

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

Jan 20, 2025 • 27min
Crafting Your Ideal Life with Nikki Oden
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! http://stephanieodea.com/slowlivingbookTune into another great interview, and this one is with Nikki Oden of Your Ideal Mom Life.In this episode, we dive into the concept of creating your ideal mom life—a life that’s in alignment with who you are, not just what you do for others. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of life, especially in the early years of parenting, and feel like you have to put everything else on the backburner for the sake of being the "perfect mom" or "perfect wife." But here’s the truth: your family deserves the best version of you, and that version doesn’t come from burnout. It comes from living intentionally, creating space for yourself, and deciding what you want.We’ll explore practical steps you can take to start creating a life that nourishes you—mentally, physically, and emotionally. Whether it’s through journaling to process your thoughts or making small but powerful shifts in your daily routine, you’ll learn how to prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and break free from the pressures that don’t serve you. It's not about doing it all, it’s about doing what matters most. Remember, it’s okay to start small, and you’re allowed to put yourself first. Tune in for real talk on how to be the peaceful, joyful, and loving mom your family deserves—without the burnout!If you're a mom feeling drained or stuck, this episode is for you. Discover how to break free from the hustle and design a life that makes you feel fulfilled, empowered, and ready to show up as the best version of yourself.Connect with Nikki here:website: https://youridealmomlife.com/about-nikki/instagram: @nikkiodenWant to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceDaily Journaling Manifestation Worksheet - https://stephanieodea.com/dailyJoin 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/

Jan 13, 2025 • 34min
Doing More with Less with Diane Boden
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! It's a New Year and as we step into a fresh chapter, it’s the perfect time to embrace new ways of living with intention. Today’s episode dives into one of the cornerstones of slowed-down living—minimalism. I’m joined by Diane Boden, author, mom, and the voice behind the Minimalist Moms podcast, to explore how doing more with less can transform your life.In this episode, Diane shares her minimalist journey and practical tips to help you declutter your home and your mind. Discover how living with less can lead to more calm, happiness, and intentionality. We also tackle common challenges, like impulsive shopping habits and dealing with sentimental items, such as school papers and report cards.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why minimalism is about needing less to feel happy and fulfilledHow decluttering your home can bring a sense of calmTips to pause and rethink impulsive purchasesPractical ways to manage sentimental clutter, like school mementosJoin us for an inspiring conversation that will help you simplify your life and start the new year with clarity and purpose!Connect with Diane:https://minimalistmomspodcast.com/https://www.instagram.com/diane_boden/?hl=enGrab Diane's book Minimalist Moms: Living and Parenting with Simplicity here! Not sure where to start to declutter your home? Download Diane's free resource.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/

Jan 6, 2025 • 19min
Reinventing Yourself
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! http://stephanieodea.com/slowlivingbook🎉 Happy New Year! 🎉The new year is the perfect time to reflect on who you used to be and who you’re becoming. That’s why in this episode of the Slow Living Podcast, we’re exploring how to reinvent yourself and step into something new.Reinvention is different from transformation—it’s about making an intentional decision to evolve and taking daily action to align with your vision. Whether you’re focusing on personal growth or chasing new goals, reinvention requires commitment and courage.What you’ll hear in this episode:The difference between reinvention and transformation.How last year’s goals can pave the way for this year’s success.Why reinventing yourself starts with a decision but requires consistent effort to reach your end goal.It’s time to take the initiative, embrace change, and start reinventing yourself in 2025. Tune in to this episode for inspiration and practical tips to help you make this year your most intentional one yet.Listen now and begin your journey to the new you!Are you ready to reinvent your life now? Download my guide on how to start at https://stephanieodea.com/newyou/Listen to previous episodes that Stephanie mentioned here:Episode 5 - Teaching Your Children to Slow Down Episode 35 - Real Clients, Real Results 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/

Dec 30, 2024 • 25min
Encore Episode: Everybody Has Something
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! As we wrap up 2024, I’m bringing you one final encore episode to close the year with a message that’s been weighing on my mind: Everybody Has SOMETHING.What does that mean? It’s simple—we all have a past. Maybe it’s something you’d like to change about yourself or something difficult you’ve been through. But here’s the thing: whatever your “something” is, it doesn’t define you, and it doesn’t justify your behavior.In this episode, I’m reminding you that as adults, we have the power to choose our next steps. You can decide to move forward, to heal, and to create the life you want. If your past feels heavy, know that you’re not alone. There’s always help and hope waiting for you—don’t hesitate to reach out and take it.Let this be your encouragement as we head into a new year. Let go of the weight of your “something” and seize the opportunities ahead.Thank you for joining me throughout this year, and I can’t wait to see you in 2025 with brand-new episodes.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/

Dec 23, 2024 • 27min
Encore Episode: Control and/or Worthiness
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Welcome back to another encore episode! Today, we’re exploring a topic that so many of us can relate to: feelings of unworthiness.I’ll be honest—I still struggle with these feelings. There are days when I catch myself thinking: “I haven’t done enough,” “my ideas aren’t fresh enough,” or even “my clothes aren’t right for this situation.” The good news? These feelings happen less and less as the years go by, and I’m here to encourage you to take the same journey.If unworthiness is something you’re wrestling with, I encourage you to poke at it. Yes, it’s uncomfortable—like crawling through a mucky swamp or climbing a mountain straight out of an episode of Dora the Explorer. But the only way to get to the other side is to go through it.In this episode, I’m sharing:My own experience with unworthiness and how I’ve worked through it.Why it’s essential to lean into the discomfort, even when it feels overwhelming.Encouragement to start your own journey through the “swamp” of self-doubt.Let this episode remind you: you’re not alone, and growth comes from facing those tough feelings head-on.Tune in, and let’s take one step closer to feeling worthy together. Want other episodes that are related to this topic? Listen to these previous episodes:Episode 27 - Creating Stability Episode 28 - Mindset is EverythingEpisode 36 - Becoming Resilient Episode 37 - How to Find Your Purpose Episode 38 - Chasing Happiness 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/

Dec 16, 2024 • 30min
Encore Episode: Deciphering Data
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Welcome to our second encore episode! As we revisit some of the most impactful conversations from the podcast, today’s episode is all about redefining your relationship with data.If you’ve been a longtime listener, you’ve probably heard me say this before: you are NOT a spreadsheet. And it’s true. But that doesn’t mean you should ignore the numbers altogether. When you’re working to improve your life—whether it’s your health, finances, or personal goals—tracking data is essential.Here’s the catch: data is just data. It’s neutral. It doesn’t define you or determine your worth. This episode dives into:How to collect data without attaching emotions or self-worth to it.Why separating your feelings from the facts is crucial to personal growth.Real-life examples of using data intentionally—like stepping on the scale during a health journey or reviewing your bank statement to improve your finances.Practical tips for keeping your emotions in check while staying accountable to your goals.Whether you’re looking to declutter your mind, simplify your approach, or gain clarity on your progress, this episode will remind you to embrace the facts without letting them define who you are.Tune in to this encore episode and learn how to use data as a tool for growth, not judgment.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/

Dec 9, 2024 • 31min
Encore Episode: Sober Curious
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Welcome to our first encore episode of the season! As we close out the year, I’m bringing back some of the most impactful episodes that continue to resonate with my coaching clients and community.Today, we’re revisiting an important conversation about the role alcohol plays in your life. Is alcohol taking up too much space in your life? Is there a healthy place for it in your daily routine?Here’s the key takeaway: exploring your habits doesn’t require a label. Deciding to examine your alcohol consumption—or anything else like food or social media—doesn’t mean you have a problem. Instead, it’s about staying curious and intentional about how these things impact your life.In this episode, we’ll talk about:Why labeling yourself isn’t helpful—and how to keep an open mind as you reflect on your habits.How to evaluate whether alcohol (or any habit) is actively helping you achieve your dream life.The first step in embracing a slow living lifestyle: decluttering what’s not working.The difference between Start Goals and Stop Goals, and how to integrate them into your daily habits.This is an invitation to pause, reflect, and get curious. If something isn’t helping you move forward, it’s worth exploring why you’re holding on to it.Tune in to this encore episode and start building the intentional, slow life you deserve.Resources:This Naked Mind by Annie GraceSober Curious subredditWant 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/

Dec 2, 2024 • 27min
Code Switching, Authenticity, & Masking
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Hi, pretty people! This is my final new episode of 2024, but don’t worry—over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing encore episodes of some of your favorites that continue to spark questions and conversations. Fresh episodes will be back in 2025, so stay tuned!For this special episode, we’re diving into three misunderstood concepts that many of us navigate every day: code switching, authenticity, and masking.Here’s what we’re talking about:What is Code Switching? Adjusting your language, tone, and behavior to fit different environments like work or social gatherings.What is Masking? Suppressing parts of yourself to fit in or avoid judgment.What Does Authenticity Mean? Showing up as your true, unfiltered self.We’ll also explore how to balance these concepts in a way that feels authentic to you. While code switching and masking aren’t inherently bad, using them intentionally can help create feelings of safety and comfort. Awareness is the key to navigating these behaviors effectively.Here are a few tips we’ll cover:Create flexibility in how you adapt to different environments.Journal about what feels most authentic in certain situations.Notice when you’re masking or code switching and why.Set small intentions to show up as “more you” every day.Join me as we explore how to navigate these complex behaviors while staying true to yourself. Awareness is the first step to finding balance, and I’m here to help you get started.Let’s wrap up 2024 with this thought-provoking conversation and step into the new year with more intention and self-awareness!Want to listen to another episode to expand on this further? Episode 16- Matching Your Identity With IntegrityWant 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/

Nov 25, 2024 • 19min
Recovering from People Pleasing
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Are you a people pleaser? Many of us find ourselves in roles, like customer service, that require pleasing others. But does that mean we’re truly people pleasers? Not necessarily.In this episode, we’re exploring the difference between being helpful and falling into the trap of people pleasing. For some, the need to please others stems from a fear of failure or a desire to avoid guilt—feelings that can take a toll on your mental health and self-worth.Here’s what we cover:What is People Pleasing? Understanding its roots and how it can impact your life.The Difference Between Helping and Pleasing: Why offering help doesn’t have to mean compromising yourself.How to Overcome People Pleasing: Practical steps to break free from this habit.Protecting Your Boundaries: How to prioritize your needs while still being kind and supportive.Ready to let go of people pleasing and reclaim your time, energy, and confidence? Tune in for actionable tips to protect your boundaries and rediscover your self-worth.Download the daily journaling worksheet here ➝ https://stephanieodea.com/daily/Ready for more episodes on this topic? Take a listen to these previous episodes.Episode 25 - Caring for the CaregiverEpisode 26 - Stop Delaying HappinessEpisode 37 - How to find your purpose?Episode 56 - Waiting to be savedEpisodes 57 - Protect your energyWant 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/

Nov 18, 2024 • 24min
Are You a Perfectionist?
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Are you a perfectionist? In today’s episode, we’re taking a deep dive into what perfectionism really means, especially for those who feel they’re constantly struggling to keep up with their dreams or feel a fear of failure. This is a common theme among my coaching clients, and it’s often connected to deeper issues, like childhood trauma.Here’s what we discuss:The Perfectionism Cycle: Understanding how perfectionism can start in childhood and persist into adulthood, often affecting your “inner child.”The Challenge of Being in the Moment: Why perfectionists often struggle to stay present and how this affects everyday life.Recognizing Perfectionist Patterns: Learning to identify signs of perfectionism as the first step toward breaking free.Embracing Your Authentic Self: Steps you can take to overcome perfectionism and work toward a more genuine, slow living life.If you’re ready to let go of the need for perfection and embrace a more balanced life, this episode is for you. Listen in to start breaking the perfectionism cycle and become more comfortable in your own skin.Books to heal your inner child:Running on Empty by Jonice WebbAdult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents by Lindsay GibsonDriven to Distraction by Edward M HallowellWant 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/


