This week on Midlife Made Simple, we’re diving deep into the emotional side of launching your kids into college life — the part no campus tour or glossy brochure prepares you for.

Shelly shares her own recent experience dropping off both boys this August, and parent coach Diana Davidson joins the conversation to unpack the pride, grief, identity shifts, and unexpected waves of emotion that come with this season.

Diana gives language to what so many moms feel: that emotions are love in motion, that you can hold both joy and sadness at the same time, and that your connection with your child doesn’t end at drop-off — even if your role shifts.

Whether you’re weeks away from move-in day or still adjusting to the quiet, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone, and that God meets you in every part of this transition.

Key Takeaways

• Your emotions aren’t weakness — they’re love in motion.
• You can feel proud and heartbroken at the same time.
• Social media can amplify extreme responses — your feelings are valid no matter where you fall on the spectrum.
• Grief and gratitude can coexist during big transitions.
• Your child’s emotions are connected to yours — when you care for yourself, you care for them.
• You didn’t lose your connection at drop-off; it simply changes shape.
• You were a person before you were a parent — rediscovering yourself is part of the journey.

Don’t miss next week’s episode, where we shift from the heart work into the practical work — how to parent from a distance, set healthy boundaries, communicate well, and stay connected without hovering.

Links and Resources:

• Connect with Diana: dianadavidsoncoaching.com
• Diana’s Parent Care Package
• Diana’s webinar: They’re in College…Now What?

Subscribe to the Simple Shifts Newsletter: midlifemadesimplepodcast.com

Resources:

• Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/
• Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://midlifemadesimplepodcast.com/tips
• Women Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://midlifemadesimplepodcast.com/prayer