Minimalist Moms Podcast | Simple Living for Overwhelmed Moms

Joining me today is Jenna Michael, a stay-at-home mom of four and author of Let’s Choose Less. In our conversation, Jenna shares practical ways young families can quiet the noise, manage clutter, and create more breathing room in their days. From toy overwhelm to overbooked schedules, she offers simple, doable strategies that help parents focus on what truly matters. Rooted in her own experience of raising four children, Jenna’s approach is both realistic and encouraging. She reminds us that simplifying isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating a home that supports your family’s values and well-being.Links Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Resource: Spark Monthly Activity Magazine Yoto PlayerToniesJenna's Resource: Book: Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting with Simplicity by Diane BodenConnect with Jenna:WebsiteSubstackInstagramBook: Let's Choose Less: A Young Family's Life to Simply LivingAbout Jenna|Jenna Michael is a wife, mother, author, and coach specializing in simplified and intentional living for families. Her writing covers topics such as family-friendly activities and events, wellness, travel, gifts, and essential parenting tips. Her coaching helps moms turn these valuable insights into practical action, reduce clutter and chaos, and ultimately pursue a life of purpose on purpose. In her free time, you can find her at the gym, curled up with a book, or enjoying the outdoors.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!Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less. Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity.Questions |You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook.Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.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!Our Sponsors:* Check out Acorns Early: https://acornsearly.com/MINIMALISTMOMS* Check out Moon & Skin and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://moonandskin.com* Check out Mr. Pen and use my code MINIMALIST10 for a great deal: https://mrpen.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/minimalist-moms-podcast-simple-living-for-overwhelmed-moms/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode is a part of the Clear Intentions series.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!---------------------------------In this episode, Diane sits down with bestselling author Margaret Feinberg to explore her new book, The God You Need to Know: Experience the Holy Spirit’s Power and Presence Today. Known for her rich biblical insight and accessible storytelling, Margaret shares her personal journey of wrestling with questions about the Holy Spirit—questions shaped by a range of church experiences and years of spiritual curiosity. Together, they discuss the Spirit’s often-overlooked presence in the Old Testament, what it means to be filled with the Spirit today, and how to recognize the Spirit’s work in everyday life. From dreams to divine nudges, Margaret offers practical ways to build a more vibrant, Spirit-led faith. Whether you're new to the topic or seeking a deeper connection, this conversation invites you to rediscover the Holy Spirit not as a mystery of the past—but as a powerful presence active here and now.Links Discussed in This Episode |Book: Scouting the Divine by Margaret FeinburgPrevious Episode: Ready as You Are: Embracing Purpose and Identity | Cassandra Speer (EP08)Connect with Margaret:WebsiteInstagramFacebookPodcast: The Joycast with Margaret FeinburgBook: The God You Need to Know: Experience the Holy Spirit's Power and Presence TodayAbout Margaret|Margaret Feinberg is a beloved Bible teacher and speaker at churches and leading conferences. Her books, including Scouting the Divine, Fight Back With Joy, Taste and See: Discovering God Among Butchers, Bakers and Fresh Food Makers, and their corresponding Bible studies, have sold over one million copies and received critical acclaim and extensive national media coverage from USA Today, Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, and more.She was recently named one of 50 women most shaping culture and the church today by Christianity Today. Margaret lives out West with her husband, Leif, and their superpup, Zoom. She believes some of the best days are spent around a table with amazing food and friends.Episode Sponsors |Clear Intentions 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!Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less. Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity.Questions |You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook.Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.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!Our Sponsors:* Check out Acorns Early: https://acornsearly.com/MINIMALISTMOMS* Check out Moon & Skin and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://moonandskin.com* Check out Mr. Pen and use my code MINIMALIST10 for a great deal: https://mrpen.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/minimalist-moms-podcast-simple-living-for-overwhelmed-moms/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Childhood isn’t what it used to be. Puberty is arriving earlier—sometimes as young as eight. Bullying now follows kids home through texts and DMs. And rates of anxiety, depression, and emotional distress are climbing fast. For many parents, the challenges feel overwhelming, especially while juggling their own stress and uncertainty about how to help.In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Sheryl Ziegler—clinical psychologist, play therapist, TEDx speaker, podcast host, award-winning author of The Crucial Years, and mom of three. Together, we explore what’s really going on with kids today, why middle childhood (ages 6–12) is more critical than ever, and how parents can offer meaningful support. Dr. Ziegler shares research-based guidance and actionable tools to help you raise resilient, emotionally healthy kids in a rapidly changing world.Links Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Resource: Wanting: The Power of Mimetic Desire in Everyday Life by Luke BurgisPrevious Episode: EP227: Mimetic Desire with Luke BurgisBook: Mommy Burnout by Dr. Sheryl ZieglerPrevious Episode: Reclaiming Childhood From the Grip of Technology | Clare Morell (EP385)Book: The Tech Exit: A Practical Guide to Freeing Kids and Teens from SmartphonesSheryl's Resource: Common Sense MediaConnect with Sheryl:WebsiteSubstackInstagramBook: The Crucial Years: The Essential Guide to Mental Health and Modern Puberty in Middle Childhood (Ages 6-12)About Sheryl|Dr. Sheryl Gonzalez Ziegler, Psy.D. is a leading expert in children’s mental health, specializing in today’s tweens, teens, and families. A first-generation Latina of Puerto Rican and Cuban descent, she began her career treating high-acuity youth after doctoral training at The Astor Home for Children, supported by the Gates Foundation. In 2006, she founded The Child & Family Therapy Center at Lowry in Denver, CO.Dr. Ziegler is a regular mental health contributor on Denver’s 9News and has appeared on national outlets like The Today Show, CNN, and The Doctors. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, Time, Harvard Business Review, and more. Named a Luminary in Psychotherapy in 2022, she spoke at the Milton Erikson Foundation conference.She authored Mommy Burnout (2018), awarded Best Parenting Book by the International Latino Book Awards. Dr. Ziegler sits on the board of Detach, a nonprofit for digital wellness, and consults for major corporations on youth mental health. She is also a mother of three.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!Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less. Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity.Questions |You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook.Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.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!Our Sponsors:* Check out Acorns Early: https://acornsearly.com/MINIMALISTMOMS* Check out Moon & Skin and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://moonandskin.com* Check out Mr. Pen and use my code MINIMALIST10 for a great deal: https://mrpen.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/minimalist-moms-podcast-simple-living-for-overwhelmed-moms/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Diane talks with educator and author Lily Howard Scott about her new book, The Words That Shape Us, and the powerful role language plays in a child’s emotional and cognitive development. Drawing from her experience as a former third-grade teacher and her work with schools and families, Lily shares how everyday words and phrases can shape how children see themselves, manage emotions, and build resilience. She explains the science behind how language affects the brain and offers practical tools for fostering self-regulation, curiosity, and healthy self-talk in both classroom and home environments. From shifting perfectionist thinking to using language that separates feelings from identity, this conversation is full of grounded examples for parents and educators looking to support emotional growth through intentional language.Links Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Resource: Previous Episode: Mental Toughness in Parenting with Steve Magness (EP231) Lisa Feldman BarrettRumi - The GuesthouseRichard SchwartzBook: Ish by Peter RenyoldsBook: Mistakes That Worked: 40 Familiar Inventions & How They Came to BeBook: How Emotions are Made by Lisa Feldman BarrettBook: The Book of Delight by Ross GayBook: The Backyard Bird Chronicles by Amy TanConnect with Lily:Book: The Words That Shape Us: The Science-Based Power of Teacher LanguageWebsiteInstagramAbout Lily |Lily (MSEd) is a NYC-based educator and author. She supports teachers and school leaders around the country with literacy learning and social and emotional learning (SEL). How kids feel at school is inextricably linked to how they do at school, and Lily helps educators cultivate connected classroom communities in which students feel known, valued, and ready to take the risks that lead to meaningful learning.Lily presents regularly at national conferences, and her writing about education has been published in The Washington Post and Edutopia, among other publications. Her first book, The Words That Shape Us, was recently released by Scholastic.For nearly ten years, Lily taught elementary school in both public and independent settings. She’s a third-grade teacher at heart, and the best part of visiting schools is listening to and learning from the brilliant, brave children she meets.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!Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less. Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity.Questions |You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook.Checkout the Minimalist Moms Podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.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!Our Sponsors:* Check out Acorns Early: https://acornsearly.com/MINIMALISTMOMS* Check out Moon & Skin and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://moonandskin.com* Check out Mr. Pen and use my code MINIMALIST10 for a great deal: https://mrpen.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/minimalist-moms-podcast-simple-living-for-overwhelmed-moms/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, author and financial educator Ana Kresina joins us to discuss the true cost of parenting and how families can build long-term financial stability. Drawing from her books Kids Ain’t Cheap and How Not to Work Forever, Ana shares her journey into personal finance, explains the FIRE movement, and unpacks the financial challenges parents face—including the motherhood penalty. With practical tips on budgeting, investing, and finding community support, she empowers listeners to take small, meaningful steps toward a more secure future.Links Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Resource: Managing Your Money by Jane BinghamPrevious Episode: Intentional Ways to Make Money at Home with Jenna Griffith (EP344)Connect with Ana:WebsiteBook: Kids Ain't Cheap: How to Plan Financially for Parenthood and Your Family's FutureBook: How To Not Work Forever: Start Investing and Build a Life You LoveInstagramInstagram - Get Rich SlowPodcastAbout Ana|Ana Kresina a financial educator, a two-time author and speaker who works in the financial technology sector. She is the co-host of Australia’s leading podcast, Get Rich Slow Club, and has been featured in the ABC, the Australian Financial Review, AusBiz, Channel 9, and was listed as Finder's 2024 Financial Figures.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!Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less. Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity.Questions |You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook.Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.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!Our Sponsors:* Check out Acorns Early: https://acornsearly.com/MINIMALISTMOMS* Check out Moon & Skin and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://moonandskin.com* Check out Mr. Pen and use my code MINIMALIST10 for a great deal: https://mrpen.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/minimalist-moms-podcast-simple-living-for-overwhelmed-moms/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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!-------------------------------------Author and speaker Emily Wilson Hussem joins the show to explore the spiritual battles women face today—battles fought not with swords, but with lies, fear, discouragement, and distraction. Inspired by the tone of The Screwtape Letters, Emily’s latest book reveals how the enemy targets women’s hearts and how we can fight back with truth, clarity, and courage. In this episode, we discuss femininity, motherhood, aging, prayer, puberty, and more. With grace and honesty, Emily speaks to the challenges women face across every season of life. As I share in the episode, her book is one every Christian woman should have on her reading list.Links Discussed in This Episode |Book: The Screwtape Letters by C.S. LewisEmily's Resource: Book: Essentialism by Greg McKeownConnect with Emily:Book: Sincerely, Stoneheart: Unmask the Enemy’s Lies, Find the Truth That Sets You FreeWebsiteInstagramYoutubeAbout Emily|Emily Wilson Hussem is a speaker, YouTuber, award-winning author, wife and mom who shares her faith online and travels the world sharing her witness of faith at conferences and events across the globe. Emily’s social channels have a combined follower count of over 270,000. Her YouTube channel alone has over 130,000 subscribers and tens of millions of views. She writes, speaks, and creates videos on femininity, faith, dating, motherhood, and relationships - and her books, videos, social media content, courses, and talks continue to inspire and encourage women of all ages. 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!Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less. Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity.Questions |You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook.Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.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!Our Sponsors:* Check out Acorns Early: https://acornsearly.com/MINIMALISTMOMS* Check out Moon & Skin and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://moonandskin.com* Check out Mr. Pen and use my code MINIMALIST10 for a great deal: https://mrpen.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/minimalist-moms-podcast-simple-living-for-overwhelmed-moms/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Author and tech policy expert Clare Morell joins us to share a bold, hopeful message: kids don’t need smartphones or social media to thrive—and it’s not too late to reclaim their childhood. In this episode, Clare unpacks her new book The Tech Exit, exposing the myths we’ve been sold about managing tech and offering a practical roadmap for families ready to break free from digital dependence. Whether your kids already have devices or you’re hoping to avoid them, this conversation is full of real-life solutions and encouragement to help you raise connected, grounded kids in a screen-saturated world.Links Discussed in This Episode |Book: Free-Range Kids: How to Raise Safe, Self-Reliant Children (Without Going Nuts With Worry) by Lenore SkenazyBook: Reset Your Child's Brain: A Four-Week Plan to End Meltdowns, Raise Grades, and Boost Social Skills by Reversing the Effects of Electronic Screen-Time by Victoria L. Dunckley MDBook: The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Proper Place by Andy CrouchWise PhoneConnect with Claire:Book: The Tech Exit: A Practical Guide to Freeing Kids and Teens from SmartphonesWebsiteSubstackthetechexit.com https://eppc.org/author/clare_morell/https://eppc.org/program/technology-and-human-flourishing/About Claire|Clare Morell is a fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center and director of its Technology and Human Flourishing Project. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Fox News, the New York Post, Newsweek, National Review, The Hill, The Dispatch, National Affairs, The Federalist, The American Conservative, Public Discourse, American Affairs, The Washington Times, The Daily Signal, Bloomberg News, First Things, and WORLD Magazine. Morell consults legislators on technology policy and has helped draft legislation to protect children online. She and her family live out their Tech Exit life together in Washington, D.C.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!Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less. Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity.Questions |You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook.Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.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!Our Sponsors:* Check out Acorns Early: https://acornsearly.com/MINIMALISTMOMS* Check out Moon & Skin and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://moonandskin.com* Check out Mr. Pen and use my code MINIMALIST10 for a great deal: https://mrpen.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/minimalist-moms-podcast-simple-living-for-overwhelmed-moms/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Joining me today is rightsizing expert Jeannine Bryant, founder of Easy Rightsizing and CEO of Changing Spaces SRS, to talk about what it really takes to help older adults downsize with dignity, clarity, and care. With over 15 years of experience helping thousands of seniors and their families, Jeannine shares invaluable insights on how to approach the emotional and logistical challenges of letting go and moving forward.From starting early and avoiding common pitfalls to hosting creative send-offs, this conversation is full of real-life wisdom, deep empathy, and actionable tips for anyone supporting a loved one through a big transition. Whether you're helping a loved one or planning ahead for yourself, this conversation offers clear, thoughtful guidance for making a major life transition a little easier.Links Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Resource:Book: The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Free Yourself and Your Family from a Lifetime of ClutterConnect with Jeannine:WebsiteInstagramAbout Jeannine|Jeannine Bryant is an expert at helping seniors and their families through times of transition. Since 2010, she has been actively involved in the transition of thousands of clients. She is passionate about the process of helping older adults rightsize their belongings by keeping the best, and letting go of the rest.Episode Sponsors |Clear Intentions 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!Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less. Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity.Questions |You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook.Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.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!Our Sponsors:* Check out Acorns Early: https://acornsearly.com/MINIMALISTMOMS* Check out Moon & Skin and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://moonandskin.com* Check out Mr. Pen and use my code MINIMALIST10 for a great deal: https://mrpen.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/minimalist-moms-podcast-simple-living-for-overwhelmed-moms/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In a fast-paced, screen-filled world, how can we help kids slow down and truly see the wonder around them? In this episode, award-winning author and mom of four Amanda Dykes shares how her new book, A Pocketful of Wonder, invites families to reconnect with nature, creativity, and curiosity. With 50 simple, hands-on activities—from poetry walks to backyard art projects—Amanda offers practical ways to spark kids’ imaginations and deepen their connection to the world around them. This is a conversation about nurturing attention, awe, and joy—one small adventure at a time.Links Discussed in This Episode |Diane's Resource: Instagram PostBook: The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan HaidtConnect with Amanda:WebsiteInstagramBook: Pocket Full of WonderAbout Amanda|Amanda Dykes's debut novel, Whose Waves These Are, is the winner of the prestigious 2020 Christy Award Book of the Year, a Booklist 2019 Top Ten Romance debut, and the winner of an INSPY Award. She's also the author of Christy Award-finalists All the Lost Places, Yours Is the Night, and Set the Stars Alight—the book that first awoke her spirit to God’s gift of wonder as a means of fighting darkness and mining for hope. A former English teacher, Amanda is a drinker of tea, dweller of redemption, and spinner of hope-filled tales who spends most days chasing wonder and words with her family. Find her online at AmandaDykes.com  Episode Sponsors |Clear Intentions 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!Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less. Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity.Questions |You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook.Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.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!Our Sponsors:* Check out Acorns Early: https://acornsearly.com/MINIMALISTMOMS* Check out Moon & Skin and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://moonandskin.com* Check out Mr. Pen and use my code MINIMALIST10 for a great deal: https://mrpen.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/minimalist-moms-podcast-simple-living-for-overwhelmed-moms/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode is a part of the Clear Intentions series.Diane sits down with Pema Sherpa, co-author of The Daily Buddhist, to explore how ancient Buddhist wisdom can bring more clarity, calm, and intention to daily life. Pema shares how she and her husband Brendan turned deep spiritual teachings into accessible, bite-sized reflections—while navigating pregnancy, postpartum, and personal transformation. From mindfulness and emotional regulation to spiritual overlap and practical micro-practices, this episode offers gentle, grounded insight for anyone seeking more peace and purpose in their everyday routine.In this episode, you’ll hear about:The story behind The Daily Buddhist and how it came to lifeThe beauty of micro-practices and why small moments matterPractical tools for managing emotions and staying presentPema’s journey growing up in Nepal and studying at Harvard Divinity SchoolWriting a book during motherhood and finding mindfulness in difficult seasonsThe universal wisdom in Buddhist teachings—accessible to everyoneLinks Discussed in This Episode |Book: Marcus Aurelius - MeditationsBook: Living Buddha, Living ChristBook: Taking the Leap: Freeing Ourselves from Old Habits and FearsConnect with Pema:Book: The Daily Buddhist: 366 Days of Wisdom for Happiness, Inner Freedom, and Mindful LivingAbout Pema|Pema Sherpa is an author, keynote speaker, meditation teacher, and Buddhist scholar. Born and raised in Nepal, she was introduced to Tibetan Buddhism at a young age, and has practiced for decades under the guidance of revered masters such as Dudjom Tenzin Yeshe Dorje Rinpoche. After moving to the U.S., she studied psychology and earned a master’s degree in Buddhist philosophy at Harvard Divinity School. She co-founded Brema Solutions with her husband Brendan Barca where she teaches mindfulness, meditation, and Buddhist principles to employees at corporations worldwide. Together, Pema and Brendan wrote their first book, The Daily Buddhist, and also run their popular newsletter of the same name. Pema lives with her husband and daughter Samaya in Brooklyn, NY.Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less. Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity.Questions |You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook.Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.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!Our Sponsors:* Check out Acorns Early: https://acornsearly.com/MINIMALISTMOMS* Check out Moon & Skin and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://moonandskin.com* Check out Mr. Pen and use my code MINIMALIST10 for a great deal: https://mrpen.com* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/minimalist-moms-podcast-simple-living-for-overwhelmed-moms/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy