Today, we have the pleasure of conversing with Michelle Rayburn, an accomplished writer, podcaster, speaker, and author of several inspirational Christian living books. Known for her delightful sense of humor and knack for repurposing life’s challenges into teachable moments, Michelle joins host Ruthie to share her extensive experience in freelance writing, efficient work methods, and navigating the empty nest phase.
With over 20 years in the field, Michelle reveals her secrets to staying productive while maintaining work-life balance through effective systems and boundaries. We’ll hear about her latest collaborative project, “This Reimagined Empty Nest,” and how embracing her own “repurposed” journey has enriched her life and work. From organizational tips to heartfelt reflections on motherhood, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to thrive in both their personal and professional lives.
Subscribe to the Private Podcast
Check out Michelle’s website
Follow Michelle on Instagram
Get your copy of This Reimagined Empty Nest
Listen to Ruthie’s guest episode on Michelle’s Mid-Life Repurposed Podcast
Listen to Ep. 50: Time management for the Christian entrepreneur
Listen to Ep. 90: Empty Nest Awakening: Ruthie Gray’s Inspirational Book on Rediscovering Passion in Life
Ensure you have clear boundaries with work and family for a balanced life.
Organize tasks using folders and digital tools like Asana or Trello to stay efficient.
Maximize your existing tools before investing in new software for productivity.
Work in focused periods and take breaks to maintain high productivity levels.
Value flexibility in your schedule to adapt to both professional and personal commitments.
Acknowledge the personal and professional growth that comes with an empty nest.
Stay connected and involved with family, prioritizing meaningful moments together.
Pursue passions and projects that bring joy and fulfillment in this new phase of life.
Have faith that God repurposes challenging times into opportunities for growth.
Listen in to get inspired and take actionable advice from a seasoned entrepreneur and author.
This Reimagined empty nest is a heartwarming anthology that brings together twenty-two diverse voices and experiences to support and inspire you as you step into a new chapter of life.
From the joyful to the bittersweet, our contributors share personal stories, poems, and reflections on embracing change, redefining relationships, and finding renewed purpose after the kids leave home.
Get the book on Amazon here.

On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.