minimalist moms podcast

Whether you're dreaming about a full home renovation or simply refreshing a room, it's tempting to jump straight into paint colors, furniture, and finishes. But according to interior designer Danielle Nicholson, the most important part of any successful project happens long before the work begins. With more than 18 years of experience designing homes - from simple room updates to custom builds - Danielle has seen firsthand how thoughtful planning saves homeowners time, money, and unnecessary stress. In this episode, she shares why slowing down, clarifying your vision, and making intentional decisions leads to homes that feel both beautiful and deeply functional. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Connect with Danielle: Website Instagram Book: Don't Start Without ME: Your how to design planner About Danielle |Danielle Nicholson is the founder of Danielle Nicholson Design, where she's spent the past 18+ years helping homeowners create beautiful, functional spaces through renovations, new builds, and thoughtful interior design. Inspired by her architect grandfather and resourceful mother, Danielle believes great design isn't about spending more - it's about making intentional choices. Her practical philosophy encourages homeowners to shop their own homes first, maximize their budgets, and create spaces they'll love for years to come. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://avocadogreenmattress.com/MINIMALIST * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

For those who are new here, I occasionally release bonus episodes designed for a specific part of my audience. I have listeners from all kinds of faith backgrounds, and this episode is shared from a Christian perspective. If that’s not quite what you’re looking for today, feel free to explore the other episodes released this week - or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation you won’t want to miss! ------------------ The teenage years can feel like unfamiliar territory for even the most confident parents. Conversations that once came naturally suddenly become more complicated, and knowing what to say (or how to say it) can make all the difference. In this episode, Diane is joined by father-son authors Tim and Mark Shoemaker to discuss their book, What to Say and How to Say It to Your Teen. Drawing from more than 50 years of combined parenting and youth ministry experience, they share practical wisdom for navigating the conversations that matter most. In This Episode, We Discuss: Why the way we communicate with our teens matters just as much as what we say Common mistakes parents make during difficult conversations How to create an environment where teens feel safe talking honestly Why listening is one of the most powerful parenting tools How to rebuild trust after a conversation doesn't go as planned Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Connect with Mark: Instagram Connect with Tim: Website Instagram Book: What to Say and How to Say It to Your Teen: A Parent's Guide to 30 Tricky Conversations About Mark & Tim |Tim Shoemaker is the author of more than 25 books and is a popular speaker at conferences and schools around the country. He is a regular contributor to Focus on the Family’s Clubhouse and Clubhouse Jr. magazines. Happily married for more than 40 years, Tim lives in Illinois and still loves working with youth. Mark Shoemaker is a Moody Bible Institute and Seminary graduate, has served as an adjunct professor, and has been a youth and family pastor since 2011. Happily married for over 15 years, Mark oversees youth and college ministries at The Bridge Community Church in Illinois. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://avocadogreenmattress.com/MINIMALIST * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience, so if this content is something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episodes that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss! ------------------------------------------- When parents are told their child needs to lose weight, it’s a struggle. They want their kids to feel good about themselves and their bodies, but they may also have legitimate concerns about weight-related bullying, anti-fat bias, and long-term health issues. While there are no easy answers, my guest today, leading childhood obesity expert Dr. Joey Skelton, is here to offer lessons learned from the latest science about weight and offers a compassionate, family-focused approach to help improve children’s health without dieting - and without compromising their happiness or self-esteem. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Ellyn Satter Dr. Skelton's Resource: Cooks Illustrated Connect with Dr. Joey Skelton: Website  Facebook Book: Your Child Is Not Their Weight: Parenting in a Size-Obsessed World About Joey |Joey Skelton, MD, MS, FAAP, is a professor of pediatrics and of epidemiology and prevention at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. He is the founder and director of Brenner FIT (Families in Training), an interdisciplinary pediatric obesity program. He is also the director of the Center for Prevention Science in Child and Family Health, vice chair of research for the Department of Pediatrics, and editor in chief of the journal Childhood Obesity. He is the father of two young adults and lives with his wife in North Carolina. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://avocadogreenmattress.com/MINIMALIST * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience, so if this content is something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episodes that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss! ------------------------------------------- What if the work of managing a home isn't "just" parenting or keeping up with daily life - but one of the most sophisticated leadership roles there is? In this episode, Diane sits down with Aimee to explore the invisible labor so many mothers carry and why the skills developed through running a household deserve far more recognition. From anticipating needs and coordinating schedules to managing emotions, solving problems, and building systems that keep family life running, mothers are often practicing executive-level leadership every single day - without realizing it. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Connect with Aimee: Website  Instagram Book: The Manage Her: Unveiling Women’s Invisible Work & Sparking a Leadership Revolution About Aimee |Aimee Rickabus is an entrepreneur, author, and podcast host dedicated to redefining women’s leadership. As the author of The Manage Her and host of the podcast by the same name, she highlights how the invisible labor women perform every day translates into systems thinking, problem solving, and leadership skills that transform business and community. Aimee is also CEO of Tomahawk Information Solutions, a woman- and minority-owned technology company. A mother of six and lifelong advocate for women, she inspires audiences to see their potential not just as professionals, but as whole, powerful individuals. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://avocadogreenmattress.com/MINIMALIST * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

How would you like some more breathing room at home? Holly Blakey is a home organizer (and creator of Breathing Room Home) who specializes in creating calm spaces that you love to live in. As owner of Breathing Room Home, she's been transforming client's spaces for over nine years, specializing in creating beautiful and practical systems that help families simplify their lives. She has a product line with Sugar Paper LA, and has appeared in Real Simple, Domino, Goop, GMA, Good Housekeeping, HGTV and People. On today’s episode, you’ll hear about Holly’s journey to embracing simplicity in her home, organization hacks to help conquer all the mess, tips for creating calmer spaces and much more…  Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube Channel Connect with Holly: Website Instagram Pinterest Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://avocadogreenmattress.com/MINIMALIST * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We've heard countless conversations about how technology affects our attention spans, productivity, and relationships - but what if the greatest cost of our digital lives is much deeper? In this episode, Diane sits down with Patricia Martin, author of Will the Future Like You?, to explore how constant connectivity, social media, and the pressure to continually reinvent ourselves are reshaping our identities. Together, they discuss what it means to know ourselves in an age where external validation is always within reach and why cultivating a grounded sense of self has become more important than ever. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube Channel Connect with Patricia Website Instagram Book: Will the Future Like You? Reflections on the Age of Hyper-Reinvention Jung in the World podcast About Patricia |Patricia Martin is a cultural analyst, researcher, and speaker. Her work has been featured in Harvard Business Review, Huffington Post, The New York Times, Slate and Psyche Magazine. Author of four books, she holds an MFA in nonfiction from Bennington College, with post-graduate certifications from Duke University in medical narrative, and Jungian theory at the C. G. Jung Institute of Chicago where she teaches writing and hosts the psychology podcast, Jung in the World. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://avocadogreenmattress.com/MINIMALIST * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Diane sits down with parenting educator and Fresh Start Family founder Wendy Snyder to discuss how parents can interrupt reactive patterns, build stronger relationships with their children, and create a calmer home without relying on punishment or control. Drawing from her new book, Fresh Start Your Family, Wendy shares practical tools that help parents lead with both firmness and compassion. Parenting isn't about getting it right every time - it's about returning to connection. When we understand behavior as communication, regulate ourselves before reacting, and embrace opportunities to repair, we create homes where both parents and children can grow together. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Wendy's Resource: Kate Northrup | Plenty Podcast Book: Do Less: A Revolutionary Approach to Time and Energy Management for Ambitious Women Connect with Wendy Website Podcast Instagram Book: Fresh Start Your Family: Powerful Parenting to Restore Peace in Your Home About Wendy |Wendy Snyder is a Certified Positive Parenting Educator, Family Life Coach, and founder of Fresh Start Family, where she helps families ditch fear-based discipline and raise strong, emotionally healthy kids with compassion and confidence. Through her podcast, courses, and coaching programs, she’s guided thousands of parents to break painful generational cycles and create homes rooted in connection, peace, and purpose. She is the author of the upcoming book Fresh Start Your Family: Powerful Parenting to Restore Peace in Your Home. Wendy lives in Southern California with her husband Terry—her high school sweetheart—and their two kids, where they’re rewriting their own family legacy, one grace-filled day at a time.  Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show. Author Kristen Strong gets real about the highs and heartbreaks of adult friendship. From chasing connection after countless moves to learning when to let go, Kristen shares honest lessons on being a good friend - to others and yourself. If you’ve ever felt lonely or struggled to find your people, this episode is for you. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Book: Made for Friendship: The Relationship That Halves Our Sorrows and Doubles Our Joys Connect with Kristen: Website Instagram Book: Desperate Woman Seeks Friends: Real Talk About Connection, Rejection, and Trying Again for the Friendships You Need About Kristen |Kristen Strong, author of Girl Meets Change and Back Roads to Belonging, writes as a friend offering meaningful encouragement for each season of life so you can see it with more hope and less worry. She and her US Air Force veteran husband, David, have three children. Together this military family zigzagged across the country (and one ocean) several times before settling in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Most parents want to raise confident, responsible kids - but very few are shown how to intentionally nurture leadership skills at home. In this episode, Diane sits down with youth leadership specialist J. Chad Mitchell, who has spent more than 30 years coaching, teaching, and mentoring young people. His core message is simple: leadership isn’t about age - it’s a set of skills that can begin developing in childhood and benefit kids for the rest of their lives. During the conversation, Mitchell shares insights from his upcoming book, Change Your Game: Empowering Young Leaders to Ditch Doubt, Find Their Voice, and Impact the World, along with practical ways families can cultivate communication, initiative, and responsibility in everyday life. Together, they explore why parents should pause before fixing problems for their kids, how peer leadership shapes confidence, and simple ways children can begin practicing leadership at home, at school, and among their friends. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Chad's Resource: Spiritual Roots of Human Relations by Stephen Covey Connect with Chad: Website Book: Change Your Game: Empowering Young Leaders to Ditch Doubt, Find Their Voice, and Impact the World  About Chad|Chad Mitchell has spent three decades working with youth as a coach, teacher, mentor, and father - seeing firsthand the transformation that happens when kids are empowered to lead. His work spans sports teams, classrooms, youth groups, and leadership camps, grounded in the belief that young people don’t have to wait until adulthood to make an impact. He is also a leader in his professional life as an attorney at Seattle-based Summit Law Group, PLLC. He serves as President of the Board of Directors for his local Boys & Girls Club, is a leader in his church community, and coaches boys lacrosse at Richland High School. Chad and his wife, Bonnie, live in Richland, Washington, where they raised six children and are grandparents to five granddaughters. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Many women enter midlife already stretched thin - then, seemingly overnight, their bodies begin to change. Energy dips, sleep becomes disrupted, digestion shifts, and the habits that once worked no longer deliver the same results. In this episode, Diane sits down with women's health and nutrition expert Cynthia Thurlow to explore the often-overlooked connection between menopause and gut health. Drawing from her upcoming book, The Menopause Gut, Cynthia explains how hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause impact the gut microbiome—and how those shifts can affect energy, mood, inflammation, sleep, and overall resilience. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube Channel Cynthia's Resource: Dear Gabby podcast Connect with Cynthia Website Instagram Youtube Podcast Book: The Menopause Gut: Balance Your Microbiome to Reclaim Your Health in Midlife and Beyond About Cynthia |Cynthia is a board-certified nurse practitioner, women’s health educator, and leading voice on the gut–hormone connection in midlife. With over two decades of clinical experience, she helps women understand how microbiome changes during perimenopause and menopause drive inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, cognitive changes, and mood shifts. She is also the host of the Everyday Wellness podcast, where she explores evidence-based approaches to metabolic health, longevity, and women’s wellness with leading experts. Her TEDx talk on intermittent fasting has been viewed over 15 million times, and her work bridges science-backed medicine with compassionate, practical guidance for women over 40. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

What if some of the most challenging moments of parenting - morning chaos, bedtime resistance, and emotional meltdowns - could become opportunities for connection instead of conflict? In this conversation, Diane sits down with mindfulness expert, recording artist, and bestselling author Kira Willey to discuss her latest book, The Joyful Child. Kira shares how simple, playful practices rooted in movement, music, and mindfulness can help children develop emotional regulation skills while bringing more joy into everyday family life. Rather than waiting until children are overwhelmed to teach coping strategies, Kira explains how small, intentional moments woven throughout the day can build resilience, focus, self-awareness, and calm over time. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Kira's Resource: Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids by Kim John Payne Connect with Kira Website Instagram Book: The Joyful Child: Calm the Chaos, Connect with Your Kids, and Create More Happiness in Your Daily Routines About Kira |Kira Willey is the author of seven bestselling children's books that have been translated into twenty-four languages, including the #1 beloved bestseller Breathe Like a Bear. A world-renowned recording artist, Kira is also the co-creator and host of three PBS mindfulness, music, and yoga television shows and the creator of Rockin' Yoga school programs. As a yoga teacher and lifelong musician, Kira's unique and powerful method of integrating music and movement into joyful, child-centered mindfulness practices has resulted in millions of streams, more than half a million children's book sales, and a massive, devoted fan base spanning the globe. A mother of three, she lives in eastern Pennsylvania. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Parenthood has a way of revealing parts of ourselves we didn't know existed. It can strengthen relationships, expose old wounds, and challenge even the most connected couples. In this conversation, Diane sits down with therapist, author, and mother of two, Martina Nova, to discuss how parents can stay connected and aligned through the ever-changing seasons of family life. Drawing from her new book, Same Page Parenting, Martina shares practical conversation starters and insights designed to help couples navigate parenting with greater intention, compassion, and confidence. Together, they explore the emotional realities of raising children in today's world - from the invisible mental load and shifting identities of parenthood to attachment patterns, neurodivergence, and the challenges of co-parenting and maintaining healthy boundaries. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube Channel Book: Good Inside: A Guide to Becoming the Parent You Want to Be Connect with Martina Website Instagram Facebook Book: Same Page Parenting: Align with Your Partner to Raise Happy, Confident, and Resilient Kids About Martina |Martina Nova is a registered clinical counselor, trauma-informed therapist, speaker, and author based in British Columbia, Canada. She specializes in ADHD, attachment wounds, people-pleasing, early trauma, and the emotional realities of motherhood and relationships. Martina is the founder of NovaCare Therapy and regularly speaks at conferences, writes educational material for clinicians and parents, and creates practical, compassionate resources. She is also the author of Supporting Your Partner Postpartum and Therapy Buddy. Originally from Slovakia, Martina immigrated to Canada as a child. She is also a mother of two, blending clinical expertise with lived experience to help people feel seen, supported, and more connected. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Do you ever find yourself replaying conversations long after they end, carrying guilt that may not belong to you, or feeling unable to quiet your mind no matter how hard you pray? In this conversation, I sit down with licensed mental health counselor Melissa Fisher to explore a question many Christians quietly wrestle with: What if anxiety isn't simply a faith problem? Drawing from both neuroscience and Scripture, Melissa unpacks why our minds and bodies respond the way they do to stress, worry, and relational tension. We discuss the hidden patterns that keep us stuck, the surprising role our thoughts play in shaping our emotions, and how faith and practical tools can work together rather than compete with one another. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube Channel Melissa's Resource: The Bible Recap Connect with Melissa Website LinkedIn Substack Book: Jesus for the Anxious: 8 Weeks of Practicing Peace to Calm Your Worry and Fear About Melissa |Melissa Fisher is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Vancouver, Washington, working with trauma and anxiety. She has two decades of experience in Christian youth, women's, military, and young adult ministries, as well as personal work in spiritual formation. Melissa has contributed to Karen Whiting and Jocelyn Greene's Battlefields and Blessings. She and her husband, a retired military officer, enjoy traveling with their adult children and hiking in the mountains. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

If you feel like you’re doing everything for everyone and still sinking a little deeper every day, you’re not alone. In Escaping Quicksand, Lisa Woodruff reveals why so many women feel buried by the mental load of modern home life and how to finally rise above it. Many of us have accepted that managing a home simply means carrying an endless mental checklist. The appointments, the paperwork, the meals, the laundry, the things that need fixed, purchased, remembered, and followed up on. But what if it doesn't have to be that way? In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Woodruff, author of Escaping Quicksand, to explore a different way of thinking about home management, organization, and the invisible responsibilities that shape our days. Lisa shares why so many women feel stuck in a cycle of constantly reacting to life and offers a refreshing perspective on what it looks like to create systems that actually support the life you want to live. What I appreciated most about this conversation is that it isn't about becoming more productive or squeezing more into your day. It's about creating enough structure, clarity, and intention that you can stop spending so much energy keeping everything afloat. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Diane's Resource: The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg | Previous Episode: Becoming a Super Communicator | Charles Duhigg Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube Channel Water Dispenser 5 Gallon Water Bottle Pump Connect with Lisa Website Instagram Podcast Book: Escaping Quicksand: 10 Steps to Overcome the Overwhelm of Modern Homelife About Lisa |Lisa Woodruff is a productivity and home organization expert, bestselling author, and founder of Organize 365. Through her podcast, books, and training programs, she helps busy women reduce overwhelm, clear mental clutter, and create functional systems that make everyday life more manageable. Known for her practical approach and mottos, “Done is better than perfect” and “Progress over perfection,” Lisa has been featured in publications including The New York Times, Fast Company, and Woman’s Day. She is passionate about helping women redefine organization as a skill that evolves with each season of life. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

As parents, we dream big dreams for our children and our families. For many, choosing to homeschool - especially in the younger years - is a way to intentionally achieve those dreams, offering not just academic flexibility but the freedom to truly know a child and nurture them accordingly. But as high school approaches, a question remains: Can homeschooling in the high school years continue to be a well-rounded and practical path that helps teens pursue their dreams for the future? Rachel Kovac knows this is the case. In today's conversation, she shares personal stories, expertise and words of encouragement to empower parents to confidently guide their student through a thoughtfully crafted high school education at home that ensures they're academically prepared and emotionally resilient for their unique post-graduation paths.  Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube Channel Rachel's Resource: italki language learning app Rachel Can't Stop Talking About: Voxer Connect with Rachel Website Instagram Substack Book: Their Future Is Shining Bright: A Guide to Homeschooling in High School -- and Equipping Your Child for Success and Fulfillment in Adulthood About Rachel |Rachel Kovac is a homeschooling mother of six and a longtime writer on motherhood, education, creativity, and home life. When she’s not writing or homeschooling, she loves photography, sewing, growing flowers, baking sourdough, and learning Italian. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Every year, millions of honey bees are transported across the country to pollinate the crops that fill our grocery stores - but few of us ever stop to consider the toll this takes on the bees themselves. In this episode, I sit down with author Jennie Durant to discuss the surprising and often unseen realities of modern beekeeping and industrial agriculture. We explore the challenges facing honey bees today, including pesticide exposure, disease, climate pressures, and the demands of large-scale farming. Jennie shares what she learned while researching Bitter Honey and introduces us to the beekeepers, farmers, and advocates working to create a healthier future for pollinators. Whether you're passionate about food, sustainability, gardening, or simply living more intentionally, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the interconnected systems that support our daily lives - and why the future of bees matters to all of us. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube Channel Book: The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd Previous Episode: Buzzing with Purpose: Teaching Kids to Protect Pollinators | Luke Howard (Going Deeper) Previous Episode: The Future of Food: What Regenerative Farming Really Means for Your Family | Jenni Harris (EP440) Xerces Society Pollinator Partnership Connect with Jennie Website Instagram LinkedIn Book: Bitter Honey: Big Ag’s Threat to Bees and the Fight to Save Them About Jennie |Jennie Durant is a writer and researcher focused on bees, agriculture, and the environment. She has spent more than a decade working with beekeepers, scientists, and policymakers, including time at the US Department of Agriculture and University of California, at both Davis and Berkeley. Her writing has appeared in Grist, Glamour, HuffPo, and the San Francisco Chronicle. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her family. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this conversation, Diane sits down with Chris McKenna - founder of Protect Young Eyes and author of The Five Habits of the Tech-Ready Family - to discuss why managing technology isn't ultimately about screen-time limits - it's about relationships, trust, and connection. Chris shares the powerful insight that "technology is better when it's a we activity," challenging the common belief that digital safety can be achieved through apps and parental controls alone. What makes this conversation different is that Chris doesn't leave parents with fear. Instead, he offers a practical roadmap built around five simple habits that help families create healthy technology boundaries while preserving connection. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube Channel Connect with Chris Website Instagram Book: 5 Habits of the Tech-Ready Family: Raising Wise Kids in a Wild Digital World About Chris |Chris McKenna is a leading voice in digital safety for families. As the founder of Protect Young Eyes, he has helped millions of parents navigate the complex world of technology and social media. His practical, research-based approach empowers families to embrace technology wisely while protecting what matters most. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Now is a wonderful time to revisit this conversation with Myquillyn Smith. As many of us spend more time at home during the summer months (or begin thinking ahead to fall projects) it's easy to feel the pressure to refresh our spaces, buy something new, or finally "fix" the rooms that never seem quite right. In this episode, Myquillyn offers a refreshing alternative: working with what you already have, letting go of rigid decorating rules, and creating a home that feels personal rather than perfect. Her practical, budget-friendly approach is a timely reminder that a meaningful home isn't built through constant consumption, but through intentional choices that reflect the people living there. Links Discussed in Episode |Substack: Minimalist Moms Podcast  NEW EBOOK | Let's Simplify: Newborn + Postpartum Connect with Myquillyn: Instagam Website Book: House Rules: How to Decorate for Every Home, Style, and Budget by Myquillyn Smith Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

According to the Center for Disease Control, 194 million Americans - or 76.4% of the population - have at least one chronic illness, and half of them are women. While many of these individuals finally have a diagnosis, and are no longer “sick”, they’re still not “well.” They’ve gone through the treatments, taken the medications, and yet still find themselves suffering.  So, what do you do after you’ve discovered the root of your condition, and you’re still not healed? How do you move past the trauma of being diagnosed (which often takes years for many patients), as well as the trauma of now living with this condition. More importantly, what is this limbo between sick and well that so many patients find themselves in?  Joining me today for this discussion is author and advocate, Amy Kurtz. Amy shares the plan she used to move through this integral part of recovery so that others can finally break free from their own bridge between sick and well.   Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube Channel Connect with Amy Website Instagram Book: But You Look Fine: Trapped in the Hell Between Sick and Well and How To Break Free About Amy |Amy Kurtz is a trailblazing author, certified health coach, patient advocate and speaker dedicated to empowering patients to reclaim agency over their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. A distinct voice in the health space, Amy’s work has been heralded by Dr Mark Hyman, Kris Carr, and many more. Lena Dunham named Kicking Sick one of her “Top 10 desert island books of all time” in New York Magazine. Amy has been featured on Oprah Daily, Good Morning America, The Boston Globe, NYMAG, Fox, and more. In her debut book, “Kicking Sick: Your GO-TO GUIDE for thriving with chronic health conditions,” Amy shares her journey of living with chronic health conditions and provides a roadmap and actionable guidance to help readers manage debilitating conditions and live fully. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Feeling overwhelmed by clutter? A simple 15-minute habit could change everything. In this episode, I’m joined by professional organizer and life coach Tracy Hoth to discuss a simple, sustainable approach to decluttering that helps reduce overwhelm and build lasting momentum. Tracy shares how our thoughts often keep us stuck and why delaying a task is frequently more painful than simply getting started. We explore her SPACE method for organizing - as well as practical strategies for tackling visible pain points, navigating the messy middle, and maintaining progress through simple daily habits. Tracy also explains how these same principles can be applied to mental and digital clutter, making this conversation a helpful guide for anyone seeking a more peaceful, intentional home and life. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane. Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube Channel Connect with Tracy Website 15 Minute Declutter Challenge Instagram Podcast About Tracy|Tracy Hoth (rhymes with both) is a certified life and organizing coach helping women simplify their homes, lives, and businesses through practical systems and mindset shifts, so they can focus on what matters most. As the host of the top 1% globally ranked Organized Coach Podcast, she empowers women to declutter with confidence, create systems that last, and step into the role of Organized Life CEOs. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out BetterHelp and use my code betterhelp.com for a great deal: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Ruggable and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://ruggable.com * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy