Suzy MighellSuzy’s bookOvercoming Old Wounds While Caregiving ft. Laura AcuñaStill Becoming Hope, Help, and Healing for the Diet-Weary SoulLisa Serugo’s Trauma TreeCaregiving Special Needs Children and Aging Parents ft. Kelly HallKelly’s podcastKelly’s websitePractical Ways People Pleasers Can Balance Identity and Daily Demands ft. Lori SchumakerLori’s resources Enter to win a free coaching package with Ruthie! To enter, fill out this form. Giveaway closes Monday, May 4, at 12:00pm, est.  Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! Ever felt caught in a struggle between your beliefs and that of your adult children and your aging parents? You're not alone. In this episode, Michelle Rayburn and Ruthie open up about their own struggles and wins in bridging those generational divides with kindness and faith. If you're juggling family differences, craving peace, and seeking practical ways to stay grounded, this conversation will help. Resources: Book: This Reimagined Empty Nest Midlife Repurposed blog and podcastMichelle’s Website Bio: Michelle Rayburn is an author and podcaster who blends humor with honesty in the midlife season. She writes Midlife Repurposed on Substack, where she explores wisdom, wonder, and the laugh lines that come with growing older and growing up at the same time. She’s a boy mom, grandmother of six, and lives in the northwoods of Wisconsin. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! Ever feel like mornings are just too overwhelming to handle? Trust me, I’ve been there. Whether you’re caring for loved ones, managing a busy household, or navigating life's chaos, establishing a morning ritual can be your anchor. In this episode, we explore practical ways to make mornings matter—no matter what season you're in.  In this episode, we delve into how the biblical concept of mornings as new beginnings can transform your day. We discuss the four archetypes of morning routines—are you a doer, mover, meditator, or social seeker?  Tips for connecting your routine with your unique temperament and season of life are provided, alongside the science behind God-centered thinking and its brain-changing power.  Practical ideas for busy caregivers to prioritize self-care through morning rituals are also included. Remember, only you can choose to prioritize your peace each morning—because mornings are for new mercies, and your day is waiting to be transformed. Resources: How to Love Your Morning + Free Resources Bio: Jennifer Dukes Lee is a bestselling author, speaker, and morning evangelist from Iowa. She is the author of several books, including How to Love Your Morning, Growing Slow, and It’s All Under Control. She lives on a fifth-generation family farm, where she and her husband have made a life of growing crops, pigs, two beautiful humans, and an enduring faith. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! Ever feel like caregiving is wearing you thin? You're not alone—and the good news? You can find moments of joy, hope, and even peace amid the chaos. In this heartfelt episode, Kim shares honest stories and simple strategies that help caregivers like us keep dreaming, connecting, and nurturing ourselves. In this episode: The power of creating a bucket list to nurture hope and joyPractical ways to incorporate small, meaningful activities into daily lifeHow using your home as a supportive space can lift your spiritsThe importance of honest sharing and protecting your peaceSimple ways to manage your feelings and prevent overwhelmEmbracing creativity—painting, writing, gardening—as a form of self-careThe art of being unoffendable and extending grace in caregiving relationshipsRemember, you’re not just surviving—you're creating moments of joy and peace. Take that first small step today. Dream big, protect your peace, and lean into what refreshes your soul. Because, friend, your well-being is just as important as those you care for. You’ve got this—one small act of kindness to yourself at a time. Resources: 15 Ways Caregivers Can Protect Their Mental HealthMoments of Grace for TeachersMoments of Grace for MomsThis Reimagined Empty Nest: Stories and Poems for Moms Embracing New ChaptersLife in the Estrogen-Free Zone: Humor and Heartfelt Wisdom from Boy MomsKim's Facebook ProfileKim's Instagram ProfileFull Joy Ministries Website Bio: Kim Cusimano is a collaborative author and mother of adults with special needs. Beyond her family, she spends time encouraging others to reach their full potential through hospitality, mentoring, and the arts, weaving in the faith lessons she learns as a wife, mother, and caregiver. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! Sometimes life throws a curveball when you least expect it. This episode is a heartfelt conversation about resilience, faith, and finding peace amid chaos—like Lois Flowers’ story of surviving a traumatic brain injury or navigating her parents' last years without fear. We discuss: How fear influences caregiving and the importance of trusting God's planPractical tips for capturing memories with loved onesThe power of scripture, especially Psalm 139 and Deuteronomy 31:8, during difficult seasonsLearning to surrender and find peace in God's sovereigntyEncouragement for those walking through unexpected health crises or loss Resources: Free 7-day devotional called Faith, Fear, and the God Who Goes Before UsBlog: https://www.loisflowers.com/Parent Loss page: https://www.loisflowers.com/help-for-parent-loss/ Bio: Lois Flowers is a book editor, blogger and lifelong Midwesterner who values authenticity. She’s a wife of 31 years, mom of two young adult women, sixth of seven siblings and daughter of two parents in heaven. The tagline of Lois’s blog is “Strength for Today, Hope for Tomorrow.” and she writes—one pilgrim to another—to encourage us all as we navigate the long walk home together. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this conversation, Lori G. Melton discusses the challenges and opportunities of rediscovering personal callings during the sandwich season of life, where individuals often juggle caregiving responsibilities for both children and aging parents. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, journaling, and the practice of journeying with spiritual giants to gain insights and courage in pursuing one's purpose. The discussion highlights the significance of recognizing one's own growth and identity amidst the demands of family life, and how learning from historical figures can provide guidance and inspiration. Resources: Lori’s website: www.lorigmelton.com, Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/lori.meltonInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/lori.gmelton/Journey with a Giant Sneak Peek (Introduction and Chapter 1) & The Transformational Ten Spiritual Giant Quiz Bio: Lori Melton is an author, spiritual director, and retreat leader. She and her husband, Bryan, are the creators of the Sanctuary Stirrings Podcast and the founders and directors of The Sanctuary at Bear Creek Retreat Center, serving hundreds of people a year. She also has six children and 3 grandchildren AND is the newly published author of the brand new book, Journey With A Giant. her story of writing Journey with a Giant — after homeschooling six children, supporting your husband’s work, and then stepping into a new season as a spiritual director, retreat leader, and author — illustrates that it’s never too late to become who God is calling you to be. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode, I am joined by friend Brandice Lardner, a certified personal trainer, nutrition coach, and Amazon bestselling author of "Fully Nourished: A Grace-Filled Approach to Ditch Diets and Find Peace with Food and Your Body”. Together, we discuss the challenges women face around food, perfectionism, and self-care, especially during busy caregiving seasons. Brandice unpacks her grace-filled approach to ditching diet mentalities, encouraging listeners to shift away from all-or-nothing thinking and embrace sustainable, realistic habits that honor both body and spirit. Listeners will hear practical strategies for marrying their food wants with wisdom, inviting God into everyday food choices, and cultivating gratitude for their bodies. Brandice shares how even small, mindful changes can transform your relationship with food and foster peace—no matter how hectic life gets. The conversation is full of real-life examples, faith-based encouragement, and actionable tips for anyone seeking to break free from diet cycles and find true nourishment, both inside and out. Resources: Book: https://gracefilledplate.com/bookWebsite: https://gracefilledplate.com Bio: Brandice Lardner is a Certified Personal Trainer, Nutrition Coach, Amazon #1 Best Selling Author, and Jesus Girl whose mission in life is to help women ditch the diet mentality and find peace with food and their bodies so that they are better equipped to do the great things God has called them to do. And, she is the author of the new book, “Fully Nourished: A Grace-Filled Approach to Ditch Diets and Find Peace with Food and Your Body”. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode of the Sandwich Season Sanity podcast, I am welcoming back my friend, Laura Acuña, for her deep insight into caregiving and personal healing. Laura shares in-depth about her own journey of emotional recovery through caregiving.  We explore practical strategies for self-care, share the importance of therapy and spiritual support, and highlight key resources—including Laura’s book, "Still Becoming," and recommendations for navigating trauma and family transitions. With real-life wisdom and touching personal stories, this episode encourages listeners to embrace healing for themselves and future generations, reminding every woman that her journey is sacred and transformative. Resources: Laura’s book: Still BecomingLaura’s websiteEpisode with Lisa Saruga: Identifying and Managing Caregiver Trauma ft. Lisa SarugaLisa Saruga’s book: The Trauma TreeRuthie’s book: Empty Nest AwakeningBio: Laura Acuña is a speaker, author, podcast host, and Certified Professional Christian Life Coach. She’s the founder of Laura Acuña Ministries and host of The Still Becoming Podcast. Known for her honesty, warmth, and humor, Laura shares biblical truth and real-life wisdom to help women grow in emotional and spiritual health. She’s the author of the 31-day devotional Still Becoming: Hope, Help, and Healing for the Diet-Weary Soul. Laura’s journey reflects God’s love, grace, and healing. Embracing her “work-in-progress” nature—quirks and all—she testifies that God has transformed her struggles into a source of freedom and joy. Married for 42 years to her sweetheart, Pat, she’s the proud mom of three grown sons, a beloved daughter-in-love, and one precious 4-year-old granddaughter who calls her Nonie. When she’s not ministering, Laura loves time with family, traveling, exploring vintage shops, and sharing coffee with a friend. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode of the Sandwich Season Sanity podcast, Ruthie sits down with relationship expert and author Jill Savage to discuss the delicate balance of parenting adult children during the empty nest years and how to become “unoffendable”. Jill shares candid insights from her own life, including relatable stories about unreturned texts and learning not to take delayed responses personally. Together, they explore why many parents feel anxious or rejected by their grown kids' independence, touching on anxious and avoidant attachment styles and how these styles shape our expectations and emotional responses. Listeners will walk away with practical wisdom on fostering healthy relationships with adult children, letting go of unrealistic expectations, and finding personal peace rooted in faith rather than in others' validation. Jill offers guidance on addressing past parenting guilt, embracing opportunities for personal growth, and building emotional security in this new stage of life. Tune in for encouragement and actionable steps to truly prioritize your peace while navigating the challenges and joys of the empty nest and sandwich seasons. Resources: Jill’s websiteEmpty Nest, Full LifeRuthie’s Newsletter & Private Podcast Bio: Jill Savage is an author and speaker who is passionate about relationships. She hosts the No More Perfect Podcast, and some of her book titles include Empty Nest, Full Life, the best-selling No More Perfect Moms, No More Perfect Kids, and No More Perfect Marriages. Jill and her husband, Mark, serve as Christian marriage coaches. They live in Normal, Illinois and have five children and seven grandchildren. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode of the Sandwich Season Sanity podcast, I’m joined by my husband of 38 years, Jim Gray, for his input on the holidays as empty nesters. We’re talking about our unique lifestyle, splitting time between homes in West Virginia and Florida, and how this has shaped our holiday traditions. We’ll discuss home remodels, creative solutions for celebrating with kids and grandkids across states, and the importance of embracing flexibility as our family dynamics evolve. And don’t miss our memorable Christmas miracle—a decades-long answered prayer that restored lost wedding memories and reminded us of the power of faith and hope during the season. With a thoughtful blend of family stories, practical tips for honoring new traditions, and genuine encouragement, this episode offers a relatable and uplifting perspective for anyone seeking peace and connection during the holidays. Resources: Couples United: Tackling Holiday People-Pleasing Together ft. Billie JaussHoliday Adaptability for Moms of Adult Kids ft. Pamela HenkelmanVisit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose

Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode, I’m sitting down with my guest, Billie Jauss, an international speaker, author, and podcast host known as the "What's Next Coach." We talk through the challenges couples face during the holidays—especially around maintaining a united front and setting boundaries amidst family expectations. Billie reveals her journey as a "recovering people pleaser" and offers actionable advice for couples looking to prioritize peace and connection, even if it means disappointing others. Listeners will walk away with practical strategies for communicating holiday decisions, advice for resisting unhealthy people-pleasing, and a reminder to focus on building a strong foundation in marriage. Whether you're wrestling with family traditions or navigating new seasons as your children grow, this episode offers empathy, wisdom, and encouragement to help you protect your peace and honor your relationships through every holiday season. Resources: {Free} Ebook: What’s Next Game Plan: 7 Steps to Move From Lost in Change to Living With PurposeListen to The Family Room PodcastBillie’s Website: www.billiejauss.com Billie’s Bio: Billie Jauss is an international speaker, author, and podcast host, known as the “What's Next Coach?” Helping Women Trade Inner Chaos for peace, purpose, and powerful connections, empowering them to step confidently into what’s next. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose