"Simplify, Simplify" (Modern Wisdom from Thoreau's Walden) | Jen Tota McGivney (EP392)

Discover Henry David Thoreau’s philosophy of living a good life and learn how to apply it to your own. In this episode, Diane chats with Jen Tota McGivney, the author of Finding Your Walden about how Henry David Thoreau’s timeless wisdom can help us simplify, strive less, and embrace what truly matters. They explore practical ways to live more intentionally—through digital sabbaths, mindful consumption, and creating space for personal retreats. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or craving a slower pace, this conversation offers thoughtful insight and modern applications of Thoreau’s classic call to live deliberately.

Links Discussed in This Episode |

• Previous Episode: Beyond Organic, Local, Delivered: Rethinking the Way We Grocery Shop | Benji Balmer (Yellowbird Foodshed) (EP390)
• Jen's Beneficial Resource: Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lammot
• Connect with Jen:
• Website
• Book: Finding Your Walden: How to Strive Less, Simplify More, and Embrace What Matters Most

About Jen|

Jen Tota McGivney is a writer in Charlotte, North Carolina. She’s the back-page columnist for Charlotte Magazine, and her work also appears in Success Magazine, Our State Magazine, and Simplify Magazine, among others. She has a master’s degree in English and a soft spot for the transcendentalists. Finding Your Walden is her first book. 

Episode Sponsors |

The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal!

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Questions |

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• If you’ve been struggling with motivation to declutter or work through bad habits that keep you stuck, I’d love to help you achieve your goals! We’ll work together (locally or virtually) to discover what areas in your life are high priority to get you feeling less overwhelmed right away.  For more info on my processes, fees, and availability please contact!

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