The Minimal Mom (Dawn Madsen)

Our Summer Declutter Challenge kicks off on Monday! Find full details here: https://www.theminimalmom.com/mentorship-group

Today I'll answer YOUR questions! If you'd like to leave a voicemail with your own question, you can do so here: https://www.speakpipe.com/MinimalMom

In this episode:

00:50 How do I solve my “Monica” closet? 06:27 My husband and I can't agree on this, help? 11:25 How do I push further without feeling guilty? 15:90 How do I get out of the comparison trap? 17:50 Decluttering with ADHD and no motivation, how do I get going? 23:30 How do I let go of perfectly good things?

Resources mentioned:

Does your home still feel cluttered even after ruthlessly decluttering? Have you ever wondered why your home doesn’t look like the Pinterest rooms you love? 

Today, Dawn is joined by Myquillyn Smith. Myquillyn shares several tips, from “house hushing” to designing on a budget, and more! 

ABOUT MYQUILLYN: 

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. Website: www.thenester.com

Instagram: @thenester

IN THIS EPISODE:

1:30 Let’s talk house hushing. 

7:55 What is cozy minimalism?

12:35 - How can we test out design changes on a budget?

15:53 Navigating home changes with others

21:19 - Myquillin’s new book, House Rules 32:20 - Myquillin’s opinion on color 

BOOKS MENTIONED: NEW: House Rules https://amzn.to/49Pjwq1

Welcome Home https://amzn.to/3WhmOiz

The Nesting Place https://amzn.to/3wa4YmU

Cozy Minimalist home https://amzn.to/3UfHg0K 

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Today I'll answer your questions like: How do I stop feeling overwhelming fear and guilt when letting go of things people have gifted me, even though I don’t want them anymore? I’m a homesteader, do I keep EVERYTHING in hopes of using it “someday?” My 3 kids share a room. Is there a better way to manage toys for older kids so the youngest doesn’t get into everything (or do I need to be reminded this is just a season)?

If you'd like to leave a voicemail with your own question, you can do so here: https://www.speakpipe.com/MinimalMom

In this episode: 1:30 I’m a homesteader, do I keep EVERYTHING? 4:58 How do I know when to stop decluttering a room? 7:58 Hoarder, feeling fear and guilt when letting go of things 14:46 What’s the longest amount of time you’ve gone without cleaning? 18:38 Decluttering with special needs 22:57 My 3 kids share a room. Is there a better way to manage toys for older kids so the youngest doesn’t get into everything (or do I need to be reminded this is just a season)?

Resources mentioned:

Natalie Hoffman Podcast Episode

A Monk's Guide to a Clean House and Mind

Laurie from Simply B Organized Podcast Episode

Are you completely overwhelmed by the amount of digital photos saved in multiple places, on multiple devices? Do you dream of quickly and easily creating yearly photo books for your family, or simply being able to enjoy the memories? 

Today, Dawn and Casey von Stein (known online as Miss Freddy) share organizational strategies for digital photos so that you and your family can stop being stressed and start enjoying the memories. 

ABOUT CASEY: 

Casey is a professional photo organizer who took the organizational skills she fine-tuned during her 10 years as a professional photographer and created simple workflows that allow her clients and students to conquer their photo overwhelm and enjoy their photos again. 

IN THIS EPISODE: 

-If you can only do one thing…

-The positive emotional affect digital organization can have

-GEM Where to even begin making yearly yearbooks (minute 12:40) -How to handle working through family photos 

-What trends are coming in the photo world

LINKS MENTIONED

Ollie photo organizing app - https://get.goodones.app/yVeZ/pmmissfreddy

Miss Freddy Courses - https://shop.missfreddy.com/products

Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/miss.freddy/

How do you declutter when you have little kids at home and no extra time or energy to dedicate to it? Today we'll answer two listener questions. The first is about finding motivation when there seems to be no extra time to declutter. The second is about knowing how far to go with minimalism and how to maintain it.

WOW your family with a decluttered house! Join Take Your House Back for just $84 through Monday night! https://urlgeni.us/TYHB Today I'll answer YOUR questions! If you'd like to leave a voicemail with your own question, you can do so here: https://www.speakpipe.com/MinimalMom

IN THIS EPISODE: 0:00 Answering your questions 

0:48 I don’t have storage spaces - what are my options? 

4:39 How do you organize all your chicken eggs? 

9:26 I’m attracted to beautiful things, but I want to be a minimalist! 

14:08 Tell me more about memory boxes! 

21:03 How to keep a minimal wardrobe when your weight changes?

25:34 The stuff is gone - but now I feel empty.

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

How can I encourage the value of decluttering without it pushing my kids in the opposite direction? Is it even possible to stop the constant flow of things from coming into our homes? Listen in as Dawn answers real questions from listeners! Want to record a decluttering question? You can do so here: https://sayhi.chat/MinimalMom


Find Candace at Simply this Life here: https://www.youtube.com/@FancyThatwithCandice

 IN THIS EPISODE: 

-equipment sometimes fixes problems - but sometimes it doesn’t! -GEM: how to encourage your family to declutter without causing resentment or leading to more attachment to things (minute 6:25)

-how to stop the influx of constant things entering your home 

-where to start when working through others/inherited belongings LINKS MENTIONED: 

Dyson Cordless Vacuum: https://amzn.to/3TeEyIe

Keep the Memories, Lose the Stuff by Matt Paxton: https://amzn.to/3I3zOQJ

Matt’s podcast with Dawn: https://youtu.be/5K-ests_bDk?si=FJGm6gJNiUFreUj_

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

My kids want to keep everything - how do I help them declutter? I want clear counters, but where do I put the stuff? My “fantasy self,” “Justin Case,” and “Some Day” keep talking to me all at once - HELP! Listen in as Dawn answers from listeners on these topics and more!

Want to record a decluttering question? You can do so here: https://sayhi.chat/MinimalMom

1:05 - How do I navigate kids with an age gap sharing room? 4:13 - I want clear counters, but where do I put the food? 7:26 - How do I get rid of my kids sentimental items? 13:49 - My “fantasy self,” “Justin Case,” and “Some Day” keep talking to me all at once! 19:19 - Do I include my kinds in decluttering? 24:28 - How do I handle a partner who wants to keep piles of stuff? 

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Do you find it difficult to trust your own judgment? Are you uncertain about what you truly believe? How do you make the tough decisions about whether to stay or move on? Is the idea of closure just a myth? Join Dawn as she talks with Emily P. Freeman, a Wall Street Journal bestselling author of five books, including her latest, “HOW TO WALK INTO A ROOM: The Art of Knowing When to Stay and When to Walk Away,” about spiritual decluttering, and the connection between simple living and spirituality.

IN THIS EPISODE

3:01 How do you build trust with yourself?

5:35 Decluttering your inner life

6:50 How to find safe relationships

8:09 Just pick what you like and see how it grows.

10:37 How to walk into a room

11:42 Our lives are a house, and every room is a story.

15:40 How do you decide what you and your family REALLY believe (without outside pressure)?

17:32 Spiritual decluttering

19:50 It’s OK to investigate

21:15 When it's better to leave, than to stay.

24:58  Is closure a myth?

29:13 Breathe prayers

30:02 “For now…”

32:19 Decluttering is to our home, as silence,stillness, and solitude is to our souls.

Resources Mentioned:

“Start with Hello,” by Shannon Martin

Natalie Hoffman -FlyFree Podcast on YouTube 

Emily P. Freeman is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of five books, including The Next Right Thing: A Simple, Soulful Practice for Making Life Decisions. As a spiritual director, workshop leader, and host of The Next Right Thing podcast (more than 25 million downloads), her most important work is to help create soul space and offer spiritual companionship and discernment for anyone struggling with decision fatigue. Emily holds a master’s degree in spiritual formation and leadership from Friends University. She lives in North Carolina with her family.

https://emilypfreeman.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/emilypfreeman/

The cleaning gurus make it look so easy! Why can’t I keep up? Is your house the problem, or is it your cleaning method? Listen in is as Dawn talks with Sarah McGlory about her adaptive cleaning method that really works! IN THIS EPISODE: 0:00 About Sarah

5:05 the correlation between the amount of support and cleanliness 

6:28 how adaptive cleaning came about 9:40 (GEM) The basics of low capacity lists 

13:25 - how hot mess mom culture failed us 

20:00 the inventory connection 

26:05 - about perfectionism 

29:45 - the power of small steps 

ABOUT SARAH MCGLORY: 

Sarah is an advocate for adaptive cleaning, offering practical solutions for those who struggle with traditional cleaning methods. She focuses on flexible routines and strategies that adapt to individual needs, making home care more manageable and less overwhelming for people with busy lives or unique challenges.

LINKS: 

https://www.sarahmcglory.com/

https://www.sarahmcglory.com/product-page/adaptivecleaningsystem

https://www.youtube.com/c/SarahMcGloryHome

https://www.facebook.com/SarahMcGloryHome

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Get your FREE ticket to Get Organized HQ here: https://thegetorganizedhq.com/gohqv2024-freeticket-dawnmadsen/?a_aid=MinimalMom&a_bid=357bc036 What if the key to getting out of debt is owning less and spending smarter?

Could cutting the clutter in your life also mean cutting down your debt?

Listen in as Dawn talks with Jen and Jill from The Frugal Friends podcast and be inspired to buy less, live well, and be a good steward! 

IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 - intro 

:44 - The Trashcan Trick

2:50 - History of frugal friends 

5:02 - Simplicity goes hand-in-hand with getting out of debt! 

6:22 - Tips for impulse spending 

8:29 - A no-spend bucket list 

11:40 - Influencers affect on our spending 

15:06 - First time pay full price?

24:18 - (GEM) What to say to the woman who can’t get out of debt 

27:00 - Anchors of debt freedom 

30:33 - The freedom of living within your means 

32:33 - Get Organized HQ

ABOUT THE JEN AND JILL: 

Jen and Jill help you control your spending without all the guilt and shame of strict budgeting. They believe there’s not one right way to do money and help you find your core values and create a financial plan around them. And you always have the freedom to take what works for you and leave what doesn’t. Get ready to feel confident about your finances and afford more of the things money can’t buy. 

LINKS:  Pre-order Jen and Jill's NEW BOOK: https://amzn.to/3YWoGOZ

https://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/

frugal friends podcast episode with Dawn: https://www.frugalfriendspodcast.com/minimalism-for-families-with-dawn-madsen-ep-434/ https://www.instagram.com/frugalfriendspodcast/

My jewelry is from Trades of Hope (Shop to help women out of poverty!): https://tradesofhope.com/minimalmom

Mother's Necklace on Etsy: https://cli.re/mom-necklace

(I have the gold in 18")

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Ever feel like, "this isn’t the life I signed up for?" Wondering if it’s OK to want a better life? Struggling to simplify while managing ADHD? Join Dawn and Dr. Leonaura Rhodes—a physician, counselor, coach, relationship strategist, and neurotherapist—as they discuss how to navigate unexpected life challenges, understand neurodiversity, embrace identity changes, and develop a clear strategy for creating the life you desire.

In this episode: 1:29 I hated my “dream job.” 2:55 Unexpected life challenges 5:15 Death bed epiphany 6:05 This isn’t what I signed up for 7:00 Simplifying with ADHD 8:20 Neurodiversity in kids 9:09 Object Permanence 9:53 “Your house is SO messy!” 10:55 Tips for those with ADHD 12:09 What’s in it for you? 13:28 You are NOT here to be a martyr 14:20 “Women are REALLY selfish these days.” 17:30 Neurofeedback therapy 19:43 Mindfulness practice 24:04 Take identity inventory 25:18 We CAN want a better life for ourselves 25:56 Invest 30 min a day in YOU! 26:30 Imagine, what would it be like to say no? 28:18 Identity changes 29:02 Do a “life audit.”

Resources Mentioned:

Beyond Soccer Mom by Leonaura Rhondes 

About: Dr. Leonaura Rhodes has spent over 30 years helping people just create extraordinary lives on their terms. Her career began as a physician in the UK, then went on to become a counselor, coach, relationship strategist, and neurotherapist. She guides people who are committed to getting the most out of life, by helping them get clarity on the life they desire and help them create a solid strategy for change.

https://www.drleonaurarhodes.com/

Leonaura Rhodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UC2IIJj_hnHZJO8BwcKPqInQ ............................................

ABOUT THE MINIMAL MOM: Hi, I'm Dawn, if we haven't met before, I'm married to Tom and we have four kids ages 8-13. We live outside of the Twin Cities in MN and have called ourselves minimalists for 8 years now. We got rid of 85% of our stuff and don't miss ANY OF IT! If you'd like to see more instructional videos about minimalism and decluttering, be sure to check out my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMinimalMom/

Do you want to involve your kids in decluttering but have trouble figuring out how? Have you ever shared your excitement over living with less only to be told, “good for you, but I could never!” Do you find it nearly impossible to say, "no" something free?  Listen in as Dawn answers real questions from her listeners and helps navigate some of the sticky situations that can come up when decluttering.

Want to record a decluttering question? You can do so here: https://sayhi.chat/MinimalMom IN THIS EPISODE: - how to get kids on board with cleaning - dealing with guilt of, “good for you, but I could never” - when you just can’t say no to free - how to keep pushing through the layers of decluttering Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Today I'm joined by Tyler from Tidy Dad. Tyler is a New York school teacher, writer, husband and dad to three young girls. Through his Tidy Dad blog and Instagram account he shares tips to help you develop systems, rhythms, and routines for tidying, cleaning and organizing. His tactics are practical and inspiring and he offers great advice for involving all of our family members in the keeping of our homes.

You can find Tyler here:

Tidy Dad on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tidydad/

Tidy Dad Website: https://thetidydad.com/

Is the thought of dinnertime stressful and full of overwhelm? Has meal planning failed for you in the past? 

Listen in as Lauren as Liz from Tastes Better from Scratch talk with Dawn on how to implement simple steps that allow dinnertime to turn from a stressful event to a great time bringing your family together. When you have a plan, cooking can become a joyful experience! 

IN THIS EPISODE:

-The passion behind cooking from scratch 

-Handling recipe overwhelm 

-5 key values to help get organized with meal planning 

-How simplifying kitchen inventory can help

-GEM: Where to start (minute 12:50)

-Involving kids in the kitchen

ABOUT LAUREN AND LIZ:  Lauren Allen grew up in a home where everything was made from scratch; from egg noodles and chicken stock to jam and bread. Upon leaving home and entering the world of dreary college cafeteria food, she, along with her twin sister, Liz, were eager to compile their treasured recipes into an online collection, and Tastes Better from Scratch (TBFS) was born!

Tastes Better from Scratch creates approachable, delicious recipes you can count on, and is bringing the JOY back to cooking: https://tastesbetterfromscratch.com/

Download their FREE weekly meal plans that include a grocery shopping list with budget information. You can create your own meal plan with your favorite recipes, or you can use our preset meal plans, and even customize them in case there’s a recipe you want to swap out: https://tastesbetterfromscratch.com/category/meal-plan/

Check out the Tastes Better From Scratch Cookbook to find recipes for every meal of the day, and more, as well as a variety of different cuisines: https://tastesbetterfromscratch.com/cookbooks/ Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind subscribing? It helps the podcast be recommend to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Today Diana visits with Dawn, a licensed family therapist, about healing from pain caused by the church. This is a replay from a YouTube video they did earlier this week (I'm sorry the audio isn't a little better!). You can find their YouTube channels here:

Diana: https://www.youtube.com/c/dianakokku

Dawn (Living by Heart): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzweJVhO3YngoiPMFh5gf5Q

Take Your House Back (Just $94): https://cli.re/Take-Your-House-Back-Dawn The Next ALL DAY DECLUTTER is Saturday, April 27

The Take Your House Back Course is a powerful way that I can come along side you and make sure you get your home simplified in the new year! (And it's only $94 right now - normally $597!)

*Replays available if you can't join us live (Payment plan available, too!)

Does the fear of getting rid of something you might need later paralyze you from decluttering? Are you holding on to items so that you can sell them for top-dollar? How many baby clothes should you keep for future kids? Listen in as Dawn answers all this and more! 

IN THIS EPISODE: 

1:50 - How do I downsize my craft projects? 

7:18 - How can I declutter confidently when I know I can’t afford to replace anything? 13:11 - How do I find the best top-dollar buyer for my mothers old collectables? 

16:04 - Have you found that decluttering helps your family value what you have more? 

18:34 - How many baby clothes do I keep?

22:20 - I don’t want my baby to be bored! How do I have enough toys without it being chaotic? 

LINKS MENTIONED: 

Minimalism Masterclass: https://www.theminimalmom.com/minimalism-masterclass

How to Get Kids to Play Independently Video: https://youtu.be/6BlKIluXMcE?si=om0XITGkPn-4-nyb

Keep the Memories, Lose the Stuff Book: https://amzn.to/3TPotJo

There has been something magical with our laundry room transformation...a benefit I never expected! We'll talk about that today along with donating ironing boards, laundry strips and more!

Laundry Products Mentioned:

Tru Earth Laundry Strips: https://amzn.to/3lSp65p Earth Breeze Laundry Sheets: https://amzn.to/3CDxZWD EcoEgg: https://amzn.to/3k33GQP

(affiliate links-- THANK YOU!!!)

Find Matt & Zoe's Master Class Here: https://resources.raisingsimple.com/keepthememories Whether you're anxious about inheriting unwanted items or overwhelmed by the thought of passing on a stockpile of stuff, this episode will help you navigate the emotional and practical side of managing family possessions. IN THIS EPISODE: 0:00 Introduction :40 Are some people just more sentimental? 4:07 Letting go of the pressure to keep things 7:38 How do we help our parents get rid of stuff? 10:30 About the legacy list 15:04 ...but everything is sentimental! 18:21 Navigating family members that think we should keep things 20:51 Artifcts 22:52 A bit about hoarding 25:58 - Should we keep things that make us sad? 28:06 Matt and Zoë's master class 31:14 To the person feeling guilty ABOUT THE PODCAST GUEST: Zoë’ is the author of Minimalism for Families, minimalist mom of four, and the voice behind Raising Simple. She is married to Matt Paxton, a downsizing and cleaning expert, speaker, author, radio personality, and host of the 2-time Emmy nominated television show Legacy List with Matt Paxton. LINKS: Save the stories with Artifacts: https://artifcts.com/ Keep the Memories Lose the Stuff Book: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/Keep-the-Memories Minimalism for Families Book: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/minimalism-for-families Zoë’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisingsimp... Zoë’s Blog: https://raisingsimple.com/ More info about Legacy List TV show: https://www.mylegacylist.com/

Take Your House Back (Just $94): https://urlgeni.us/TYHB

The Take Your House Back Course is a powerful way that I can come along side you and make sure you get your home simplified in the new year! (And it's only $94 right now - normally $597!)

The Next ALL DAY DECLUTTER is Saturday, Jan. 13 - replays available if you can't join us live (Payment plan available, too!)

IN THIS EPISODE:

Are you struggling with post-holiday letdown, discouragement over credit card statements, and navigating a sense of unease as the new year unfolds? While getting out of debt is hard, listen and hear Dawn and Christine of Frugal Fit Mom encourage you to start taking steps to replace the weight of debt with the lightness that comes from debt-free living!  IN THIS EPISODE:  -Christine and Dawn’s personal stories of getting out of debt  -How to start your debt-free journey  -Motivating yourself and others towards paying off debt -The freedom that comes from minimizing access to social media and streaming services ABOUT CHRISTINE: Christine from Frugal Fit Mom has garnered a loyal following by sharing her practical insights on budgeting, frugality, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle on a dime. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of mindful spending, sensible budgeting, and strategic money-saving tactics. Whether it's expertly navigating the grocery store aisles for budget-friendly yet nutritious meals or offering ingenious tips to maximize savings, Christine's approach is both relatable and inspiring. Through Frugal Fit Mom YouTube channel, Christine invites her audience to join her on a journey towards financial resilience, overall well-being, and the joys of a balanced, intentional life. https://www.youtube.com/c/FrugalFitMom

"Mental minimalism says that just like too much physical and digital stuff can distract us from our values and the things that matter most in life, our own mental stuff can do the same thing.

Thoughts, emotions, memories, and imagination can all become cluttering of our mental space. And when this happens, not only do we consistently experience negative feelings like stress, anxiety, overwhelm, and depression, but perhaps more tragically, we become distracted from living our lives." - Nick Wignall, The Case for Mental Minimalism

We *know* we should be more protective of our minds, but how do we achieve mental minimalism in the real world? Diana and I will talk about it today!

Book Mentioned: "Get Your Life Back" by John Eldredge: https://amzn.to/32M6I4k

In a world of endless distractions and consumerism, can minimalism and mindfulness offer a pathway to deeper fulfillment? Join us as Dawn of The Minimal Mom and Dr. Pedram Shojai of The Urban Monk reveal how simplifying our surroundings and connecting with our inner selves can lead to a life of purpose, clarity, and peace." IN THIS EPISODE: 0:00 About Dr. Pedram Shojai

4:26 - Where do we begin?

9:03 - What is it like to become a monk?

12:30 - What work comes from? 

17:20 - How can we regain focus? 

24:04 - How did you look at things differently after returning from the monastery 

28:37 - But what about the guilt of decluttering good things? 

33:06 - How do you navigate technology with kids? 

ABOUT Dr. PEDRAM SHOJAI 

Pedram Shojai is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine, and New York Times Bestselling Author of The Urban Monk and The Art of Stopping Time. As an acclaimed Qigong Master, Taoist Abbot, husband and dad, he uses Eastern thinking and practices to help himself and others overcome the Westernized challenges of everyday life

LINKS: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drpedramshojai/

Website: https://theurbanmonk.com/

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-urban-monk-podcast-with-dr-pedram-shojai/id1031707838?ign-mpt=uo%3D4&mt=2

Has written several  books including Focus, The Urban Monk, and The Art Of Stopping Time.

My jewelry is from Trades of Hope (Shop to help women out of poverty!): https://tradesofhope.com/minimalmom

Mother's Necklace on Etsy: https://cli.re/mom-necklace

(I have the gold in 18")

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Kids stuff! There is SO much stuff that comes along with having kids! The good news is: you don't have to keep it all! Today we'll talk about how you can very confidently know what to keep and what to let go when it comes to children's items.

What are some of the biggest design mistakes? What is the #1 design tip? How can you avoid making this $10,000 design mistake? Today Dawn visits with Melanie Zaelich, an interior designer and owner of Home Stylist - a company that uses the power of design to bring more happiness to people. Melanie shares insights on how to avoid the biggest design mistakes and how she got started in design after being on HGTV.

IN THIS EPISODE:

1:18 Melanie's start on HGTV

3:37 Conventional vs. unconventional design

4:48 Biggest designs mistakes

5:00 #1 Design tip (get rid of your stuff!)

5:43 Save $10,000 with this one tip

12:21 Bring life into your space

14:58 Architectural Design vs. Minimalism

18:24 How do I discover my own style?

23:35 Get an outside perspective 

24:05 Newest design trends

Resources

Plant watering globes

ABOUT MELANIE:

Melanie is the owner of Happy Place Interiors. She loves seeing people light up when they enter a space that has been transformed. Melanie believes that your environment impacts your well-being and it can bring joy to your life and allow you to spend your time and energy on the things that are important to you — like, life. Happy Place Interiors puts a fresh spin on what you’d expect from an interior design company. Rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a happy home, our flexible and collaborative consultation-based, à la carte business model keeps high-quality interior design accessible. Learn more here: https://www.homeismyhappyplace.com/

Get your Early Bird Brave Conference Ticket Here (just $37 until Monday at midnight!): https://www.made2homeschool.com/bravetickets Whether this is your first year or your 10th year of homeschooling, the Brave Conference is designed just for you! Join in to find encouragement, gain fresh inspiration and new ideas, build a supportive network, and prepare for the future with purpose. The sessions are tailored to meet you where you are in your homeschooling journey. Don't miss out on our early bird sign-up for only $37! Secure your spot today and take the next step toward a fulfilling and successful homeschooling experience.

Find the speaker line-up and more details here: https://www.made2homeschool.com/bravetickets ......................................

ABOUT THE MINIMAL MOM: Hi, I'm Dawn, if we haven't met before, I'm married to Tom and we have four kids ages 8-13. We live outside of the Twin Cities in MN and have called ourselves minimalists for 9 years now. We got rid of 85% of our stuff and don't miss ANY OF IT! If you'd like to see more instructional videos about minimalism and decluttering, be sure to check out my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@TheMinimalMom

Why do so many of us struggle with moderation and pursue the unpredictable? Why do we constantly crave more, when we have enough?  In today’s episode, Dawn is joined by Michael Easter, a New York Times Bestselling author, journalist, and professor who wrote the books The Comfort Crisis and Scarcity Brain. Together, they discuss how our society's pursuit of ease has drastically changed the way in which we think and live - and tactics of how to not fall into the scarcity mindset trap!  ABOUT MICHAEL EASTER:  Michael's work explores how we can leverage modern science and evolutionary wisdom to perform better and live healthier and more meaningful lives. His ideas have been adopted by NASA, MLB teams, NCAA D1 athletic programs, US Special Forces units, Fortune-500 companies, top tier universities, and millions of people worldwide. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Scarcity Brain: https://amzn.to/42xvJO2 Comfort Crisis: https://amzn.to/49qZqT6 Newsletter Signup: https://www.twopct.com/ Clearspace app: https://www.getclearspace.com/ IN THIS EPISODE: -How pursuing ease has changed our society -Scarcity brain -Why are we bad at moderation -Our focus on unpredictability -The relationship between scarcity and creativity -When to introduce social media to our kids -Gratitude journals are probably not the answer! Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Decluttering brings up SO many emotions...often guilt and regret which makes it harder to part with things. That's why I came up with the "Guilt-Free Timer", allowing you to declutter without any guilt-- it's perfect! Plus, I'll share my most recent saga with tree watering :)

As we've gotten to visit other people's homes to help them declutter, I've learned SO MUCH. And it never ceases to amaze me that we're all more alike than different when it comes to the stuff that we collect. Today, Diana and I visit about the three things I'm finding that most people need to be successful with decluttering.

Diana's Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DianaKokku

How to Lighten Your Load video mentioned: https://youtu.be/mpsVVw-gqmo

Take Your House Back Course Details: https://cli.re/takeyourhouseback

What would your reaction be if you heard, “We don’t have to own all this stuff”? Do you dream about a life where less time is spent cleaning and organizing and more time actually living? This simple phrase jump started Joshua’s journey to minimalism. Listen in as he and Dawn reminisce about his early days of minimalism and the benefits he’s seen in his life and family through it.

 IN THIS EPISODE: 

-Joshua’s introduction to minimalism 

-Biggest friction between his spouse when decluttering 

-GEM: Joshua’s best advice for raising kids with less (minute 17:50)

-What Joshua has been up to recently  

ABOUT JOSHUA: Joshua Becker is a prominent author, speaker, and minimalist advocate. He is known for his practical advice on simplifying possessions, relationships, and priorities to foster a more fulfilling and purposeful existence. Books:

Things that Matter: https://amzn.to/49BaugC

The More of Less: https://amzn.to/42F3rkF

The Minimalist Home: https://amzn.to/3OOrJmG

LINKS MENTIONED: 

Article that kickstarted Joshua’s Minimalism journey: https://zenhabits.net/a-guide-to-creating-a-minimalist-home/

The Hope Effect: https://www.hopeeffect.com/ Becker Method Certified Professional Training Course: https://www.becomingminimalist.com/becker-method-certification/

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Are your kids suffering from digital overload? Do you wonder if it’s too late for your already addicted kids? Listen as Dawn speaks with Melanie Hempe on screen addiction and how to help our kids thrive in a digital age. ABOUT MELANIE: 

Melanie Hempe helps parents prevent screen addiction, rescue their kids, and enjoy family life again. After her oldest son dropped out of college due to his video game addiction, Melanie Hempe, BSN, utilized her nursing degree from Emory University to warn families about the dangers of screen overuse and founded ScreenStrong. Melanie simplifies medical science for parents, empowering them with the reasons to skip not all screen use but the most harmful screen use—social media, violent video games, and pornography—through adolescence. 

IN THIS EPISODE: 

2:39 - How Melanie became interested in screen safety 

15:45 -  Kids 0-5

23:02- How long will it take to detox? 

29:40 - The science behind screens

33:07 - Kids 6-12 year olds 

42:40 - “I want to reduce screen-time, where do I begin?” 

44:44 - “What if it’s my spouse who is addicted?” 

48:40 - Kids Brains and Screens book 

LINKS MENTIONED: 

Kids Brains and Screens book - https://amzn.to/3U4p1uX

The Screen Strong Solution book - https://amzn.to/3xFckPD

Be Screen Strong IG - https://www.instagram.com/bescreenstrong/

Canopy - https://canopy.us/

Melanie’s son’s perspective on growing up without screens - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-teen-q-a-on-growing-up-without-addictive-screens-179/id1474681355?i=1000641960104

How to teach young kids to play on their own - https://youtu.be/6BlKIluXMcE?feature=shared 

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Earlier this week Diana shared a YouTube video talking about how hard it is on our health to be lonely. Not just our emotional health (that's what we usually think of in regards to relationships) but our actual physical health suffers, too, when we're lonely. I know from some experience that this isn't always easy to overcome, but the Lord has been faithful to provide relationships when we've asked. (And we also talk about our upcoming birthday!)

And Diana's video that we referenced can be found here: https://youtu.be/1YBbvczeEoI

Blinkist Link: https://www.blinkist.com/theminimalmom use this link for 1 week to try it out free. You'll also get 25% off if you want the full membership.

Are you in survival mode as a mom? Do you frequently feel overwhelmed and like you just aren't doing this right? Do you want to learn a better way?

With candor and warmth, Jessica delves into the heart of motherhood, addressing the challenges that many moms face in feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and constantly on the brink. Throughout this episode, Jessica unravels practical strategies and mindset shifts that empower mothers to reclaim their joy and purpose amidst the chaos of everyday life.

IN THIS EPISODE: - Navigating really hard seasons as a mom - The 5 Step Path from Surviving to Thriving - Understanding the truth about Survival Mode - Re-entry when your support has gone home - Normalizing and the power of "Good Enough" - Circle of Concern vs. Circle of Influence - GEM: Helping her pessimistic son have a more positive attitude (minute 20:13) - The power of decluttering to be a better mom

ABOUT JESSICA: Jessica Jackson is a homeschooling mother of four children, host of the Thriving in Motherhood Podcast and creator of Thriving in Motherhood Planner and Journal. Jessica is determined to not only enjoy motherhood, but to build a strong family and become better in the process. Along the way she's become well practiced in thriving through survival mode while experiencing difficult pregnancies, health challenges, and multiple cross country moves. Jessica loves empowering women to thrive in every season of motherhood and see the joy and growth in everyday life.

Download the Free 5 Step Path From Surviving to Thriving Checklist here: https://thrivinginmotherhoodpodcast.com/checklist/

Jessica's Website & Podcast: https://thrivinginmotherhoodpodcast.com/

Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind subscribing? It helps the podcast be recommend to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

350,000 churches. 400,000 kids in the foster system. Listen in as Dawn talks with Trisha and Eric Porter of Backyard Orphans on their vision of how the church can solve this problem!

IN THIS EPISODE: 0:00 - Intro 

1:06 - How Eric and Trisha started Backyard Orphans 

8:07 - How Backyard Orphans provides support for families wanting to foster 

10:40 - How to take the stigma out of foster care 

13:34 - Success stories 

19:16 - Four ways to get involved in foster care 

24:00 - Getting churches connected to agencies 

33:50 - The best way to get involved in foster care 

ABOUT TRISHA AND ERIC: Eric Porter is the founder and CEO of Backyard Orphans. This 501c3 interdenominational ministry is focused on engaging and equipping the church to care for hurting children in their own backyard. Since 2012, Eric and his wife Trisha have been in full-time orphan care ministry with the vision to train Church leaders to develop a foster care, adoption, and support ministry.

LINKS: 

Check out Backyard Orphans: https://backyardorphans.org/

Backyard Orphans IG: https://www.instagram.com/backyardorphans/

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

I don't often start at the beginning of the story. Today I talk about my upbringing, finding minimalism and the decision I made to pursue YouTube.

If you'd like help decluttering, I'd love to SHOW you my favorite tips for simplifying on my YouTube Channel!

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theminimalmom

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.minimal.mom/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/minimalmom

How do I get myself out of the messy middle? How many kids books should I keep? How can I move towards minimalism with with chronic illness, young kids, busy schedules, etc. etc?

Listen in as Dawn answers from listeners on these topics and more! 

Want to record a decluttering question? You can do so here: https://sayhi.chat/MinimalMom

In this Episode: 

• How Dawn manages to keep up with daily cleaning tasks in about 40 minutes
• How to minimize with a chronic illness
• Get out of the messy middle 
• Sharing small living spaces with kids and their friends 
• Deciding what kids books to keep in the house

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Are you experiencing more anxiety than relaxation this summer? Are your expectations realistic? Do you feel stuck or broken? What is anxiety doing to you? How can we maintain momentum when we don’t feel like it?  Join Dawn and Britt Frank- a licensed neuropsychotherapist and author of The Science of Stuck and her newest release The Getting Unstuck Workbook- as they talk about seasonal summer anxiety, setting expectations, and getting “unstuck.”

IN THIS EPISODE:

2:36 Seasonal summer anxiety

3:51 Reset expectations

4:06 #Chuckthebucket

4:29 Don’t worry about the why.

5:14 My brain is on my side.

8:10 How do we help our kids?

10:17 It’s ok to need time.

11:32 Stimulation requires down regulation.

12:40 Boredom is NOT a problem to solve.

16:00 Microdose relaxation

18:42 Name it and own it.

22:25 Better done than good

23:01 How do we keep momentum going when the “pink cloud” goes away?

27:10 There is no such thing as a broken person.

27:35 Getting unstuck

32:20 Brains CAN change.

Resources Mentioned:

The Science of Stuck

The Getting Unstuck Workbook

The interruption of stuff (Podcast Ep. 24)

Bio/Her links: Britt Frank, LSCSW, SEP is a licensed neuropsychotherapist and author of The Science of Stuck (Penguin Random House), named by SHRM, Esquire, New York Magazine, and The Next Big Idea Club as a must-read as well as her new release, The Getting Unstuck Workbook. Britt received her undergraduate degree from Duke University and her master’s degree from the University of Kansas, where she later became an award-winning adjunct instructor. Britt is a contributing writer to Psychology Today and her work has been featured in Forbes, NPR, The New York Times, Fast Company, Psych Central, SELF, and Thrive Global.

www.scienceofstuck.com

IG: @brittfrank

Take Your House Back (Just $94): https://urlgeni.us/TYHB

The Take Your House Back Course is a powerful way that I can come along side you and make sure you get your home simplified in the new year! (And it's only $94 right now - normally $597!)

The Next ALL DAY DECLUTTER is Saturday, Jan. 13 - replays available if you can't join us live (Payment plan available, too!)

Today I'm joined by Cas from Clutterbug. She is a colleague and friend and I'm really looking forward to visiting with her today!

Here is what we talked about today:

00:00 The Minimal Mom & Cas from Clutterbug 01:37 Making Friends 04:35 Her Flooded House 09:46 What did she love about the new house 19:14 Why no home inspection? 22:49 Do you have a house keeper? 28:15 How have the kids dealt with moving? 29:52 Has she been called to any emergencies? 35:55 Emotional experience at ADHD conference 49:50 How is your relationship with food now? 52:35 Follow up on dog that passed away at kennel 54:20 What do you want for Christmas this year?

Are you struggling to downsize a home filled with memories? Does the fear and guilt of purging family keepsakes keep you from decluttering? In this episode, Matt Paxton shares helpful insight on how to discern what heirlooms are worth keeping, and what to do with the rest. 

 IN THIS EPISODE: 

-helping loved ones dealing with hoarding 

-the most misunderstood thing about hoarders 

-dealing with the guilt of stuff -how does this actually work? 

About Matt Matt Paxton is a downsizing and cleaning expert, speaker, author, radio personality, and host of the 2-time Emmy nominated television show Legacy List with Matt Paxton.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Keep the Memories, Lose the Stuff by Matt Paxton: https://amzn.to/3I3zOQJ More info about Legacy List: https://www.mylegacylist.com/ Save the stories with Artifacts: https://artifcts.com/ Minimalism for Families by Zoë Kim https://amzn.to/4867IyC Zoë Kim’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisingsimple/?hl=en Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Today I visit with Dr. John Delony about the real cost of clutter on our lives and mental health. There is a strong connection between clutter and stress and anxiety and yet it's not wrong that we keep things hoping for security.

IN THIS EPISODE:

- Why do we keep this stuff? 03:28 - Decluttering induced anxiety - The 6 Daily Choices for Less Anxiety - 90 Days to a Non-Anxious Life 16:45 - How to Instantly feel better 19:56 - The 40% Rule - GEM: Anxiety & Kids (Minute 31:37)

Building a Non-Anxious Life Book: https://amzn.to/46EVXhQ

The Dr. John Delony Show: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrJohnDelonyShow

90 Days to a Non-Anxious Life Video: https://youtu.be/7GLLJLbd9zM?si=s2L_9pn-6OFwcy91

I don't generally like to draw attention to negative comments, but I think I felt misunderstood when it cam to a recent video I did on home organization. Was it plastic junk and unnecessary, or the icing on top of all of my hardworking decluttering!?!

MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST:

Testing Out New Organizing Products Video: https://youtu.be/BAvWKtVwbY8 Minimal Mom Mentorship Group: https://cli.re/minimal-mom-private-group Clear Trash Bag Organizer: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/trashbags Small Acrylic Containers: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/small Ikea Acrylic Containers: https://urlgeni.us/ikea/ikea-bathroom Large Spice Jars: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/spice-jar-lg Small Spice Jars: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/spice-jars-sm Spice Shelf: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/spice-shelf Seasoning Packet Organizer: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/packet-organizer Ikea Shoe Bench: https://urlgeni.us/ikea/shoe-bench Wall Mount Shoe Racks: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/wall-rack Car Trash Bag Holder: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/car-garbage

IN THIS PODCAST: 0:00 Are these organizing products wasteful? 2:30 My most controversial video 2:32 Addressing the negative comments and feeling misunderstood 5:05 If it’s not a definite yes, it’s a no. 6:50 Spice cabinet debacle 9:42 I felt like such a loser at keeping home and organizing 10:50 Solutions vs. upgrades 11:43 Look at the data 14:00 Shoe rack pushback 14:38 3 parts to keep a home maintained 15:38 Plastic, inventory, and gadget girl 17:25 We get to decide 18:35 Feeling discontent? Do this first. 22:10 It’s about function, not just looks. 25:00 Give your mom some grace! (Lessons learned from my mom)

--------------------------

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. 

ABOUT THE MINIMAL MOM: Hi, I'm Dawn, if we haven't met before, I'm married to Tom and we have four kids ages 9-14. We live outside of the Twin Cities in MN and have called ourselves minimalists for 8 years now. We got rid of 85% of our stuff and don't miss ANY OF IT! If you'd like to see more instructional videos about minimalism and decluttering, be sure to check out my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMinimalMom

Diana's Friendship Workshop: https://www.biblestudy.co/friend-workshop

This is for you: - If you're tired of surface-level interactions, or friends who are always too busy to get together. - You crave a support system of friends who understand your unique challenges, limitations, or stage of life. - Your nest is empty, and you're ready to build friendships based on your own interests and faith. - You've moved homes or changed churches and you're eager to connect, but aren't sure how to break the ice. You don't have to live lonely. Please join us! COST: $10.00

In this episode:

00:00 25 Questions for Twins 00:48 Surprise! Twins! 01:28 Who is the oldest? 03:00 Can you read each other's mind? 03:15 Feel each other's pain? 03:34 Did you trick people? 04:05 How do we tell you apart? 04:48 Which twin is smarter? Funnier? Prettier? 06:57 Own secret language? 07:50 What's it like to be a twin? 09:18 Do you like the same foods? 09:46 Dress alike when kids? 10:36 Do you get tired of getting mixed up? 12:24 Have you dated the same person? 12:47 Do you finish each other's sentences? 13:30 Do you have identical handwriting? 14:51 Do you ever get tired of twin questions? 14:57 Did you have bunk beds? 15:00 Can strangers tell you apart? 15:08 Do you like the same hobbies? 15:35 Any funny mix up stories? 15:54 Did you want a double wedding? 16:37 How to get Dawn some new friends

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast channel. If you'd like to hear previous episodes, you can find them on all podcasting apps including Apple Podcasts, Spotify and iTunes. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind subscribing? It helps YouTube recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

ABOUT THE MINIMAL MOM:

Hi, I'm Dawn, if we haven't met before, I'm married to Tom and we have four kids ages 8-13. We live outside of the Twin Cities in MN and have called ourselves minimalists for 8 years now. We got rid of 85% of our stuff and don't miss ANY OF IT! If you'd like to see more instructional videos about minimalism and decluttering, be sure to check out my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMinimalMom

Today I'm joined by Courtney Carver from Be More with Less and Project 333. Courtney says that Be more with less means: Be more you. Give yourself all the space, time and love to remember who you are. Living with less clutter, busyness, stress and simplifying your life will help you make the room to do what you need to do. Simplifying my life gave me the space, time, and love to be more me, and the following practices led me back. 

Find Courtney here: https://bemorewithless.com Learn more about project 333 here: https://bemorewithless.com/project-333/

I have been seeing SO many comments about gifts lately! How do we keep people from GIVING them, what do we do once we GET them and HOW long do I have to keep it for!?! Today we'll cover all these topics and hopefully leave you feeling a little less stressed about the upcoming holiday season!

Mercy House Global Gift Boxes: https://shop.mercyhouseglobal.org/collections/gift-boxes

Take Your House Back Course (join the waitlist): https://cli.re/take-your-house-back-waitlist

Take Your House Back (Just $94): https://urlgeni.us/TYHB

The Take Your House Back Course is a powerful way that I can come along side you and make sure you get your home simplified in the new year! (And it's only $94 right now - normally $597!)

The Next ALL DAY DECLUTTER is Saturday, Jan. 13 - replays available if you can't join us live (Payment plan available, too!)

Today I'm joined by Dana from A Slob Comes Clean. She is a friend and colleague and I'm a believer in her No Mess Decluttering Method!

“How do I help my kids declutter when they are attached to EVERYTHING?  I don’t want the pressure of minimizing our stuff to lead my kids into hoarding!” Listen in as Dawn speaks with Laurie, a professional organizer, about her personal experience raising a neurodivergent child, helping kids declutter, and her learnings along the way. 

IN THIS EPISODE: 0:00 Intro

4:35 - Personal experience of Laurie 

7:26 setting healthy boundaries with kids and treasures 

18:42 - (GEM) “But will I turn them into hoarders?” 

24:49 - When your kids are ready to move on, and you’re not  

26:36 - setting up your kids for success

37:42 - reach out to Laurie

ABOUT LAURIE: 

Laurie is the founder of Simply B Organized (SBO) where she writes, teaches, and works with people of all ages helping them to declutter and work smarter. She also hosts This ORGANIZED Life, a weekly podcast where she chats with awesome guests about life, work, parenting, and the role that organization has in their lives.

LINKS: Laurie’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/simplyborganized/

Podcast episode with Logan: https://simplyborganized.com/2019/08/01/ep-138-podcast-on-parenting-with-special-guest-logan-palau/

Logans followup episode: https://simplyborganized.com/2023/06/22/ep-341-navigating-college-with-adhd-tips-and-insights-from-logan-palau/

Lauries podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-organized-life-organizing-tips-for-busy-moms-to/id1193014252

My jewelry is from Trades of Hope (Shop to help women out of poverty!): https://tradesofhope.com/minimalmom

Mother's Necklace on Etsy: https://cli.re/mom-necklace

(I have the gold in 18")

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Do you have a closet filled to the brim with nothing to wear? Are you looking for a way to test out a minimalist wardrobe? Today, Dawn is joined by Courntey Carver, the originator of project 333, a minimalist fashion challenge that invites participants to dress with only 33 items of clothing for 3 months.

ABOUT COURTNEY: Courtney Carver is a writer, speaker, and minimalist lifestyle advocate known for her work on simplifying life and embracing minimalism. She gained prominence through her blog, "Be More with Less," where she shares her personal journey of living with less stuff and less stress. 

IN THIS EPISODE: 

-What surprised dawn about project 333  

- Recap of project 333 and common objections 

-Encouragement for the woman feeling like she’s doing too much 

Links: One Sec app: https://one-sec.app/

Courtney’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/bemorewithless/ Courtney's Website: http://bemorewithless.com

More details on Project 333: https://bemorewithless.com/project-333/

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

This is a day I don't think of much anymore, but looking back, it was a pivotal point in my life and has been something I've drawn on in many ways since then. Diana will also share some really interesting information about secret places and spending time with the Lord.

What do two polar opposite, yet identical twins unanimously praise as the most impactful elements of their upbringing by their incredible mom (and dad, too!)?

Listen in as Dawn and Dianna share about the benefits of growing up with little and the wonderful way it has shaped them.

0:00 Catching Up 

8:50 Dawns new mothers necklace and wanting more kids? 

11:05 Parenting tips that we learned from our mom

11:58 Tip #1 - Be realistic about what the family can handle and afford 

22:33 Tip #2 Celebrate well 

23:22 Tip #3 Don’t draw attention to the difference in families 

27:28 - Tip #4 Love unconditionally 

LINKS:

Pink Sweater I'm wearing on repeat: https://amzn.to/3UVdW15

Color block shirt I love: https://amzn.to/4drUYWW

My jewelry is from Trades of Hope (Shop to help women out of poverty!): https://tradesofhope.com/minimalmom

Mother's Necklace on Etsy: https://cli.re/mom-necklace (I have the gold in 18") Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Today I answer YOUR questions! May I also ask you a question: Were you able to acheive your decluttering goals in 2023? If now, may I help you more closely?

The Take Your House Back Course is a powerful way that I can come along side you and make sure you get your home simplified in the new year! (And it's only $94 right now - normally $597!)

Take Your House Back (Just $94): https://urlgeni.us/TYHB 

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/the.minimal.mom/

QUESTIONS ANSWERED:

- Do you & Diana pay each other?  - What are you looking forward to in 2024?  - What if I feel stuck decluttering? - If you had free time, how would you spend it? - How do I declutter hobby stuff? - What to do with an unfinished scrapbook?  - Why don't you talk about foster care?  - Will you help others declutter again?  - What are your favorite minimalists books?  - Does minimalism always lead to contentment?  - Will you talk about homeschooling?  - Favorite thing about being minimalist family?  - Have you offended people by giving away their gifts? - What to say if decluttered a gift & they ask?  - Advice for decluttering while pregnant & nesting? - Suggestions for decluttering while moving?  - What is the right amount of home decor?  - Do your kids get allowance?  - How to say no to well meaning family? - How can I feel done with decluttering?  - What happened with your bread making?  - Favorite Christmas Tradition?  - How do you & your family spend winter evenings? - How much time do you declutter weekly?  - 28k pics on my phone, solution?  - Favorite coffee to drink or make?  - What do I do with old year books?  - Can we see you kids' rooms?  - Do you have a set day you grocery shop?

LINKS MENTIONED:

FREE Homeschool Workshop: https://www.theminimalmom.com/offers/3ekLnfEY

Diana's Channel (Home Goods Shop with Us!): https://youtu.be/rGk9nYKfhEo?si=VOqZ7bBsjKEcOFVO

My Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/minimalmom

Simplicity Parenting: https://amzn.to/3tbyxTL

Bank Zipper Pouches: https://amzn.to/41wwk1R

Bank Envelopes: https://amzn.to/4ak9u1w

App for Sorting Photos: Good Ones

Miss Freddy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miss.freddy/

Breadmaker that I use for Sourdough: https://amzn.to/3GI26j1

NEED HELP WITH ANYTHING? Support@TheMinimalMom.com

Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind subscribing? It helps the podcast be recommend to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Do you find it challenging to declutter with ADHD? Are you looking for effective anti-procrastination techniques that truly work? How do you manage the constant stream of thoughts in your mind? How can you get your spouse to support your decluttering efforts?

Join Dawn and Amy Revell, author, podcaster, and leading organizing and decluttering expert in Australia, as they discuss anti procrastination techniques that actually work and decluttering the most impactful areas in your home.

Amy is a leading Decluttering and Organising Expert in Australia. She is a successful author, podcaster and blogger, and loves equipping people to find freedom through decluttering and organizing their homes.

Connect with Amy:

Website: https://www.theartofdecluttering.com.au/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofdecluttering/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theartofdeclutteringcommunity/ Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1dQr5Epj7hD2scKaRFhIDu?si=6d71306103544f27

TIME STAMPS:

0:00 The Art of Decluttering 0:49 “Might as well” 1:50 ADHD’ers are rebellious! 2:39 Your future self will thank you. 3:26 Micro tasks 4:23 Closing the loop. 7:30 Too much inventory causes open tabs. 7:58 Never organize what you can declutter. 8:20 Find the area you care about the LEAST and start there. 9:58 Generational shifts 10:30 Get rid of THIS now! 11:32 High rotation areas make the most impact. 12:40 There is nothing wrong with me! 13:21 Time will tell container 13:49 Quantity issue vs. systems issue 19:50 How do I get my spouse on board? 21:34 The great sock debacle 23:50 How do I get my kids to clean up their room? 24:49 Is decluttering in stealth a good idea? 25:45 It’s ok if, “I don’t feel like decluttering.” 27:14 The sunk cost theory

ABOUT THE MINIMAL MOM:

Hi, I'm Dawn, if we haven't met before, I'm married to Tom and we have four kids ages 8-13. We live outside of the Twin Cities in MN and have called ourselves minimalists for 8 years now. We got rid of 85% of our stuff and don't miss ANY OF IT! If you'd like to see more instructional videos about minimalism and decluttering, be sure to check out my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMinimalMom

I never set out to be a "YouTuber"...in fact, as an introvert and always happiest behind the scenes, that actually sounds horrifying to me! But, apparently it was meant to be and today I'll share the story of how I got here!

Why are so many of our kids showing signs of trauma when they live in relative safety? How do we raise counter-cultural kids in a world of excess? Today, Dawn is joined by Kim John Payne, M.ED., who has been a counselor, educator, consultant, and researcher for over thirty years. 

IN THIS EPISODE: 

-The one thing Kim would say to parents right now

-What lead Kim to study simplicity in parenting

-A formula for unstructured playtime

-Importance of rhythms vs. routines 

-Parenting as a governor, gardener, and guide 

ABOUT KIM JOHN PAYNE:

Kim John Payne is an Australian who has, for 24 years, worked throughout the world as a counselor, consultant/researcher and educator of both children and adults. He has been helping children, adolescents and families explore issues such as social difficulties with siblings and classmates, attention and behavioral issues at home and school, and a range of emotional issues such as defiance, aggression, addiction and self-esteem.

BOOKS:

Simplicity Parenting Book: https://amzn.to/4c9P7VQ

Being at Your Best When Your Kids are at Their Worst: https://amzn.to/3T5Tokh

The Soul of Discipline: The Simplicity Parenting Approach to Warm, Firm, and Calm Guidance -- From Toddlers to Teens: https://amzn.to/3VahD3p

Reset Your Child's Brain, 4 Week Screen Detox: https://amzn.to/3wVCxsM

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Summer Declutter Challenge: Refresh & Re-Home begins soon! Find full details HERE!

Do you or someone you love struggle with decluttering due to chronic illness? 

Listen in as Dawn talks with Sarah, a professional organizer and decluttering expert who also deals with chronic illness. She shares five tips to help those with chronic illness overcome hurdles in decluttering and simplify their lives.

 IN THIS EPISODE:

0:00 Top tips for surviving and thriving with chronic illness 01:05 Sarah’s Story 3:10 Planning for sickness 5:50 Ask for help how you need in the way YOU need 11:24 How to help others 14:20 Recognizing the mental load 17:26 Encouragement for those with chronic illness 18:46 Simple doesn’t mean bad 26:48 Weird but it works 28:37 Not all jobs are equal 36:34 Convenience sometimes is survival  

ABOUT SARAH McDonald

Sarah is a declutter expert, professional organizer, minimalist and simple living enthusiast; embracing simplicity, one change at a time.  She came from a family of hoarders, but Sarah broke free and is now on a mission to help others do the same! She believes that less is more and she loves sharing my experiences, tips, and tricks to make life easier and more meaningful.

LINKS: 

Find Sarah on IG: https://www.instagram.com/smallchangestv/ Find Sarah on YT: https://www.youtube.com/@SmallChanges My jewelry is from Trades of Hope (Shop to help women out of poverty!): https://tradesofhope.com/minimalmom

Mother's Necklace on Etsy: https://cli.re/mom-necklace

(I have the gold in 18") Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Have you ever had the thought, “why do these decluttering tactics work for everyone BUT me?” Is it possible that emotional or psychological trauma has contributed to the clutter and disorganization in your life? Listen in as Dawn and Anna Runkle from The Crappy Childhood Fairy address how clutter can often be a symptom of trauma and give encouragement on how to start the process of overcoming these hurdles in your life or in the lives of those you may know.   IN THIS EPISODE: -Anna’s motivation in starting Crappy Childhood Fairy 

- Encouragement on the “doability” of starting to heal and where to start

- Why It can be more helpful to write it out rather than talking it out! 

- Removing mental clutter in order to help reduce physical clutter 

- Theories on helping others who struggle with clutter 

- Encouragement for the woman who always feels like an outlier 

About Anna 

Anna Runkle is not a doctor or therapist; she’s someone who grew up in a rough family that was deeply affected by addiction and all the problems that tend to go with that – poverty, violence, neglect, and shame.

Everything changed for her in 1994 when she stumbled upon two techniques that unexpectedly made her feel better – dramatically better. With that little bit of healing, she was able to, at last, begin changing the self-destructive patterns she had learned (common for trauma survivors) and change the course of my life.  Today, almost half a million people follow her work and participate in her training. Her mission is to change the paradigm of what’s possible for people “like us” and to help all I can to heal and lead lives of joy and purpose.

See Anna’s video: Clutter as a Trauma symptom: https://youtu.be/FZwY4tAfX1A?si=As4YXzXeG0rJ-Jkn IG: https://www.instagram.com/crappychildhoodfairy/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@CrappyChildhoodFairy FREE course: the daily practice: https://courses.crappychildhoodfairy.com/daily-practice?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=daily-practice Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Do you feel stuck waiting for motivation to show up? Are you struggling to answer the elusive “why” in hopes it will propel you into transformative lifestyle habits? Is the work of decluttering even worth it? Listen in as Brit Frank, a licensed Neuropsycholotherapist, shares WHY decluttering can be the most powerful mental health practice that you can do and HOW to get started!

IN THIS EPISODE:

- (GEM) Our misunderstanding of motivation 3:12 - A prescription for decluttering - Self compassion vs. self permission - How changing your self talk can change your life! - Why kids don’t need perfect parenting - The question you should be asking to find friends - You don’t need motivation - you need momentum!

About Brit: Britt Frank, LSCSW, SEP is a licensed neuropsychotherapist and author of The Science of Stuck. In this new book, Britt offers an eclectic and customizable plan, addressing old habits, trauma, and the paralyzing nature of incessant "why" questions. Recognizing that simply thinking our way forward is often insufficient, this book is a guide for anyone feeling stuck in their lives and wanting to break free of old habits and patterns.

Check out Britt’s book here: https://amzn.to/421Kzfl

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Back "in the day" Diana became a time management guru. She was organized and productive and really developed a strong value for managing our resources well. Today we talk about our favorite time management tips, how they've changed over the years and why you should JUST DELETE those emails hanging over your head!

Do you want to live  in a home that actually helps you enjoy being a mom, but don’t know where to start? Have you given up on decluttering after not seeing improvement? Today, Dawn is joined by Zoë Kim to delve into strategies for moms wanting to cultivate a peaceful home environment.  IN THIS EPISODE:  -Where in your home should you start?  -Zoë Kims start to minimalism  -Managing inventory that relates to kids  -How to manage sentimental items  -How do I get my spouse on board? Want to join Dawn and Zoe for  6 Hours of Guided Decluttering & “Body Doubling? Check out their Going Deeper Minimalism MasterClass: A Chance to Fully Declutter a Room in Your Home & Experience the Joy & Freedom of Minimalism! - https://www.theminimalmom.com/minimalism-masterclass  ABOUT ZOE: Zoë’ Kim is  the author of Minimalism for Families, minimalist mom of four, and the voice behind Raising Simple. She partners with individuals to tackle the challenges of a cluttered home and life, and believes in developing a minimalist lifestyle through positive perspective changes and practical solutions.  LINKS MENTIONED: Minimalism for Families by Zoë Kim https://amzn.to/4867IyC 7 Questions to Help You Let Go of Sentimental Things- https://raisingsimple.com/let-go-of-sentimental-things/ Zoë’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisingsimple/?hl=en Zoë’s Blog: https://raisingsimple.com/ Matt Paxton’s interview: https://youtu.be/5K-ests_bDk?feature=shared

Are you burdened and overwhelmed by stuff? T.K. Coleman joins Dawn and encourages us to start with the story! When we unpack the story we find that is where the emotional declutter lives.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

0:00 Intro 

:52 - Why do we sometimes feel bad after decluttering?

6:10 - You have permission to get rid of things as slowly as you need! 

8:57 - Decluttering is not one size fits all 

9:34 - The story of the cork

13:50 - The correlation between our internal and emotional clutter 

21:00 - T.K.’s entrance into minimalism 

24:02(GEM) -  The t-shirt example 

28:30 How telling the story helps 

ABOUT THE T.K. Coleman

T.K. Coleman has been an educator and entrepreneur for the past twenty years. He is a co-founder of the Praxis apprenticeship program, a former head coach for Seth Godin's altMBA, and the former Education Director for the Foundation for Economic Education. Combining his experience in entrepreneurship, finance, philosophy, and theater, he delivers compelling workshops on entrepreneurship, creativity, and economic thinking to HS and College students around the country. In July 2022 T.K. joined The Minimalists Podcast as their new Co-host and is excited to help people declutter the habits and ideas that hold them back from the life they truly want.

LINKS: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialtkcoleman/ T.K.’s book, Emotional Clutter: https://www.theminimalists.com/emotionalclutter/ the minimalists: https://www.theminimalists.com/

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn

Today I visit with Dawn Ramaker, she's a family therapist and homeschooling mom and I wanted to know: What has she observed as successful habits in successful moms? Not perfect moms, but those who seem to have it together. She has so much wisdom to share and I especially love what she had to say about validation.

You can find Dawn's New YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzweJVhO3YngoiPMFh5gf5Q

Is my child addicted to video games? How do I know? What is a healthy amount of video game playing? Today Dawn visits with Dr. Alok Kanojia, also known as Dr. K, to discuss practical steps for preventing video game addiction. Dr. K, a former gaming addict and Harvard-trained psychiatrist, shares insights from his book "How to Raise a Healthy Gamer" on how to identify and manage gaming addiction in children.

How to Raise a Healthy Gamer Book: https://amzn.to/3x3zJdP

IN THIS EPISODE

00:00 Welcome Dr. Alok Kanojia 01:13 Can we REALLY raise a "healthy" gamer? 03:58 What about gaming addiction? 04:59 How have video games changed over time? 10:00 Sense of virtual identity 13:46 Are there actually benefits to playing video games? 15:47 Practical steps to getting video games under control 16:50 Get on the same team 22:09 25% rule 24:52 Can kids learn to manage video games on their own? 26:20 Ideal age to start playing 31:06 What if my spouse is the addicted gamer? 33:15 Do first person shooter games desensitize kids to real life? 36:04 Is there hope if I feel like I've ruined my child?

MORE ABOUT DR. K:

Follow Dr.K's podcast HealthyGamerGG https://open.spotify.com/show/6VaJwyS2KXxiXqR77jqzmP

Healthy Gamer Website https://www.healthygamer.gg/

- Instagram: @healthygamergg

- X: @dralokkanojia

- YouTube: @HealthyGamerGG

- TikTok: @healthygamer.gg

ABOUT THE MINIMAL MOM:

Hi, I'm Dawn, if we haven't met before, I'm married to Tom and we have four kids ages 8-13. We live outside of the Twin Cities in MN and have called ourselves minimalists for 8 years now. We got rid of 85% of our stuff and don't miss ANY OF IT! If you'd like to see more instructional videos about minimalism and decluttering, be sure to check out my YouTube channel!

Do you love holiday decor, but also desire simplicity? Is your pile of recipes growing with no end in sight?

Join Dawn as she tackles viewer questions and offers expert guidance to make decluttering easier and more manageable.

If you'd like to leave a voicemail with your own question, you can do so here: https://www.speakpipe.com/MinimalMom

IN THIS EPISODE:

0:00 Intro

:50 - Minimalism and holiday decor

3:38 - How do I stop shopping?

9:11 - Simplicity in sentimental items

14:53 - Thrifting is my hobby - but I want to declutter!

19:08 - How do I organize my recipes?

22:51 - I LOVE reselling - now it’s hard to let go!

25:36 - How much food storage should I have?

Welcome to The Official Minimal Mom Podcast. Thank you so much for listening and could I ask a favor? Would you mind following? It helps podcast apps recommend this podcast to more friends. Thank you! Dawn