Minimalist Moms Podcast

Change is one of life’s few constants—but letting go of what no longer serves us can be one of its hardest lessons. In this episode, Diane sits down with artist, author, and mother Meera Lee Patel to talk about her new book, Learn to Let Go: A Journey to Inner Peace and Self-Discovery.Known for her bestselling guided journals, Meera shares how creativity, journaling, and mindfulness can help us navigate transitions, release old patterns, and rediscover inner peace. Together, Diane and Meera explore how self-expression becomes a powerful tool for healing, clarity, and growth—especially during times of change.Meera also opens up about her experiences balancing motherhood, art, and wellness, revealing how creative practice has supported her personal journey.If you’re going through a season of change—in your relationships, career, or personal life—this episode will help you process your emotions, find clarity, and move forward with confidence.Links Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Resource: Unrot Your Brain

In this episode, Diane talks with author Tommy Brown about why slowing down isn’t laziness—it’s wisdom. Drawing from his new book The Speed of Soul, Tommy challenges the cultural obsession with constant achievement and explores four spiritual practices that help us live with depth and clarity: love deeply, live quietly, mind your own affairs, and work with your hands. Together, they discuss how to create meaningful rhythms in a world that prizes productivity, how purposeful work can reconnect us to our values, and why peace often comes from doing less, not more.Links Discussed in This Episode |Tommy's Resource(s): Book: The Ache for Meaning by Tommy BrownBook: Wisdom of the Desert by Thomas MertonBook: New Seeds of Contemplation by Thomas MertonBook: The Way of the Heart by Henri J. M. NouwenConnect with Tommy:WebsiteInstagramBook: The Speed of Soul: Four Rhythms for a Quiet Life in a World of NoiseAbout Tommy |Tommy Brown is a pastor with a B.A. in Pastoral Ministry and Masters degrees in Divinity and Ma

Ever wonder how minimalism could actually make motherhood easier? In this episode, we dive into the real-life benefits of simplifying with kids—from decluttering clothes and toys to creating calmer routines and smoother family transitions. You’ll hear practical tips for starting small (like tackling your wardrobe or kitchen), plus honest stories about the challenges and wins of raising kids with less stuff and more intention. Whether you’re curious about minimalism or ready to embrace it fully, this conversation will inspire you to clear the clutter and create more space for what truly matters in motherhood.Links Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Resource: Intelligent ChangeSarah's Resource: Instructions in RighteousnessSarah Can't Stop Talking About: Raven's RoastConnect with Sarah:WebsiteInstagramPatreonYoutubeAbout Sarah |Sarah is a mother of five who creates content around homemaking, homeschooling and minimally minded living.Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be poss

What if your spending habits could truly reflect your deepest values? In this episode, Diane and Jen explore the concept of values-based spending, revealing how it can lead to more intentional and mindful financial decisions. They delve into the role of dopamine in our spending habits and offer practical strategies for breaking the cycle of stress shopping. Tune in as they share tips for identifying and prioritizing your core values, helping you align your spending with what truly matters.About Jen |Jen Smith is a personal finance expert and co-host of the Frugal Friends podcast. She and her husband paid off $78,000 of debt in two years while battling unemployment and buying a house. Jen has since become a sought after writer and speaker helping people live for today while being able to save for tomorrow. She’s written for and been featured in top personal finance publications including Forbes, Money Magazine, Business Insider, Investopedia, and more. When she’s not writing or podcasting she’s training for a

How do you protect kids online without daily screen-time battles? In this episode, Diane sits down with cybersecurity expert and parent Ben Gillenwater, founder of Family IT Guy. With nearly 30 years in tech, Ben reveals the hidden risks of kids’ digital lives and shares simple, practical strategies—like parental controls, balance, and open communication—to help families raise digitally healthy kids.Links Discussed in This Episode |Previous Episode: Good Pictures Bad Pictures | Kristen Jenson (EP14)Previous Episode: A Proactive Approach to Talking with Your Teen About Pornography | Parker Hymas (EP15)Article: The Digital Danger Zone: Understanding the Real RisksGryphon Family Friendly RouterPodcast: ChatGPT Brain Rot Debate: The Fastest Way to Get Dementia, Watch This Before Using ChatGPT Again, Especially If Your Kids Use It!Connect with Ben:WebsiteInstagramPodcastAbout Ben |Ben Gillenwater is a parent, former NSA cybersecurity expert, and ex-chief technologist for a $10 billion IT company with over 30 years

Going Deeper episodes will be less structured with a more conversational tone. These conversations will focus on interesting people I've come across that share similar values, perspectives and intentions expressed on the Minimalist Moms Podcast.Did you know our world depends on bees more than most of us realize? In this episode, we sit down with Luke Howard, founder of the Bee Collective, a visionary organization dedicated to supporting pollinators through education, habitat creation, outreach, and even art. Luke has spent nearly a decade as a beekeeper and artist, exploring how humans can connect more intentionally with the creatures around us. Whether you’re curious about starting a backyard bee habitat, teaching kids about nature, or simply fascinated by these incredible creatures, this episode will inspire you to take action and deepen your connection with the natural world.-------------------------------------------------Previous Going Deeper Episodes:From Brain Games to Brave Moves: Jerry Kolber’s J

Are you pouring your energy into everything and still feeling like it’s never enough? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Diana Hill—clinical psychologist, co-author of ACT Daily Journal, and author of the upcoming book Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most.Grounded in psychology, neuroscience, and contemplative practices, Diana helps us explore how to stop scattering our energy and instead focus it on what aligns with our values, our families, and our well-being. We discuss what it means to identify your “parenting genius,” how that strength can sometimes become a stumbling block, and practical ways to conserve and redirect your energy so you can show up more fully in the areas that matter most.Links Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Resource: Reconnected: How 7 Screen-Free Weeks with Monks and Amish Farmers Helped Me Recover the Lost Art of Being Human by Carlos WhittakerPrevious Episode: 7 Screen-Free Weeks with Monks and Amish Farmers...(EP352)Book: The Unfolding by Rosemar

If you’re struggling to meet your goals, the problem may not be effort—it’s that you’re still trying. In this episode, author and motivational speaker Carla Ondrasik joins me to share insights from her new book, Stop Trying!: The Life-Transforming Power of Trying Less and Doing More. Drawing from her unconventional childhood, career in music publishing, and experience as a mother, Carla challenges the way we use the word “try” and makes the case for a powerful mindset shift: replacing trying with doing. We dive into the psychology of language, the difference between half-hearted attempts and decisive action, and why accountability and small, achievable steps are key to lasting change. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the cycle of “trying” without results, this conversation will give you the tools and encouragement to stop spinning your wheels and start moving forward with confidence.Links Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Resource: The Next Conversation: Argue Less, Talk More by Jefferson FisherPrevious Epis

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!----------------------------------------Do you long for deeper connection but feel overwhelmed at the thought of opening your home? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Abby Kuykendall, author of Let the Biscuits Burn, to talk about reclaiming hospitality as a practice of care and connection - not perfection. Abby shares how hospitality has less to do with spotless homes and gourmet meals and far more to do with creating space for community. Drawing from personal stories, practical tips, and biblical wisdom, she helps us break free from excuses like “I can’t cook” or “my house is too small” and inste

How do we raise boys who are not only confident, but also compassionate and emotionally intelligent? In this episode, parenting journalist Joanna Schroeder shares insights from her new book Talk to Your Boys, with practical scripts and tips for tackling subjects like masculinity, consent, bullying, and mental health. Drawing on research and insights from over 80 boys themselves, Joanna shares how we can build stronger connections with our sons while equipping them to navigate adolescence with confidence and care. Learn how to build trust, spark connection, and raise emotionally intelligent young men who care for themselves and others.Links Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Minimalist Moment: Protect your mental and emotional wellbeing <3 Podcast Episode: Masculinity Debate: Are Dating Apps Creating A Generation Of Incels?! Lonely Men Are More Dangerous Than Ever!Ashanti BranchPrevious Episode: Good Pictures Bad Pictures | Kristen Jenson (EP14)Previous Episode: A Proactive Approach to Talking with Your

Child psychologist Dr. Robyn Koslowitz explains why kids get stuck replaying violent images they’ve seen online—and why telling them to “just think about something else” can make it worse. She shares what parents should say instead, how to tell the difference between healthy vigilance and trauma-driven hypervigilance, and practical tools to help kids feel safe without overprotection.Links Discussed in This Episode |Connect with Dr. Robyn Koslowitz:WebsiteInstagramBook: Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle and Become the Parent You Always Wanted to Be About Dr. Koslowitz |Dr. Koslowitz directs The Center for Psychological Growth of New Jersey and is the founder of the Targeted Parenting™ Institute. She hosts the Post-Traumatic Parenting podcast and YouTube channel, contributes to Psychology Today, and has appeared on Fox, NPR, CNN, and NewsNation. Her new book, Post-Traumatic Parenting, came out this summer. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly

Going Deeper episodes will be less structured with a more conversational tone. These conversations will focus on interesting people I've come across that share similar values, perspectives and intentions expressed on the Minimalist Moms Podcast.In this episode, I sit down with debut author Jessica Guerrieri to talk about her novel Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea—and the real-life journey that inspired it. Jessica opens up about motherhood, addiction, and the cultural pressures of “mommy wine culture,” sharing how sobriety, writing, and community became lifelines in her story. This is a raw and hopeful conversation about breaking free from unhealthy narratives, finding healthier ways to cope, and using storytelling to spark empathy and healing.Previous Going Deeper Episodes:From Brain Games to Brave Moves: Jerry Kolber’s Journey from TV to Purpose-Driven Podcasting Building Fount: Business, Family, & the Balance In BetweenStop Saying You Can't: Why Mindset & Community Are Keys to a Heal

Drowning in thousands of photos? In this episode, photo organization expert, Haleh Shoa shares practical tips to declutter, back up, and enjoy your digital and physical memories. From the Daily Delete habit to the 3-2-1 backup method, you’ll learn how to simplify your photo collection, preserve family stories, and finally make space to enjoy the moments that matter.Links Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Resource: Mootsh PhotosApp: Daily Delete Photo CleanerBackblazeProjector Stream (SUMMER25)Skylight FrameAura FrameHaleh's Resource: The Photo ManagersConnect with Haleh:WebsiteInstagramAbout Haleh |Haleh Shoa is the Founder and CEO of Picturli: a photo organization, curation, archiving, and design studio that helps families, individuals, and businesses transform their chaotic mess of photos into one clear and cohesive digital library. Haleh and her team meticulously organize their clients’ photo collections into a searchable, secure, and easily sharable photo archive. Haleh believes that family histo

Our words matter more than we realize. The phrases we use with our children—often without thinking—can leave lasting impressions on their hearts, shaping how they see themselves and their relationship with us as parents. In this episode, I’m joined by Amy Hughes—writer, speaker, and mother of nine—whose new book Words Like Honey helps parents recognize the unintended harm in common phrases like “Hurry up,” “Calm down,” or “Don’t be sad.” Amy explains how these words can cause stress, anxiety, or self-doubt, and offers life-giving alternatives that nurture confidence, security, and resilience. Filled with relatable stories and practical wisdom, this conversation will encourage you to parent with intention and use words that truly build your child up.Links Discussed in This Episode |Connect with Amy:WebsiteInstagramBook: Words Like Honey: How to Avoid Unintentional Harm, Model Kindness, and Nurture Your Child's Faith Through What You SayAbout Amy |Amy Hughes is a mother of nine, a writer, a speaker, and a p

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!-------------------------------------------------------------What if you could see the story of Jesus through the eyes of someone who knew Him best? In this episode, Diane sits down with directors John Schaefer and Tom Bancroft to talk about their brand-new 2D animated feature film, Light of the World, premiering September 5.Told from the perspective of young John the Apostle, the film offers a fresh and emotionally resonant look at Jesus’ life—crafted to connect with both believers and those curious about His story. John and Tom share their incredible journeys in the animation industry, the visio

What if “control” didn’t mean perfection, but peace? In this episode, Christina Lee, co-founder of Graceful Spaces Organizing, shares how she’s reclaiming the word “control” — not as a path to perfection, but as a tool for peace. We talk about the difference between healthy control and perfectionism, how simple systems can reduce overwhelm at home, and why an organized space should reflect your values, not Instagram standards. Christina opens up about a time she felt completely out of control, the mindset shifts that brought her back, and how parents can take small, doable steps toward a calmer, more empowered home.Links Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Minimalist Moment: Michael Griffin - Escape ArtistChristina Resource: Podcast: Curiosity Lab | Podcast: A Bit of Optimism | Podcast: Under the OaksConnect with Christina:WebsiteInstagramBlogAbout Christina|Christina, co-founder of Graceful Spaces Organizing — a home organizing company rooted in the belief that organization is about more than just tidy sh

Finding the right nanny isn’t just about childcare—it’s about trust, connection, and building a family rhythm that works. In this episode, the founder of Olive, a nanny placement agency with over 20 years of experience, shares her journey from babysitting in high school to running a trusted agency. You’ll hear practical advice on hiring the right nanny, creating clear expectations, and building strong, respectful relationships that help both families and caregivers thrive.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why personality and values matter just as much as skills when matching families and nanniesThe non-negotiables—like thorough background checks and clear contracts—that create healthy working relationshipsHow to set everyone up for success with communication and mutual respectLinks Discussed in This Episode |Connect with Sarah:The Nanny PlaybookOlive You NannySpecial Offer: Use code PLAYBOOK for $50 off The Nanny PlaybookAbout Sarah |Sarah Davis is a mom of 3 who has spent over 25 years in the childcare indus

Ever catch yourself scrolling and thinking, “I love my life, I just wish…”? In this episode, I sit down with Kate Strickler—mom of three, founder of Naptime Kitchen, and author—to talk about finding joy in the life you already have. Kate shares honest stories, practical tips, and simple perspective shifts to help you stop measuring yourself against someone else’s highlight reel and start embracing what’s real. If you’re tired of wishing your days looked different, this conversation will encourage you to see your home, your family, and your time in a whole new light.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to stop measuring your life against someone else’s highlight reelThe subtle lies that keep us wishing for more instead of enjoying what we haveSmall perspective shifts that can transform the way you see your home, marriage, money and timeLinks Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Resource: Book: Chasing Slow by Erin LoechnerPrevious Episode: The Opt-Out Family | How to Give Your Kids What Technology Can't

What if bravery wasn’t about being fearless—but about taking small, deliberate steps in the face of fear? In this episode, I’m joined by Jill Schulman, a Marine Corps veteran and leadership expert, to talk about her new book on courage. She shares how to move past routine, confront challenges in relationships, career, and parenting, and why building a supportive “brave tribe” matters. If fear has been holding you back, this conversation will help you see bravery in a whole new way.Links Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Resource: Book: The Comfort Crisis by Michael EasterConnect with Jill:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillaschulman/https://www.instagram.com/jillschulmanWebsite: https://jillschulman.com/Book: About Jill |Jill Schulman is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, keynote speaker, and expert in the science of bravery. With a Master’s in Applied Positive Psychology (Science of Happiness and Well-Being), she combines evidence-based research with real-world experience to help individuals and teams embrace co

What if small space living could actually give your family more—more connection, more creativity, and more clarity about what really matters? In this conversation, Khrystyne Jaspers shares her story of raising two kids with her husband in a one-bedroom Manhattan apartment for over a decade. What started as a necessity turned into a lifestyle and eventually a business, as she now helps families rethink and reimagine the spaces they call home.Khrystyne opens up about the lessons she’s learned from minimalist living, from managing toys and creating flexible living arrangements to letting go of the excess and embracing what truly brings joy. As both an educator and life coach, she also shares how mindset shifts play a key role in maintaining peace and simplicity—no matter the size of your home.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✨ How to maximize small spaces without sacrificing comfort✨ Practical strategies for toy management and flexible living arrangements✨ Why continuously reassessing “what’s necessary” helps k