Minimalist Moms Podcast

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.What can American parents learn from Brazilian birth parties, Danish babies napping outside, or Singaporean grandparents deeply involved in childcare? In this episode, journalist Marina Lopes shares insights from her new book, Please Yell at My Kids: What Cultures Around the World Can Teach You About Parenting and Community. Marina takes us on a global tour of parenting practices, highlighting the power of community, cultural traditions, and rethinking societal norms. Marina invites us to question the pressures we accept as normal and consider more connected, balanced ways to raise kids. This conversation is a refreshing, practical look at how shifting our mindset could make parenting more joyful—and less lonely.Links Discussed in This Episode |Connect with Marina:WebsiteBook: Please Yell at My Kids by Marina LopesInstagramAbout Marina|Marina Lopes is a Brazilian-American journalist who has covered feminism, caregiving, and motherhood across five

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.What does it mean to be a "good enough" mother in the midst of chaos, chronic illness, and creativity? In this episode, Ashley Fenker shares the story behind her book Good Enough Mother: Stories and Essays, and how the isolation of the 2020 pandemic sparked her return to writing. In our conversation today, Ashley opens up about her struggles and the healing power of journaling, reflection, and creative expression. This honest conversation explores the messy, beautiful reality of motherhood—and the freedom that comes with letting "good enough" be enough.Links Discussed in This Episode |Previous Episode: The Opt-Out Family with Erin Loechner (EP339)Previous Episode: Intentional Learning at Home with Erin Loechner (EP200)Previous Episode: Minimalist Living: The Big Apple with Elizabeth Passarella (EP159)Connect with Ashley:WebsiteBook: Good (Enough) Mother by Ashley Fenker InstagramAbout Ashley|Ashley Fenker is the author of the new

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.Here to share her deeply personal journey through infertility and ultimately, surrogacy is my friend (and fellow podcaster), Keri Croft. On this episode, Keri opens up about her decision to pursue surrogacy, the support systems that sustained her, and the workshop she created to help others find their dream surrogate. This powerful conversation is a testament to resilience, community, and the courage to keep moving forward. The conversation covers Carrie's private battle with infertility, the decision to pursue surrogacy, and the emotional, financial, and logistical aspects of finding a surrogate.Diane's Note: Surrogacy can be a complex—and sometimes even controversial—topic that touches on deeply personal, ethical, and emotional layers that vary widely from one person’s experience to the next. While opinions may differ, it’s important to approach these conversations with empathy and openness. Listening to real stories—like Keri’s—offers

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.Note: I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!-------------------------What if the path to peace, purpose, and a more meaningful life begins by letting go—first in your heart, then in your home? In this episode, Julia Ubbenga shares insights from her book Declutter Your Heart and Your Home, revealing how minimalism transformed her mental health, family life, and faith. What happens when you part with 75% of your possessions and still feel like you’ve gained more than you lost? Julia explains how clearing clutter—physical, digital, and emotional—can create space for God, calm, and true abundance. She offers practical tips for starting a minimalist journey, especially for ov

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.For nearly two years, Ashlee Piper challenged herself to buy nothing new. And in the process, she got out of debt, cut clutter, crushed her goals, and became healthier and happier than ever―all the things she’d always wanted to do but “never had time to” (because she was mindlessly scrolling, shopping, spending, and stressing). Today we specifically talk about: Whether you’re a bona fide shopaholic or someone who just wants to buy less and live more, this episode will encourage you to conquer today's overwhelm.Links Discussed in This Episode |Connect with Ashlee:WebsiteInstagramBook: No New Things: A Radically Simple 30-Day Guide to Saving Money, the Planet, and Your SanityAbout Ashlee|Ashlee Piper is a sustainability expert, commentator and speaker whose work has been featured on 300+ television segments, including The TODAY Show, Good Morning America and CNN, and in VOGUE, The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Atlantic, and Newsweek.

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.What does it really take to build a strong, lasting sense of family and belonging—even through life’s hardest moments? In this episode, Chris and Julie Bennett share their journey from Oklahoma to Malibu and the powerful story behind their book Fighting for Family: The Relentless Pursuit of Building Belonging. They open up about facing Julie’s stage three breast cancer diagnosis and the challenges of marriage, parenting, and community in the midst of adversity. How can forgiveness, authenticity, and intentionality strengthen family bonds? The Bennetts offer practical advice for creating resilient relationships rooted in love and faith. If you're looking for hope, connection, and purpose in your family life, this conversation is for you.Links Discussed in This Episode |Connect with Chris + Julie:Instagram - JulieInstagram - ChrisWebsiteBook: Fighting for Family: The Relentless Pursuit of Building BelongingAbout Chris + Julie |Chris and Julie B

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the showStoicism combined with empathy may sound like a contradiction in terms. But when these seemingly opposing forces are harnessed together, they have the power to change your life. In today's episode, I explore the concept of "stoic empathy" with award-winning lawyer, speaker, and thought leader Shermin Kruse. Blending cutting-edge research, ancient Stoic wisdom, and practical strategies, she challenges the traditional view of empathy as purely emotional, instead introducing a cognitive approach that allows us to understand others without losing control of our own emotions.Links Discussed in This Episode |Ryan HolidayThe Daily StoicBook: Meditations by Marcus AureliusConnect with Shermin:InstagramWebsiteBook: Stoic Empathy: The Road Map to a Life of Influence, Self-Leadership, and IntegrityAbout Shermin|Shermin Kruse is an award-winning idea curator, global change-maker, international business lawyer, speaker, and storyteller. With nearly

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.Why do we instinctively add more—but rarely consider taking things away? In this episode, Leidy Klotz joins us to explore the hidden power of subtraction and why our brains are wired to overlook it. Drawing from his book Subtract, Leidy explains how this instinct to add can lead to unnecessary complexity, missed opportunities, and burnout. But this conversation goes far beyond minimalism—it's about rethinking how we approach challenges and choices in every area of life. We also dive into practical ways to shift our mindset and discover Leidy’s unexpected path to becoming a behavioral science expert. If you’ve ever felt buried under the weight of “more,” this episode will open your eyes to the liberating potential of “less".Links Discussed in This Episode |Connect with Leidy:InstagramWebsiteBook: Subtract: The Untapped Science of LessAbout Leidy|Leidy Klotz is an award-winning professor, international speaker, and the acclaimed author of S

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.Note: I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!Every relationship has its highs and lows, but we often don't know what to do with our "lows," or how we ended up there. In today’s conversation, I sit down with therapist and author Dan Allender to discuss his new book, Deep-Rooted Marriage. He shares how deeper intimacy can be a source of healing and joy. More often than not, the hidden forces fueling conflict and disconnection stem from the unresolved stories of our past. But if we’re willing to examine them with honesty and courage, we can begin to rewrite a new, more hopeful story for the future.Links Discussed in This Episode |Podcast Episode: Diary of a CEO w

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience, I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!----------------------------------------My guest today, Tori Hope Petersen grew up in an unpredictable, dysfunctional and abusive environment, moving through more than twelve foster homes before she turned eighteen. Now a sought-after national speaker, bestselling author and host of the I Love You Already Podcast, she inspires other women, moms and children with painful pasts to overcome adversity and change the world. Today we will discuss her book, Breaking the Patterns that Break You and focus the conversation on assessing the subt

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.Is your mindset helping or hurting your financial future? In this episode, I spoke with the author of Wealth is a Mindset, Shang Saavedra, to explore the emotional and psychological side of personal finance. Shang shares her journey as an "accidental author" and reveals how financial freedom is about more than budgets—it’s about understanding yourself, past traumas, and ingrained habits. We discuss the impact of social media on spending, the importance of financial conversations in relationships, and how parents can set their children up for success. This conversation offers a fresh perspective on money, mindset, and lasting financial well-being.Links Discussed in This Episode |Reclaiming the Sacred by Jeff GoldenConnect with Shang:Book: Wealth is a MindsetWebsiteInstagramYouTubeGoodreadsAbout Shang |Shang Saavedra is the Founder and CEO of Save My Cents, an influential personal-finance website and social-media platform. Saavedra teaches

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.Today, I’m joined by Matt Barnes, a lifelong artist and creative entrepreneur, to explore the power of leisure and the beauty of analog experiences. As the founder of The Leisure Club, a thoughtfully designed social clubhouse in Columbus, Matt has created a space where people can gather, connect and be more present. In this episode, we dive into the inspiration behind this unique gathering place, the role of intentional design in shaping human interactions, and why prioritizing rest isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential.Become a member of the Leisure Club in Columbus, Ohio.Links Discussed in This Episode |Garage BeerThe Dadass PodcastHans Lori (Differentiated Design)The War KitchenConnect with Matt:The Leisure ClubShop Leisure ClubLeisure Club InstagramMatt's WebsiteMatt's Art InstagramAbout Matt|"At my root, I am a visual artist. I create things with my eyes and hands for others to see and experience. For over two decades, alongside a v

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.Note: I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!What if becoming your true self isn’t about change, but about uncovering who you’ve always been? In this powerful episode, Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith joins the show to share insights from her new book, Being Fully Known, exploring how societal labels and the fear of vulnerability hold us back from spiritual and personal growth. She opens up about her own journey from clinical medicine to a more fulfilling path, emphasizing the importance of stillness, self-acceptance, and aligning with God’s image. Together, we discuss why rest is more than just sleep—it’s a way of life—and how embracing the seven types of rest can lead to true w

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.What if the success you worked so hard for is actually what’s holding you back? Keren Eldad (aka Coach Keren), a globally recognized executive coach, reveals the hidden costs of high performance — from burnout and perfectionism to chasing external validation. With empathy and sharp insight, she unpacks the "gilded cage" that traps achievers, showing how success can feel hollow without authenticity and purpose. Through candid stories and reflections, Keren offers a path to break free from overachievement and redefine success on your own terms. This episode is a wake-up call for anyone ready to trade the illusion of more for the freedom of enough.Links Discussed in This Episode |Book: The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt Book: How to Raise an Adult by Julie Lythcott-HaimsBook: Dr. Faustus by Christopher MarloweFree-Range Kids: How Pa

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.What if your worst breakup was actually the key to becoming your best self? In his raw and relatable style, John Kim — known as the Angry Therapist — dives deep into the messy, painful, and often transformative world of breakups. Drawing from his own heartbreaks and his experience guiding countless clients through theirs, John identifies eight distinct types of breakups, from the devastating "Big One" to the never-ending on-again, off-again saga. Each breakup, he explains, requires a unique path to healing — and in that process, a new, stronger version of you emerges.Links Discussed in This Episode |Connect with John:InstagramWebsiteBook: Break Up On Purpose: A Catalyst for Growth by John KimAbout John |John Kim, LMFT, blogs as The Angry Therapist, and practices complete authenticity and transparency with his many clients. He is the bestselling author of It’s Not Me, It’s You, Single On Purpose and I Used to be a Miserable F*ck. He lives

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.What if understanding the effects of pornography could empower people to make healthier choices? In this episode, I speak with Parker Hymas from Fight the New Drug, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about the harmful effects of pornography through research, facts, and personal stories. Parker dives into the organization’s mission to educate people — especially young audiences — on how porn impacts the brain, mental health, and society. The conversation explores the rise in pornography consumption during COVID-19, its broader societal effects, and the critical role parents play in guiding their children toward healthier habits.Links Discussed in This Episode |Book: Good Pictures, Bad Pictures Jr. by Kristen JensonJo Robertson Episode (Fight the New Drug)TEDx Talk—Tips from a Sex Therapist on Talking to Your Kids About PornConnect with Fight the New Drug:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fightthenewdrug/ Website: https://fightthenewdrug

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.How do you talk to young children about a topic as complex and uncomfortable as pornography? In this powerful episode, Kristen Jenson, author of Good Pictures, Bad Pictures, shares how she turned a heartbreaking story into a mission to help families navigate this critical conversation. She explains why it’s essential to start these discussions early, before curiosity and online access collide, and offers practical strategies to empower kids to respond safely if they encounter explicit content. This episode is a must-listen for any caregiver seeking to proactively safeguard their children in the digital age.Links Discussed in This Episode |Fight the New DrugConnect with Kristen:Website/Books: www.defendyoungminds.com/booksFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DefendYM/Instagram: @defendyoungmindsX: @defendYMLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/defend-young-mindsAbout Kristen |Kristen A. Jenson is the author of the #1 best-selling GOOD PICTURES BAD PICT

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.In this episode, integrative nutritionist and host of the Realfoodolgy podcast, Courtney Swan, discusses her journey to becoming an advocate for healthy eating and food system reform. The conversation delves into her transformative experience at the Senate hearings, where she addressed significant health risks in the U.S. food supply. Courtney highlights the disturbing practices of conventional agriculture, including the widespread use of glyphosate and the FDA's lag in regulating food dyes linked to health issues. She emphasizes the importance of buying organic and supports for alternative farming practices like regenerative farming. Lastly, she sheds light on how consumers can influence food industry trends and the particular impact of harmful chemicals on women’s health, offering practical tips for mitigating exposure to toxins.Links Discussed in This Episode |Senate Committee HearingsThe Food Babe - Vani HariPrevious Episode: The Alarming

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.What makes someone a great communicator—and can anyone learn this skill? In this insightful episode, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Charles Duhigg joins the conversation to discuss his latest book, *Supercommunicators*, where he breaks down the science of effective communication. Charles challenges the idea that great communicators are simply born that way, revealing instead that communication is a learnable skill rooted in understanding human connection. Drawing from his research and experiences writing for The New Yorker, The New York Times, the discussion explores the power of storytelling, the psychology behind meaningful conversations, and the habits that set exceptional communicators apart. Whether you’re looking to improve personal relationships or become a stronger leader, this episode offers valuable takeaways from one of the world’s leading experts on communication.Links Discussed in This Episode |Book: The Power of Habit: Why We Do

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.In this conversation, Dr. Nicole Cain, author of 'Panic Proof: The New Holistic Solution to End Your Anxiety Forever,' discusses her holistic methods for managing anxiety. She shares personal experiences of growing up in a stressful environment and how that led to her current work. Dr. Cain outlines a four-step process called 'Panic Reset' to help individuals manage and retrain their nervous systems, emphasizing practical daily exercises and the importance of identifying different types of anxiety. She also touches on the impact of hormones, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices on anxiety, advocating for a more integrative approach to mental health.Links Discussed in This Episode |Anxiety Quiz (Free on Nicole's website!)Greg McKeownConnect with Nicole:Book: Panic Proof: The New Holistic Solution to End Your Anxiety ForeverWebsiteInstagramAbout Nicole |Nicole Cain, ND, MA, is a pioneer in integrative approaches for ment