Wannabe Clutter Free | Declutter, Simplify, Find Freedom

Deanna Yates | Professional Organizer, Decluttering Coach, Wannabe Minimalist

Ready to finally calm the overwhelm and create a home and life you actually enjoy? The Wannabe Clutter Free podcast is here to help you clear the clutter, simplify your routines, and find freedom in the life you’re building.
I’m Deanna Yates, a busy mom who knows what it’s like to juggle family, career, and the never-ending piles of stuff. From selling 80% of what we owned to travel with our toddler, to managing the daily chaos of running a home with a school-aged kid, I’ve learned that living with less isn’t about deprivation. It’s about creating more space, more peace, and more joy.
Each week, I share real-life stories, simple decluttering strategies, and mindset shifts that make it easier to let go of what’s weighing you down. You’ll also hear from inspiring guests who share practical tips and fresh perspectives on minimalism, home organization, intentional living, and building habits that last.
If you’re tired of feeling buried in clutter and crave a home that feels calm, welcoming, and easy to manage, this show is for you. It’s not about perfection. It’s about progress, freedom, and finding space for what truly matters to you.

Episodes

Mentioned books

Jun 19, 2024 • 40min

Ep 210: Top 5 Hacks to Help Busy Moms Battle Burnout with Nikki Oden

In this episode, Deanna discusses how to revitalize your maternal energy and combat burnout with Nikki Oden's actionable plan. Join them as they uncover the transformative power of pre-planning mornings and discovering one's unique gifts and talents, offering invaluable insights for moms seeking balance and resilience in their daily lives.****************Resources Mentioned (some may be affiliate links - thanks for supporting the show at no extra cost to you):Check out my favorite tools & resourcesConnect with Nikki Oden Instagram Nikki’s Website Nikki's Podcast Follow Deanna Yates, the host of Wannabe Clutter Free on: Instagram Facebook Website Podcast Join the Wannabe Minimalist Community on FacebookIn this episode of the Wannabe Clutter Free podcast, the host, Deanna Yates, interviews Nikki Oden, a lawyer and mom mentor who empowers working moms to combat burnout and reclaim control over their lives. Nikki shares her insights and practical strategies for helping moms own their days and achieve their goals without succumbing to the pressures of mom guilt. Together, they explore actionable steps to revitalize maternal energy and foster resilience in the face of everyday challenges.Throughout the episode, Nikki Oden shares actionable advice on how to navigate the complexities of modern motherhood. She emphasizes the importance of turning daily fantasies into manageable realities and pre-planning mornings to reduce chaos and stress. Additionally, Nikki discusses the significance of practicing self-compassion and positive self-talk, highlighting the detrimental effects of negative comparisons and the importance of embracing one's unique gifts and talents. With Nikki's guidance, listeners will gain practical insights into prioritizing self-care, nurturing their well-being, and finding balance in their busy lives.This episode of the Wannabe Clutter Free podcast will help you discover: Strategies for turning daily fantasies into manageable realities. Practical tips for pre-planning mornings to reduce stress and chaos. The importance of practicing self-compassion and positive self-talk. How to avoid harmful comparisons and embrace your unique gifts and talents. Insights into prioritizing self-care and fostering resilience in motherhood. ****************Music: Fresh Lift by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com****************Subscribe & ReviewAre you subscribed to the Wannabe Clutter Free podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those.And if you enjoyed today’s episode, it would make my day if you left me a rating and review. You can leave a review on Apple Podcasts, a comment on Spotify Podcasts or Goodpods, or connect on guest video interviews on YouTube. Your review helps other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to read. Let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!****************We’d love to hear how you’re applying the strategies discussed in this episode. Share your stories and tips with us on social media or via email. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful episodes designed to make your busy life a bit easier.Thank you for joining us, and remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Here’s to a more organized and less stressful life! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 11, 2024 • 54min

Ep 209: Minimalist Living: How to Create a Balanced, Intentional Life with Kelly Foss

In this episode, Deanna explores the principles and practices of intentional living with Millennial Minimalist, Kelly Foss. They discuss how to tackle sentimental clutter, foster supportive relationships and maintain a balanced, intentional lifestyle. Discover actionable tips to simplify your life and focus on what truly matters.****************Resources Mentioned (some may be affiliate links - thanks for supporting the show at no extra cost to you):Check out my favorite tools & resourcesConnect with Kelly Foss Instagram Kelly’s Website Millennial Minimalist Instagram Millennial Minimalist Podcast Follow Deanna Yates, the host of Wannabe Clutter Free on: Instagram Facebook Website Podcast Join the Wannabe Minimalist Community on FacebookIn this episode of the Wannabe Clutter Free podcast, the host, Deanna Yates, interviews Kelly Foss, a minimalist adopter and one of the hosts of the Millennial Minimalists podcast, which focuses on living simply. Together, they engage in a deep conversation about the principles and practices of minimalist living, exploring various aspects of decluttering physical, mental, emotional and digital spaces. Kelly shares her personal journey into minimalism, offering valuable insights and practical strategies for creating a balanced, intentional life.Throughout the episode, listeners will gain valuable tips on how to tackle sentimental clutter, foster supportive relationships and maintain a clutter-free lifestyle. Deanna and Kelly discuss the importance of living with intention, prioritizing meaningful experiences over material possessions and finding joy in simplicity. Whether you're just starting your minimalist journey or looking for new ways to simplify your life, this episode offers actionable advice and inspiration to help you live more intentionally.This episode of the Wannabe Clutter Free podcast will help you discover: Practical strategies for decluttering physical, mental, emotional and digital spaces. Tips for dealing with sentimental clutter and fostering supportive relationships. Insights into the benefits of minimalist living and how it can lead to a more balanced life. Actionable steps for simplifying your life and focusing on what truly matters. Inspiration to embrace minimalism and create a life filled with intention and purpose. ****************Music: Fresh Lift by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com****************Subscribe & ReviewAre you subscribed to the Wannabe Clutter Free podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those.And if you enjoyed today’s episode, it would make my day if you left me a rating and review. You can leave a review on Apple Podcasts, a comment on Spotify Podcasts or Goodpods, or connect on guest video interviews on YouTube. Your review helps other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to read. Let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!****************We’d love to hear how you’re applying the strategies discussed in this episode. Share your stories and tips with us on social media or via email. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful episodes designed to make your busy life a bit easier.Thank you for joining us, and remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Here’s to a more organized and less stressful life! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 5, 2024 • 32min

Ep 208: Effortless Ways to Organize Your Child's Artwork and Schoolwork This Summer

In episode 208 of the Wannabe Clutter Free Podcast, host Deanna Yates addresses a common struggle for parents—organizing their kids' artwork and school papers, especially as the school year ends. She emphasizes the importance of managing these items to avoid clutter and guilt, and outlines a strategy to help you declutter papers and artwork without getting overwhelmed.****************Links in this episode (some may be affiliate links - thanks for supporting the show at no extra cost to you): Check out my favorite resources Chatbooks: https://chatbooks.com/ Shutterfly: https://www.shutterfly.com Art Frame - holds up to 50 pieces: https://amzn.to/3yL8Go5 File Box: https://amzn.to/3KtBMef Episode 206: http://wannabeclutterfree.com/206 Join the Wannabe Minimalist Community on Facebook Follow Deanna Yates, the host of Wannabe Clutter Free on: Instagram Facebook Website Podcast ****************Do you struggle with letting go of your kids artwork? Do the school papers pile up and overwhelm you?If you nodded yes, episode 208 of the Wannabe Clutter Free Podcast is for you!This episode explores effective strategies for organizing children's artwork and school papers, especially relevant at the end of the school year.I emphasize the importance of decluttering for a tidy home and preserving precious memories, providing a range of practical tips including creating a dedicated space, setting up a weekly routine, and digitizing artwork.The episode also covers involving kids in the organization process to teach decision-making skills and maintaining the system year-round.This episode will also help you discover: The impact of not decluttering your kids artwork Why decluttering should be a family affair How to let go of your mom-guilt with tossing kid’s artwork Ways to display, stash, or trash the mountains of papers Tips for highlighting the truly special pieces of your kids artwork ****************Music: Fresh Lift by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com****************Subscribe & ReviewAre you subscribed to the Wannabe Clutter Free podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those.And if you enjoyed today’s episode, it would make my day if you left me a rating and review. You can leave a review on Apple Podcasts, a comment on Spotify Podcasts or Goodpods, or connect on guest video interviews on YouTube. Your review helps other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to read. Let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!****************We’d love to hear how you’re applying the strategies discussed in this episode. Share your stories and tips with us on social media (@wannabeclutterfree). Don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful episodes designed to make your busy life a bit easier. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 29, 2024 • 41min

Ep 204: Finding Your Unique Spark: Quiet the Mean Girl & Rediscover You with Onnie Michalsky

In episode 204, Deanna discusses the transformative journey of Empowering Mothers: Overcoming 'Supermom' Ideals, Rediscovering Personal Passions, and Balancing Family Life. Through a fun conversation with licensed therapist and life coach Onnie Michalsky, they delve into the complexities of silencing our inner critics and navigating the pressures of modern motherhood.****************Resources Mentioned (some may be affiliate links - thanks for supporting the show at no extra cost to you):Check out my favorite tools & resourcesConnect with Onnie Michalsky Website Instagram Podcast Follow Deanna Yates, the host of Wannabe Clutter Free on: Instagram Facebook Website Podcast Join the Wannabe Minimalist Community on FacebookIn this episode of the Wannabe Clutter Free podcast, the host, Deanna Yates, interviews Onnie Michalsky. They delve into themes such as silencing one's inner critic, rediscovering personal passions beyond motherhood, and fostering children's interests.Onnie Michalsky is a licensed therapist, life coach, and devoted mother of six. Her passion lies in inspiring high-performance women who have lost their sense of self amidst the demands of motherhood. As the founder of Moms Without Capes, Onnie's mission is to help moms get themselves on their own to-do list so that they can get back in touch with who they are beyond a mom.On this episode Onnie shares her journey of overcoming the 'Supermom' identity and founding 'Moms Without Capes' to encourage mothers to prioritize themselves.They explore practical tips on simplifying life, setting achievable goals, and the importance of self-awareness and reflection for personal growth. The episode provides insights into balancing familial responsibilities with personal aspirations, encouraging mothers to reclaim their identity and live a fulfilling life.Key Takeaways: Strategies for silencing your inner critic and overcoming the 'Supermom' identity. Ways to rediscover personal passions and interests beyond the role of motherhood. Practical tips for simplifying life and setting achievable goals amidst familial responsibilities. The importance of self-awareness and reflection in fostering personal growth and fulfillment. Insights on balancing family commitments with pursuing individual aspirations and reclaiming your identity. ****************Music: Fresh Lift by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com****************Subscribe & ReviewAre you subscribed to the Wannabe Clutter Free podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those.And if you enjoyed today’s episode, it would make my day if you left me a rating and review. You can leave a review on Apple Podcasts, a comment on Spotify Podcasts or Goodpods, or connect on guest video interviews on YouTube. Your review helps other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to read. Let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!****************We’d love to hear how you’re applying the strategies discussed in this episode. Share your stories and tips with us on social media or via email. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful episodes designed to make your busy life a bit easier.Thank you for joining us, and remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Here’s to a more organized and less stressful life! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 1, 2024 • 31min

Ep 203: Embrace the Emotional Cycle of Change to Finally Beat Decluttering Despair

Discover how to navigate the Emotional Cycle of Change in decluttering your home. Learn practical tips for each stage to effectively organize your home and manage stress. Join Deanna Yates for transformative insights!****************Links in this episode (some may be affiliate links - thanks for supporting the show at no extra cost to you):Check out my favorite resourcesKelly & Conner’s Emotional Cycle of ChangeThe 12 Week Year BookJoin the Wannabe Minimalist Community on FacebookFollow Deanna Yates, the host of Wannabe Clutter Free on: Instagram Facebook Website Podcast ****************Have you ever set a goal with lots of excitement only to quickly lose that momentum once you started to work on that goal?You are not alone!And the Emotional Cycle of Change is a big reason we quit on our goals before we complete them.We’re diving into the Emotional Cycle of Change, a powerful model developed in the mid-1970s by Don Kelley and Daryl Conner on episode 203. We'll explore how this model can guide busy moms through the emotional ups and downs of decluttering and organizing their homes.Whether you’re just starting or are stuck in the middle, understanding these emotional stages can help you manage your space—and your stress—more effectively.This episode will also help you discover: The 5 stages of the Emotional Cycle of Change Why change is so difficult How to stop quitting your goals Ways to make decluttering easier Tips for moving through the hardest part of change ****************Music: Fresh Lift by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com****************Subscribe & ReviewAre you subscribed to the Wannabe Clutter Free podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those.And if you enjoyed today’s episode, it would make my day if you left me a rating and review. You can leave a review on Apple Podcasts, a comment on Spotify Podcasts or Goodpods, or connect on guest video interviews on YouTube. Your review helps other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to read. Let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!****************We’d love to hear how you’re applying the strategies discussed in this episode. Share your stories and tips with us on social media (@wannabeclutterfree). Don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful episodes designed to make your busy life a bit easier. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 24, 2024 • 49min

Ep 202: How Decluttering Helped This Dad Overcome His Hardest Moments

In this episode, Deanna Yates and guest Stephen Johnston discuss the transformative power of decluttering during adversity. Explore how Stephen turned challenges into a positive by founding Race Against Blindness, and the role of decluttering in creating meaningful memories.****************Resources Mentioned (some may be affiliate links - thanks for supporting the show at no extra cost to you): A Race Against Blindness Enter the Race Against Blindness Giveaways Check out my favorite tools & resources Podcast Feed for Supporters Connect with Stephen Johnston Website Instagram Follow Deanna Yates, the host of Wannabe Clutter Free on: Instagram Facebook Website Podcast Join the Wannabe Minimalist Community on Facebook****************Key Takeaways: The transformative power of turning adversity into positive action Practical strategies for overcoming challenges through decluttering Insights into managing priorities and setting boundaries amidst adversity The significance of creating lasting memories and finding joy in the face of adversity Episode Highlights: 00:00 Welcome to the Clutter-Free Journey 00:10 Facing Adversity with Stephen Johnston 00:10 The Power of Community Support 01:47 Stephen's Mission: A Race Against Blindness 10:47 The Adventure Van: Embracing Life's Journey 16:45 Minimalism on the Road: The Van Life Experience 19:10 Reentry: Adjusting Back to 'Normal' Life 21:04 Mental Decluttering: Prioritizing What Matters 23:40 Mastering Prioritization and Saying No 26:13 The Power of Modeling Behavior for Children 27:12 Balancing Strength and Vulnerability as a Parent 30:15 The Mission of A Race Against Blindness 39:15 The Challenges and Triumphs of Fundraising 42:58 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights and Aspirations ****************Music: Fresh Lift by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com****************Subscribe & ReviewAre you subscribed to the Wannabe Clutter Free podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those.And if you enjoyed today’s episode, it would make my day if you left me a rating and review. You can leave a review on Apple Podcasts, a comment on Spotify Podcasts or Goodpods, or connect on guest video interviews on YouTube. Your review helps other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to read. Let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!****************We’d love to hear how you’re applying the strategies discussed in this episode. Share your stories and tips with us on social media or via email. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful episodes designed to make your busy life a bit easier.Thank you for joining us, and remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Here’s to a more organized and less stressful life! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 17, 2024 • 51min

Ep 201: From Kindergarten Classroom to Clutter-Free: The Power of Play with Elizabeth Manley

Discover how play shapes child development in our podcast, where we explore balancing fun and organizing toys to minimize clutter. Learn about the benefits of play for skills growth, the downsides of too much screen time, and effective strategies for creating a learning-friendly environment at home. We also discuss tips for playful learning, the benefits of minimalism, decluttering strategies, and the principles of intentional parenting. Tune in to transform your approach and enhance your child's potential.****************Resources Mentioned (some may be affiliate links - thanks for supporting the show at no extra cost to you): Get the FREE Joyful Mama, Joyful Kiddos Bundle (with my Toy Clutter Rescue Guide Included!) Check out my favorite tools & resources Podcast Feed for Supporters Connect with Elizabeth Manly Website Instagram Follow Deanna Yates, the host of Wannabe Clutter Free on: Instagram Facebook Website Podcast Join the Wannabe Minimalist Community on Facebook****************Key Takeaways: The Power of Play: Discover how essential play is to a child's development, and how reducing toy clutter can significantly enhance their growth and creativity. Screen Time Concerns: Learn about the negative effects of excessive screen time on children, such as weakened fine motor skills and diminished focus, and hear expert screen time management strategies. Engaging Children in Developmental Play: Get practical tips for engaging children in play that promotes development using minimal toys, focusing on outdoor activities and creative play with simple items like sticks. Minimizing Toys: Understand the benefits of keeping toys to a minimum to enhance a child's focus and creativity, with suggestions for implementing a minimalist approach to your child’s play environment. Promoting Imaginative Play: Gain insights on fostering more engaged and imaginative play, which can help counteract the drawbacks of digital distractions. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Welcome to Wannabe Clutter Free: Episode 201 Overview 00:38 Supporting the Show: How You Can Help 02:20 Meet Elizabeth Manley: The Importance of Play 03:25 The Critical Role of Play in Development 10:14 Screen Time and Its Impact on Kids 13:54 Managing Screen Time: Family Strategies 20:49 Encouraging Play Over Screen Time 24:00 The Journey to Change and the Power of Persistence 24:32 Decoding the Toy Dilemma: How Much is Too Much? 24:43 The Magic of Minimal Toys and Outdoor Play 26:34 Embracing Play and Imagination Over Material Abundance 30:45 The Educational Value of Play and Preparing for Kindergarten 38:35 The Joyful Mama, Joyful Kiddos Bundle: A Treasure Trove for Parents 42:02 Reflections on Clutter-Free Living and Family Time 45:47 Closing Thoughts and Invitations for Engagement ****************Music: Fresh Lift by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com****************Subscribe & ReviewAre you subscribed to the Wannabe Clutter Free podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those.And if you enjoyed today’s episode, it would make my day if you left me a rating and review. You can leave a review on Apple Podcasts, a comment on Spotify Podcasts or Goodpods, or connect on guest video interviews on YouTube. Your review helps other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to read. Let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!****************We’d love to hear how you’re applying the strategies discussed in this episode. Share your stories and tips with us on social media or via email. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful episodes designed to make your busy life a bit easier.Thank you for joining us, and remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Here’s to a more organized and less stressful life! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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