Sustainable Minimalists

Can a sun-toasting, memory-making, blue sky summer also be eco-friendly?I believe that the greenest habits are the ones that don't cost much money; they'd never upend our already busy lives, either. Today I speak with Paul Hope, Home & Garden Editor for Consumer Reports, and together we offer 8 summer-specific tweaks to your days that are so easy-peasy you won't even realize you're *also* helping the planet. Here's a preview:[2:45] Summer is for barbecues: 3 tips for grilling smarter during your next cookout[7:15] The rise of battery-powered outdoor tools (as confirmed by testing, the new ones actually work!)[9:50] Adios, old-school sprinkler systems: 2 lawn mowing and lawn watering best practices[18:00] Common-sense ways to help out your air conditioner on hot days[21:00] Thoughts on making your freezer work for you this summer Resources mentioned: Episode #262: No Mow May Sustainable Living Guide (via Consumer Reports) 45 Ways to Save More and Waste Less at Home (via Consumer Reports) RainMachine Touch HD-12  * Join our (free!) community here.* Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube.* Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com.Our Sponsors:* Thank you to LifeStraw! https://lifestraw.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists/exclusive-content

A vacation. A dinner party. The arrival of a package you've been waiting for. There’s happiness to be found in looking forward to something, and that's because anticipation simultaneously increases levels of optimism and decreases feelings of irritability.But in a consumerist culture, it's often assumed that anticipation's benefits come with spending money. Don't bigger purchases and grander trips equate to greater happiness? And what about expectation? Isn't expecting something in the future one of life's greatest joy suckers?On today's show I'm offering four research-backed ways to harness the power of anticipation in your daily life without spending a lot of money. Here's a preview:[2:30] The difference between mini-thrills and major thrills (hint: they aren't that different)[5:50] Experiences over things: What research says about money spent on doing[10:15] Pinning down your future self as a means of harnessing anticipation NOW[14:45] Thoughts on anticipation versus expectation, living in the moment, and letting anticipation be enough  Resources mentioned:  Episode #225: The Science Of Happiness Monk Manual daily planner Get excited: Reappraising Pre-Performance Anxiety As Excitement Waiting for Merlot: Anticipatory Consumption of Experiential and Material Purchases * Join our (free!) community here.* Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube.* Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com.Our Sponsors:* Thank you to LifeStraw! https://lifestraw.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists/exclusive-content

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) are found in loads of personal care, beauty, and cleaning products. But there are both environmental and human health concerns associated with SLS and SLES: why, then, do eco-conscious brands continue to include such surfactants in their product offerings?On today's show I'm answering a listener's question about the well-known "green" brand, Seventh Generation. Why does their laundry detergent list Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) as its first ingredient? Is Seventh Generation *actually* eco-conscious, and how does Unilever play into the equation?  Here's a preview:[1:30] Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is in nearly everything. Here's why[3:30] The connection between SLS and palm oil[4:20] Seventh Generation and Unilever: The problems with mega-corporations[8:30] Human health concerns associated with SLS and SLES[12:00] 3 considerations when purchasing health, beauty, and cleaning products Resources mentioned: Molly's Suds Tandi's Naturals Episode #187: A Palm-Oil Primer Episode #194: Safer Nail Polish Ideas The Dirty Dozen: Sodium Laureth Sulfate * Join our (free!) community here.* Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube.* Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com Our Sponsors:* Thank you to LifeStraw! https://lifestraw.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists/exclusive-content

Whenever you add money to your bank account, it doesn't just sit there. Your bank lends your money to industries and projects with the intent of making a profit. Many banks (and all the big name banks in particular) regularly invest OUR money into the fossil fuels industry, thereby funding the continued mining and burning of oil, coal, and gas.To give you a scope of the problem: In 2021 alone, Citigroup, Wells Fargo, Goldman Sachs, and Bank of America spent a combined $137 BILLION on fossil fuel projects.There's a solution, and it's divesting. Intentionally putting your money in places that don't fund the fossil fuels industry is a small lifestyle tweak that will do loads of good for the planet.Today I speak with Certified Financial Planner Gary Grewal about finding the right bank or credit union that's aligned with your values.  Here's a preview:[2:30] What banks actually do with your hard-earned money[6:10] The big bank worst offenders[14:30] How to find a better bank[17:30] 3 reasons why you may want to consider your local credit union for your banking needs[24:00] Gary's personal and professional thoughts on Aspiration Resources mentioned: Episode #258: Conscious Spending Financial Fives: The Top 325 Ways To Save, Earn, And Thrive To Retire Before 65 Mighty Deposits Global Alliance for Banking on Values Nerd Wallet As You Sow Banking on Climate Chaos Fossil Fuel Finance Report * Join our (free!) community here.* Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube.* Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com. Our Sponsors:* Thank you to LifeStraw! https://lifestraw.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists/exclusive-content

There's lots to consider when buying eggs. What does "humanely raised" mean, exactly, and are free-range eggs actually worth the extra cost?As it turns out, there are many misleading claims on egg cartons. On today's short and sweet episode I'm answering listener Lauren's question about intentional egg purchasing. My goal is to arm you with facts - not marketing gimmicks! - so that you can confidently spend in ways aligned with your values the next time you're at your farmer's market or grocery store. Here's a preview:[1:45] Cage-free vs. free range vs. pasture raised: Do these distinctions matter?[6:00] Want to buy the healthiest eggs? Here's what to look for[8:30] 4 marketing gimmicks designed to confuse consumers[11:15] 3 3rd party certifications to look for on your next carton Resources mentioned: Did you know there's a book based on THIS podcast? Thank you for supporting my work!  Vital Farms Oliver's Organic Pete & Gerry's Happy Egg Co.  * Join our (free!) community here.* Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube.* Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com. Our Sponsors:* Thank you to LifeStraw! https://lifestraw.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists/exclusive-content

Life provides countless opportunities each day to practice self-awareness and reflection. For some of us, such introspection happens when we exercise or meditate. For others, it naturally occurs when we're in touch with nature.Today I speak with author Marcus Bridgewater, also known as the uber-popular Garden Marcus on social media. Marcus argues that nurturing plants also helps us grow as people, and so he's on the show to divulge 5 life lessons he's learned that are rooted in his time in his garden. Here's a preview of the life lessons discussed today:[4:30] You can't make anyone flourish, but you can nurture an environment conducive to flourishing. Here's how[6:30] The importance of patience, awareness, and self-observation in the garden and in life[11:30] Repotting: Giving yourself room to grow as a means of maximizing potential[17:15] Sharing the fruits of your success with others for the benefit of both your community and yourself[20:00] How to foster an environment conducive to your personal growth  Resources mentioned: How to Grow: Nurture Your Garden, Nurture Yourself Garden Marcus on TikTok and Instagram   * Join our (free!) community here.* Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube.* Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com. Our Sponsors:* Thank you to LifeStraw! https://lifestraw.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists/exclusive-content

It feels as though nearly every day Americans must process another mass shooting. Such traumatic events are a part of life in the US today and, if our recent history is to inform the future, these events will continue.Today I speak with psychotherapist Lena Derhally about the human trauma response: which feelings are "normal", and which ones aren't? In the second part of today's conversation we discuss best practices for talking with our children about the tragedy at Robb Elementary School.(Please note that while today's conversation is centered around the recent events in Uvalde, Texas, Lena's advice is applicable to all instances of gun violence.) Here's a preview:[4:00] Ongoing trauma and protective mechanisms: Numbness is normal![9:15] Thoughts on media sensationalism and the importance of turning off the news, at least sometimes[11:30] The research-backed importance of taking action as a means of healing[15:30] What to say (and what not to say!) to your children about gun violence in schools[20:30] The importance of maintaining routines, rhythms, and schedules for your children Resources mentioned:The Facebook Narcissist * Join our (free!) community here.* Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube.* Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.comOur Sponsors:* Thank you to LifeStraw! https://lifestraw.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists/exclusive-content

The fashion industry is in a state of transition, and that's because fossil fuels-based synthetics simply aren't sustainable. Enter clothing made from plants: they are neither new or revolutionary (hey there, cotton, linen, and hemp!); still, clothing made from renewable fibers continues to expand in breadth and scope during this unique moment in time. On today's show I speak with author Alyssa Couture about the innumerable ways in which plant fabrics support both humans and the planet. Alyssa has a wealth of knowledge regarding the the evolution of plant-based textiles (algae! cacti!); she also offers smart tips for listeners who seek to prioritize plants over synthetics when buying new. Here's a preview:[7:30] Bioplastics are the future: A quick primer[16:00] Is it actually possible to clothe 7 billion people in plants? (Hint: soon)[18:00] Harnessing the powers of desert and ocean plants to create luxurious (and biodegradable) fabrics[21:00] How to use your wardrobe as a means of pushing change Resources mentioned: Stink documentary Episode #153: The Future Of Sustainable Fashion Healthy Fashion: The Deeper Truths  * Join our (free!) community here.* Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube.* Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.comOur Sponsors:* Thank you to LifeStraw! https://lifestraw.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists/exclusive-content

Countertop composters have hit the market, and they've hit the market in a big way. Many promise to transform ho-hum food waste into nutrient-rich soil in under 24 hours without odors or hassle. For some of us, these new machines sound like the answers to all our composting prayers.But listener Katie wants to know if countertop composters - and specifically the Lomi by Pela - are worth the hefty price tags. Are their environmental claims overblown, or will such devices actually reduce household waste by up to 50 percent? And what about the energy requirements? Is any product truly eco-friendly if it requires (fossil-fuels sourced) electricity?On today's episode I'm offering my unbiased thoughts on the Lomi countertop composter. (**Please note all opinions are 100% all my own.) Here's a preview:[3:30] Why compost? A quick composting primer[4:30] 5 benefits to the Lomi countertop composter[10:00] 5 (significant) drawbacks to countertop composters for conscious consumers (hey there, alliteration!)[12:00] Let's talk about those energy concerns ...[18:00] Electricity in the United States: how to read your electric bill with a critical eye Resources mentioned: Episode #081: How To Make Great Compost (With Very Little Effort) Episode #121: Fair Trade, Certified B and More: The 3rd Party Labels You Need To Know What is U.S. electricity generation by energy source? (Via US Energy & Administration)  * Join our (free!) community here.* Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube.* Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com Our Sponsors:* Thank you to LifeStraw! https://lifestraw.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists/exclusive-content

There are certain things in life that don't have to get done, and then there are priorities that absolutely must get done well. On today's show we discuss what it takes to thrive on purpose, and specifically we're discussing the importance of flexibility.Today I speak with author and social impact leader Wendy Teleki. Wendy argues we shouldn't be afraid to recalibrate and make the big changes when we need to. In our conversation today Wendy distills her hard-earned lessons on balancing - and rebalancing - amid an onslaught of ever-changing demands and priorities. Here's a preview:[6:20] Thoughts on "having it all" versus letting some things go[10:45] Why the edge of the wheel is where you want to be (and how to get there)[20:30] What to do when you find yourself in a role you're not necessarily comfortable with[25:00] The benefits of creating your Don't-Do list first[26:00] Thoughts on using the speeding of time as a means of becoming our best selves now[29:45] Wendy's Number One piece of advice for parents Resources mentioned: Rebalance: How Women Lead, Parent, Partner and Thrive Watch this episode on Youtube   * Join our (free!) community here.* Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube.* Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com Our Sponsors:* Thank you to LifeStraw! https://lifestraw.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists/exclusive-content