Is growth always good? Or is the constant pressure to “do more and be more” actually keeping us from true transformation?

In this episode, we dive into the big question: Should we keep growing? Together, we’ll explore what healthy, Spirit-led growth looks like — not growth for performance or approval, but growth rooted in God’s love and grace.

We’ll talk about:

• Why pruning, resting, and rooting are all part of real growth 🌱
• The difference between striving out of insecurity vs. striving out of calling 🙌
• The categories of growth that actually matter (personal, professional, faith, marriage, friendships, health)
• How to discern whether the pressure you feel is from God, yourself, or the world
• Reflection questions to help you slow down, listen, and lean into God’s work in you

💡 Key takeaway: Growth isn’t about achieving more — it’s about becoming more rooted in who God created you to be.

Scripture: Philippians 1:6 – “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion...”
Quote: “Grace is not opposed to effort. It is opposed to earning.” – Dallas Willard

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Thanks for listening to Empty Nester Life: The Podcast!
Follow us on Instagram at Instagram.com/EmptyNesterLifePodcast
Watch full episodes on YouTube: YouTube.com/@EmptyNesterLife
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Looking for the best travel ideas for empty nesters? In this episode, we share our Top 5 Travel Destinations for Empty Nesters. From romantic getaways to bucket-list adventures, these top 5 travel ideas are perfect for couples ready to explore life after kids leave home.

One of the best parts of becoming an empty nester is the freedom to travel!
Whether you’re looking for romantic escapes, cultural city trips, or big adventures you’ve been dreaming about for years, this list will inspire you to pack your bags and explore the world in this new season of life.

👫 Hosted by Jacki & Mark Tait, Empty Nester Life: The Podcast is all about navigating life after kids leave home—travel, marriage, health, and rediscovering what’s next.

Resources from today's podcast:

Our Mexico travel series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkyKGOz9ljqxG9QNzxoQ1VfC-vqiHIARG

Senior passes for National Parks: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/senior-pass-changes.htm

Towns near the Grand Canyon: https://morethanjustparks.com/cities-near-grand-canyon/

Support the show

Thanks for listening to Empty Nester Life: The Podcast!
Follow us on Instagram at Instagram.com/EmptyNesterLifePodcast
Watch full episodes on YouTube: YouTube.com/@EmptyNesterLife
Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/ouremptynesterlife
And catch behind-the-scenes on TikTok: @emptynesterlife

In this episode of Empty Nester Life, we share how a Bible-based faith in Christ has shaped our story from the very beginning. We talk about how God brought us together, the ways Scripture continues to guide our marriage, and why walking with Jesus is the key to staying strong through every season of life—including the empty nest years.

You’ll hear how leaning on God’s Word has helped us navigate challenges, find peace in uncertainty, and grow closer to each other by growing closer to Him. Whether you’re in a season of transition or simply looking for encouragement, this conversation is a reminder that a Christ-centered life and marriage is built to last.

But more than just our story, we want you to know the greatest story of all: the gospel. The Bible tells us in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Jesus Christ lived the perfect life we could not live, died for our sins, and rose again so that we could be forgiven and have eternal life with Him.

Romans 10:9 promises, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”

If you’ve never placed your faith in Jesus and feel led to do so now, we invite you to do so today. This is the Holy Spirit's tug on your heart! You can pray a simple prayer like this:
“Lord Jesus, I know that I’m a sinner in need of a Savior. I believe You died for my sins and rose again. I put my faith in You today. Forgive me, make me new, and help me follow You as Lord and Savior.”

If you have any questions or would like to share with us about YOUR faith journey, please leave a comment below. We're here to help and want to encourage you! Next steps we would recommend are to connect with a Bible-believing church, dive into God’s Word, and surround yourself with others who will walk with you in faith.

Because faith in Jesus truly does change everything.

Thanks for listening to Empty Nester Life: The Podcast!
Follow us on Instagram at Instagram.com/EmptyNesterLifePodcast
Watch full episodes on YouTube: YouTube.com/@EmptyNesterLife
Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/ouremptynesterlife
And catch behind-the-scenes on TikTok: @emptynesterlife