Environment Does Most of the Work

In this episode, Nate Berkus explores what it really means to design a life that supports you—not through perfection, but through presence, beauty, and the power of environment. Drawing from decades of work and his own personal journey, Nate reflects on how our surroundings quietly shape our habits, emotions, and sense of self. He shares how moving through profound loss changed the way he understands home, meaning, and the moments that matter most. Through deeply human stories—including a transformative Oprah makeover—Nate reveals how small, intentional changes and genuine listening can create spaces that support healing, authenticity, and connection.

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Exciting News!!!Coming in March 2026, my new book, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Key Takeaways

• The influence of environment and design on personal growth and habits.
• The parable of the two wolves and its relevance to personal choices and mindset.
• The significance of “the moments in between” in fostering genuine connections.
• The impact of parenting on awareness and presence in daily life.
• The importance of meaningful design that reflects personal stories and aspirations.
• The relationship between emotional well-being and physical spaces.
• The transformative power of small, intentional changes in one’s environment.
• The role of gratitude in overcoming past hardships and shaping identity.
• The necessity of human connection and understanding in design and life.
• The balance between personal taste and collaboration in shared living spaces.

For full show notes,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!⁠

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If you enjoyed this conversation with Nate Berkus, check out these other episodes:

Failure as Fertilizer: Learning to Bloom Again with Debbie Millman

Creative Thinking and Action Through Designs with Sarah Stein Greenberg

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