Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Work + Life Harmony | Time Management, Organization and Planning for Overwhelmed Women
Plongez dans la liste complète des épisodes de Work + Life Harmony | Time Management, Organization and Planning for Overwhelmed Women. Chaque épisode est catalogué accompagné de descriptions détaillées, ce qui facilite la recherche et l'exploration de sujets spécifiques. Suivez tous les épisodes de votre podcast préféré et ne manquez aucun contenu pertinent.
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Titre
Date
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Why Daily Planning Fails Working Moms
12 Nov 2025
00:21:03
You're not failing at daily planning. Daily planning is failing you.
If you're a working mom who wakes up, looks at your calendar, makes your to-do list, and then spends the entire day feeling like you're perpetually behind, this episode is going to explain exactly why. The problem isn't that you're bad at time management or that you need to try harder. The problem is that daily planning keeps you trapped in a constant state of reaction, scrambling to put out fires and crossing off urgent tasks while your longer-term goals collect dust. And when life throws you a curveball (because it will), everything falls apart.
When you're a working mom, disruptions don't just steal an hour. The school calls at 10 AM with a sick kid? That's your entire afternoon gone. There's no space in a daily plan to absorb that kind of pivot without staying up until midnight trying to catch up. The good news? There's a better way to plan that actually works for the realities of your life. And once you understand why daily planning is mathematically designed to fail you, everything is going to click into place.
In This Episode, I'll Cover:
Why daily planning traps working moms in constant reaction mode
The math problem that makes daily planning impossible for caregivers
What happens when disruptions steal hours, not minutes, from your day
Why you always feel behind (and why it's not your fault)
The planning shift that finally gives you space to breathe and pivot
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
We're talking about something we've never really covered here on the podcast: brain health. This is a newer field where a lot of the research just isn't very mainstream yet, but the findings are incredible. I brought in Dr. Holly Bardutz, a brain researcher at the University of Regina, to break down what brain health actually means and why it matters for those of us dealing with overwhelm and stress.
One of the biggest takeaways I want you to get from this episode is that you can improve the health of your brain every single day, even when you're overwhelmed, even when you're stressed out. You don't need to find three hours a day to make progress on this. You can actually integrate brain health practices into everyday living, and Holly's going to show you exactly how. This conversation completely changed how I think about my brain, and I can't wait for you to hear what small changes you can start putting in place today.
In This Episode, We Cover:
Why stress isn't always the enemy (and how it can actually help your brain)
The five key lifestyle factors that directly impact your brain health
Simple daily habits that build brain reserve and improve cognitive function
Why you can make new brain cells your entire life (yes, even now)
How to challenge your brain without adding more to your to-do list
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
The Real Reason You're Always Overbooked Every Month
02 Sep 2025
00:17:16
Sound familiar? You finish a crazy busy month thinking "next month will be easier," then you flip your calendar page and your heart sinks. Next month looks just as packed, or worse.
If you're stuck in this cycle, the problem isn't your weekly planning skills. You're missing the roadmap that actually prevents you from getting overbooked in the first place. Most women think the solution is better daily routines or time-blocking, but that's like trying to fix a leaky roof with a bigger bucket.
The real issue? You've never been taught how to do strategic annual planning that integrates your real life with your goals and dreams.
In This Episode, I'll Cover:
Why "just in time living" keeps you constantly overbooked
The 4 ways annual planning prevents monthly overwhelm
How to stop everything from feeling urgent and important
Why breathing room and catch-up time aren't the same thing
How to integrate your real life with your goals (so you stop choosing between them)
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Revolutionizing Your Wardrobe with Color Guru Jeannie Stith
12 Dec 2023
00:33:46
Are you tired of a cluttered wardrobe with nothing to wear? Imagine opening your closet to a collection of clothes that all coordinate effortlessly, bringing out your best features. You'll learn how this dream can be a reality in my chat with Jeannie Stith where she shares her journey and the magic of how color analysis can transform your wardrobe, saving you time and reducing stress.
Jeannie is the founder and CEO of Color Guru, where she matches you to your ideal color palette for clothing so that you can look beautiful and confident in your clothes, shop more simply, and create a coordinated wardrobe. Jeannie’s unique virtual color testing system and color cards have simplified choosing clothes for people in 27 countries and counting! Color Guru has been featured in Vogue, The Spark Joy Podcast, and Apartment Therapy.
In this episode, we cover:
Color Analysis and its Impact on Shopping
Organizing and Streamlining the Wardrobe
Transitioning to a New Color Palette
To get your color analysis, go to www.colorguru.com and use code HARMONY for 10% off.
Connect with Jeannie on Instagram or TikTok @yourcolorguru
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Ever felt overwhelmed by the mere thought of moving or decluttering your home? Well, you're in for a treat because, in this episode, I'm revealing a stress-busting plan of action based on my own experiences with multiple moves. Learn how to methodically list every item in your house, begin packing well ahead of time, and master the art of categorizing your belongings into keep, throw away, and donate piles. Trust me, whether you're in the midst of moving madness or simply yearning for a tidier living space, this episode is a must-listen.
In this episode, you will learn:
Step-by-Step Packing Strategy
Importance of Early Planning
Decluttering as You Pack
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Have you ever thought that all your planning could actually be a sneaky form of procrastination? In this episode, I dive into the heart of the issue, focusing on two prime suspects: fear and perfectionism. I'll delve into how the fear of an uncertain outcome and the quest for the 'perfect' plan often freezes us in our tracks. Yet, ironically, we still feel accomplished because planning in itself creates a sense of control and productivity.
Tune into this episode to learn about:
The concept of planning as a form of procrastination
Reasons for planning procrastination
Overcoming planning procrastination
Checkout The TOP Planner store: www.thetopplanner.com
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
This week on the podcast, I welcome health coach Jen Trepick to discuss strategies for moving away from guilt and embracing gratitude. Timely for the Thanksgiving season in the US, our conversation delves into the challenges women face in balancing various aspects of their lives and the guilt that often accompanies these struggles. Jen shares her personal journey of overcoming food issues and emphasizes the importance of keeping commitments to oneself. The discussion shifts towards practical strategies, such as setting realistic and manageable goals, shifting perspectives to view self-care as support for other priorities, and focusing on presence instead of an elusive balance.
Want something to smile about? Join Jenn's EXCLUSIVE Salad with a Side of Fries FB group for VIP only info, delicious & nutritious recipes, plus tips for living your happiest, healthiest life!
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Ever feel overwhelmed by your overflowing digital storage spaces? Join me in this episode as I unpack the world of digital organizational tools and reveal my top three favorites that have revolutionized my productivity. Juggling too many tools can be counterproductive, but I will guide you on how to centralize your data and make your life more streamlined.
Tune into this episode to learn about:
Streamlining Information Storage
Google Suite and Productivity Tools
Personal Workflow and Tool Integration
Plus, there's an early access Black Friday deal on the horizon, offering a free mini-course that will jumpstart your journey to organized bliss. www.thetopplanner.com
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Running a Successful Business and Motherhood with Kimberly Tara
07 Nov 2023
00:31:57
Today, I'm joined by my CPA, Kimberly Tara. Kimberly is a mom to four young children and manages a thriving CPA firm. In this episode, we'll dive into how she manages her family and business without burning out. Her story serves as a reminder that achieving work-life harmony is possible when you prioritize what truly matters and seek support where needed.
One of the central themes of this episode is the idea of saying "no" and the art of prioritization. Kimberly shares her experience with learning to say no to certain commitments and projects that don't align with her current season of life. She discusses the importance of discerning between a definitive "no" and a "not right now."
However, the most significant revelations come from Kimberly's experiences in her business. She acknowledges that her relentless pursuit of perfection and her tendency to take on too much were unsustainable. Recognizing the need to let go of certain responsibilities, she began making changes in her business model. Kimberly shares how she overcame the challenges of relinquishing control and discovered the power of trusting others to support her vision.
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Ever wondered how the pearls of wisdom from our elders shape our life? Join me on a journey today as I reminisce about my father, a 30-year Marine veteran, and his invaluable life lessons that have become the bedrock of my teachings. In his honor, I discuss three key lessons from him - not judging a book by its cover, thinking and dreaming big, and the essence of kindness in our lives. As we sail through these life lessons, you'll discover how they are intertwined in my work and the advice I share with you, our listeners.
But we're not stopping at just life lessons today. We're going full circle, celebrating the man who taught me so much and the impact he's had on my approach to time management and productivity. I'll be dishing out my most effective tips on staying on top of your goals, managing your time better, and boosting your productivity levels, all in a special tribute to my father.
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Transforming the Mundane into Joy and Reclaiming Time with Sarah Walton
24 Oct 2023
00:27:16
Ever wondered why seemingly simple tasks like making your bed or planning meals can feel like chores? Join me as business coach Sarah Walton guides us on a journey to find joy in these everyday activities and introduces the concept of high-functioning codependence. But that's just the beginning.
In this episode, we'll also explore the fascinating differences in multitasking abilities between men and women. Understanding these distinctions can be a game-changer for improving your time management skills.
Let's break free from the cycle of over-functioning and neglecting our own needs to please others; it's time to prioritize ourselves.
And in our grand finale, Sarah shares her powerhouse productivity strategies. Get ready to gain insights into your relationship with multitasking, learn how to reclaim your time, and live in harmony. Discover simple yet effective tips to escape the whirlpool of overwhelm and sail toward serenity.
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Have you ever wondered how starting your week with meetings can affect your entire week? Well, I've got some fantastic ideas for you. In this episode, we're going to explore what happens when you decide to keep your Monday mornings free from meetings. It's a simple change, but it can make a big difference in how productive and organized your week becomes.
Join me as I share my personal journey of how I improved my Work+Life Harmony by reserving Mondays for planning and preparation. I'll share some strategies that have worked for me to manage my time effectively, and I'll even talk about the best times to schedule meetings to make your week flow smoothly.
We'll also discuss why Thursday afternoons might be a great time for meetings. It gives you a chance to review what you've accomplished during the week and plan for the next one. Plus, it frees up your Friday for cleaning up loose ends and getting ready for the weekend.
So, let's leave behind the old ways of doing things and start paving the way for a more Work+Life Harmony!
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
How to Use Wall Calendars to Plan with Tasha Agruso
10 Oct 2023
00:31:54
Can a wall calendar revolutionize the way you connect with your family or plan your meals? Tasha Agruso of Kaleidoscope Living graced us with her presence in this episode, sharing the genesis of her innovative, bright wall calendar. Each month has its own page, and Tasha's creative vision shines as she shares how this functional art piece can turn any space into a vibrant hub of productivity.
Together we dive into the multitude of ways to use Tasha's colorful calendar - from tracking habits, planning meals, to even serving as a family communication center. My chat with Tasha doesn't just stop at wall calendars though; she shares her brilliant insights on repurposing household items, saving you both time and money.
This episode is a bounty of inspiration - it will leave you eager to infuse your own spaces with color, functionality, and a bit of Tasha's signature style.
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
What Is a Household Manager and How Can They Help Overwhelmed Families with Kelly Hubbell
26 Aug 2025
00:35:02
My dream for 2026 is to hire something called a household manager, but I honestly knew very little about what that actually meant or how it worked. So naturally, I had to bring on an expert to help me (and you!) figure this whole thing out. Kelly Hubbell, founder of Sage Haus, walked me through everything from what a household manager actually does to the real costs involved.
Spoiler alert: it's way more affordable than I thought! If you've ever felt like you need to duplicate yourself, or if you're spending 20+ hours a week just managing one kid's appointments like I did recently, this conversation is going to be a game-changer.
Kelly breaks down exactly why this isn't just for wealthy families and how you can start small with just a few hours per week. This is the kind of support that takes over both the mental and physical load that's been weighing you down. I'm actively exploring this for our family, and after this conversation, I think you might be too.
In This Episode, I'll Cover:
What a household manager actually does and how they differ from cleaners or nannies
Real costs and budget-friendly ways to start with just 6-12 hours per week
How to navigate partner resistance and privacy concerns when hiring help
The step-by-step process of finding and vetting the right household manager
Why this solution works for families at every income level and life stage
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Welcome to the final part of the 4 levels of planning...weekly planning! This episode unlocks the mystery of weekly planning and unveils the differences between weekly and monthly planning. I smash the myth that continuous list-making equates to effective weekly planning and equip you with practical strategies to boost your productivity.
Weekly planning takes those vague monthly intentions and transforms them into actionable tasks with set dates and times. We're not striving for a jam-packed schedule; we're ensuring balance by scheduling white space to absorb unexpected tasks. The real game-changer? The introduction of a weekly checklist that keeps recurring tasks on track.
GRAB THE 4 LEVELS OF PLANNING CHECKLIST Aka get my (never-before-shared) cheat sheet of what you need to do when doing annual, quarterly, monthly, and weekly planning. https://www.megansumrell.com/4levels
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Welcome to part three of the 4 levels of planning. In this episode, I am unraveling the subtle power of monthly planning. This episode presents you with clear strategies on how to efficiently map out your month and get a grip on how much of your time is already accounted for. I'll guide you through a process of evaluating your quarterly activities, tweaking them if necessary, and capturing your monthly planning details, irrespective of whether you're a digital calendar user or a paper planner fan.
No one wants to be swamped with too much detail, so I'll show you how the level of detail changes from quarterly to monthly planning. I’ll reveal how to block off chunks of time in your calendar, make notes in your planner, and set aside personal time without feeling guilty.
GRAB THE 4 LEVELS OF PLANNING CHECKLIST Aka get my (never-before-shared) cheat sheet of what you need to do when doing annual, quarterly, monthly, and weekly planning. https://www.megansumrell.com/4levels
________________________________
💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Welcome to part two of the 4 levels of planning. By the end of this episode, you will have the tools you need to create an effective quarterly plan that aligns with your annual goals.
In today's episode, I cover the basics of quarterly planning, discussing how to incorporate your personal, work, and business activities seamlessly. Beyond this, you’ll gain insight into how to prioritize and protect time for business activities without sacrificing your personal life events.
GRAB THE 4 LEVELS OF PLANNING CHECKLIST Aka get my (never-before-shared) cheat sheet of what you need to do when doing annual, quarterly, monthly, and weekly planning. https://www.megansumrell.com/4levels
________________________________
💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Want to know the secret to harmonizing all aspects of your life? I'm here to share with you the 4 levels of planning to do just that! This week, I'm kicking off a four-part series that is set to revolutionize the way you plan. With my guidance, you'll gain insights into integrating personal, work, and business plans for a more balanced life.
In today's episode, we're kicking things off with a deep dive into the highest and most abstract level of planning: Annual Planning. I want you to rethink what annual planning means. It's not just about adhering to the January-to-December calendar; it's about creating a personalized blueprint for your future, regardless of the timeline that suits you best, whether that's a fiscal year or a unique 18-month strategic plan.
GRAB THE 4 LEVELS OF PLANNING CHECKLIST Aka get my (never-before-shared) cheat sheet of what you need to do when doing annual, quarterly, monthly, and weekly planning. https://www.megansumrell.com/4levels
________________________________
💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
5 Things I Do Each Week to Keep my Digital Life Organized
05 Sep 2023
00:16:07
Ever wondered how to stay on top of the digital declutter? In this week's episode, I'm going to guide you through five effective strategies that have transformed my digital life, from managing emails and digital photos to social media and data backups.
Digital decluttering refers to the process of organizing and streamlining the digital aspects of our lives, including emails, files, photos, and tasks. It's a vital practice in our increasingly tech-driven world where the digital clutter can accumulate quickly, leading to stress and overwhelm. The digital realm's stress factor arises from the fact that, unlike physical clutter, we often don't see it until it's too late. Hidden behind screens, the accumulation of unorganized emails, countless unsorted photos, and incomplete tasks can become a daunting, invisible source of anxiety.
Join me, as I share my personal weekly tasks that ensure a clutter-free digital environment.
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Are you stuck in a cycle of constant overwhelming feelings and procrastination? We've all been there! Today, I'm breaking down the barriers to your productivity and reclaiming your time.
We'll discuss the whys and hows of procrastination and, based on my personal journey, I'll be sharing three practical, life-changing tools to get you past these hurdles.
But we're not stopping there! I'm delving deeper into the psychology of our brains - how they seek pleasure and avoid pain, and how we can flip that to our benefit. You'll discover the concept of temptation bundling and how it can be instrumental in overcoming procrastination. Plus, you'll learn about the intriguing productivity power of self-talk. So get ready to trade in the stress and chaos for a harmonious, productive life.
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Tired of the chaos in your digital world? Fear not, we've got you covered with some remarkable takeaways you'd get from my chat with Lydia Martin, the brain behind Banish Business Clutter.
Lydia, known for her profound understanding of the human brain and its operations, shares her wisdom on organizing your digital space. Together, we explore the benefits of digital decluttering and the remarkable transformation one can achieve by establishing a confident system.
Brace yourself as Lydia guides us through her two-step process to conquer eight major online systems and turn that digital dread into digital prowess. So, consider this your golden ticket to a cleaner, more effective tech space.
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Are you grappling with the conundrum of how to synchronize your digital and paper planning systems without duplicating information? The answer lies within this episode where I demystify the necessity of digital calendaring for effective time blocking and shed light on why a paper planner provides a superior bird’s-eye view of my schedule. This episode is a treasure trove of strategies that harmonize these two systems for efficient time management and planning.
Join me and dive into the nuances of my weekly planning, nestled within the realm of my paper planner, and contrast it with my monthly planning, which takes up residence in my digital realm. Get ready to embrace the best of both worlds without the overwhelm of information redundancy.
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Navigating Motherhood without Losing Your Identity with Dr. Morgan Cutlip
08 Aug 2023
00:36:19
How can you as a mom retain your individuality while taking care of your family? Meet Dr. Morgan Cutlip, a psychologist who's dedicated her career to relationship education and is a mother herself. We'll get a glimpse into her journey from the academic world of psychological theories to the practical world of day-to-day motherhood.
Just like machines, we too need regular refueling to function efficiently. The crux of our conversation with Dr. Cutlip revolves around the concept of self-care in motherhood, a topic often pushed to the back burner. We deliberate on how the starvation principle affects both our needs and those of our children, and the shifts we need to make to prevent reaching that point of desperation. We also explore the art of rediscovering joy and using self-care as a decompression tool rather than merely a path to self-improvement.
Motherhood can leave you feeling misplaced. Dr. Cutlip and I delve into the importance of acknowledging this sense of displacement and debunk the myth of balance. We talk about the significance of having systems to check in with ourselves constantly and how to put a pin in issues when we don't have time to deal with them.
Not only do we discuss the importance of maintaining self-focus as mothers, but Dr. Cutlip also gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming book filled with invaluable insights for moms.
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Ever feel overwhelmed by the plethora of apps and tools available, each one claiming to skyrocket your productivity? Let's pull back the veil together and learn how to critically evaluate these digital offerings, ensuring they're worthy of your time and energy.
We'll tackle questions like "What's the true purpose of this tool?" and "Is it really solving a problem for me?". We take this evaluation a step further by assessing if the tool is indeed worth the time it takes to master it, creating a foolproof process that saves you both time and resources.
In this episode, I also focus on helping you first make the most of what you already have before splurging on the latest shiny app. This includes setting a time-box to thoroughly test the tool, ensuring it effectively addresses your needs. If it's a hit, we discuss processes to prevent your valuable information from getting lost in the digital abyss.
And as an extra treat, I introduce the Pink Bee app, a treasure trove of my training materials, ready to boost your productivity. So, buckle up and join me on this enlightening journey to work smarter, not harder.
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Are You Falling Into These 3 Long-Term Planning Traps?
19 Aug 2025
00:17:39
Your goal planning isn't failing because you're not disciplined enough. It's failing because you're walking straight into these three hidden traps. If you've ever found that old goal-setting journal from January and felt that sickening pit in your stomach, there's a reason why. Most women abandon their long-term plans by March, but it's not because they lack willpower. It's because traditional planning approaches set them up for failure from day one.
In this episode, I'm breaking down the three most common long-term planning traps that keep women stuck in cycles of setting intentions, getting overwhelmed, and giving up. More importantly, I'm showing you exactly how to avoid these traps so your next planning session actually leads to real progress on what matters most to you.
In This Episode, I'll Cover:
The three hidden traps that sabotage long-term planning success
Why traditional planning approaches fail women specifically
The two essential one-page tools I use to stay on track all year
How to create a realistic roadmap that works with your real life
Why October is the strategic time for annual planning (not January)
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Lessons Learned from 200 Episodes of Work + Life Harmony
25 Jul 2023
00:16:23
Can you imagine the transformation your work + life would undergo if you learned to DITCH work-life balance and aim for work + life harmony instead? That's precisely the journey we've embarked on together over the last 200 episodes of the Work + Life Harmony podcast! As we ring in this milestone episode, I take a reflective pause to distill some vital lessons learned along the way.
Tune in, as I reminisce on the critical necessity of preparation, the magic of a well-structured script, the need for systems for regular tasks, and the perils of procrastination. But, the icing on the cake is the revealing of how a robust and supportive team can turbocharge a podcast's success.
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Transforming Meal Prep and Planning with Nakita Attard Vassallo
18 Jul 2023
00:25:27
Tired of the daily scramble to answer the 'what's for dinner' question? Longing for a way to streamline your meal planning and preparation routine that doesn't involve spending hours in your kitchen every weekend? Nakita, a meal prep expert, joins me to share her unique approach and practical tips on transforming meal prep and planning from a chore into a game-changer!
Together, we unpack the key differences between meal planning and meal prepping, and how integrating these practices can shave hours off your weekly routine. Nakita shines a light on batch cooking, sharing how even one simple recipe per week can free up time and, more importantly, mental energy.
But we don't stop there! We also dive into the ripple effect meal planning can have on your lifestyle, like conscious recipe choices and reduced time wasted on impromptu grocery shopping. Nakita offers an insight into how cooking for the following day has saved her from stress and introduces her meal planning membership service, designed to take the guesswork out of dinner time completely.
Tune in, and discover how meal planning and prepping can offer relief from daily decision fatigue and pave the way for work-life harmony.
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Celebrating my 50th birthday today, I take you on a roller-coaster ride that was the journey of creating the TOP Planner 3.0. Ever wondered how a revolutionary planner springs to life? Unfold the saga of its creation, the challenges we wrestled with, and how our strategic planning came to the rescue.
More importantly, understand the significance of four levels of planning that were critical in this journey and learn how they can be your secret weapon in managing your projects and goals.
Get ready to harness the power of the TOP Planner 3.0 to master time management, organization, and productivity.
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Embracing Slow Living and Wellbeing with the Crock-Pot Lady, Stephanie O'Dea
04 Jul 2023
00:28:43
What if you could live a life filled with harmony and well-being by simply embracing a slower pace? Join me as I chat with Stephanie O'Dea, the "Crock-Pot Lady," who went viral years ago after cooking dinner in her crock pot every night for an entire year and blogging about her journey. Stephanie shares her story, from her humble beginnings to hitting the New York Times best-sellers list, and the most rewarding part of her journey - connecting with other moms who have been touched by her slow-living philosophy.
In this conversation, we discuss the benefits of living a slower life, reconnecting with ourselves, and ultimately improving our well-being. We also explore the importance of guided journaling and how having a prompt can be a valuable tool for getting started. Stephanie talks about her thoughts on the popular Instant Pot and how it didn't align with her slow-living philosophy.
Listen in and learn more about Stephanie's mission to help others slow down and embrace a life of harmony.
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Are you torn between going digital or sticking to the good old-fashioned paper planner? In today's episode, I tackle the importance of monthly planning and how it can help you make that crucial decision.
In this episode:
Discover the differences between monthly and weekly planning
The type of information monthly and weekly planning requires
The significance of choosing the right paper planner for your weekly planning sessions
I also discuss why I still have a soft spot for paper planners and explore the benefits of Artful Agenda as a digital calendar solution. If you're on the fence, give monthly planning a try and see which method suits you best.
Like what you heard here?
I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Reinventing Productivity with Alignment over Willpower
20 Jun 2023
00:17:11
Relying on willpower to achieve your goals? Discover how leaning into alignment can revolutionize your approach to productivity and time management. In this episode, I share my personal experience of how embracing alignment over willpower has significantly impacted my life and made tasks like starting a new exercise routine or blogging feel more natural and effortless.
In this episode, I dive deep into:
The concept of alignment and how it applies to activities you want to initiate, such as beginning a blog or a new exercise routine.
Learning the importance of understanding your own unique needs and how this knowledge is crucial for the activities you want to pursue
Finding out how to recognize when you're relying on willpower and how to shift into alignment for a smoother journey towards your desired outcome.
Don't miss this opportunity to transform your approach to productivity, organization, and time management by aligning your beliefs and actions.
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where life throws a massive curveball your way, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of your next steps? I've been there, and I want to share my experience and the biggest mistake you could make when facing a massive pivot in your life.
Join me in this episode as I discuss the importance of adapting to changes and maintaining productivity during uncertain times.
We'll dive into:
The process of replanning and prioritizing your life in the midst of upheaval
Focusing on delegating tasks and embracing what truly matters
How to maximize your productivity
Like what you heard here?
I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
________________________________
💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Boosting Confidence and Family Connections in the Kitchen with Katie Kimball
06 Jun 2023
00:31:06
Imagine the freedom and time you'd gain if your kids could confidently whip up healthy meals in the kitchen! Join us for an insightful conversation with Katie Kimball, an expert in teaching parents how to stay healthy without going crazy. Throughout our chat, Katie shares her wisdom on getting kids involved in the kitchen, which not only frees up time for parents but also gives kids a boost of confidence and creates stronger family connections.
We delve into the importance of teaching kids basic kitchen skills and safety, taking inspiration from activities in Katie's LifeSkillsNow summer camp. By starting with the stove off and playing the "hot or not hot" game, children can gradually build their self-esteem in the kitchen. Katie also stresses the importance of investing time upfront to reap the rewards later when it comes to teaching kids essential life skills.
Lastly, don't miss the details on Katie's incredible LifeSkillsNow Summer Camp, open to kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens, and completely free! This empowering event covers essential life skills that aren't typically taught in the classroom, such as finance, gardening, cooking, entrepreneurship, and time management. Equip your children with the skills they need to thrive throughout their lives by tuning in to our fascinating conversation with Katie Kimball.
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Just when you thought SMART goals were the secret to success, Mindi Huebner reveals an unexpected twist that will change the way you approach goal-setting forever. Her concept of 24-karat outcomes taps into the power of the subconscious mind, allowing individuals to shift their beliefs and truly embody their desired change. Are you ready to unlock your true potential?
Mindi Huebner joins the show this week and is an intuitive mindset mastery coach. She brings her expertise in helping six, seven, and eight-figure entrepreneurs achieve their goals through aligning their conscious and subconscious minds. With years of experience in the field, Mindi has developed unique strategies to unlock the hidden potential of individuals who are tired of setting goals without achieving them. Her approach focuses on addressing the limitations of SMART goals and incorporating subconscious alignment to create a powerful balance between goal setting and goal getting. Get ready to learn from Mindi's insights and take your goal achievement to the next level.
In this episode, you will be able to: 1. Explore the crucial need for aligning your conscious and subconscious objectives to excel. 2. Unveil the secrets behind fashioning top-tier, 24-karat results in setting your aspirations. 3. Dive into the world of mindfully involving the subconscious in your favor with visualization and affirmations. 4. Absorb the knowledge of how to mesh your belief system with your intended results, steering clear of self-sabotage. 5. Grasp the power of establishing a constructive outlook when defining your objectives.
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
________________________________
💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
The Missing Piece: The Power of Information Centralization
23 May 2023
00:16:39
When puzzle pieces are scattered across various places, solving the puzzle becomes more time-consuming, frustrating, and overwhelming. Analogously, keeping essential information dispersed across different platforms or devices can hinder one's ability to manage their time and make well-informed, quick decisions efficiently.
In this episode, I'm using this jigsaw puzzle analogy to drive home the importance of centralizing information for time management and planning. Listen in as I emphasize that just as gathering all puzzle pieces in one place makes the process much easier and more enjoyable, organizing one's personal and professional data in a single location simplifies decision-making and allows for more effective scheduling.
If you have been struggling to try and get planning together, it's probably because you're missing that centralized hub.
In this episode, you will be able to: 1. Understand the key link between information centralization and achieving time management goals. 2. Evaluate the most suitable system for gathering your vital information in one accessible location. 3. Ascertain the positive impact of using email processing systems in your professional arena. 4. Appreciate the consequences of avoiding a well-organized information hub on your bottom line. 5. Skillfully navigate the planning process through centralization in top-rated programs to accelerate results.
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
When Getting Things Done Still Leaves You Drained with Heather Chauvin
12 Aug 2025
00:30:38
You're crushing your to-do list, checking off task after task, but by 3 PM you feel like you've been hit by a truck. Sound familiar? That was my guest Heather Chauvin's reality until a stage 4 cancer diagnosis in 2013 changed everything.
As a mom of three boys and a new business owner, Heather was in the thick of juggling it all. She was getting things done, hitting deadlines, and managing everything on her plate. But she was also completely burned out, resentful, and running on fumes with an internal ache that this wasn't sustainable. Her cancer diagnosis became an unexpected teacher, showing her that there's a whole other layer to how we manage our time and energy.
Today, Heather shares what she discovered about energetic time management and why asking "How do I want to feel?" might be more powerful than asking "What do I need to do?"
In This Episode, We Cover:
Why energy management works alongside your planning system
How to spot invisible energy drains in your daily life
Why women automatically shrink themselves (and how to stop)
The simple question that changes how you make decisions
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
From Overwhelmed to Empowered with TOP Program Student Steph Hochstetler
16 May 2023
00:29:59
If you're feeling overwhelmed and frustrated by constantly juggling work and family responsibilities, trying to squeeze in more hours daily, and sacrificing self-care time, then you are not alone!
Today I am joined by Steph Hochstetler a busy mom and professional. Living in the suburbs of Chicago, Steph is a proud member of her local improv theater and youth program, while also dedicating her time to two nonprofits and a local political campaign.
Steph has been in the TOP Program for 2.5 years and is a GREAT example of an active learner. She openly admits that she has not "mastered" the entire framework but is reaping the benefits of slowly implementing each and every month.
In this episode, you will be able to: 1. Discover the crucial role of time management, prioritization, and organization in achieving Work+Life Harmony. 2. Uncover the life-changing benefits of mastering time management skills. 3. Find out how proactive planning and seeking input can save time and improve task management. 4. Realize the power of commitment to a process and the importance of perseverance.
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Investing Time vs. Spending Time: How to Make Time Investments That Pay Off
09 May 2023
00:16:52
There is a difference between spending time and investing time. Spending time refers to activities that bring immediate results without any future time-saving benefit. On the other hand, investing time implies engaging in tasks that might not have an instantaneous effect but lay the foundation for future time savings.
Striking the right balance between spending and investing time is the key to achieving productivity and preventing exhaustion. In this episode, I emphasize the importance of identifying whether your daily activities are centered around spending or investing time. I urge you to start by analyzing your day for both types of activities to ensure long-term productivity and maintain a sense of purpose.
In this episode, you will be able to: 1. Master the art of striking a balance between spending and investing time for enhanced productivity. 2. Discover the secret to identifying time investment activities that will pay off in the long run. 3. Learn how to maintain harmony in your life by dodging overwhelm and exhaustion. 4. Uncover planning techniques designed for effective time management and organization. 5. Realize the power of intentionality in daily time usage and the benefits it brings.
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
________________________________
💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Declutter Your Home & Mind: Expert Tips from Katy Wells
02 May 2023
00:39:11
In fostering a balanced and orderly work-life environment, it is important to understand the correlation between physical clutter and mental well-being. Cluttered spaces tend to have a detrimental effect on productivity and focus, causing individuals to feel stressed and overwhelmed.
An organized home allows for clearer thinking, reduced stress levels, and improved mood, enabling people to concentrate on more important aspects of life like their careers, hobbies, and personal relationships. During our conversation on today's show, decluttering expert Katy Wells highlights the impact of physical possessions on an individual's mental health. She explains that when a home is cluttered and chaotic, it leads to feelings of stress and reduced productivity.
According to Katy, the key to creating a harmonious environment is to remove unnecessary items from one's life, leaving only what truly matters, thus resulting in maximized time and energy.
In today's episode, tune to learn how to: 1. Enhance mental clarity, and productivity, and reduce stress through decluttering 2. Develop sustainable decluttering habits with daily resets and clutter audits. 3. Instill organization skills in children using the effective LAP (Look, Assess, Place) method.
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
________________________________
💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Spring Cleaning Part 2: Your Calendar and Task List
25 Apr 2023
00:20:36
Taking time to spring clean your calendar is the number one way to really start to free up more of your time. Last week we talked about some simple things to spring clean your house. Today, I'm sharing how to spring clean the stuff you CAN'T see!
Tune in to revamp your calendar for a fresh, focused mindset and heightened productivity, and uncover how to optimize daily habits by monitoring time usage.
In this episode, you will: 1. Learn key strategies for eliminating clutter through the keep, toss, and outsource methods. 2. Grasp the importance of emphasizing crucial tasks for Work+Life Harmony. 3. Discover the One Notebook Challenge and its role in streamlining organization.
If you had to collect multiple notebooks to "spring Clean"...I have great news! The One Notebook Challenge is coming and it's FREE! Sign up here www.megansumrell.com/one-notebook
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
________________________________
💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Spring Cleaning Part 1: Declutter Your Home and Mind
18 Apr 2023
00:22:22
After years of dedicating myself to mastering the art of spring cleaning, I was surprised to discover how it could positively impact my emotional well-being and ultimately lead me to more Work + Life Harmony.
Little did I know that this ritual of renewal would shape my life in ways I could never have imagined. Tune in as I walk you through my "how-to spring clean" process. Today's episode is part one where I cover spring cleaning your physical things. Part two will cover spring cleaning your calendar.
In this episode, you will be able to: 1. Discover the profound effects that spring cleaning has on mental well-being. 2. Uncover the secrets to effectively tackling high-traffic areas during cleaning sessions. 3. Embrace a more intentional lifestyle by editing and organizing your belongings with purpose.
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
1 Small Shift to Make to Improve Your Productivity
11 Apr 2023
00:16:37
As a people pleaser, I previously found myself putting everyone else's needs before my own, leading to resentment and decreased productivity. Realizing the need for change, I decided to establish boundaries and communicate them with my family.
The two boundaries I set were not working on weekends and dedicating three hours per week solely to my CEO duties. By having an open conversation with my family, I was able to explain my needs and how it would impact our lives. This led to improved productivity and personal time management.
For fellow people pleasers struggling with boundaries, this episode highlights the importance of setting clear boundaries and communicating them to achieve work-life harmony. By protecting our mental health and prioritizing our own goals, we can maintain a balanced life.
In this episode, you will be able to: 1. Break away from unproductive customs blocking your personal and work growth. 2. Spot when you're putting others before your own needs and restore your work-life balance. 3. Create and maintain strong personal and professional boundaries. 4. Share your new boundaries effectively with loved ones to improve understanding. 5. Prioritize objectives for both mental well-being and work-life synergy.
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
________________________________
💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Connection Between Managing Time and Money with Mel Abraham
04 Apr 2023
00:36:04
It's not often that we have a male guest join the Work + Life Harmony Podcast for Overwhelmed Women but what you are about to learn from Mel Abraham today is going to blow your mind. I have been working with him for the past several months and it really has changed my life.
Mel Abraham is a CPA and entrepreneur who has been in the business game for decades. He is passionate about helping people marry their business with their life, finances, and money, and he believes that everyone has the possibility of being financially free.
When he became a single full-time dad to a 6-year-old, he realized that money was not the only way to create wealth. He learned the importance of being intentional with money and creating harmony between his work and home life. His message is that everyone has the possibility of being financially free if they are willing to talk about it, be intentional, and understand the power of time.
In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. How can we use our business to create wealth, rather than believing the business is the wealth itself 2. How can we use intentional conversations, money education, and habits to change our financial destiny 3. How can we shift from wants to wills to create a commitment and alignment toward our dreams
To connect with Mel, you can listen to him on his podcast The Affluent Entrepreneur Show, and find all the ways to work with him/follow him on social media at https://melabraham.com/.
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
________________________________
💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
I spend a lot of time talking about how weekly planning improves your day-to-day life but in today's episode, I'm covering the long-term effects of planning.
Through consistent planning, I have seen an increase in repeatable success on long-term goals, improved response to change, and the ability to commit to plans confidently. This has led to a decrease in my anxiety levels and overall, this has given me a sense of control and harmony.
When you start making the small shift in your life of planning the right way in your day-to-day living and doing weekly and monthly planning, you will start to experience the long-term benefits of planning.
In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. Discover the long-term benefits of consistent planning and how it leads to repeatable success on goals. 2. Learn how to plan for change and how it can lower your anxiety levels. 3. Find out how to commit with confidence and ease when you understand how to plan correctly.
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
________________________________
💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Boost Productivity with High Performance Sleep with Tanessa Shears
21 Mar 2023
00:30:43
Have you ever wondered how to optimize your sleep for maximum energy and productivity? Tanessa Shears joins the podcast today and she is a health consultant and biohacking expert who specializes in helping people optimize their brain and body performance.
She is passionate about helping people increase productivity and reduce overwhelm through high performance sleep and wearable tech. Through this, Tanessa discovered the importance of high performance sleep and that getting the right quantity of deep and dream sleep was essential for physical and mental restoration. She also realized that her sleep patterns and productivity varied depending on her cycle.
Tanessa now uses wearable tech to track her sleep and experiments to figure out how to get the most out of her day. She has learned that sometimes it's not about working more but optimizing how her brain works.
In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. What is biohacking and how can it help optimize the way our brain and body work 2. How can we use wearable tech to get a return on our health investment 3. What are the tips and tricks to getting high-performance sleep
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
________________________________
💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
This episode is about repeatable systems vs. one-time processes and how that relates to time management. Hang with me here as this may sound a little complicated.
Let's start with an example: A one-time process to clean out your closet helps you organize your closet once. Setting up a repeatable system for how you take clothes out and put them back helps you consistently stay organized.
How does this apply to productivity and planning? You may have a repeatable system for setting up your calendar for the week but what happens when one of these things happens: something takes longer than planned, an emergency pops up, and new things come at you that you need to squeeze into your week? Do you have systems for doing this?
Having systems in place to plan and manage our time can help us live a life of harmony where we don't feel constantly overwhelmed, exhausted, and stressed out. We need to account for the realities of life and create systems to adjust when emergencies happen. It will take time and patience to build the systems, but over time they will become habits.
In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. Discover the power of systems to manage your time and calendar. 2. What is the difference between a one-time process vs a repeatable system. 3. Find out why your goals won't be achieved without the right systems in place.
Ready to ditch overwhelm for good? Head to www.theworklifeharmony.com to get my free training and get started today!
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
________________________________
💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
How to Survive Back to School Without Losing Your Mind
05 Aug 2025
00:22:41
Back to school season hits every August and September like a freight train. New schedules, earlier wake-ups, lunch packing, school supplies... suddenly you're drowning in chaos before you've even figured out what works.
Most parents take one of two approaches: either wing it completely or try to map out every detail before school starts. Both are recipes for disaster. There's a better way that doesn't involve losing your sanity or creating impossible expectations.
In this episode, I'm sharing the two specific strategies I use every single back to school season (and why the order matters). These aren't complicated systems or overwhelming checklists. They're simple, strategic approaches that help you create sustainable routines while staying calm during those crucial first two weeks.
In This Episode, I'll Cover:
The biggest mistake parents make in those first two weeks of school
Why most back to school routines fail before they even start
My secret weapon for staying calm during the morning chaos
How to collect the right data to set yourself up for success all year
Simple tweaks that make the difference between surviving and thriving
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Unlocking the Secrets of Maternity Leave Planning with Alyson Caffrey
07 Mar 2023
00:36:45
With the goal of helping moms transition into motherhood with clarity and autonomy, Alyson Caffrey, founder of Operations Agency and Master Maternity Leave, navigates the universal, yet often overlooked, challenge of prepping for maternity leave with humor, grit, and empowering advice.
Alyson Caffrey had been running her own business and prepping for maternity leave when she realized there wasn't much information available for mothers who were in the same position. She decided to take matters into her own hands and create a support system for expecting mothers.
Alyson encourages mothers to be intentional about their maternity leave and to communicate their feelings and needs with their partner and support system. She also encourages them to take care of their physical and mental health by getting enough sleep, drinking enough water, and nourishing their bodies with whole foods. Alyson hopes to create a world where mothers feel supported and empowered during this life-changing time.
In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. Discovering how to plan maternity leave to gain autonomy and creative agency. 2. Understanding how to create clarity and support for expecting employees. 3. Learning how to create a balanced schedule to make the best decisions during maternity leave.
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
While watching a news segment about the stress and overwhelm many working women face, I cringed at the phrase "work+life balance". What was being sold as a solution to this problem of overwhelm was actually just teaching people to multitask and leading to MORE stress.
In this episode, I focus on shifting you away from work-life balance and talk about how you can create Work + Life Harmony instead. By shifting away from the quest for balance and towards harmony, you will be able to live a life that is more productive and free from so much stress and overwhelm.
In this episode, you will learn: 1. Uncovering why the phrase "work-life balance" is actually doing more harm than good. 2. Understanding why multitasking is not the answer to overwhelm and stress. 3. Exploring how to create a life of harmony, rather than balance, to reduce stress and overwhelm.
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
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💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining
Juggling Multiple Businesses & Family with Taryn Sowa from The Pink Bee
21 Feb 2023
00:28:31
Our very own Taryn Sowa from The Pink Bee team joins the podcast today to share her journey to Work+Life Harmony. I love bringing you examples of women who have a lot on their plate and sharing how they are ditching overwhelm when it would seem impossible.
Taryn Sowa is a business manager and podcast producer who has been running her business from home for four years. She supports multiple women's businesses while growing and prioritizing her family, and supporting her husband's busy career.
When Taryn joined The Pink Bee team, I also welcomed her in as a student of the TOP Program because we practice what we preach! After joining, Taryn began to tweak her time management and planning processes, creating systems and tools to prioritize tasks across multiple businesses. Through trial and error, she was able to master her time without sacrificing her business or family. Today, she happily shares her wisdom and real-life results from The TOP Program.
In this episode, we discuss: 1. How to manage time and plan effectively while juggling multiple businesses and a family 2. Strategies to make the most of time while in the trenches of motherhood 3. The benefits of combining both paper and digital tools for time management and productivity.
Like what you heard here? I’d be honored and grateful if you would head over to iTunes to leave a review and let other female entrepreneurs know what you learned! While you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
________________________________
💻 Free Training
Overwhelmed? Frazzled? Tired of your calendar controlling you? You’re in the right place. Sign up for my free, on-demand training and learn how to take control of your time—no matter what life throws at you. 👉 https://www.megansumrell.com/freetraining