

Slow Living: Find Peace, Balance, and Calm in Hustle Society
Stephanie O'Dea
New York Times bestselling author and slow living expert Stephanie O’Dea is your friendly guide to creating a calm, peaceful, and purpose-filled life—without the burnout.
This isn’t a pushy productivity or goal-setting show. Instead, Stephanie shares gentle, practical ways to simplify your routines, find work-life balance, and bring more peace and tranquility into your days.
Through honest conversations and easy-to-follow tips, you’ll learn to slow down, realign your priorities, and create the space to truly enjoy your life.
Each episode covers topics like:
Creating simple, sustainable routines
Parenting with presence and patience
Mindful time management (without the hustle)
Organization and decluttering for a calm home
Finding peace in relationships and daily life
In a world that moves too fast and constantly demands more, this podcast is your weekly reminder that you are already enough. You don’t need to chase perfection—you just need to slow down and live intentionally.
Stephanie O’Dea is the New York Times bestselling author of Slow Living: Cultivating a Life of Purpose in a Hustle-Driven World and the creator of A Year of Slow Cooking, featured on Good Morning America, The Rachael Ray Show, and in major national publications.
With a background in child development, psychology, and early childhood education, Stephanie has helped millions of busy families simplify, reconnect, and rediscover what truly matters. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband of 25+ years, their three kids, and their beloved dog, Sheldon—where they practice what she preaches: slowing down, unplugging, and savoring a peaceful life.
This isn’t a pushy productivity or goal-setting show. Instead, Stephanie shares gentle, practical ways to simplify your routines, find work-life balance, and bring more peace and tranquility into your days.
Through honest conversations and easy-to-follow tips, you’ll learn to slow down, realign your priorities, and create the space to truly enjoy your life.
Each episode covers topics like:
Creating simple, sustainable routines
Parenting with presence and patience
Mindful time management (without the hustle)
Organization and decluttering for a calm home
Finding peace in relationships and daily life
In a world that moves too fast and constantly demands more, this podcast is your weekly reminder that you are already enough. You don’t need to chase perfection—you just need to slow down and live intentionally.
Stephanie O’Dea is the New York Times bestselling author of Slow Living: Cultivating a Life of Purpose in a Hustle-Driven World and the creator of A Year of Slow Cooking, featured on Good Morning America, The Rachael Ray Show, and in major national publications.
With a background in child development, psychology, and early childhood education, Stephanie has helped millions of busy families simplify, reconnect, and rediscover what truly matters. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband of 25+ years, their three kids, and their beloved dog, Sheldon—where they practice what she preaches: slowing down, unplugging, and savoring a peaceful life.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 9, 2025 • 21min
Perimenopause & Beyond
Perimenopause can be a confusing and frustrating stage—but you are the expert on your own body. In this episode, you’ll hear why it's so important to trust your instincts, do your OWN research, advocate for yourself at the doctor’s office, and not be afraid to seek a second opinion when something doesn’t feel right.We also dive into how to do your own research, lean on your support system, and get curious about what your body truly needs. Whether it’s navigating supplements, understanding shifting hormones, or simply learning to cherish yourself in a new way—this episode is your reminder that you are powerful, capable, and not alone in this journey through perimenopause.Past Episodes You May Love: Episode 17: It’s Not You, It’s Your HormonesEpisode 18: Sleep -- how to get the rest you and your body needsEpisode 19: 2 4 6 EAT: Intermittent Fasting, SimplifiedEpisode 70: Sniffing out scamsEpisode 90: Adrenal FatigueEpisode 121: Anxiety, ADHD, and MoreEpisode 130: What is PMDD -- Sandi's StoryEpisode 151: Understanding Capacity

Jun 2, 2025 • 32min
Work Ethic
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! What does real work ethic look like—and how do we honor it without burning out? In this episode, we’re unpacking the truth behind hustle culture, perfectionism, and the myth that you’re either grinding nonstop or you’re lazy. Whether you're just starting your career or entering a new life season, this conversation explores how to build a strong work ethic that respects your time, your boundaries, and your body.Tune in to discover how to stay committed without overworking, why doing the right thing (even when no one’s watching) still matters, and how your approach to work can evolve through your 20s, 30s, 40s, and beyond. If you're craving purpose without pressure, and ambition without burnout, this episode is your permission slip to do your job well—and still live deeply and intentionally.Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

May 26, 2025 • 31min
But What if It Doesn't Work?
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this heartfelt episode, we dive into the highs and lows of chasing big dreams—and what happens when things don’t go as planned. From lavish daydreams about helping your family and friends to the harsh reality of setbacks, we explore how to navigate disappointment without losing hope. You’ll hear why hustle culture isn’t the final word on success and how setting small, achievable goals can help you move forward with clarity and purpose.If you've ever felt like a failure because your dreams didn’t come true, this conversation is for you. We talk about embracing your emotions, letting go of perfection, and gently redirecting your path when needed. Tune in for an honest, uplifting look at resilience, self-compassion, and redefining what it means to succeed. Whether you're navigating a pivot or seeking your next milestone, this episode will meet you right where you are.Past few episodes you may love: Episode 32: Dealing with DisappointmentEpisode 88: Internal DialogueEpisode 93: Celebrating Your WinsEpisode 95: Patience is a VirtueEpisode 109: My Publishing Story(ies)Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

May 19, 2025 • 30min
Do It Badly
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Feeling stuck or waiting for the “perfect” moment to start something new? In this episode of Do It Badly, we’re letting go of perfectionism and encouraging you to take messy, joyful action—right now. Whether you’re curious about gardening, picking up a new hobby, or just saying “yes” to more invitations, this is your reminder that doing something badly is still doing something. You’ll hear why modeling curiosity, joy, and willingness to try matters—especially if you’re parenting, pivoting, or simply craving more from life.We’re diving into the power of choosing action over paralysis, and how embracing imperfection can unlock new opportunities and connections. You don’t need a perfect plan or a huge budget to start—you just need to start. Tune in to explore how letting go of the myth of “getting it right” can bring more freedom, fun, and growth into your everyday life. Hit play and start doing the things… even if you do them badly.Past Episodes You May Love: Episode 67: The Messy MiddleEpisode 150: Quarter and Midlife CrisisEpisode 163: Are You a Perfectionist?Episode 170: Reinventing YourselfEpisode 175: Bringing Your Vision to LifeWant to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

May 12, 2025 • 29min
Are You a Cow or a Moth?
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Are you living like a moth—constantly chasing the next shiny thing—or stuck like a cow, unaware you're grazing in the same field day after day? In this episode, we explore the powerful metaphors of the moth and the cow to help you uncover how your mindset might be holding you back from peace, purpose, and real progress. We dive into how black-and-white thinking can actually serve you in moments when you need clarity and a solid plan to move forward with intention.If hustle culture has you burned out, you're not alone—and it’s not sustainable. Learn how to slow down on purpose, create a plan rooted in mindset, action, and consistency, and start taking steps toward the life you truly want. Whether you're stuck in survival mode or flying in too many directions at once, this episode will help you find peace in progress and the joy of simply getting out of bed in the morning.Past Episodes you may love: Episode 10: Planning the Dream -- mapping out your 5 year planEpisode 28: Mindset is everythingEpisode 32: Dealing with DisappointmentEpisode 37: How to Find Your PurposeEpisode 43: Imperfect ActionWant to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

May 5, 2025 • 31min
The Princess Problem
Explore how the 'princess problem' shapes girls' narratives of seeking rescue from external sources. Unpack the harmful societal expectations that lead to dependency and discover the empowering shift towards self-reliance and independence. This enlightening discussion emphasizes the importance of cultivating inner strength, celebrating perseverance, and redefining self-worth beyond appearance. It's a wake-up call to rethink storytelling for future generations, reminding us all that we are capable of forging our own paths.

Apr 28, 2025 • 19min
The Time is Now
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In today's episode, we dive deep into the power of presence and why now is always the right time to start showing up for yourself. Whether you're feeling stuck in the past or waiting for the “perfect” moment to take action, this conversation is a gentle but honest reminder that life is happening in real-time—and it’s up to you to live it with intention. Sometimes you have to say, “It is what it is” and keep going anyway.Learn to embrace the present, shift your mindset, and make small yet meaningful changes that support your well-being and future goals. Intentional action—like stepping outside for a breath of fresh air or staying hydrated—can be revolutionary. If you're ready to stop waiting and start creating a life you love, this episode will meet you right where you are.Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

Apr 21, 2025 • 28min
Acting As If
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Have you ever wished you could fast-forward to the confident, happy version of yourself — the one who already has it all figured out? In this episode, Stephanie unpacks the idea of “Acting As If” — a simple yet powerful mindset shift that can help you step into the life you want right now. Whether it’s tackling mindset goals, facing tough conversations, or just getting unstuck, Stephanie shares why sometimes you have to move first and let the feelings catch up.From knowing your numbers to embracing gratitude for what you already have, this episode is a reminder that happiness and strength aren’t things you wait for — they’re things you create. Don't just wait for the "right time", live boldly! Past Episodes You Might Love:Episode 94: Sustainable consistency Episode 127: Financial LiteracyEpisode 150: Quarter and Midlife CrisisEpisode 154: Shifting Goal PostsEpisode 175: Bringing Your Vision to Life Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

Apr 14, 2025 • 37min
Being Clutter Free with Deanna Yates
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Have you ever felt weighed down by stuff—not just the things you own, but the expectations and layers society places on you? In this episode, we dive deep into how letting go of physical clutter can peel back those layers and bring you closer to what truly matters. Deanna shares her family’s inspiring story of selling most of what they had to travel the world while working remotely. It wasn’t about the things they left behind—it was about the freedom, growth, and connection they gained along the way.It's important to stay on the edge of your comfort zone, getting quiet, and really asking yourself: What do I want from my life? Whether it’s taking a pottery class, imagining a new way of living, or simply slowing down, remind yourself that your life is yours to design. It's okay if people don’t understand your choices—what matters is finding what feels authentic to you.If you’re craving clarity, freedom, and a deeper connection to yourself, this episode will inspire you to start small, stay curious, and dream a little bigger. Tune in and discover how letting go of “stuff” can open up a whole new world of possibility.Connect with Deanna Yates: Website: Wannabe Clutter Free Instagram: @wannebeclutterfree Facebook: Wannabe Clutter Free Spotify: Wannabe Clutter FreeApple: Wannabe Clutter FreeWant to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

Apr 7, 2025 • 51min
Simple and Intentional with Sarah Horgan
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Today, we’re talking about setting boundaries, speaking your truth, and protecting your energy—lessons Sarah Horgan learned through her cancer journey. One of her biggest realizations? People don’t think about us as much as we assume. And when we try to manage someone else’s emotions, we might actually stop them from fully processing their own feelings. Prioritizing yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Small, quiet moments—like driving in silence or making a tea latte—can help you reset and recharge.We’re also diving into how your environment reflects what’s happening inside of you. Sometimes, a little decluttering can be more powerful than you think. Letting go—whether it’s old habits, relationships, or even physical stuff—creates space for growth and helps you step into a mindset that serves you. You don’t need to hold on to everything to be okay. It’s time to build a life that aligns with your well-being, one intentional step at a time.Connect with Sarah Horgan: Website: Simple + IntentionalInstagram: @simpleintentional Facebook: Simple + Intentional Pinterest: Simple + Intentional Apple Podcast: The Simple + Intentional PodcastSpotify Podcast: The Simple + Intentional PodcastWant to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/


