This Organized Life: Decluttering Tips for Moms, Entrepreneurs and Professional Organizers

Hey Friends,Today I’m joined by my good friend and fellow organizing pro, Janelle Azar, she’s the founder of A Meaningful Space and host of the Organizing the Entrepreneur podcast. We sat down to answer YOUR real-life organizing questions, and let me tell you…we went there.From convincing a partner to declutter (without starting WWIII) to managing kid clutter and the never ending paper piles, we tackled it all. We also talk about running a business while managing a home, the beauty of the two-minute rule, and the deeper stuff, like emotional clutter and why Enneagram twos can have a hard time setting boundaries.If you’ve ever stared at a pile of paper and thought, “I just can’t even,” this episode is for you. We’re sharing real talk, practical strategies, and a few good laughs, because organizing can be fun, especially when you’re not doing it alone.What You’ll Learn:How to get your spouse on board with declutteringWays to help your kids manage their own clutterTips for balancing business life and home life without losing your mingWhat to do when you’re overwhelmed by paperWhy understanding your Enneagram type can seriously help your organizing game.How to stay motivated even when progress is slow.Grab your coffee (or laundry basket) and tune in, you’ll feel like you’re right here chatting with us.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Organizing with Kids: Getting StartedOrganizing the Entrepreneur PodcastInstagram: @ameaningfulspacePinterestDigital Organizing with A Meaningful Space & Trustworthy

Hey friend,If you’re feeling like your summer could use a little more breathing room, this episode is for you. Today we’re tackling some easy, actionable steps to declutter your space, streamline your schedule, and make summer a lot less stressful!From optimizing your car to refreshing your outdoor spaces and wrangling kids’ schoolwork (because honestly who knows what ends up in those backpacks!) we’re diving into all the places where clutter can sneak up on you.I’ll also share some tips on how to get ahead of your summer calendar so that you can actually enjoy the season without feeling like you’re running on empty. Oh and if you’ve been thinking about turning your organizing skills into a business, I’ve got some exciting news about an upcoming mentoring cohort I’m running!Let’s get organized together!Links mentioned: https://simplyborganized.com/for-professional-organizers/

Summer is here, and if you’re anything like me, you might already be feeling the chaos creeping in. Today I’m joined by my friend Lisa Eckerle, a professional organizer and mom. We dive into the real juggle of managing kids, camps, work, and everything else that comes with this season. We talk about planning summer schedules (yes, even if you’re behind like I am), sharing chores with the kids, and setting up routines that actually stick. Lisa also shares some of her favorite tips for beating decision fatigue and introduces her handy CRAP method to help you tackle clutter without overwhelm.We discuss:How to avoid last minute summer stress by planning aheadThe truth about decision fatigue and practical ways to deal with it.Why it’s so important to share the load at home and how to start those conversationsHow to handle the emotional side of clutterLisa also opens up about how she balances being a business owner and a mom, and the honest truth that it’s messy but manageable.Why I think you’ll love this episode:Because summer doesn’t have to feel like total chaos. Whether you’re a planner or just trying to survive until school starts again, Lisa and I share real doable tips that can help you breathe a little easier this season.Hot Takes:It’s never too late to start planning, even if summer’s already underwayTeamwork at home isn’t about guilt, it’s about supportLisa’s CRAP method is a great tool when clutter feels overwhelmingYou don’t have to pack every minute of the summer to make it meaningfulYou’re doing better than you think and you’re definitely not alone.Connect with Lisa: https://thedesignerorganizer.com/Grab our 30 day Kid’s Checklist here: https://simplyborganized.myflodesk.com/30daykidschallenge

What does it truly take to grow a business while juggling all the hats women wear in their daily lives?Today I’m talking with Kate Alpert, co-founder of Women Belong, to talk about the power of connection, community and of course organization. We dive into the intersection of life, business, and the systems that keep us moving forward.Kate opens up about her journey creating Women Belong, a networking organization designed specifically for women looking to grow their businesses and themselves. From finding the courage to step into entrepreneurship to building sustainable systems that support your goals, this episode is a must-listen for any woman ready to take the next step.Whether you’re overwhelmed by your to-do list or just looking for a way to feel more seen and supported, you’ll find encouragement and practical takeaways in this conversation.What we talk about:The origin and mission of Women BelongHow strategic networking can drive personal and professional growthStories of real women who’ve built successful businesses through communityTips for balancing business goals with family life and self-careWhy organization is the secret weapon behind so many successful entrepreneursKey Takeaways:Building a business doesn’t mean doing it alone. Community matters.Organization is more than color-coded calendars, its about clarity, confidence, and connectionWomen Belong offers a fresh and supportive take on traditional networking, one that values authenticity and mutual growthSaying yes to your business dreams sometimes means letting go of what’s not serving you. You can make space for both ambition and balance.Why You Should Listen:If you’re a woman entrepreneur (or aspiring to be one), this episode will remind you that you’re not alone in the chaos. You’ll walk away feeling empowered, encouraged, and maybe a little more organized than before. Plus. you’ll learn how building meaningful connections can transform not just your business, but your life.Links mentioned in this episode:Connect with KateFall Cohort is starting soon

Hey friends, Today’s episode is a little different, and a lot important. We’re diving into the topic of legacy planning. Yes, it’s one of those things that’s easy to put off, but crucial to get ahead of. Not only am I sharing a bit of my own personal experience to help you understand why this matters not just for your peace of mind, but for your loved ones too, I’m also introducing Kate Hufnagel and her business The Digital Wrangler. Kate helps people get all their essential documents and information organized whether it’s for your personal life or your business. If you’ve ever thought, “I really should have all this stuff in one place…” then Kate is your girl.Plus we’re talking about our new show, a 12-episode mini series on How to Grow and Start A Professional Organizing Business. It’s up now wherever you listen to your podcasts and on YouTube!Why You Should Listen:Legacy Planning isn’t just about paperwork, it’s about love, preparedness, and making sure your people aren’t left scrambling. If you’ve been meaning to tackle this but don’t know where to start this episode gives you the guidance you need.Links Mentioned in this episode:The Digital WranglerHow to Grow and Start Your Own Professional Organizing BusinessFall Mentoring Cohort

Hey friends,You are in for a treat with today’s episode of This Organized Life! I had the absolute joy of sitting down with my longtime friend and organizing powerhouse, Martha Carol Stewart of Chaos Organizing in Baton Rouge. If you’ve ever wondered how someone goes from teaching kindergarten to building a thriving professional organizing business—this one’s for you.Martha shares her real-world experience, her wins (and mistakes!), and her heart for helping people find peace in their spaces. We dive into so many listener questions—covering everything from how to deal with those sentimental items, to renter-friendly storage hacks, and how to price your services without selling yourself short. Whether you’re a fellow organizer or just trying to make sense of your own home, there’s gold here for you.🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:How Martha went from classroom to chaos (organizing, that is!)Tips for getting started with organizing clients—and finding your first paid jobRenter-friendly storage hacks that actually workWhat to do with sentimental stuff you just can’t let go ofDaily habits to keep your kitchen clutter-freeWhy pricing feels hard (and what to do about it)The organizing tools Martha swears byThe underrated power of Google and email marketingHow mentorship shaped both of our careers💡 Key Takeaways:Start where you are. Martha didn’t have it all figured out, but she took the leap—and so can you.Systems are your best friend. Even (especially!) in creative businesses like organizing.Let go of the guilt. Your memories aren’t in the item. We talk about how to honor the past without drowning in it.Business is personal. Whether it’s marketing, pricing, or serving your clients, authenticity always wins.Mentorship matters. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, challenge you, and help you grow.Links + Resources:Connect with Martha: chaosorganizing.comWant to be mentored by me? → Check out my 1:1 and group mentoring for organizersSpeakpipe → Leave us a message, a review, or ask us a question. If you loved this episode, would you take a sec to leave a review? It helps more people find us and supports the work we’re doing in this amazing community. 💛Until next time—stay organized!

Hey friends! I’m so excited to welcome my longtime friend Amy Revell  from The Art of Decluttering back to the show. Amy and I go way back—we actually started our podcasting journeys around the same time, and it’s always a treat to catch up with her.In today’s episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on what it really looks like to juggle podcasting, running a business, and, oh yeah—renovating properties at the same time! Amy shares the inside scoop on a recent renovation project she took on at a neighboring investment property, and let me tell you, it’s a transformation story you won’t want to miss.But we don’t stop there. We also dive into the fascinating world of entropy (yes, the scientific concept!) and how it relates to the clutter in our homes. Amy breaks down why understanding this idea can totally shift your mindset when it comes to maintaining an organized space.We talk about balancing logic with emotion during the decluttering process, why it’s so hard to let go of certain things, and how to create spaces that truly support your lifestyle—not just your Pinterest board.What we talk about:🕕 Juggling podcasting and professional life🏚️ Amy’s renovation adventure and what she learned⚛️ How the concept of entropy explains the chaos in our homes🧠 Emotional vs. logical decision-making when decluttering💡 Practical, real-life organizing tips you can use todayWhether you’re deep in a reno project or just trying to keep your junk drawer under control, there’s something in this episode for you.xo,LaurieLinks Mentioned:The Art of Decluttering Podcast Follow Amy on InstagramStart Your Organizing Business: A Step-by-Step Mini-Series for Aspiring Professional Organizers

Hey friends!In this week’s episode, I’m diving into something we all struggle with—someday stuff. You know… the juicer you might use when you start eating healthier, or the crafting supplies you swore you'd use when you had more time. These items might seem harmless, but they often come with a lot of emotional weight—guilt, fear, nostalgia—you name it.I also share an inside peek at our Clutter Clinic live workshop series (so excited about this!) and how we’re helping people tackle not just the physical clutter, but the emotional clutter too. We’re talking decision fatigue, scarcity mindset, identity clutter—all the behind-the-scenes stuff that makes it so hard to let go.Whether you're sorting through your own “someday” piles or helping clients as a professional organizer, this episode is full of practical tips and real talk to help you move forward with intention. I walk you through:Why “someday stuff” is so common (and sneaky!)How to identify the emotional triggers behind your clutterMy go-to 4-pile method for simplifying decisionsQuestions to ask when you're stuck in the “what if” loopSpecial insights for pros in the organizing spacePlus, I give a little teaser about a new podcast series I’m working on just for my fellow organizing professionals. I can’t wait to share more soon!Thanks for hanging out with me today—and remember, progress, not perfection💛XO,LaurieResources Mentioned:Clutter Clinic Live Workshop SeriesLetting Go GuideHow to Start and Grow A Professional Organizing Business

Hey friends!If your home is starting to feel stale or cluttered, but you're not quite ready for a complete renovation or big shopping trip, this episode is for you. I'm diving into practical, budget-friendly ways to breathe new life into your space using what you already have.Whether you're craving a fresh vibe for spring (or any season), I'm sharing five easy areas to focus on that can totally transform your space—and your mindset.Here's what we cover in this week's episode:How a simple mindset shift can reignite your motivationWays to shop your home and repurpose décor you already loveClearing out high-clutter zones like your entryway and kitchen countersTips for managing overflowing bookshelves without feeling guiltyCloset refresh ideas to make your wardrobe feel new again (without buying anything!)I also discuss seasonal decorating and how small tweaks to your routines can help you stay organized for good. The best part? You don't have to spend a dime to start feeling better about your home.✨ Ready to go deeper? Don't forget to check out my monthly Clutter Clinic, where we take these strategies even further with real-life solutions and support. You'll walk away with fresh inspiration and a clear action plan.Let's make your space work for you—without being overwhelmed or overspending.xo,LaurieLinks Mentioned in this episode:Clutter ClinicStart a Professional Organizing Business

Hey friends! What if I told you your garage could actually be an organized, functional space? In this episode, I'm giving you practical, actionable tips to declutter and organize your garage. We talk about the biggest reasons garages get out of control, how to create zones that work for you, and what to do when decision fatigue hits.And if you're ready to roll up your sleeves and want a little extra help, don't miss our next LIVE Clutter Clinic: Garages. It's the perfect way to get guidance and accountability to finally tackle that space.Key Takeaways:Garages get cluttered for a reason. Understanding why helps you fix it long-term.Zones are your best friend. Define clear areas for tools, sports gear, seasonal items, etc.Decision fatigue is real. Learn how to work around it and still make progress.Respect your garage. It deserves the same attention as your kitchen or bedroom—because it impacts your daily life just as much.You don't have to do it alone. Join our Clutter Clinic Garage workshop and get your support to make it happen.Whether your garage is a total disaster or needs a little fine-tuning, I promise you something in this episode.Links Mentioned in this Episode:LIVE CLUTTER CLINIC WORKSHOPCOLOR GURU (use code TOL for 10% off your purchase)START ANYTIME MENTORING BUNDLE