Explore every episode of the podcast Minimalist Moms Podcast | Purposeful Life & Parenting Tips
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age-Proof Your Brain | Dr. Marc Milstein (Bonus Episode) | 16 Oct 2026 | 00:32:23 | |
Feeling forgetful, distracted, or mentally exhausted? Brain health expert and bestselling author Dr. Marc Milstein joins me to explore how chronic stress, multitasking, and information overload affect our memory, focus, and long-term health. We discuss the science behind “mom brain,” the importance of sleep, and simple, realistic habits that can help protect our brains as we age. Because caring for our mental well-being doesn’t have to mean adding more to our plates - sometimes it starts with doing less. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Dr. Marc Milstein specializes in taking the leading scientific research on health and happiness and presents it in a way that entertains, educates, and empowers his audience to live better. His presentations provide science-based solutions to keep the brain healthy, lower the risk of dementia, boost productivity and maximize longevity. Dr. Milstein's new book, "The Age-Proof Brain," is an Amazon best seller and was nominated for the “Next Big Idea” award for best non-fiction book of the year. Here is the info on "The Age-Proof Brain" He earned both his Ph.D. in Biological Chemistry and his Bachelor of Science in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology from UCLA. Dr. Milstein has researched topics including cancer biology and neuroscience and his work has been published in multiple scientific journals. Dr. Milstein has been quoted breaking down and analyzing the latest research in popular press such as USA Today, New York Post, and Oprah Daily. Dr. Milstein has also been featured on television explaining the latest scientific breakthroughs that improve our life. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Your Phone Doesn't Belong in Your Bedroom (Here's Why) | Emily Bryne (EP470) | 15 Oct 2026 | 00:28:46 | |
Today, I'm joined by Emily, founder of Rise Centered, for a conversation about something I've been thinking a lot about lately: what if creating a healthier relationship with our phones has less to do with willpower and more to do with the environments we're creating? If you've been listening recently, you know I've had quite a few conversations about technology, screen time, and reclaiming our attention - and I actually have one or two more coming your way. I know it might seem like we're spending a lot of time on this topic, but I think that's because technology has become such a significant part of our everyday lives, and there are so many different angles worth exploring. What makes today's conversation a little different is that we're bringing it back to the home. Specifically, where does your phone actually belong in your home? And what if the bedroom isn't the best place for it? Links Discussed in This Episode |
Rise Centered is a Jackson Hole-based wellness company creating thoughtful tools to help people step away from technology, simplify their routines, and reconnect with themselves. Its hero product is a phone-free sunrise alarm clock made from natural materials, including Himalayan salt and wood, that wakes users gradually with light, without apps, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or subscriptions. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Stop Dividing and Conquering: A Better Way to Run Your Family | Blake & Chandler Allsmith (EP469) | 13 Oct 2026 | 00:35:37 | |
Between school schedules, household responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and everything else that comes with raising kids, it's easy for family life to start feeling like a series of tasks we're simply trying to get through. But what if we stopped dividing and conquering and started working together? Today, I'm joined by Blake and Chandler Allsmith, parents of seven and authors of The Family Framework, to talk about building a more connected, intentional family culture. Drawing from their experience in business and parenting, they share how simple systems can help families move from merely managing the chaos to actually functioning as a team. We discuss why efficiency shouldn't always be the goal, how to get everyone working toward a shared vision, and why involving our kids in everyday family life builds confidence, competence, and connection. This conversation is a reminder that a well-functioning family isn't necessarily one that gets everything done the fastest. It's one that's learning to do life together. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Blake and Chandler Allsmith are the authors of The Family Framework and parents of seven children. Blake is a former tech CEO who went on to build and sell a growth marketing agency, where he helped grow 100+ brands. He's now Head of Growth at Synthweave. He has spoken at TEDx, advises for Techstars and 500 Startups, and supports a venture capital firm as an Entrepreneur-in-Residence. Chandler is a homemaker, writer, homeschool co-op leader, and real estate investor - and she is the heart behind many of the systems they've created. Together, they homeschool, launch companies, invest in real estate, and live a big, beautiful, messy and loud life where the lines between work, family, play and ministry are as blurred as possible. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Before You Label It: What’s Actually Normal in Childhood? | Katie Davis (Bonus Episode) | 12 Oct 2026 | 00:35:11 | |
When our children struggle - with attention, learning, emotions, friendships, or behavior - it's natural to wonder: Is something wrong? Do we need an evaluation? Am I missing something? Clinical neuropsychologist and learning disorder expert Dr. Katie Davis, author of Actually, You're Fine, joins me to unpack the increasingly complicated world of childhood development and diagnosis. We talk about the difference between a symptom and a disorder, how much developmental variation is actually normal, and why parents may need to become more comfortable observing a struggle before immediately trying to fix it. Katie also explains how to recognize when a child genuinely needs additional support, what parents should consider before pursuing an evaluation, and how to advocate for a child without inadvertently sending the message that something is “wrong” with them. This conversation isn't about dismissing diagnoses or necessary interventions. It's about becoming more thoughtful about when to worry, when to seek help, and when our kids may simply need time and space to develop.
Dr. Katie Davis is a clinical neuropsychologist, child development expert, and author of Actually, You’re Fine. She specializes in helping children with learning and developmental challenges and serves as an assistant professor of psychology at Yeshiva University. Her research focuses on neurodevelopmental disorders, learning disabilities, and child mental health, with work published in leading academic journals. She has also been featured in New York Magazine, Psychology Today, and Reader’s Digest. Dr. Davis lives in New York City with her family. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Stop Playing Small: Building a Career and Life You Actually Love | Kelly Mooney (Bonus Episode) | 09 Oct 2026 | 00:30:28 | |
What if the secret to getting ahead isn't doing more, but getting intentional about what matters most? In this episode, I'm joined by Kelly Mooney, founder and CEO of Equipped Women and co-author of Up: The Playbook for Every Woman on the Rise, for a conversation about ambition, self-advocacy, and creating a career and life that reflect your values. Drawing on three decades of leadership experience, Kelly shares the unwritten rules of career advancement that women aren't always taught, including why working hard isn't enough, how to make your contributions visible, and why advocating for yourself matters. Whether you're building a career, raising a family, considering your next chapter, or simply feeling stretched too thin, this conversation is a reminder that you don't have to do everything to build a life you love. You just have to get clearer about what matters most. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Kelly Mooney is a three-time author, speaker, board director of a public company, and longtime gender equality advocate. She’s also a wife and mother of two who built her career while navigating the realities of modern work and family life. Over a decades-long career, she has experienced the full arc of the workplace—from intern to CEO—ultimately co-owning and leading the nation’s largest women-owned digital agency, scaling it 15x, and later exiting the business to IBM, where she served as Chief Experience Officer for North America. Consistently ahead of the curve, Kelly anticipated the power shift from organizations to consumers, authoring The Ten Demandments and The Open Brand—the latter becoming required reading at Stanford and other universities. She also founded the Equipt Women Foundation and created Get Equipt, a widely read weekly career advice newsletter. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Your Teen’s Brain Isn’t Broken: Understanding ADHD Beyond Behavior | Dr. Tamara Rosier (Bonus Episode) | 08 Oct 2026 | 00:32:17 | |
When a teen with ADHD knows what they’re supposed to do - but still can’t seem to do it - it’s easy for parents to see defiance, laziness, or a lack of motivation. But ADHD is often a performance problem, not a knowledge problem, and understanding that distinction can completely change the way we respond to our kids. In this episode, I’m joined by ADHD coach and author Dr. Tamara Rosier to talk about what’s actually happening inside the ADHD brain during the teen and young adult years. We discuss: time blindness, rejection sensitivity, masking and people-pleasing, and why stress, anger, panic, and shame can become temporary “power-ups.” Most importantly, Tamara shares how parents can move away from trying to fix their child and instead lead with empathy, respect, love, and honesty - even on the hard days. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Dr. Tamara Rosier is an ADHD coach, author, speaker, and founder of the ADHD Center of West Michigan, where she helps individuals and families better understand ADHD and develop practical strategies for navigating everyday life. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| You Can’t Control the Economy - BUT You Can Control Your Money | Crystal Paine @TheMoneySavingMom (EP468) | 07 Oct 2026 | 00:35:57 | |
Money can feel especially stressful when so much of the economy is outside of our control. Rising costs, housing challenges, job uncertainty, college expenses, retirement - it’s easy to feel like we’re constantly bracing for what might come next. But while we can’t control the economy, we can become more intentional about the way we manage what we have. Today I’m joined by Crystal Paine, author of The 7 Habits of Financially Healthy Women, to talk about creating more peace and confidence around money. Crystal shares about the emotional side of spending, financial fears many women carry, navigating money as a couple, and why both partners should understand their household finances. Plus, Crystal shares practical ways to curb impulse spending, identify stress-spending triggers, save on everyday expenses, and build financial habits that actually work in real life.
A wife and homeschool mom of three, Crystal Paine is a bestselling author, business consultant, speaker, and the founder of MoneySavingMom.com which averages over two million unique visitors per month. A New York Times bestselling author, her next book, Money Making Mom: How Every Woman Can Earn More and Make a Difference releases in November 2015. Crystal's mission is to help women from all walks of life discover the freedom that comes from living with intention, simplicity, and generosity. Through her books and blog she seeks to encourage women and families to wisely steward their time, energy, and finances so that, ultimately, they might be able to bless and give more to those in their community and around the world. Crystal and her family make their home in Franklin, TN. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| [REPLAY] Let's Declutter: Arts + Crafts | Melissa Russell | 05 Oct 2026 | 00:26:50 | |
A question that keeps coming up is: how do I declutter crafts? I knew this was a topic that could be applied to not just kids crafts, but our own. Where do we store it all? Do I have too much? How do I know what to keep and get rid of? Joining me today to tackle these questions (and more) is author of Simple Lion Heart Life, Melissa Russell. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Grow Wild, My Child: Restoring the Wonder of Childhood | Ainsley Arment (Bonus Episode) | 04 Oct 2026 | 00:29:52 | |
If you've been listening for a while now, you know, I've talked about the benefits of getting kids outside or living a slower childhood or having less screen time. But in today's conversation, we're going to be talking about the negative side of making our children's childhood too structured and adult directed. And what children can gain when we give some of that back? Today, I'm joined by Ainsley Arment, founder of Wild and Free, an author of the new children's book, Grow Wild My Child, for a conversation about protecting the wonder, curiosity, and freedom of childhood, we talk about how easily parenting can become over-structured and adult-directed, why not every childhood interest needs to become productive and the tension between guiding our kids and knowing when to step out of the way because our job isn't necessarily to manufacture a magical childhood for our children, but to leave enough space for them to experience one. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Ainsley Arment is the founder and leader of Wild + Free, author of the bestselling book The Call of the Wild & Free, and co-host of the regular Wild + Free Podcast. As she leads this movement of families doing homeschooling in a new way, she thinks deeply about making the most of life and ensuring her children have a fertile seedbed for their own uniqueness and creativity. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Safer Driving Starts with Less: Minimizing Distractions on the Road | Jennifer Morrison (Bonus Episode) | 02 Oct 2026 | 00:34:18 | |
For many families, the car isn't just transportation - it's a second living room, a snack station, a homework hub, and the place where life happens between destinations. But with so much happening inside the vehicle, it's easy for distractions to quietly steal our attention. In this episode, Diane sits down with Jennifer Morrison, Director of Vehicle Safety Strategy at Mazda, to discuss ways families can make everyday drives calmer, safer, and less stressful. Together, they explore how simplifying what's happening inside the car can help us stay more focused on the road, how modern safety technology is designed to support (not replace) attentive driving, and why creating calmer routines before you leave the driveway may be one of the easiest ways to protect the people you love. Links Discussed in This Episode |
A nationally recognized automotive safety expert, Jennifer Morrison is Mazda’s chief safety advocate in the United States, shaping technical policy positions, guiding public‑facing safety communications, and representing Mazda across regulatory, academic, and industry forums. Jennifer led Mazda North American Operations to established of the Vehicle Safety Strategy & Communications Department for Mazda North American Operations, where she leads safety compliance, vehicle safety ratings, and advanced safety research for the U.S. market. She is responsible for aligning Mazda’s safety roadmap with emerging regulatory, technological, and industry trends, while advancing the company’s human‑centric approach to crash avoidance, crashworthiness, and occupant protection. Her work supports Mazda’s long-term vision of eliminating roadway fatalities and reinforces the brand’s reputation as a leader in safety engineering. Jennifer began her career in the Office of Defects Investigation at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) before spending 15 years as a Vehicle Factors Investigator and Investigator‑in‑Charge at the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) There, she investigated more than 70 major loss‑of‑life crashes involving passenger vehicles, trucks, buses, and trains. Those cases profoundly shaped her dedication to preventing roadway crashes and driving measurable improvements in vehicle safety. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Stop Calling It "Normal": What Your Postpartum Symptoms Are Trying to Tell You | Dr. Alexandra MacKillop (Bonus Episode) | 30 Sep 2026 | 00:30:04 | |
Fatigue. Brain fog. Hair loss. Mood changes. Hormonal shifts. After having a baby, women are often told these symptoms are simply part of motherhood - but when does “normal postpartum” become something worth investigating? Today I’m joined by Dr. Alexandra MacKillop, functional medicine doctor specializing in women’s health and hormones and author of The Postpartum Check-In. Alexandra helps women better understand what’s happening in their bodies after pregnancy and childbirth - and, importantly, how to recognize when something may deserve a closer look. We talk about why pregnancy can uncover or trigger underlying health issues, how to distinguish the exhaustion of motherhood from symptoms of a larger problem, and why postpartum health extends far beyond the traditional six-week checkup. Alexandra also shares how women can advocate for themselves when they know something feels off, even when they’ve been told everything looks “normal.” Links Discussed in This Episode |
Dr. Alexandra MacKillop is a functional medicine doctor and the author of 3 books, including The Postpartum Check-In, a health guide for moms that helps them understand what is and isn't normal in the postpartum period, and learn how to advocate for themselves in a healthcare setting. Dr. MacKillop specializes in women's health, fertility, and hormonal disorders, and sees patients via telehealth throughout Illinois. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Why You Procrastinate (and How to Finally Get Things Done) | Dana K. White (EP467) | 29 Sep 2026 | 00:30:18 | |
If you’ve ever called yourself lazy because you procrastinate, Dana K. White wants you to reconsider what’s really happening. Dana is back for the second time to discuss Procrastinators Get Stuff Done and why procrastination is often less about laziness and more about overwhelm, mental load, and too many decisions. We talk about why consistency doesn’t have to be the goal, how “pre-made decisions” can quiet the constant internal debate, and why doing one small thing right now can create the momentum we need.
Dana K. White is a bestselling author, speaker, podcaster and renowned decluttering expert who has helped millions of people make real, visible progress in their homes and lives. She is the creator of A Slob Comes Clean and the host of the popular podcast of the same name. Known for her humorous, practical and deeply relatable approach, White offers simple strategies that work in real life for people who do not naturally love organizing, routines or traditional productivity systems. Her books and teaching have made her a trusted voice for overwhelmed readers looking for shame-free help and lasting change. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| [REPLAY] Stop Saying You Can't: Why Mindset & Community Are Keys to a Healthier You | Morgan Kline | 25 Sep 2026 | 00:27:08 | |
Going Deeper episodes will be less structured with a more conversational tone. These conversations will focus on interesting people I've come across that share similar values, perspectives and intentions expressed on the Minimalist Moms Podcast. This is an episode of the Going Deeper series of the Minimalist Moms Podcast. Going Deeper episodes will be less structured with a more conversational tone. This week, I spoke with Morgan Kline of Burn Bootcamp. Morgan dives into the history and philosophy behind Burn Boot Camp. These pillars emphasize physical and mental health, nutrition, goal setting, and the importance of community. Additionally, Morgan discusses working alongside her husband, co-founding the business, and balancing family life with professional commitments. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or looking for inspiration to start a healthier lifestyle, this episode offers valuable takeaways! Previous Going Deeper Episodes: Building a Business: Navigating Friendship, Challenges & Growth in Podcasting Choosing Quality Over Quantity (In Most Things) Can Improve Wellbeing Leaving Corporate for a More Intentional Career About Morgan | Morgan Kline is the CEO of Burn Boot Camp. She has personally trained more than 5,000 Burn members. She lives in Charlotte, NC. Links Discussed in This Episode |
If you’ve been struggling with motivation to declutter or work through bad habits that keep you stuck, I’d love to help you achieve your goals! We’ll work together (locally or virtually) to discover what areas in your life are high priority to get you feeling less overwhelmed right away. For more info on my processes, fees, and availability please contact! 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! 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.
Our Sponsors: * Check out 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| What’s Happening to Our Boys - and How Can We Help? | Dr. Leonard Sax, Boys Adrift (Bonus Episode) | 24 Sep 2026 | 00:37:03 | |
Content warning: This episode contains topics that may not be appropriate for younger ears. Use discernment when listening. American boys are failing to meet their potential And joining me today is New York Times bestselling author, Dr. Leonard Sax, to explain why and what we can do about it. A growing proportion of American boys are failing. From kindergarten to college, boys are becoming less resilient and less ambitious, and the gender gap in college attendance and graduation rates has widened dramatically sack shares research-based factors that play a role in this shift But he's also here to share strategies that educators have found effective in reengaging boys at school, as well as crucial guidance for parents about everything from selecting a school to navigating AI and the "manosphere". If you are a parent of boys - this is an episode you do not wanna miss! Links Discussed in This Episode |
Dr. Leonard Sax is a physician, psychologist, and New York Times bestselling author specializing in child and adolescent development. He is the author of Why Gender Matters, Boys Adrift, Girls on the Edge, and The Collapse of Parenting. Dr. Sax has visited more than 500 schools worldwide and regularly speaks to parents and educators about the challenges facing children and teens today. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Less Guilt, More Presence: Staying Connected Through Goodbyes + Busy Seasons | Sarah Wright Olsen (Going Deeper) | 22 Sep 2026 | 00:42:42 | |
Going Deeper episodes will be less structured with a more conversational tone. These conversations will focus on interesting people I've come across that share similar values, perspectives and intentions expressed on the Minimalist Moms Podcast. What helps a child feel connected to you - even when you’re apart? Actress, author, entrepreneur, and mom of four Sarah Wright Olsen joins me to talk about her new children’s book, When I Am Not With You: How We’re Together Even When We’re Apart, inspired by her own children’s experiences with separation anxiety. Sarah shares the simple family mantra that became the heart of the book, why routines and imagination can make everyday goodbyes feel safer, and how she approaches each child’s need for connection differently. We also talk about parental guilt, balancing demanding careers with family life, protecting family dinners and presence, and what it has looked like for Sarah to redefine success beyond productivity and income. At its heart, this is a conversation about giving our kids (and ourselves) the reassurance that connection doesn’t disappear simply because we aren’t physically together. ------------------------------------------------- Previous Going Deeper Episodes: The Hidden Ways Women Disappear: Sobriety, Motherhood & Identity Redefining "Selfish": Choosing a Life That Feels Like Yours Buzzing with Purpose: Teaching Kids to Protect Pollinators Building Fount: Business, Family, & the Balance In Between Links Discussed in This Episode |
Sarah Wright Olsen is a mother of four - Wyatt, Esme, Winter, and Ocean. She cohosts the podcast The Mother Daze with fellow actress and mother Teresa Palmer. Sarah and Teresa also coauthored The Zen Mama Guide to Finding Your Rhythm in Pregnancy, Birth, and Beyond (Harper Horizon), a holistic and empowering guide that helps expectant mothers navigate pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood with mindfulness, balance, and confidence. Sarah has starred in many TV shows and movies including Mad Men, Parks and Recreation, The House Bunny, American Made, and Matlock. She is also the co-owner of a plant-based organic mommy/baby skincare line, baeo.com. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| The Attention Problem: Why Screen Time Isn’t the Real Issue | @OliviaUnplugged (EP466) | 22 Sep 2026 | 00:37:41 | |
We talk a lot about screen time - but what if the bigger issue is what our phones are quietly taking our attention away from? Olivia Yokubonis, known online as Olivia Unplugged, joins me to talk about moving beyond willpower and creating practical boundaries that help us use technology more intentionally. We discuss no-phone zones, practicing boredom, modeling healthier habits for our kids, and why the goal isn’t necessarily less technology—it’s having more autonomy over when and why we use it. At the heart of the conversation is one question worth asking: When nobody’s watching, what do you want your life to feel like? Links Discussed in This Episode |
Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Stop Trying So Hard to Be Spiritual: Quiet Practices for An Already-Full Life | Laura Kauffman, The Meeting Place (Bonus Episode) | 18 Sep 2026 | 00:29:38 | |
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! ------------------ What if growing closer to God wasn’t about adding another practice to your list - but becoming more aware of the presence that’s already here? In this conversation, I’m joined by spiritual director and writer Laura Kauffman, author of The Meeting Place. We talk about moving away from what Laura calls “spiritual maximizing” and toward a quieter, more inhabited relationship with God. Laura introduces us to spiritual direction and contemplative prayer, along with simple practices that can fit into the margins of an already-full life. We also talk about bringing playfulness and imagination back into prayer, helping our children practice noticing goodness, and the surprisingly powerful shift from constantly asking “What’s next?” to simply asking, “What’s here?” Links Discussed in This Episode |
Laura Kauffman, MA, is a spiritual director and writer whose work explores the presence of God in everyday life. Drawing from the Christian contemplative tradition, she accompanies others in listening for God and responding to God's invitation. She has published three collections of poetry that examine the holy edge of ordinary things. Laura lives with her family in the Midwest, where she practices spiritual direction and continues to write. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Buying Back Your Time: What to Outsource (and What to Keep) | Christine Landis (Bonus Episode) | 16 Sep 2026 | 00:34:25 | |
What if the key to feeling less overwhelmed isn't doing more—it's deciding what you no longer need to do yourself? In this eisode, Diane sits down with Christine Landis, founder of Peacock Parent, to explore the often-overlooked topic of outsourcing at home. While outsourcing is often associated with expensive services or large household budgets, Christine challenges that assumption by showing how every family can lighten both the physical and mental load - regardless of income. Together, they discuss why time is one of our most valuable resources, how the invisible mental load contributes to burnout, and practical ways to delegate tasks that drain your energy. From using AI to simplify planning and decision-making to finding affordable ways to outsource everyday responsibilities, Christine shares actionable ideas for creating more margin in your life. Specifically for the Minimalist Moms listeners: Ask Proxy™️ is a personal AI assistant by text. Get 1 month free with code MINIMALIST. Select the $39/month plan here and experience what it's like having someone think ahead for you. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Christine Landis is a mom of two and founder and CEO of Peacock Parent, a home management platform designed to help people delegate at home and buy back time for joy. Previously, she led financial technology company National-Cred-A-Chek to a successful eight-figure exit. Her own experience with the mental load of motherhood inspired her to create Ask Proxy™, an AI assistant that helps adults outsource not just the “doing” of home life, but the thinking, planning, and anticipating that comes with it. Christine speaks and writes about time as a currency, home management, AI, and creating more time for what matters most. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| The Kids’ Mental Health Crisis Started Before Smartphones - So What Changed? | Peter Gray (Bonus Episode) | 15 Sep 2026 | 00:48:00 | |
What if the answer to the youth mental health crisis isn’t simply fewer screens - but more freedom? In this conversation, I’m joined by psychologist and Free to Learn author Dr. Peter Gray to talk about his latest book, Restoring Childhood: How to Set Kids Free in the Age of Anxiety. Peter challenges us to look beyond smartphones and social media and consider a much bigger shift that’s taken place over the last several decades: children have far less independence, unstructured play, and freedom to navigate life without adults directing the experience. We talk about how increased schooling, homework, organized activities, and constant supervision have gradually crowded out the kind of self-directed play that once defined childhood. Peter also offers a thought-provoking perspective on screens, questioning whether technology deserves as much blame for declining youth mental health as it often receives. At the heart of our conversation are three things kids need to thrive: autonomy, competence, and connection. We explore what it might look like to give some of that back - not by abandoning boundaries, but by becoming more intentional about where we step in and where we step aside. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Peter Gray is a research professor of psychology at Boston College whose work focuses on the role of play in human development and how children learn through freedom, exploration, and self-directed activity. He is the author of Free to Learn: Why Unleashing the Instinct to Play Will Make Our Children Happier, More Self-Reliant, and Better Students for Life and co-author of the widely used textbook Psychology. He also writes the “Freedom to Learn” blog for Psychology Today and is a founding member of the Alliance for Self-Directed Education and the nonprofit Let Grow. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. Quince | Find the fall pieces you’ll reach for most at Quince. Download the Quince app for app-exclusive offers, or go to Quince.com/minimalist. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Why We Always Want Something New (& How to Finally Feel Like You Have Enough) | Eric Athas, Say No to More (EP465) | 15 Sep 2026 | 00:34:10 | |
We're surrounded by messages telling us that the next thing will make life better. The upgraded phone, the new clothes, the latest productivity system, the newest trend....but what if our constant attraction to new is actually pulling us further away from the life that we want? Today, I'm joined by Eric Athas, New York Times editor and author of Saying No to New. He's here today to share why novelty is so difficult for our brains to resist, how companies and technology make consumption increasingly frictionless, and why buying something new often gives us only a fleeting sense of satisfaction. We also talk about something at the heart of minimalism, this idea of enough. Instead of simply asking how to declutter what we've accumulated, what if we got better at questioning what enters our lives in the first place? Eric shares how we can recognize persuasion, create more intentional friction before consuming, rediscover the value of what we already have, and become more discerning about what actually is worth welcoming into our homes and lives. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Eric Athas is an editor at the New York Times, where he helps journalists learn new tools and skills they can use to tell stories. Before joining the Times in 2016, he worked at NPR and the Washington Post. His work has been published in the New York Times, the Washington Post, Fast Company, Harvard Business Review, and the Nieman Journalism Lab. Athas lives with his wife and two children in Brooklyn. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Lysa TerKeurst on The Hidden Cost of Trying to Control Everything (Bonus Episode) | 11 Sep 2026 | 00:31:13 | |
What if the exhaustion you're feeling isn't coming from everything on your plate - but from trying to carry things that were never yours to hold? In this episode, Diane sits down with #1 New York Times bestselling author Lysa TerKeurst to unpack one of the most common struggles women face: the desire to control people, outcomes, and uncertainty. Whether it's worrying about your children, trying to fix a relationship, overthinking every decision, or believing that if you just planned a little better everything would work out, control often disguises itself as responsibility. Although Lysa shares from her Christian faith, this conversation offers practical wisdom for anyone seeking to live more intentionally, worry less, and focus their energy on what they can actually influence. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Lysa TerKeurst is president and chief visionary officer of Proverbs 31 Ministries and the author of eight New York Times bestsellers, including I Want to Trust You, But I Don’t, Good Boundaries and Goodbyes, Forgiving What You Can’t Forget, and It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way. Her latest book is Making Peace With What I Can’t Control: Find Relief from the Exhaustion of Overthinking, Trying to Fix Others, and Wanting to Figure It All Out (Nelson Books, September 15, 2026). She enjoys life with her husband, Chaz, and her kids and grandkids. 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. Public Episode Page Our Sponsors: * Check out 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| The Case Against Convenience: Why the Small Stuff Makes Life Better | Ian Bogost (EP464) | 09 Sep 2026 | 00:43:16 | |
We’re often told that a better life is one that’s faster, easier, and more efficient. But what if removing every inconvenience is also removing some of the satisfaction, connection, and delight from our days? In this episode, Diane sits down with The Atlantic contributing writer Ian Bogost to discuss his book, The Small Stuff: How to Lead a More Gratifying Life. Ian explains how technology and modern convenience have distanced us from the physical world - and why ordinary, hands-on experiences may be more valuable than we realize. Together, they explore the difference between convenience and genuine fulfillment, the overlooked pleasure found in everyday tasks, and how paying closer attention to what’s already around us can lead to a more grounded and gratifying life. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Dr. Ian Bogost a contributing writer at The Atlantic, the Barbara and David Thomas Distinguished Professor and Assistant Vice Provost at Washington University in St. Louis, and a founding partner of Persuasive Games LLC, a game and design studio. He is the author of 11 books, most recently The Small Stuff: How to Lead a More Gratifying Life. Bogost's award-winning games and artworks, which include Cow Clicker and A Slow Year have been played by millions of people and held in permanent collections around the world, including at the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Episode Sponsors |Hey Polo | Protect your loved ones without spying on them. Go to heypolo.com/MINIMALIST or use code MINIMALIST to get 70% off your first year. HungryRoot | Head to HungryRoot.com/minimalist and use code MINIMALIST to get 40% off your first box and a free item of your choice for life. Quince | Find the fall pieces you’ll reach for most at Quince. Download the Quince app for app-exclusive offers, or go to Quince.com/minimalist. Get free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada and the UK, too. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| [REPLAY] Finally Get Control of Those Unwanted Habits: Understanding the Roots of Bad Habits | Monica Packer | 07 Sep 2026 | 00:34:18 | |
I'm especially excited to share this replay episode with you as we are celebrating the release of my friend, Monica Packer's new book: Sticky Habits: A Woman's Guide to Reclaim Happiness, Ditch Perfectionism, and Create Habits that Last. Monica is my go-to for all things habits and I know you'll appreciate this conversation as much as I do. ----------------------------- Joining me for her second appearance on the show is fellow podcaster, Monica Packer. This conversation is a continuation on the topic of bad habits: today we explore the roots of bad habits and the importance of understanding the underlying reasons for these behaviors. We also discuss the role of support in habit change, how identity influences our habits, practical tools for addressing numbing behaviors and so much more... Links Discussed in This Episode |
Monica Packer is a recovering perfectionist who uncovered the truest model to lasting growth: it's progress made practical. As a writer, podcaster, and coach, she guides women to find sustainable growth by adopting progress over perfection. Monica’s popular podcast, About Progress is a top-rated show with millions of downloads. She has served thousands of women online as a certified habits and identity coach. Monica is a mom of five, former middle school teacher, sourdough obsessor, and beginning gardener. She lives in Salt Lake City with her husband, Brad, and their children. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| When God Answers Your Prayer... But Life Still Feels Hard | Melissa Miller (Bonus Episode) | 06 Sep 2026 | 00:27:13 | |
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! ------------------ What happens when the very thing you've been praying for finally arrives... and it isn't what you expected? Maybe it's the marriage you've longed for, the baby you've prayed over, the career opportunity you worked so hard to achieve, or the fresh start you've been asking God to provide. Instead of feeling only joy, you find yourself carrying unexpected grief, exhaustion, or disappointment - and wondering if something is wrong with you. In this honest and hope-filled conversation, Diane sits down with author Melissa Miller to explore the complex emotions that often follow life's "good" transitions. Inspired by her own experience of moving across the country and growing her family through adoption, Melissa shares how she wrestled with guilt, unmet expectations, and the fear that she wasn't grateful enough for the very blessings she'd prayed for. Together, they discuss why answered prayers don't always feel the way we imagine, how to embrace mixed emotions without shame, and what it looks like to trust God when the story unfolds differently than expected.
Melissa Miller is a writer, content creator, and certified Reboot Retreat facilitator. She is a mother of five and an advocate for vulnerable children in foster care. Melissa lives in Tennessee with her family. She enjoys playing pickleball and is convinced “just one more chapter” is a perfectly reasonable bedtime strategy. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| When Intelligence Isn’t Human: Helping Kids Hold Onto Their Identity in an AI World | Ben Peterson (Bonus Episode) | 04 Sep 2026 | 00:34:57 | |
Artificial intelligence is becoming part of our everyday lives - but where should we draw the line? In this thought-provoking conversation, Diane sits down with Ben Peterson, Army veteran, founder of Engage Your Destiny, and author of When Intelligence Isn't Human, to explore the growing role AI is playing in our relationships, mental health, and sense of identity. Drawing from his military experience, years of mentoring service members, and his work helping others navigate trauma and purpose, Ben challenges listeners to see AI for what it is: a powerful tool - but a poor substitute for human connection, wisdom, and community. Together, they discuss why so many young people are turning to technology for emotional support, how social media and AI are designed to capture our attention, and why the ability to think critically, wrestle through discomfort, and build real-life relationships may be more important than ever. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Ben Peterson is the founder and driving force behind Engage Your Destiny, the most impactful movement bringing faith and the Gospel to the U.S. military. He served in Iraq during the 2008–2009 Surge as a Chaplain’s Assistant, where he lost seven brothers in combat during his first week deployed. Carrying trauma, addiction, and deep brokenness, he turned to God and emerged with a mission to transform the most powerful fighting force in the world through the hope of Christ. Over the last decade, more than 300,000 service members, veterans, and families have heard Peterson’s message. He has been trusted to train and speak across elite units including the 101st Airborne, 3rd, 5th, and 10th Special Forces Groups, the 75th Ranger Battalion, Navy SEALs, Recon Marines, Space Force, the 11th Arctic Airborne, and the 4th Infantry Division. In 2022, he produced the Heroes Honor Festival - which drew more than 40,000 attendees and became the largest Gospel outreach to veterans in American history. He has personally raised more than $15 million for nonprofit causes and advises nonprofits, companies, churches, and senior leaders on building cultures of emotional intelligence, resilience, and bold vulnerability. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Protecting Our Kids' Attention in a Screen-Filled Classroom | Jackie Mader (Bonus Episode) | 02 Sep 2026 | 00:30:43 | |
When did technology stop being a learning tool and quietly become the learning environment? Links Discussed in This Episode |
Jackie Mader is a senior early childhood reporter at The Hechinger Report. She previously worked as a special education teacher in Charlotte, North Carolina, and trained new teachers in Mississippi. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, The Atlantic, USA Today, TIME, and NBC News, among others, and has won several awards, including the Sigma Delta Chi Award from the Society of Professional Journalists, the Nellie Bly Award from The New York Press Club, and a Front Page Award from The Newswomen’s Club of New York. She has been a fellow at the Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma and a Spencer Fellow at Columbia University. She received a bachelor’s degree from Loyola Marymount University and a master’s degree from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Your Task List Is Just as "Cluttered" as Your Closet | Megan Sumrell (EP463) | 01 Sep 2026 | 00:33:28 | |
If you've ever reached the end of the day wondering how you stayed busy but still didn't accomplish what mattered most, this episode is for you. Diane sits down with time management coach and CEO of The Pink Bee, Megan Sumrell, to challenge one of the biggest productivity myths many women believe: that a longer to-do list will somehow make us feel more in control. Instead, Megan explains why traditional task lists often leave us feeling overwhelmed, behind, and stuck in a cycle of "time debt." Together, they explore a more intentional approach to planning - one that starts by recognizing your actual capacity instead of trying to squeeze more into every day. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Megan Sumrell is a Time Management Expert and creator of the TOP Program who helps overwhelmed women create harmony through planning systems built specifically for how women's brains work. With over 20 years of corporate process improvement experience, she teaches women to turn their unrealistic to-do lists into realistic, flexible plans that actually work with their lives, not against them. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| More Than a Meal: Raising Adventurous Eaters & Strong Family Connections | @cookingforlevi, Jack + Emmy Zhang (Bonus Episode) | 29 Aug 2026 | 00:28:29 | |
In this episode, Diane shares about Weeknight Winners, Family Dinners by Jack and Emmy Zhang, the parents behind the wildly popular @cookingforlevi account featuring their five-year-old son, Levi. What began as a simple way to spend time together in the kitchen has become a family mission: raising a curious eater while creating lasting memories around the table. Rather than focusing on perfect meals or picky eating battles, Jack and Emmy encourage families to see cooking as an opportunity for connection, confidence, and curiosity. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Jack Zhang is a chef who has cooked at casual and upscale restaurants and for NFL players in the Buffalo, New York, area. With his wife, Emmy, he launched Cooking for Levi (@cookingforlevi), the wildly popular online cooking channel featuring their now five-year-old son, Levi. Jack was born in Guangzhou, China, and raised in Brooklyn. Emmy Zhang earned her Ed.M in English Language from the University at Buffalo, where she also earned an undergraduate degree in applied linguistics with a special focus on child language development. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Beyond Quick Fixes: Your Child's Future Mental Health Starts Today | Dr. Celeste Birkhofer (Bonus Episode) | 28 Aug 2026 | 00:36:16 | |
In this episode, I’m joined by clinical psychologist and Stanford adjunct faculty member Dr. Celeste Birkhofer for a conversation about a powerful truth: the mental health your child will have as an adult is being shaped right now. But this isn’t about perfect parenting. It’s about understanding the everyday experiences and relationships that help children develop the internal resources they’ll rely on for the rest of their lives. We also explore: what “good enough” parenting actually looks like, the five essential capacities children need for long-term mental health, supporting versus rescuing - and why children need opportunities to struggle, building tolerance for boredom, frustration, and discomfort, how parenting strategies may need to shift for children with ADHD and much more...
Dr. Celeste Birkhofer is a licensed clinical psychologist and adjunct clinical faculty member at Stanford Medical School, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. She maintains a private psychotherapy practice, teaches and supervises Stanford psychiatry residents, and is on the clinical advisory board for the Jed Foundation - a nonprofit dedicated to promoting emotional well-being in teens and young adults and reducing suicide risk. Her holistic approach to patient care integrates extensive experience and training in contemporary psychoanalytic and psychodynamic therapies, grief counseling, couples therapy, dialectic behaviortherapy (DBT), and mindfulness and self-compassion practices. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Protecting Your Spine Through Every Season of Motherhood | Dr. Amir Vokshoor (Bonus Episode) | 26 Aug 2026 | 00:28:06 | |
Many moms assume that back pain is simply part of motherhood. Between pregnancy, carrying babies, nursing, lifting toddlers, and juggling the physical demands of everyday life, aches and pains can feel inevitable. But what if they aren't? In this episode, Diane sits down with spine surgeon Dr. Amir Vokshoor to discuss why so many women experience back pain during pregnancy and postpartum - and why accepting it as "normal" may keep them from finding relief. Together, they explore how the small, repetitive movements of motherhood can quietly impact long-term spine health, the connection between core strength and spinal stability, and practical ways moms can care for their bodies before pain becomes chronic. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Dr. Amir Vokshoor is a highly rated, board-certified neurosurgeon based in Santa Monica, California, who specializes in minimally invasive and motion-preserving spine care. Practicing at the Neurosurgery and Spine Group, he focuses on advanced, non-fusion surgical techniques designed to target the root cause of spinal disorders while preserving natural mobility and accelerating recovery. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| [How To] Declutter Without Losing Your Style | Myquillyn Smith (EP462) | 25 Aug 2026 | 00:33:40 | |
What if creating a peaceful home didn't require getting rid of everything you love? In this episode, Diane is joined by New York Times bestselling author Myquillyn Smith - known to many as The Nester - to discuss her newest book, House Hushing. Together, they explore a refreshing middle ground between minimalism and maximalism, proving that you don't have to sacrifice beauty or personality to create a home that feels calm. Instead, Myquillyn introduces the idea of "house hushing" - turning down the visual volume of your home so the pieces that matter most can truly shine. From her unique "backwards decluttering" method to quiet decorating and embracing seasonal rhythms, Myquillyn shares practical ways to simplify your home without stripping it of warmth or character. If you've ever felt caught between wanting a peaceful space and wanting your home to still feel like you, this conversation will leave you inspired to create a home that's both restful and deeply personal. Links Discussed in This Episode |
For the past ten years, Myquillyn Smith, also known as “The Nester,” has been encouraging women to embrace their homes - imperfections and all. Her lived-in, loved-on home has been featured in Better Homes & Gardens, Ladies' Home Journal and Cottages & Bungalows. Myquillyn is the author of The Nesting Place and Cozy Minimalist Home and was chosen by Christianity Today as one of the top twenty creatives in 2016. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and three boys. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Close the Tabs: Decluttering Your Mind for Better Sleep | Kathryn Nicolai (Bonus Episode) | 20 Aug 2026 | 00:25:59 | |
You crawl into bed exhausted… and suddenly your brain decides it's the perfect time to replay conversations, plan tomorrow's to-do list, and worry about everything you didn't finish. If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. In this episode, Diane sits down with Kathryn Nicolai, creator of the wildly popular Nothing Much Happens sleep podcast, to explore why so many of us struggle to quiet our minds at the end of the day. Drawing from years of teaching meditation and helping millions of listeners fall asleep, Kathryn explains why our brains aren't broken - they're simply doing what they've been trained to do in a world of constant urgency and information overload. Together, they discuss how simple evening rituals can help create a gentler transition from productivity to rest, why our minds feel busiest when we finally slow down, and practical ways to give our brains a calming place to land before sleep. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Kathryn Nicolai is the creator and host of Nothing Much Happens, one of the most listened-to sleep podcasts in the world, where millions of listeners use her stories to calm anxiety, fall asleep, and feel more at ease in their bodies. With over 20 years of experience as a yoga and meditation teacher, Kathryn is a trusted voice in self-care, focusing on sleep hygiene, nervous system regulation, mindfulness, and storytelling as medicine. Through her work, she helps people cultivate rest, creativity, and emotional resilience in a culture shaped by overstimulation and burnout. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Navigating Vaccine Decisions Without Fear or Pressure | Dr. Joel Warsh (Bonus Episode) | 19 Aug 2026 | 00:31:55 | |
If you've been listening for a while, you know my goal with this podcast has never been to tell you what to think. My hope has always been to introduce you to thoughtful people, different perspectives, and conversations that encourage you to think more deeply and live more intentionally. Parenting today often means sorting through an overwhelming amount of health information, and few topics feel more emotionally charged than vaccines. In this conversation, I sit down with pediatrician and integrative medicine physician Dr. Joel "Gator" Warsh to discuss how parents can navigate these decisions with confidence, curiosity, and compassion. Dr. Warsh shares his journey from conventional pediatrics to integrative medicine and explains why he believes parents deserve thoughtful conversations about risks, benefits, schedules, and informed consent - not simply a choice between opposing sides. I know this topic can bring up strong opinions, and I understand that. My intention in sharing this conversation is not to persuade you toward a particular healthcare decision or to replace the advice of your trusted medical provider. Rather, it's to create space for respectful dialogue around a topic many parents are already wrestling with. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Joel Warsh is a board-certified pediatrician in Los Angeles specializing in parenting, wellness, and integrative medicine. He is the author of multiple books, including Between a Shot and a Hard Place, Love Dad, and Parenting at Your Child’s Pace. Originally from Toronto, he holds a Master’s in Epidemiology and earned his medical degree from Thomas Jefferson Medical College. After training at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, he founded Integrative Pediatrics and has published research on childhood health, obesity, and physical activity. 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.
Our Sponsors: * Check out 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Decluttering Is Only the Beginning | Kelly Foss (EP461) | 18 Aug 2026 | 00:51:52 | |
In this special conversation, Diane sits down with a fellow minimalist (and host of the Millennial Minimalist podcast), Kelly Foss to explore how living with less has transformed far more than their homes. Together, they reflect on the defining moments that led them toward minimalism, why decluttering is only the beginning, and how creating space externally often reveals what's happening internally. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Millennial Minimalists is a podcast about living simply and intentionally, hosted by Kelly Foss. Through conversations with bestselling authors, thought leaders, and listeners, the show explores how letting go of physical and mental clutter can lead to greater clarity, focus, and purpose. With over 257 episodes and 2 million downloads, the podcast features voices from the simplicity and personal development space. Launched in 2018, the show continues to inspire a global audience seeking to simplify their lives and cultivate more intentional living. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| [REPLAY] Back to School Tips and Tricks | Rachel Rosenthal | 17 Aug 2026 | 00:24:37 | |
This week, I speak with the owner and founder of Rachel and Company (a full-service professional organizing firm specializing in home organization, closet design, and home moves!) As the back to school season is here, Rachel provides us with her tried and true tricks for back to school organization! Links Discussed in This Episode |
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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| [REPLAY] "We're Not Trying to Replicate Public School At Home" | The Peaceful Homeschool Podcast | 14 Aug 2026 | 00:27:51 | |
On today's bonus episode, hosts of the Peaceful Homeschool podcast (Emma and Beth) are here to encourage and empower you by sharing how you can simplify your homeschool day and achieve a peaceful relationship with your children. We are here to tell you that homeschooling is not as daunting as it may seem, and with the right mindset and tools, you can give your children an excellent education while fostering a close relationship with them. We discuss tips to simplify your homeschool day and encourage other moms who may be struggling with this fulfilling yet challenging journey. I hope that this episode will inspire you and show you that peaceful homeschooling is possible and can change your family's life. Links Discussed in This Episode |
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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| What If the Interruptions Are the Point? Finding Mercy in the Margin | Chelsey Dematteis (Bonus Episode) | 14 Aug 2026 | 00:44:57 | |
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! ------------------ Motherhood rarely goes according to plan - but what if the interruptions are where God meets us most? In this episode, Diane sits down with longtime friend, Christian writer, and mom of two, Chelsey DeMatteis, to discuss her new devotional, Mercy in the Margin. Together, they explore how the "margin" isn't necessarily extra time we create, but the space God has already given us within our ordinary days. Rather than striving for perfect routines or uninterrupted quiet time, Chelsey encourages moms to encounter Jesus in the unexpected moments, daily disruptions, and beautiful mess of motherhood. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Chelsey is the voice behind the Living with Less Podcast and author of the 52-week devotional More of Him, Less of Me: Living a Christ-centered Life in a Me-centered World. She writes devotions for Lifeway Women's Journey Magazine, Crosswalk.com, and iBelieve.com. She also writes Bible reading plans for the YouVersion Bible App. Chelsey lives in Ohio with her husband and two children. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| How to Get Dinner on the Table When You Don't Feel Like Cooking | Caroline Chambers (Bonus Episode) | 13 Aug 2026 | 00:44:45 | |
If the question, "What's for dinner?" feels like the most exhausting part of your day, this episode is for you. In this conversation, Diane sits down with cookbook author and recipe developer Caroline Chambers to discuss how we can dramatically reduce the mental load of feeding our families - without sacrificing delicious meals. Rather than chasing elaborate recipes or constantly searching for new dinner ideas, Caroline introduces the concept of recipe minimalism: simplifying your approach to meal planning so dinner becomes one less decision you have to make. From creating a repeatable meal rotation and maintaining a master grocery list to stocking a pantry that works for you, Caroline shares practical systems that make cooking feel easier - even on your busiest days. She also offers refreshing permission to embrace shortcuts, feed picky eaters without making multiple dinners, and let "good enough" be exactly that. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Caroline Chambers grew up in the kitchen on her mom’s hip, learning how to cook in their Winston-Salem, North Carolina, home. Her professional food career began in her early twenties when she worked as a chef and caterer. After a stint in a professional test kitchen, Caro struck out on her own as a freelancer, developing recipes for a host of publications as well as brands such as Boursin Cheese and Kim Crawford Wine, and in 2018, she published her first cookbook, Just Married. In 2020 - at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic - Caro began sharing her recipes and connecting with home cooks on Instagram, and launched her newsletter, What to Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking, which flew to the top of the Substack charts; her podcast, So Into That, followed in 2023. Caro's latest cookbook, What To Cook When You Don't Feel Like Cooking, was released in August 2024. Caro lives in Carmel Valley, California, with her husband, George, and their three young sons, Mattis, Calum, and Cashel—one of whom can almost always be found in the kitchen on her hip. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Whose Definition of Success Are You Living? | Justin-Jones Fosu (EP460) | 12 Aug 2026 | 00:35:52 | |
What if the life you're chasing isn't actually the one you want? In this episode, Diane sits down with speaker and author Justin Jones-Fosu to explore the subtle difference between chasing success and creating a life of meaning. Inspired by the timeless fable of the tortoise and the hare, Justin's newest book, Stop Chasing, Start Creating, challenges the cultural narrative that fulfillment comes from achievement, recognition, or constantly proving ourselves. Together, they unpack why so many of us spend our lives pursuing someone else's definition of success - and how that pursuit often leaves us exhausted, disconnected, and wondering why "more" never feels like enough. Justin shares practical ways to move from external validation to internal alignment, embrace purposeful work, and intentionally create a life rooted in contribution rather than comparison. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Justin is a meaningful work researcher and the author of Stop Chasing, Start Creating, and has written for Oprah Daily, Fast Company, HuffPost, and Business Insider. You can take a look at his latest TEDx talk here. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| [REPLAY] Productivity Tips for a Smoother Week | Carey Bentley | 11 Aug 2026 | 00:32:46 | |
People think that planning should feel good but it’s actually an anxiety-inducing event that you can develop resistance to in your brain. The trick is to turn planning into a rewarding event that your mind looks forward to. Then execution becomes a bit of a no-brainer. But how? Join me today as I speak with productivity expert and co-founder of the Lifehack Method, Carey Bentley. Carey’s helped more than 50,000 professionals who want to prevent burnout and create more freedom in their lives. Today, she’ll be sharing tips for why planning your week (not your day) is the secret to getting more done (and how to do it in less than 30 minutes), what to do when planning your week doesn’t work, what everyone gets wrong about productivity, and more. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Carey Bentley is a productivity expert and co-founder of Lifehack Method, and co-author of the Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestseller Winning the Week: How to Plan a Successful Week, Every Week. A former corporate professional and startup founder, she now teaches high performers how to plan a successful week, every week. Since 2015, she and her husband Demir have coached more than 100,000 professionals, including executives at Google, Meta, Uber, Microsoft, and PepsiCo. Her work has appeared in Fast Company, Forbes and Business Insider. She lives abroad with Demir and their 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| The Hidden Ways Shame Shapes Your Life | Jeff Golden (Bonus Episode) | 06 Aug 2026 | 00:33:20 | |
Shame has a way of convincing us that we're too much, not enough, or somehow fundamentally flawed. Often, it operates quietly beneath the surface, shaping the way we think, relate to others, and move through the world without us even realizing it. Joining the show for the second time is author and teacher, Jeff Golden to explore the hidden ways shame influences our lives and how we can begin to loosen its grip. Drawing from his book, Reclaiming the Sacred, Jeff explains why love, wonder, and presence aren't qualities we have to earn - they're already within us. The real work, he suggests, is identifying the barriers that keep us from experiencing them. Together, they discuss how shame often takes root in childhood, the messages reinforced by culture and social media, and the behaviors that can signal shame is at work beneath the surface.
Jeff Golden, M.Ed., was awarded the Grand Prize at the Nautilus Book Awards for his landmark book, Reclaiming the Sacred, Healing Our Relationships with Ourselves and the World, which was was also named Best Environmental Book of 2023 by IndieReader. Jeff has written and taught about these topics for over thirty years, most recently as a scholar-in-residence at Vassar College. His online course on Reclaiming the Sacred has been transforming people’s lives for nearly a decade (“Like stepping into a whole new world of acceptance and love and growth”). Jeff was a Fulbright Scholar in sustainable development and was awarded the State Department’s Millennium International Volunteer Award. He has headed several nonprofits dedicated to the environment, education, and social justice, and has worked with numerous Nobel Peace Prize laureates. A native of Idaho, Jeff resides in the Mohicanituk Valley in New York, with his children, the river, and the stars. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| From Garden to Pantry: Rediscovering the Lost Art of Food Preservation | Staci & Jeremy Hill (Bonus Episode) | 05 Aug 2026 | 00:32:11 | |
As grocery prices continue to rise and many families look for practical ways to save money, reduce waste, and eat more intentionally, food preservation is making a comeback. In this episode, Diane sits down with homesteaders and authors Staci and Jeremy Hill to discuss their book, The Preserver's Garden: How to Grow a Garden for Fermenting, Canning, Pickling, Dehydrating, Freeze Drying, and More. Rather than thinking about gardening as something that only feeds your family during the summer months, the Hills share how planning with preservation in mind can help stock your pantry and nourish your family all year long. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Staci Hill and Jeremy Hill are farmers, educators, and the authors of "The Preserver’s Garden." They are the founders of Gooseberry Bridge Farm, a family-run farm in rural Missouri dedicated to organic and regenerative growing practices, community education, and food self-sufficiency. Since establishing their farm in 2016, the Hills have grown and preserved the majority of their own food while raising their children in a hands-on homesteading environment. Their work focuses on making gardening and food preservation approachable, practical, and accessible at any scale. Staci holds a BA in Anthropology and an MA in U.S. History from Missouri State University, bringing cultural and historical insight to the lost art of food preservation. Together, Staci and Jeremy teach families how to grow food intentionally, preserve it safely, and build a pantry that supports health, affordability, and resilience. Learn more at ThePreserversGarden.com. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| What Living Small Has Taught Me About Living Well | Tyler Moore (@TidyDad) (EP459) | 04 Aug 2026 | 00:48:49 | |
Making his third appearance on the show is Tyler Moore, better known as Tidy Dad. Together we explore how our homes evolve through different seasons of life, and why organizing our thoughts often comes before organizing our spaces. Tyler also shares how simplifying extended beyond his home - leading him to leave a toxic work environment, prioritize his health, and rethink his relationship with influencing. Links Discussed in This Episode |
National Bestselling Author Tyler Moore is the creator of the hugely popular @tidydad account on Instagram, as well as "The Tidy Dad" website. A public school teacher in New York City, a husband, and a father, Moore has been featured on The Today Show, Good Morning America, in The Washington Post, The New York Times, The New York Post, New York Magazine, Better Homes & Gardens Secrets of Getting Organized magazine, Apartment Therapy, and many podcasts. During the school year, he lives with his wife, Emily, a pediatric occupational therapist, and three daughters in Queens, New York. In the summer, they spend as much time as possible in their small but tidy cottage in the Poconos. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Travel More by Owning Less: Funding Family Adventures Through Minimalism | Amber Paul (EP458) | 03 Aug 2026 | 00:33:14 | |
What if simplifying your home could actually open the door to more adventures? In this episode, Diane talks with travel enthusiast and content creator Amber Paul (@amberonpoints) about how embracing a "minimal-ish" lifestyle has helped her family prioritize travel over stuff. By keeping their home simple and "Airbnb-ready", they've created more opportunities to explore the world together. Amber also shares practical tips for maintaining a low-clutter home and explains how using credit card points and miles has made family travel much more affordable.
Amber Paul lives in Texas with her young family and (not young) husband. A former teacher and middle school assistant principal, she loves teaching others how to provide experiences for their families for less money. Whether that involves teaching how to earn and redeem points or showing others how to Airbnb their personal home while they travel (why not?) - she’s learned that anyone can travel for less. They have been traveling on points for 11 years and will be taking their family on an European adventure for the second time this summer. When not traveling, she can be found eating Oreos and peanut butter, taking naps, or planning our next trip — all probably from her bed. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Maybe You're Not Failing - Maybe God Is Meeting You There | Sarah Walton + Kristen Wetherell (Bonus Episode) | 02 Aug 2026 | 00:33:33 | |
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! ------------------ Parenting rarely unfolds the way we imagine. For some families, the challenges run far deeper than sleepless nights or busy schedules, bringing chronic illness, mental health struggles, financial hardship, unanswered prayers, and seasons of profound uncertainty. In this episode, Diane sits down with authors Kristen Wetherell and Sarah Walton to discuss their book, Jesus Will Meet You There. Drawing from their own experiences of suffering and motherhood, they share what it looks like to trust God when life doesn't improve the way we hoped it would. Rather than offering quick fixes or easy answers, Kristen and Sarah point listeners toward the compassionate presence of Christ in the middle of exhaustion, fear, grief, and inadequacy. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Sarah Walton is a wife, mother, and writer. She is the author of several books, including her children’s book The Long Road Home and her evangelistic resource Tears and Tossings. She is also the co-author of Hope When It Hurts, He Gives More Grace, Together Through the Storms (co-written with her husband, Jeff), and devotional contributor to the forthcoming ESV Girls Study Bible through Crossway. Sarah lives in the beautiful state of Colorado with her husband and four children. Kristen Wetherell is a pastor’s wife, mother, and writer. She is the author of numerous books, including Help for the Hungry Soul, Humble Moms, and the award-winning Hope When It Hurts. She loves writing for kids and is the author of the board book series For the Bible Tells Me So, Teach Me to Pray, and The Big WHY. Kristen also enjoys teaching God’s word to women of local churches. She and her husband, Brad, live in Chicagoland and are members of The Orchard. They are parents to Joanna, John, and Lydia. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Rethinking Women's Health: A Functional Medicine Approach to Prevention | Dr. Jenn Simmons (Bonus Episode) | 31 Jul 2026 | 00:37:45 | |
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! ------------------------------------------- Women's health can often feel overwhelming. Between conflicting nutrition advice, endless supplements, and constantly changing wellness trends, it's easy to wonder where to focus your energy. In this episode, Diane sits down with integrative oncologist and former breast surgeon Dr. Jenn Simmons to discuss a simpler, more intentional approach to health. After nearly two decades practicing conventional breast surgery, Dr. Jenn's own health journey led her to functional medicine and a deeper understanding of the root causes of chronic disease. Together, they explore how everyday choices—from the foods we eat and the way we move our bodies to reducing inflammation and minimizing toxic exposures—can have a profound impact on our long-term health. They also discuss Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, and why prevention, education, and whole-person wellness are essential parts of the conversation. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Dr. Jenn Simmons, MD, is a Philadelphia-based breast surgeon and functional medicine practitioner who pivoted from conventional oncology to focus on holistic, root-cause healing. She founded Real Health MD (2019) and PerfeQTion Imaging, advocating for radiation-free, 3D sound-wave technology, and hosts the "Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn" podcast. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Closing the Six Gaps of Modern Fatherhood | Jeff Hittner (Bonus Episode) | 31 Jul 2026 | 00:27:55 | |
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 every Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss! ------------------------------------------- Fatherhood has a way of reshaping a man's identity, priorities, and definition of success - but many dads feel unprepared for the emotional work it requires. In this episode, Diane sits down with Jeff Hittner, founder of the Ambitious Dads Project, to explore what it means to become a more intentional father. Drawing from conversations with more than 200 dads, Jeff shares the six "dad gaps" that often keep fathers from thriving, including confidence, community, co-parenting, and legacy. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Jeff Hittner is an executive coach, leadership expert, entrepreneur, and founder of the Ambitious Dads Project, a global community helping fathers redefine success at work and at home. With more than 25 years of experience developing leaders and building high-performing teams, Jeff is passionate about helping dads become more intentional in their parenting and leadership. He lives in Valencia, Spain, with his wife and two sons. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Sorting Through Grief: What Happens to the Stuff After a Spouse Dies | Lisa Woolery (EP457) | 29 Jul 2026 | 00:29:33 | |
When Lisa Woolery unexpectedly lost her husband, Eric, she found herself navigating unimaginable grief while raising two children, managing overwhelming paperwork, and making countless decisions about the home and belongings they had built together. In this episode, Diane sits down with Lisa to discuss what it looks like to move forward after profound loss. Lisa shares how creating order in her home became part of her healing process - from sorting through sentimental possessions and setting boundaries around others' opinions to downsizing from a 6,700-square-foot home to a more manageable space. She offers compassionate encouragement for anyone facing loss, major life transitions, or the emotional weight of letting go. Links Discussed in This Episode |
After two decades as a public relations executive, Lisa was thrown into widowing without warning. Not ashamed of her many “hot messes,” she shares the challenges of rebuilding life after the desolation of losing her husband. Lisa writes with grit, humor, and raw honesty so other widows know they don’t have to be perfect in the face of grief. In The Widow’s Comeback, she dives into money, abandonment, parenting tweens, dating, self-forgiveness, and faith - offering companionship and hope for the road ahead. She lives in Kansas City, loving on her two teenagers while chasing after her three rapscallion dogs. For fun, she travels the world, plays pickleball, and reads in her cheetah-print recliner. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Raising Boys with Purpose: What Your Son Needs Most Before Age 10 | Molly DeFrank (Bonus Episode) | 29 Jul 2026 | 00:30:43 | |
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! ------------------ Raising boys in today's culture can feel both rewarding and overwhelming. As parents navigate conversations around identity, character, confidence, and faith, many are asking the same question: What do our sons need most from us during these formative years? In this episode, Diane sits down with author and mom of six, Molly DeFrank, to discuss her book, Mothering Boys: 8 Things Your Son Needs from You Before He Turns 10. Together, they explore the unique role mothers play in shaping their sons' hearts, helping them develop resilience, courage, emotional strength, and a strong biblical foundation. Links Discussed in This Episode |
Molly DeFrank is also the author of Digital Detox: The Two-Week Tech Reset for Kids. Molly graduated with a degree in International Relations from the University of California, Davis, where she met her wonderful husband, David. Molly is a mom of six, three boys and three girls, ages six to thirteen. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| [REPLAY] Being Present IS Winning | Sarah Bragg | 28 Jul 2026 | 00:37:21 | |
In this day and age, it can be difficult to truly feel present in motherhood. We have so many roles we’re juggling, schedules to manage, self-care to maintain (not to mention remembering little details - such as what to add to the grocery store list or that school pickup is early on Friday.) The question is: how do we manage presence when it feels like we’re pulled in various ways? Joining me today to talk through this topic is author, Sarah Bragg. Sarah wrote about this topic (and more) in her recent book, A Mother’s Guide to Raising Herself. Today we’ll be discussing how to cultivate presence: how can we challenge ourselves to be more present in the moment without needing to document everything on Instagram/social media? How we can be more present as mothers, wives and friends? And how we can teach our children to cultivate presence in their own lives? About Sarah |Sarah Bragg is a popular podcast host, communicator, and author. You can find her on iTunes hosting the podcast Surviving Sarah. She is also the author of A Mother’s Guide to Raising Herself: What Parenting Taught Me About Life, Faith and Myself. She is also a wife, mother of girls, and a creative entrepreneur. Sarah is a master at brewing coffee and helping others survive well right where they are. Sarah and her family reside in Tennessee. 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 1-800-GOT-JUNK and use my code 1800gotjunk.com for a great deal: https://www.1800gotjunk.com * Check out Amazing Generation: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com * Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com * Check out Cure Hydration and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://www.curehydration.com * Check out DeleteMe and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://joindeleteme.com * Check out Wayfair: https://www.wayfair.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||