Let’s Slow Down: Simple + Intentional Living, Decluttering, Life on Purpose

As summer 2025 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on new beginnings, shifting seasons, and the power of letting go. This episode is both tender and bittersweet, as I share some personal life updates—including milestone school moments for my kids—and an important announcement about the future of the Let’s Slow Down Podcast.Together, we’ll pause to breathe, reflect on the highlights of summer, and consider what we might carry forward into fall—and what we might lovingly release. I’ll share a quote that struck me deeply about change and letting go, and open up about my decision to step away from podcasting for now.In these past three years, this space has been such a gift. We’ve explored slowing down, simplifying, and making room for what matters most. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or just found your way to Let’s Slow Down, I’m deeply grateful for your presence, your messages, and your support.This isn’t necessarily goodbye forever—just goodbye for now. You’ll still have 127 episodes to revisit whenever you need a moment of calm, and of course, my book Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living is always there as a companion for your own journey.Thank you for walking this path with me. Wishing you courage, peace, and the strength to embrace your own next chapter—whatever that looks like.With gratitude,Annemarie

 What if just one small shift could make your summer feel calmer, more present, and more joyful? In this short episode of Let’s Slow Down, Annemarie shares a simple, powerful habit: the unplugged afternoon. You’ll learn why stepping away from screens for even an hour can completely change the feel of your day, how to make it work in a busy life, and easy ideas for enjoying your time offline. Whether you’re at the beach, on your porch, or just taking a break from your to-do list, this tiny change can help you savor the season you’re in.

Can you believe it's the end of July? While summer may feel like it’s turning a corner, we’ve still got time to soak it all in. One of my favorite ways to slow down and savor the season is by getting lost in a good book. In today’s episode, I’m sharing my current reading list—both fiction and nonfiction—and a few standout titles that brought me joy, laughter, insight, and even a little surprise twist or two.From thought-provoking personal development reads to entertaining novels with clever storylines, there’s something here for everyone—especially if you’re looking for a way to relax, recharge, and reconnect with yourself this summer.📖 Books I Mentioned:The Husband’s Secret & Here One Moment by Liane MoriartyIn Five Years & One Italian Summer by Rebecca SerleJust for the Summer by Abby JimenezTake Less. Do More. by Glen Van PeskiGood Energy by Dr. Casey MeansLove this podcast? 💞 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿*affiliate link that doesn’t affect your price at all!

If it feels like summer is flying by, you’re not alone. In this solo episode, I invite you to pause and make space to truly feel the season. Inspired by summer rhythms around the world—from Italian "Ferragosto" to Nordic cottages by the water—we'll explore how entire cultures embrace rest and how we can, too.Join me as I share:A gentle reminder that you don’t have to earn restHow other countries honor the slower pace of summerMy favorite simple summer pleasures to savorThoughts on the beauty of slow mornings, mindful living, and doing less to feel moreA small but powerful challenge to bring more presence into your dayWhether you're coming off a big family vacation or navigating a hot, busy week, this episode is your invitation to loosen up, take a deep breath, and remember that slowing down isn't laziness—it’s essential.A Gentle Challenge for You:Pick one thing to do just a little bit slower today. Let it be a moment you savor. 💛Love this podcast? 💞 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿*affiliate link that doesn’t affect your price at all!

✨In this kickoff to the Let’s Slow Down summer short series, Annemarie reflects on the power of solitude and how a quiet weekend alone helped her reconnect with herself and reset after a hectic season. She shares insights from the book Take Less, Do More by Glen Van Peski, and explores how the principle of "less is more" applies far beyond hiking—into our homes, schedules, and minds. This episode invites listeners to slow down, reexamine their definition of success, and consider one powerful, perspective-shifting question:“Are the choices you are making today supporting the life you truly desire?”Love this podcast? 💞 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿*affiliate link that doesn’t affect your price at all!

In this inspiring episode of Let’s Slow Down, Annemarie sits down with Karen Porter, RHN, the self-described Health & Happiness Fire Starter, to explore how true wellness begins from within.Karen opens up about her personal health journey—from struggling with IBS, anxiety, and depression to discovering a holistic approach that transformed her life. She now empowers women to take control of their well-being through mindset shifts, nervous system regulation, nutrition, movement, and joy.Together, they explore:How digestive issues led to emotional healingThe power of the 5 Ms: Mindset, Meals, Movement, Managing the Nervous System, and Magnifying HappinessThe effects of toxic stress and elevated cortisol levelsPractical tips for sustainable self-care in a fast-paced worldMeditation practices that work—even for busy minds—and how to use Karen’s favorite app, Brain Tap✨ This is a powerful reminder that slowing down and tuning in can ignite lasting health and happiness.Resources & Mentions:Connect with Karen Porter, RHN: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedInBrain Tap Meditation App - 44 day free trial, use code: BTPARTNER29Love this podcast? 💞 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿*affiliate link that doesn’t affect your price at all!

In this episode, Annemarie sits down with Joshua Becker—author, speaker, and founder of Becoming Minimalist—to explore how our possessions may be quietly stealing the happiness, joy, and meaning we’re chasing. They discuss how to find clarity through less, the powerful benefits of minimalism, and how to begin your own decluttering journey. If you’re ready to let go of excess and focus on what truly matters, this conversation will inspire and guide you.Connect with Joshua Becker HERE.Love this podcast? 💞 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

As another school year draws to a close, many moms (myself included) find themselves overwhelmed by concerts, graduations, field trips, thank-you gifts, and all the emotions that come with wrapping up another chapter in our children’s lives.In this honest and reflective episode, I’m sharing a few simple ways to stay healthy, present, and grateful during what might be the busiest season of the year—yes, even busier than the holidays. From honoring the emotions of big transitions to keeping perspective during packed schedules, this is a gentle reminder that what really matters is often the simplest thing of all: being here, now.You’ll hear thoughts on:Prioritizing your health (even when time is tight)Being fully present at important momentsShowing gratitude without breaking the bankKeeping your home and headspace calm amid the chaosThis is a short, heartfelt check-in for all the moms navigating the wild ride of end-of-year events. You’re not alone—and you can do this with grace.PS: Don’t miss next week’s episode featuring an inspiring conversation with Joshua Becker of Becoming Minimalist—one of the most powerful voices in the simple living movement.Love this podcast? 💞 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

Have you been feeling a quiet tug to live a little differently? Maybe you've been asking yourself questions like:How can I make more time for what truly matters?I don’t want my house to look Instagram-perfect—I want it to feel like a home. But how?How can I slow down and live at a sustainable pace that actually feels good?How can I parent in a way that aligns with my values and helps my children become who they’re meant to be?Is there anyone else out there who feels this way?The answer is yes—and this episode is for you.In today’s heartfelt and down-to-earth conversation, I’m joined by author Whitney English to talk all things home, family, and intentional living. Together, we explore:How your environment can impact your mood and productivityThe tension between raising kids and keeping a tidy homeThe shame that can arise when choosing to live differentlyPractical ways to eliminate distractions and focus on what matters mostIf you’ve been craving a slower, more meaningful way of living, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone—and that a life aligned with your values is not only possible, it’s powerful.Connect with Whitney:WebsiteOrder her book: Organize First, Decorate SecondLove this podcast? 💞 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITEInstagramFacebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿*affiliate links that don’t affect your price at all!

In this special Mother’s Day edition of Let’s Slow Down, Annemarie honors the beautifully messy, deeply meaningful journey of motherhood. With the school year winding down and life feeling especially full, this episode is a gentle reminder to pause and reflect on what truly matters. Annemarie shares 10 simple joys of parenting that often get lost in the hustle but hold the power to ground us in love and gratitude.Whether you're a new mom navigating sleepless nights or raising teens with full calendars, this episode will encourage you to slow down, savor the sweet moments, and celebrate the small, meaningful experiences that bring unexpected joy.Resources & Mentions:📚 Simplicity Parenting by Kim John Payne*🎧 Ep. 15 Simplicity Parenting with author Kim John Payne🎧 Ep. 34: How to Incorporate Simplicity In Your Life  Love this podcast? 💞🌟 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order Here*Have feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿*affiliate link, doesn’t affect your price

Change is hard! What if you could deal with whatever life throws at you in a way that naturally supports your well-being, with intention and ease?In today’s episode we are exploring how to navigate life’s inevitable changes and uncertainties with author, speaker, and holistic change practitioner Lisa DeAngelis, author of Embracing the Unknown: Exploring the Pathways to Change. Together, we explore the power of pausing, shifting perspective, and recognizing the resources already within and around us. Lisa invites us to view our lives as ecosystems—imperfect yet full of potential—and offers practical wisdom on how to create space to thrive, no matter what season we’re in.Connect with Lisa HERE.For a $0.99 copy of Lisa’s ebook, use coupon code ‘SLOWDOWN’ HERE. Love this podcast? 💞 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿*affiliate link that doesn’t affect your price at all!

Happy Spring! In this short solo episode, Annemarie reflects on the beauty of the season and invites you to embrace a softer, slower way of living as the days grow longer and nature comes alive. Inspired by the gentle pace of early spring, she encourages you to consider what you might subtract rather than add—what you can release in order to create space for more peace, presence, and joy.Whether it’s taking a mindful walk outside, starting that book you’ve been meaning to read, or simply sitting still in the sunshine, this episode is a gentle reminder to listen to your inner wisdom and let the season guide you toward simplicity and intention.Love this podcast? 💞🌟 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

Today, Dr. Peggy DeLong is back to help us learn methods of cultivating inner peace and relief from anxiety with her ‘Prioritize P.E.A.C.E. Method.’Highlights Include:The importance of a gratitude practice - try using The Five Minute Journal*How gratitude can increase serotonin to help you sleepHow to create inner peace in your world through 5 specific areas of focusThe 4 P’s of mental healthSimple ways to incorporate gratitude and peace in our everyday livesThe power of music on our nervous systemHow walking for exercise also supports mental healthBeing kinder to ourselves and silencing our inner criticDr. DeLong’s previous appearance on Let’s Slow Down:Episode 41: How Practicing Gratitude Can Change Your View of the WorldConnect with Dr. Peggy DeLong here:Peaceful Present, Future FlourishWomen's Wellness Retreat on April 26, 2025The Grateful Day ChallengeBooks Mentioned:Blue Mind*Resources Mentioned:Self-Compassion with Dr. Kristin Neff and Meditation & Emotional Healing with Dr. Tara BrachLove this podcast? 💞🌟 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE InstagramFacebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿*affiliate link that doesn’t affect your price at all!

She’s back! In her 5th appearance on the show, my lifelong friend Gina Roof joins us once again to share her wisdom as a Nutrition & Wellness Health Coach, fitness instructor, and busy mom of three girls. Today we’re talking about something that impacts every aspect of your well-being—sleep. In this episode, we dive into:What happens to your body and mind when you’re “wired but tired” How sleep deprivation affects your mood, energy, food choices, and ability to manage stress The surprising connection between sunlight and better sleep 🌞 Simple, practical ways to create a calming bedtime routine The power of consistency in sleep and wake timesCommon habits that might be sabotaging your sleep without you even realizing it Why good sleep is essential for your body to rest, restore, and repair at the cellular levelIf you want to feel more in control of your choices, calm your nervous system, and stop running on fumes—this episode is your gentle wake-up call to start prioritizing rest.Connect with Gina Roof:Nutrition & Wellness Health Coach of Simply Balanced with Gina:simplybalancedwithgina.comIG @simplybalancedwithginaLove this podcast? 💞🌟 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

If you find that your health and well-being take a back seat to everyone else’s in your life because you’re busy balancing family and a career, then this episode is for you. Today’s guest is Terry Tateossian, fitness & lifestyle coach, personal trainer, nutritionist, hormone specialist, emotional eating coach, and podcast host of the How Good Can It Get Podcast.  Terry is a successful entrepreneur at The House of Rose (THOR), mother of two teenagers, and a leading advocate for healthy living. She is passionate about sharing her story of losing over 80lbs in her mid-forties and helping empower others to make positive changes in their lives - no matter the age.In this episode, you’ll hear the story of Terry’s powerful life transformation from overweight, sick and burned out to healthy and thriving.In this episode, you’ll learn:💫 How slowing down played a key role in Terry’s journey💫 The power of a health coach in creating lasting change💫 Why weight training, nutrition, and mindset work together for success💫 How to overcome self-sabotage and build new habits💫 Why it’s time to treat your life as the BIG event that it is!Terry’s story is real, raw, and incredibly inspiring—you don’t want to miss it! 🎙️💖Love this podcast? 💞🌟 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

My guest today is Adriana Shuman, nutritionist, functional medicine health & wellness strategist, pharmacist, author and entrepreneur. She is the founder of Your Wellness Made Simple and author of THE LIGHT and LIVE WELL: Empowering Habits for Vibrant Health and Unstoppable Energy. Adriana has helped hundreds regain energy, and build a life of vibrant health, unstoppable energy, and lasting confidence because everyone deserves to take charge of their well-being.On today’s episode we talk about:what fuels health vs. what fuels diseasefundamental steps in living well3 reasons why people are stuck in the mindset of creating disease, and how to shift perspective to focus on creating health insteadAdriana’s ‘live well’ methodology and the four areas where we can take steps to proactively participate in our own good healthPre-order Adriana’s new book, Live Well HERE.Connect with her on Instagram and her WEBSITE.Love this podcast? 💞🌟 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

Feeling overwhelmed and stretched too thin? You're not alone. In this episode of Let’s Slow Down, I take a step back to revisit the core principles of slowing down and simplifying life—because even those of us dedicated to intentional living need a reminder now and then!I share the benefits of creating space in your schedule, decluttering your mind and home, and prioritizing rest and connection. We’ll explore how slowing down helps us feel more grounded, reduces stress, and brings more meaning and joy into our lives. Plus, I open up about my own recent struggles with busyness and how I’m reassessing my own daily pace.In This Episode:✔️ Why hustle culture keeps pulling us back in✔️ How slowing down fosters clarity, peace, and deeper connections✔️ The importance of rest, margin, and honoring your intuition✔️ Practical ways to make space in your calendarI’d love to hear how you are navigating your own journey of slowing down! Connect with me and let’s continue this conversation together.Love this podcast? 💞🌟 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of stuff—it’s about creating a home and life that feels lighter, calmer, and more intentional. After nearly a decade on this journey, I now consider myself a minimalist, and today, I’m sharing four things I absolutely don’t miss since simplifying my home.In this episode, we’ll talk about:✔️ The surprising amount of time and money I’ve saved since decluttering✔️ How having less to clean and organize has made life easier✔️ Why a tidy home reduces decision fatigue and boosts mental clarity✔️ The power of eliminating visual clutter for a peaceful, stress-free spaceMinimalism isn’t about having less—it’s about making room for more of what truly matters. Tune in for inspiration to simplify your own space and experience the freedom of a decluttered home!🎧 Listen now & start your journey toward a lighter life!Love this podcast? 💞🌟 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram and Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.

Welcome back to Let’s Slow Down! We’re in the middle of our decluttering series, and today I’m sharing some easy, high-impact decluttering wins to simplify your home. These small but powerful steps have transformed my space, making daily life smoother and more peaceful. If decluttering feels overwhelming, don’t worry—these simple strategies will give you a fresh start and help you kick off spring with ease.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✔️ The power of removing duplicates from your kitchen and closet✔️ How to clear off countertops for an instant transformation✔️ Why avoiding single-use gadgets can reduce clutter✔️ The mindset shift that helps keep clutter from creeping back✔️ The joy of using and appreciating what you already ownLove this podcast? 💞🌟 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

Clutter is one of the biggest barriers to slowing down and living a simple, intentional life. It distracts us, adds stress, and keeps us from feeling calm and focused. Over the past decade, I’ve been on my own decluttering journey—learning, refining, and embracing the process as a lifestyle rather than a one-time event.In this episode, I’m sharing five simple steps to help you start decluttering without overwhelm. If you’ve ever felt like your home is overflowing and you don’t know where to begin, this is for you!✅ Why decluttering isn’t about perfection—it’s about finding your own clutter threshold✅ How to tune in to your space and notice when too much is too much✅ 5 easy, actionable ways to start decluttering today✅ How to make decluttering a lifestyle instead of a stressful chore✅ Why now is the perfect time to reset and simplify your homeLove this podcast? 💞🌟 Leave a review and share it with a friend!Follow Let’s Slow Down:WEBSITE Instagram and Facebook PageOrder Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order HereHave feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at hello@letsslowdown.net.Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿