Maximized Minimalist Podcast

What is up, Simplifiers? I'm so excited you're here. In today's episode of the Maximized Minimalist Podcast, we dive into one of those uncharted territories that doesn't always come up when we're talking about decluttering our homes: the money side of our life-seasons. Because listen—moving houses, starting school, kids growing up, sending them off, career shifts… these aren't just about stuff. They shake up our finances, our routines, our mental load, and yes, our homes. I brought on my two AMAZING guests — finance strategists and self-proclaimed "budget besties," Vanessa and Shana (yes, alliteration and all the good vibes) — to unpack how transitions impact money, how you can build guardrails (just like you do with your home), and how you can walk into the next season with more peace, presence, and joy instead of overwhelm and guilt. Whether you're prepping for a move, entering a new parent phase, supporting teens, or just feeling the mental load of "what's next?" — this episode is for you. We'll meet you where you are and give you the tools to create financial clarity and calm. 🎧 What You'll Learn Why life transitions (moving, growing kids, career shifts) trigger money stress. Our guest experts walk through how what's already stressful + what's already money-stress = a double dose of overwhelm. How to set up financial systems that run on auto­pilot so you don't have to hold it all. Think: separate accounts for bills, spending, savings. Guardrails for your money so you can move forward freely. (Yes — budgets that feel like freedom, not friction.) How to have the "money talk" with your partner, kids, and yourself — without the guilt or the tension. Because simplifying your home helped you breathe; this will help your bank account breathe. Turning a big change into a chance for clarity, not chaos. When you name the savings account "Mini Pony Fund" or "Moving House Buffer," you're giving purpose to your money. You're anchoring it to what matters. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1️⃣ You don't have to feel bad about money stress — it's just a signal you need a new system. You're not broken. You're simply trying to run with yesterday's budget in today's season. 2️⃣ Money systems + automation = calm in the midst of the shift. Set up accounts that do the work for you, so you can focus on your dance parties, slow mornings, and the people you love. 3️⃣ This is a team conversation. Don't DIY your finances in silence. Bring your partner or your older kids into it. Dream together. Name together. Build together. 💡 Resources Mentioned Visit Vanessa & Shayna at Budget Besties for their upcoming 5-day bootcamp: budgetbesties.com/bootcamp Check out the "Financial Coaching for Women" podcast (where they break down every single one of these steps) Grab a pen and paper (or your phone notes) and ask yourself: What do I want my money to do for me this season? MORE FROM ME Love this show? Subscribe to the Maximized Minimalist Podcast so you never miss an episode. Follow me on Instagram at @katyjoywells for behind-the-scenes, tips on simplifying your home and your bank account. Want to revisit the "declutter your home" side while you work on your money side? Check out the Clutter Cure Club at https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercureclub-page SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you walked away from this episode feeling more empowered, more clear, or more "I've got this," will you do me a huge favor? Head to Apple Pods (or wherever you listen), hit subscribe, and leave a review. When you do, you help other overwhelmed women find this show and start turning their homes and their finances into happy places. 🎙❤️ Thanks for being here, friend. Ready, set, simplify—and let's budget boldly, live freely, and create a home and a life that gives back more than it takes. See you next time!

If you've ever stood in a cluttered room thinking, "But what if I need this later?"—this episode is for you. In this short and powerful story, I'm sharing what happened when my son Levi, a lifelong Lego lover, walked into the room and said something I never thought I'd hear: "Mom, I don't need my Legos anymore." What?! My jaw dropped. But here's the beautiful part—he didn't let go because I nagged or convinced him. He let go because he saw them differently. And that's exactly what we're unpacking in this episode. Whether it's Legos, clothes, mugs, or treadmills, we all have stuff that once felt meaningful… until it didn't. Letting go becomes easy when you understand the 3 quiet shifts that lead to readiness. What You'll Learn: Why readiness to declutter isn't about willpower—it's about perspective The 3 subtle mindset shifts that make it easier to let go (space, value, impact) How to help your kids—or yourself—release clutter without forcing it A gentle reframe if you're feeling stuck or not "ready" to part with something Ready to go deeper with support, decluttering momentum, and a step-by-step plan? Join the Inner Circle Waitlist and be the first to know when doors open again! This is where the real transformation happens—inside your home and your habits. 👉 https://www.katyjoywells.com/innercircle Quick Links & Resources: Get weekly decluttering tips inside the Ready, Set, Simplify newsletter: Sign up here Learn more about the Clutter Cure Club: Explore the Club Follow along on Instagram for daily inspiration: @katyjoywells

In this powerful, hope-filled episode, I sit down with Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart, clinical psychologist and parenting expert, to talk about what's really going on beneath the surface during the teen years. She unpacks what to do when your teen shuts down, why nagging and lecturing don't work, how to reset when you've lost your cool, and how to support your teen without losing yourself in the process. From messy rooms to slammed doors and screen-time battles, this episode will give you practical tools to reconnect with your teen, regulate your own emotions, and build a stronger relationship—without the shame spiral or the power struggles. Because behind every behavior is a need. And when you meet your child with curiosity instead of control, that's when real change happens. 💬 Whether you're parenting a tween, teen, or just want to prepare for what's ahead, this one is a must-listen. What You'll Learn: Why the behavior you see isn't the full story (and what to focus on instead) How to navigate the belief → behavior gap with empathy The best questions to ask your teen (even when they say "I don't know") A simple strategy to reset yourself before reacting How to stop parenting from fear and build connection instead Why phones and social media are creating emotional dysregulation—and what to do about it When to lean in, when to back off, and how to build trust in the hardest moments Resources Mentioned: 📘 Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart's new book: Love the Teen You Have 📲 Follow Dr. Ann-Louise on Instagram: @dr.annelouise.lockhart 🌐 Visit her website: www.anewdaysa.com Resources: Join Clutter Cure Club Want to create a home that feels light, peaceful, and aligned with what truly matters? Inside CCC, we turn powerful mindset shifts (like today's episode) into small, doable changes that last. 👉 Join me inside the Clutter Cure Club (https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercureclub-page837548) Join the Ready, Set, Simplify Newsletter Over 35,000 women read it weekly for clutter-busting tips, tiny mindset shifts, and practical steps to simplify your home and your life. 👉 Sign up here (https://www.katyjoywells.com/simplify) Come Say Hi on Instagram Behind-the-scenes and real-life simplicity. @katyjoywells

Ever hit 5:00 pm and suddenly realize… you have no idea what's for dinner? 😬 In this episode, we're cutting through the dinner-time chaos with one of the most powerful tools for simplifying your evenings: freezer meals. But don't worry — this isn't your typical "spend all Sunday batch cooking" kind of advice. My guest, Nikita from The Freezer Meals Club, shares her zero-fuss approach to make-ahead meals that work for real life (with real schedules, picky eaters, and limited freezer space). Whether you love to cook or avoid it at all costs, this episode will show you how to turn just one night of dinner into three — without a single extra pan to wash. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why freezer meals aren't just for "supermoms" — and how Nikita stumbled into the system that changed everything The simple freezer meal strategy that takes 5 extra minutes (no 4-hour prep required) What foods freeze well (and what to skip to avoid soggy surprises) How to store and label meals to avoid freezer burn and keep things fresh Genius tools and storage tips that don't require a second freezer Why just one batch-cooked meal per week can eliminate 4–6 nights of cooking each month How to get your kids involved (or how to use freezer meals to free up time for your kids) Resources: Want Nikita's help each week? Join the Freezer Meals Club to get weekly freezer-friendly recipes (serves 12+), reheating instructions, remix ideas, and batch-cooking support — all for just $14.40/month with code KATY (doors close Oct 18 and won't reopen until 2026). Join Clutter Cure Club Want to create a home that feels light, peaceful, and aligned with what truly matters? Inside CCC, we turn powerful mindset shifts (like today's episode) into small, doable changes that last. 👉 Join me inside the Clutter Cure Club (https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercureclub-page837548) Join the Ready, Set, Simplify Newsletter Over 35,000 women read it weekly for clutter-busting tips, tiny mindset shifts, and practical steps to simplify your home and your life. 👉 Sign up here (https://www.katyjoywells.com/simplify) Come Say Hi on Instagram Behind-the-scenes and real-life simplicity. @katyjoywells If you're ready to simplify dinner without the stress, this episode is your permission slip to stop overcomplicating meal prep and start saving time, money, and sanity — one freezer meal at a time. Ready, Set, Simplify. — Katy

Let's face it: parenting today feels harder than ever. We're juggling schedules, screens, school drop-offs, dinner chaos, and about 4,792 questions from our kids all before 10 am. So how in the world are we supposed to connect in the middle of all that? In this heart-opening episode, I'm joined by one of my most trusted parenting experts and dear friends, Caley Kukla, childhood development expert and parent coach, to talk about what real connection looks like in the middle of real life. We're busting the myth that you need "quality time" carved out on the calendar to build strong relationships with your kids (spoiler: you don't need 3-hour crafts or curated Pinterest moments). Instead, Kaylee shares simple, powerful ways to reconnect in your existing routines—car line, mealtimes, even the chaos of the after-school rush. If you've ever felt like you're "failing" at connection because of busy schedules, short tempers, or missed moments—this episode will be a balm for your soul.  What You'll Learn in This Episode: The truth about connection bids—and how to respond to your child's need for attention without adding more to your plate What "serve and return" means (and how it can transform your everyday parenting interactions) Why hour-long crafts aren't required to build deep connection How to authentically connect with yourself—so you can better connect with your kids What repair looks like when you've lost your cool (and why it matters even more than "getting it right") How to stop should-ing yourself and release guilt around not "doing enough" Small mindset shifts and systems (like the donation station + body scans) that make a big difference Resources & Mentions: Join Clutter Cure Club Want to create a home that feels light, peaceful, and aligned with what truly matters? Inside CCC, we turn powerful mindset shifts (like today's episode) into small, doable changes that last. 👉 Join me inside the Clutter Cure Club (https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercureclub-page837548) Join the Ready, Set, Simplify Newsletter Over 35,000 women read it weekly for clutter-busting tips, tiny mindset shifts, and practical steps to simplify your home and your life. 👉 Sign up here (https://www.katyjoywells.com/simplify) Come Say Hi on Instagram Behind-the-scenes and real-life simplicity. @katyjoywells Loved This Episode? Please share it with a mom friend who's feeling overwhelmed or guilty about "not connecting enough." Let her know: she's not behind. She's just one small moment away from deeper connection. And if this episode helped you breathe a little deeper—would you leave a review on Apple Podcasts? It helps others find the show and join the Simplifier community. 💛 Ready, Set, Simplify. —Katy

What does it really take to evolve? Not just the big moves like changing careers or launching a new business—but the daily courage to become the next version of yourself. To try something new. To follow the nudge. To keep growing. In this episode, I'm joined by world champion boxer, entrepreneur, TV host, and mama Laila Ali, and we're pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to evolve in your life, especially when fear, self-doubt, or outside opinions start to get loud. Whether you're navigating a new season in motherhood, simplifying your life, or considering a bold next step, Laila's wisdom is going to hit deep. She's candid, funny, and full of practical truths that'll have you walking away feeling empowered, not overwhelmed. From decluttering mental noise to setting boundaries, embracing self-talk, and pushing past fear—this one is a must-listen. 💡 What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why courage doesn't require giant leaps—just small, steady steps How Laila decides which opportunities to say yes to (and which to confidently decline) The surprising way fear shows up in our everyday decisions—and how to move through it Real talk on decluttering, donation guilt, and building systems that actually work The mindset shifts that help ambitious women slow down, simplify, and stay grounded How to stay true to yourself when the world tries to define you The power of quiet routines, shared family time, and knowing what truly matters Resources & Mentions: Join Clutter Cure Club Want to create a home that feels light, peaceful, and aligned with what truly matters? Inside CCC, we turn powerful mindset shifts (like today's episode) into small, doable changes that last. 👉 Join me inside the Clutter Cure Club (https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercureclub-page837548) Join the Ready, Set, Simplify Newsletter Over 35,000 women read it weekly for clutter-busting tips, tiny mindset shifts, and practical steps to simplify your home and your life. 👉 Sign up here (https://www.katyjoywells.com/simplify) Come Say Hi on Instagram Behind-the-scenes and real-life simplicity. @katyjoywells 💛 Loved this episode? Please share it with a friend who needs a little encouragement to take the next step. Your one small share helps more women simplify their homes, schedules, and lives. And if you're loving the show, leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts! It means the world and helps others find the show. Ready, Set, Simplify. Katy

What do you do when the place that once held your memories is suddenly gone? A year ago, I watched floodwaters swallow a familiar corner of Asheville—a neighborhood full of weekend strolls, quiet moments, and memories. In a single day, what felt solid and permanent was swept away. In this deeply personal episode, I'm finally opening up about Hurricane Helene. What our community faced, how the past 12 months have changed me, and what the storm taught me about gratitude, grief, and what it really means to call a place "home." If you've ever grieved the loss of a season… If you've ever looked at a cluttered room and felt a surprising wave of emotion… If you've ever asked yourself why certain things feel so hard to let go of… This one's for you. Because decluttering is never just about "stuff." It's about memory. Identity. Story. And sometimes… healing. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why decluttering often stirs up emotion, and why that's completely normal What the storm revealed about the connection between our belongings and our identities The surprising truth about grief and gratitude and why they're not opposites How simplicity can be a choice before it's forced on us The moment in Costco that broke me, and what it helped me understand about being human Why "things" are never just things and how to know what's worth keeping Resources & Mentions: Join Clutter Cure Club Want to create a home that feels light, peaceful, and aligned with what truly matters? Inside CCC, we turn powerful mindset shifts (like today's episode) into small, doable changes that last. 👉 Join me inside the Clutter Cure Club (https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercureclub-page837548) Join the Ready, Set, Simplify Newsletter Over 35,000 women read it weekly for clutter-busting tips, tiny mindset shifts, and practical steps to simplify your home and your life. 👉 Sign up here (https://www.katyjoywells.com/simplify) Come Say Hi on Instagram Behind-the-scenes and real-life simplicity. @katyjoywells If this episode resonated with you, forward it to a friend or leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Every share helps more women build lives—and homes—filled with peace and purpose. Ready, Set, Simplify.

Ever feel like you know what matters to you, but the way your life looks day to day doesn't reflect that? You believe in health, but you're running on caffeine and fumes. You believe in peace, but your home feels chaotic. You believe in connection, but you're snapping at the people you love. That's the Belief–Behavior Gap, and if you're stuck in it, this episode is your compass back. In this honest conversation, I'm breaking down why we often feel off even when we're trying hard, what psychology says about the misalignment between our values and actions, and how to gently get back on track without shame, guilt, or overhauling your life overnight. If you've been living on autopilot and wondering why things feel heavy or disconnected, you're not alone, and you're not broken. Let's reconnect the direction you want to go… with the road you're actually walking.  What You'll Learn in This Episode: What the Belief–Behavior Paradox is and why it causes so much mental and emotional clutter Why good intentions aren't enough (and what to do when your actions don't match your values) How our brains sabotage our best efforts with short-term fixes like scrolling, shopping, or staying busy What "false norths" are and how culture pulls us off course without us noticing Why some seasons of life require survival mode (and why that's okay!) The 3-step framework to gently realign your values and habits without starting from scratch Try This Today: Name your compass. Out loud. What do you believe matters most right now? Notice the gap. Where are your actions veering away from what you say you value? Take one small step. Something tiny that realigns your road with your compass. Then… celebrate it. Ready to Simplify Even More? Start Here: Join Clutter Cure Club Ready to declutter your home, simplify your habits, and live more aligned with what matters most? Inside CCC, we turn powerful mindset shifts (like today's episode) into tiny, doable steps that actually stick. 👉 Join me inside the Clutter Cure Club (https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercureclub-page837548) Join the Ready, Set, Simplify Newsletter Over 35,000 women read it weekly for clutter-busting tips, tiny mindset shifts, and practical steps to simplify your home and your life. 👉 Sign up here (https://www.katyjoywells.com/simplify) Come Say Hi on Instagram Behind-the-scenes and real-life simplicity @katyjoywells  Let's Simplify Together: If this episode hit home for you, forward it to a friend or share a review on Apple Podcasts. It helps more women find the show and build a life they actually want to be living. Ready, Set, Simplify.

Let's talk about something that affects literally all of us, but rarely gets named. You declutter your home, try to simplify your life, create calmer spaces… But then you reach for your phone and instantly feel anxious, scattered, or drained. Why does that happen? And more importantly: what can we do about it? In this eye-opening conversation, I'm joined by Jenny Wise Black, a licensed therapist, mom, and pioneer in the movement for digital wellness and media trauma recovery. Jenny shares how modern screen habits are rewiring our brains, eroding our ability to focus, and deeply impacting the way we connect to ourselves, our kids, and our peace. We dive deep into what it means to have an anxious attachment to your phone, why downtime has become screen time, and how to reclaim the kind of joy and presence we had before we were tethered to a screen 24/7. You'll leave this episode with the clarity (and practical steps!) to start shifting your habits without guilt or overwhelm, even if you're a busy mom with zero desire to go off-grid. What You'll Learn in This Episode: What "media trauma" is and how it might be impacting your mental health without you realizing it How screen time affects your nervous system and your home life (yes, even that innocent Instagram scroll) The real reason we feel anxious without our phones and why it's not a willpower problem Simple, science-backed steps to reduce phone-induced anxiety (without needing a digital detox retreat) Why going grayscale and setting screen boundaries may change your life more than any decluttering tip ever has How to model healthier tech habits for your kids without shame or perfection A powerful reframe for moms: you're not failing, you're operating in a system that was never built to support you What "predatory media" is, how to spot it, and how to break the consumption cycle Resources & Mentions: Jenny's Book: Vintage Therapy (https://www.amazon.com/Vintage-Therapy-Practical-Wisdom-Modern/dp/B0FPMR7FK9) – free digital version available on her Substack! Visit Jenny's site + get her screen detox tools: https://mediatox.substack.com/ Ready to Simplify Even More? Start Here: Join the Ready, Set, Simplify Newsletter Over 35,000 women read it weekly for clutter-busting tips, tiny mindset shifts, and practical steps to simplify your home and your life. 👉 Sign up here (https://www.katyjoywells.com/simplify) Loved this episode? Join me inside the Clutter Cure Club (https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercureclub-page837548) — where we take conversations like this even deeper, and I help you simplify everything. Come Say Hi on Instagram Behind-the-scenes, real-life simplicity, and lots of laughs. 💛 @katyjoywells Try This Today: Turn your phone screen to grayscale. It takes 30 seconds. It lowers your stress. And it may just change how you relate to your phone forever. Remember: You don't have to do a full digital detox to reclaim your life. Start small. Be intentional. And watch your capacity (and calm) grow. Ready. Set. Simplify.

Ever finally sit down at the end of a long day, kids in bed, body aching, brain fried, and your eyes land on that cluttered pile in the corner? And suddenly, that peace you were hoping for is swallowed up by guilt and overwhelm? You're not alone, and more importantly, you're not failing. In this episode, we're talking about what decluttering really looks like when you're exhausted, overstretched, and juggling all the things. Whether you're working full-time, navigating survival mode, or just plain burned out, this episode will help you redefine progress in a way that actually works for your real life. We'll shift from hustle to healing, all-or-nothing to good-enough, and perfection to peace. ✨ This one's part pep talk, part practical strategy, and 100% for the overwhelmed mom who still wants to create a home that feels light, even if she's tired. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why your exhaustion isn't a personal failure, it's a systems issue What it really means to declutter in "survival mode" How to redefine progress so it finally feels doable Why "good enough" isn't settling, it's sustainable The mindset shifts that create long-term simplicity Tiny, high-impact decluttering actions that don't require hours or energy How to start where you are, even if that's standing in a messy kitchen with zero motivation Resources & Links: 14-Day Decluttering Challenge: Your next best step if you want to simplify without the stress. Tailored for your energy level and real life—just 20 minutes a day. Use code PODCAST for $20 off! 👉 Join the Challenge Here (https://www.katyjoywells.com/email-clutter-crusher-challenge234546) 📱 Follow me on Instagram for bite-sized decluttering tips & real-life encouragement: @katyjoywells (https://www.instagram.com/katyjoywells) 🎧 Loved this episode? Forward it to a friend who's feeling overwhelmed—she needs this reminder too. Small Action Step: Look around the room you're in and pick one item to let go of. Don't overthink it. Just choose, release, and let that tiny win carry you forward. You don't need more energy. You need a gentler plan. And around here? That's exactly what we do. 🙌

You've tried every checklist. You've sorted, purged, and folded your clothes KonMari-style. You've even whispered sweet nothings to your donation bin. 😅 So why does decluttering still feel so hard? In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on what's really happening beneath the surface when you struggle to let go of stuff—no, it's not that you're lazy or too sentimental. It's science. From survival wiring and dopamine hits to something called the "endowment effect," I'm breaking down the biological and psychological reasons your brain resists decluttering—and how to finally work with it instead of against it. This is the episode you need if you've ever asked: "Why can't I just get rid of this stuff already?!" Let's drop the shame, ditch the guilt, and simplify in a way that actually makes sense for your real life and real brain. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why your brain resists letting go of "perfectly good" stuff The psychological trick your brain plays (and how to break it) How to stop guilt-based decluttering in its tracks Why shopping gives you a dopamine rush—and what to do instead Resources Mentioned: ✨ Join the 14-Day Decluttering Challenge Get fast wins and big results—in just 20 minutes a day. This isn't another checklist. It's a total nervous-system-safe, progress-over-perfection approach. 🎉 Get $20 off with code PODCAST: https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercrusherchallenge 🎯 Come Hang Out on Instagram You'll find more simple tips, behind-the-scenes moments, and messy real life at https://www.instagram.com/katyjoywells ✨ Your Simple Action Step: Pick one item in your home that's never used but you've been holding on to "just in case." Ask yourself: "If I didn't already own this, would I pay to bring it into my home today?" If the answer's no? Time to let it go. If this episode felt like a lightbulb moment 💡, would you share it with a friend or leave a review? You never know who needs to hear this message today. You know what to do… Ready. Set. Simplify. 💛

Ever find yourself thinking "I should be better with money," but you're too tired to track one more thing or clip another coupon? This episode is for you, friend. I'm joined by my long-time money mindset coach and financial strategist, Brie Sodano, and we're pulling back the curtain on the real reason budgeting doesn't work for so many smart, capable women. Spoiler: it's not about spreadsheets, it's about the mental load you're already carrying. And no, it's not your fault. We're diving into the patterns, habits, and "money bleeds" that quietly drain your bank account—and your energy. If you've ever opened your credit card bill and wondered, "Where did all our money go?" this episode will hit home in the best way. Let's shift the way you think about budgeting, spending, and what it really means to steward your money without shame or overwhelm. 🎧 Listen in and take the first step toward using your money with purpose—without the burnout. 💥 What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why traditional budgeting methods fail (and what actually works) What a "money bleed" is—and how to stop yours The 3 resources you need to manage wisely: time, energy, and money Why tracking spending isn't enough (and what to do instead) How habit blindness affects your bank account (hello, Amazon autopilot) Brie's trick for saving money without giving up convenience or peace The real reason your budget isn't "working"—and it's not what you think 🔗 Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 🎯 Find Your Bleed The best $40 I've ever spent. Brie's self-paced course has saved me tens of thousands of dollars over the years—no shame, no spreadsheet overwhelm, just practical tools that work. 👉 Get the course: https://home.katyjoywells.com/fyb 📚 Read Brie's Book: Cash Confident This book is packed with real-life tools for managing money as a modern woman (no finance jargon, no judgment). 💛 Available wherever books are sold. 📲 Follow Brie on Instagram Get more money wisdom and bite-sized tips: https://www.instagram.com/cashconfidentcommunity/ 💬 Your Challenge This Week: Take a peek at your last 30 days of transactions and look for your "money bleed." It's not always big purchases—it's often the daily $20 that adds up without meaning or purpose. Don't judge it. Just notice it. Awareness is the first step to freedom. If this episode gave you an "aha" moment or helped you feel less alone in your money journey, would you share it with a friend or leave a review? Every share helps more women gain the clarity (and peace) they deserve. You know what to do. Ready. Set. Simplify. 💛

Let's talk time, mental load, and why "we all have the same 24 hours" is one of the biggest lies women are told. In this episode, I'm joined by the incredible Megan Sumrell—time management expert and creator of Planapalooza—for a deep, honest conversation on why traditional productivity advice doesn't work for most women. And spoiler: it's not because you're doing it wrong. It's because you've been trying to use systems that were never designed for your brain, your season, or your life. We get into the neuroscience behind why women process time, planning, and decision-making differently—and how to finally build a schedule that works with your brain instead of against it. Whether you've been feeling scattered, behind on your goals, or just overwhelmed by the mental load that comes with life, kids, clutter, and expectations—you are going to love this one. ✨ What You'll Learn: Why women experience "squirrel brain" (and why it's not a flaw) The science behind mental load—and how to take control of it One simple shift that can instantly reduce overwhelm and bring clarity Why you haven't hit your goals this year (and what to do next) The truth about "same 24 hours" productivity culture (and how to opt out) How to plan your time in a way that reflects real life, not just appointments 💡 Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 🎯 Join Planapalooza (http://www.megansumrell.com/a/2148146184/LJ6uRgox): Megan's annual live planning event for women (October 2025) ✍️ Try Megan's Weekly Time Awareness Hack: Block out a week of "real life" in your calendar and see what time you actually have. 📅 Follow Megan on Instagram: @megansumrell 🧠 Want Help Creating a Decluttered, Tidy-Home Routine? I'll be teaching inside Planapalooza on why you're always tidying and never caught up—you won't want to miss it! 💬 Your Challenge This Week: Try Megan's "calendar reality check." Instead of planning your week in a vacuum, map out everything that actually happens—meals, pickups, walks, laundry, scroll breaks, everything. You might be shocked at how little time is truly "free." (No shame—just insight.) If this episode gave you permission to take a breath, let go of guilt, or ditch the hustle, would you do me a favor and share it with a friend? The more we share real tools and truth around time and home management, the less we all carry. You know what to do: 💛 Ready. Set. Simplify.

Have you ever had something sitting by your front door or in the garage for months because you might sell it… but never actually do? 🙋‍♀️ I've been there. And friend, it's not just about time or willpower. Your brain is wired to make this hard. In this episode, I'm breaking down the two psychological traps that keep us stuck in "maybe I'll list it" limbo (and why you're not lazy or broken for struggling). I'll walk you through a simple gut check that will tell you whether it's time to sell, donate, or finally let it go, plus the exact experiment I use to cut through the indecision and reclaim my peace. If you've ever been haunted by a "still need to sell it" pile, this one's for you. What You'll Learn: The two psychological traps that keep you clinging to stuff you swear you'll sell A simple gut-check exercise that cuts through the mental clutter How to run my 1-week "price-drop experiment" to get unstuck Why sometimes the best ROI isn't cash; it's peace, time, and breathing room Ready to Simplify Even More? Start Here: 🗞️ Join the Ready, Set, Simplify Newsletter Over 35,000 women read it weekly for clutter-busting tips, tiny mindset shifts, and practical steps to simplify your home and your life. 👉 Sign up here (https://www.katyjoywells.com/simplify) 🧡 Loved this episode? Join me inside the Clutter Cure Club (https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercureclub-page837548) — where we take conversations like this even deeper, and I help you simplify everything. 📲 Come Say Hi on Instagram Behind-the-scenes, real-life simplicity, and lots of laughs. 💛 @katyjoywells (https://www.instagram.com/katyjoywells)

Ever kept a gift you don't love just because you felt guilty getting rid of it? Whether it's your mom's hand-knit scarf, an inherited serving platter, or that vintage frame that doesn't match your style, these items take up more than just space; they create mental clutter, too. In this episode of the Maximized Minimalist Podcast, we're diving into the emotional layers of decluttering gifts and why "value" isn't about price. It's about what actually serves you today.  What You'll Learn in This Episode: The truth about "value" and why price tags don't determine whether you should keep something. The powerful question to ask yourself before you keep (or donate) any gift. How "gift guilt" keeps you stuck, and how to break free from it. Why releasing unused items creates both physical space and mental clarity. How to lovingly let go of gifts without rejecting the person who gave them. If you've ever felt torn between keeping something "just in case" or letting it go, this episode will give you the clarity (and permission!) you need to move forward...guilt-free. Ready to Simplify Even More? Start Here: 🗞️ Join the Ready, Set, Simplify Newsletter Over 35,000 women read it weekly for clutter-busting tips, tiny mindset shifts, and practical steps to simplify your home and your life. 👉 Sign up here (https://www.katyjoywells.com/simplify) 🧡 Loved this episode? Join me inside the Clutter Cure Club (https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercureclub-page837548) — where we take conversations like this even deeper, and I help you simplify everything. 📲 Come Say Hi on Instagram Behind-the-scenes, real-life simplicity, and lots of laughs. 💛 @katyjoywells

Ever hauled a box from house to house thinking, "Maybe I'll need this someday"—only to never open it? Whether you're packing up for a cross-country move or just moving into a new season of life, today's episode is your must-listen checklist for what not to bring with you. I'm breaking down the 6 biggest clutter culprits people regret moving—from unopened boxes and emotional "someday" projects to heavy furniture, guilt-ridden books, and more. It's not just about the stuff—it's about the stories we carry… and which ones we're ready to release. 🎧 In this episode, you'll learn: The hidden cost of unopened boxes from past moves How to gently let go of abandoned "someday" projects without guilt The emotional toll of furniture that no longer fits your life Why unread books might be weighing you down more than you think A better approach to sentimental kid items (yes, you can keep the memories without keeping the bins) The pantry and bathroom extras that are secretly stealing your space ✨ This episode is for you if… You're moving, downsizing, or starting fresh in a new season You've got boxes in the garage you haven't opened in years You're overwhelmed by the thought of what to keep vs. what to let go You're craving more space, clarity, and freedom in your home—and in your life 🛠️ Resources & Links: FREE GUIDE: 75 Things You Can Quickly Declutter (https://www.katyjoywells.com/declutter772367) Get your hands on this free download for quick wins you can tackle today. 💬 One powerful question to sit with: "If I had to start fresh tomorrow, what would I not want to carry with me?" 📦 Ready to lighten your load—physically and emotionally? This episode is your permission slip to let go, travel lighter, and move forward with only what truly matters. Love the show? Be sure to follow, rate, and share with a friend who's about to move—or just needs to hear this.

Ever feel like you're stuck in lunch limbo—standing in front of the fridge at 11:58 a.m. with no plan, no energy, and three hungry kids staring you down? You're so not alone. Today's guest, Megan McNamee, co-founder of Feeding Littles and co-author of the New York Times bestselling book Feeding Littles Lunches, is here to help you ditch the decision fatigue and start feeding your family with more ease, flexibility, and confidence. In this episode, we're breaking down: Megan's go-to lunchbox formula (hint: it's genius—and easy to remember) How to raise intuitive eaters without pressure or perfection Tips for navigating picky eating, food guilt, and power struggles at the table What to do when your kid only eats beige food (because we've all been there) Summer survival strategies when it feels like the kitchen is open 24/7 How to make packed lunches (even during summer) a breeze—not a burden Plus, we chat about how Megan's non-recipe cookbook is helping kids and parents get excited about lunch again (my boys are obsessed with it—and yours might be too). 🎧 Whether your kids are heading to summer camp, starting school soon, or just raiding the pantry on repeat, this episode is full of fresh, grace-filled ideas that make food feel fun again. 🔗 Links & Resources: Grab Megan's book: Feeding Littles Lunches Follow Megan on Instagram: @FeedingLittles (https://www.instagram.com/feedinglittles) Join 35K+ women getting the Ready, Set, Simplify newsletter every Wednesday: Sign up here (https://www.katyjoywells.com/simplify) 💡 Pro tip: Want your kids to pack their own lunches? This episode will give you the tools (and the mindset shift) to make it happen—without the usual lunchtime battles. Loved this episode? Be sure to follow the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend who's ready to simplify lunch once and for all. 💛

What if keeping your home clutter-free didn't require a weekend marathon… just one minute? This week, we're ditching the pressure to "go big" and embracing the power of micro-habits. I'm walking you through 5 tiny-but-mighty strategies you can use right now to simplify your space—even on the busiest, messiest summer days. Whether you're juggling beach bags, snack wrappers, or just the mental clutter of a full calendar, these 1-minute habits are about to become your new secret weapon. No stress. No perfection. Just progress. 🧺 In This Episode, You'll Learn: My go-to 1-minute reset for mess magnet zones (looking at you, kitchen counter) How to sneak in decluttering "audits" while living your everyday life A surprisingly fun trick that turns the date into your decluttering goal The reason donation bags never leave your trunk—and how to fix it The OHIO principle (a clutter-free rule that takes less time than scrolling IG) A daily mindset question that'll change how you show up in your home ✨ Why It Works: Because decluttering doesn't have to be overwhelming. These habits don't require a big chunk of time or mental energy—they work with your real life, not against it. And when they stack up? Total game-changer. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES: → Join 35K+ women getting the Ready, Set, Simplify newsletter every Wednesday: Sign up here (https://www.katyjoywells.com/simplify) → Want more quick wins like this? Check out the Momentum Maker module (https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercureclub-page837548) inside Clutter Cure Club → AirDoctor Sponsor: Clean air = clear mind. Save up to $300 here (https://airdoctorpro.com) with code MAX 👯‍♀️ Share the Simplicity: If this episode made you breathe a little easier, send it to a friend who's in declutter mode this summer. One share = one less overwhelmed mama. And hey—your home doesn't need to be spotless. It just needs a system that supports the season you're in. You've got this. One minute at a time. Ready, Set, Simplify.

Because sometimes even a decluttered home can feel like… too much. 🔥 PSST—QUICK HEADS UP: The Clutter Cure Course is 50% off this week only! In honor of Independence Day, gain freedom from the clutter that's still weighing you down. Lifetime access. Step-by-step home reset. Only $77. 👉 Grab it now before the flash sale ends 👈 So you've KonMari'd your closet, donated the baby gear, and finally tamed the junk drawer. Your home looks… decluttered. But your nervous system? Still on edge. If you've ever walked into your kid's room and felt like the Legos might actually swallow you whole, this episode will feel like a deep exhale. In this real-talk episode, I break down why a home with less stuff can still feel overstimulating—and what to do when your outer space doesn't match your inner peace. 💡 You'll Learn: Why visual clutter isn't the only kind of clutter messing with your calm The difference between "expected mess" vs. true clutter—and why it matters How to navigate the tension between your needs and real life with kids (without guilt) Simple questions to help you decide what's worth addressing—and what's just part of the season you're in ✨ Highlights from the Episode: My honest response to a listener who decluttered and still feels overwhelmed The reframe that will help you stop gaslighting yourself for being "too sensitive" Real-life examples of how to reset overstimulating spaces (without tossing everything) What to do when your minimalist values clash with plastic toys, busy schedules, and motherhood 🧘‍♀️ Truth Bomb of the Day: You don't want less stuff. You want less nervous system activation. And that's a completely valid goal. So let's shift the conversation from "how much is too much" to: → What supports your peace? → What disrupts your calm? → And how can you build rhythms that honor both your family and your own capacity? 🧡 Loved this episode? → Grab The Clutter Cure for just $77 (https://www.yoursimplifiedhomecourse.com/flashsale) during the Independence Day Flash Sale → Join our supportive community inside the Clutter Cure Club (https://www.katyjoywells.com/cluttercureclub-page837548) → Subscribe to the free Ready, Set, Simplify Newsletter for weekly motivation (https://www.katyjoywells.com/simplify) 📸 And don't forget to tag @katyjoywells on IG if this episode made you feel seen—we're in this together. See you next week, friend. Ready, Set, Simplify.

Packing light shouldn't feel like rocket science… or like you're prepping for the runway. This week, I'm walking you through my exact minimalist travel system—no overpacking, no stress, and zero suitcase regrets. 👕👖☀️What if you could pack less and actually feel more like yourself on your next trip? Whether you're hitting the road for a weekend getaway or jetting off on an overseas adventure, this episode is your permission slip to ditch the "what-if" items and build a travel wardrobe that works hard for you. I'll share my go-to 5/4/3/2/1 packing formula, the truth about "aspirational outfits," and the one mindset shift that changed how I travel forever. ✈️ In This Episode, You'll Learn: How to avoid overpacking by planning for the real you, not the vacation fantasy version of you The 5/4/3/2/1 minimalist packing formula that simplifies everything Why "just in case" items = clutter in disguise The color palette hack that makes mix-and-matching effortless My favorite fabrics for wrinkle-free travel that don't scream "tourist" One thing to do before zipping your suitcase that will save your sanity later 💡Packing Tips That'll Change Your Travel Game: The unexpected reason we overpack—and how to quiet that clutter voice Why breathable, layerable pieces are your vacation MVPs How snapping outfit photos before your trip becomes your secret weapon What to pack instead of extra outfits (hint: it smells amazing and saves your back) Yup—decluttering your air is a thing. And AirDoctor makes it ridiculously easy. It filters out 99.99% of dust, mold, pet dander, and even bacteria. 🎁 Grab up to $300 off + a FREE 3-year warranty at airdoctorpro.com with code MAX Ready to Simplify Even More? Start Here: ✅ Declutter Fast with My Free Guide: 75 Things to Declutter Right Now Quick wins. Instant relief. Clear space in minutes. 📥 https://www.katyjoywells.com/declutter 💬 Get Personalized Coaching from Me Stuck in your clutter cycle? Let's build a simple, customized plan to clear the overwhelm. 💼 https://www.katyjoywells.com/innercircle 📝 Create Your Home Management Blueprint Finally feel on top of your home—with routines and systems built just for you. 🏡 https://www.katyjoywells.com/home-management-mastery 📲 Come Say Hi on Instagram Behind-the-scenes, real-life simplicity, and lots of laughs. 💛 @katyjoywells 📲 Found this helpful? Text this episode to your favorite overpacker. They'll thank you at baggage claim. And don't forget to tag @katyjoywells on Instagram—we're all about traveling lighter together. You don't need more outfits to have more fun. You just need space for what matters. Ready, Set, Simplify.