Cohesive Home Podcast : Minimalism | Families | Adventure | Intentional Living

Interested in the zero or low-waste lifestyle? Need some fresh inspiration to jumpstart your journey? In episode 58 of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Melissa chats with Lindsey McCoy, co-founder of Plaine Products, a sustainable, vegan, and non-toxic hair and body line. Lindsey shares her drive to start the company and practical ideas for living sustainably. In this episode: Companies to check-out for your zero-waste lifestyle: https://us.whogivesacrap.org brushwithbamboo.com dentallace.com Try Plaine Products and get 20% off your order with code “cohesivehome”. Head to plaineproducts.com to shop!   Follow Plain Products on Instagram @Plaineproducts

Interested in a more peaceful way of parenting and a simpler home experience for your children? In episode 57 of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Kate interviews Simone Davies, the Montessori teacher and blogger behind the popular website The Montessori Notebook, which helps families bring the Montessori Method into their daily life. She's also about to release her new book The Montessori Toddler, a positive parenting guide to raising little people. If you're scratching your head and asking, what's Montessori? You will learn so much from this episode. Even if you're familiar with the method, Simone shares so much wisdom and practical advice for implementing it in your home.     In this episode: What is the Montessori method? Simone's story and how she got started with it What inspired Simone to write The Montessori Toddler How parents can incorporate Montessori into their home and parenting The benefits of the Montessori method, and how you can get them at home, even if you don't send your kids to one of the schools Simone's own take on living simply and her new interest in wabi-sabi   Where to find Simone: Instagram: @themontessorinotebook Web: themontessorinotebook.com

In episode 56 of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Kate and Melissa tackle a listener question about living intentionally.   A listener said “How do you all figure out how to live intentionally every day instead of reactively? I know what my values are, but I’m not sure how to be purposeful on a daily basis and actually living them. Listen on as we share our top 5 ways to be intentional in your days:    Know your values  Set your non-negotiables  Organize your days  Be willing to say no  Watch your mindset Thank you for listening to episode 56! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on iTunes or share it with a friend. Thank you so much to our sponsor, Care/of! Take advantage of this month’s special New Year offer! For 50% off your first month of personalized Care/of vitamins, go to TakeCareOf.com and enter "cohesivehome50".

Planners, goal setting, and habit shifts with Whitney English in episode 55 of the Cohesive Home Podcast. Whitney English, founder of Day Designer, a business strategist and creator of H.E.A.R.T. Goals, shares her story and wisdom with Kate.   In this episode: Whitney's story and how her business has changed over the years Comparisons on social media and how to not let it affect you How to keep your New Years Resolutions as well as think differently about them Innovative ways to shift habits and create new ones Why it's important to focus on the journey instead of just the end  To connect with Whitney, you can find her:   @whitneyenglish   whitneyenglish.com

Has your family ever been in a total funk where life seems out of sync? In Episode 54 of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Kate and Melissa chat about a concept called soul fever, which happens when life gets overwhelming or something stressful happens. They share how to overcome it with kiddos, as adults, and also as a family. This episode is encouraging and practical and will inspire you to simplify and tighten your family bonds.   Talked about in this episode: * What's soul fever? * Kate's background as a Simplicity Parenting Family Life Coach. Work with Kate 1 on 1. * How to recognize soul fever in your kiddos and a solution to help them "heal" from it * What does soul fever look like in adults? * How Kate and Melissa deal with their own periodic soul fevers * Can a family unit experience soul fever at the same time? Yes! * Best tips for overcoming overwhelm to connect more as a family. * More about the book "Simplicity Parenting"     Thank you to our sponsor Audible! We recommend listening to "Simplicity Parenting" on Audible and let us know what you think! Audible, the most inspiring minds, the most compelling stories. The best place to listen. Get started with a 30-day trial when you go to audible.com/cohesivehome or text [cohesivehome] to 500500 and listen for a change.

  Ever wish you could sit down with a financial expert and get practical advice? Well, we here you! In Episode 53 of the Cohesive Home Podcast, we invited Jessi Fearon, financial expert from Real Life on a Budget, to share her advice for being intentional with finances in 2019. Read on for more.   In this episode: Jessi's personal story with debt and how she conquered $55,000 of it and nearly has her house paid off How to live on a budget AND live by your values The first step you should take to start your debt pay-off journey How to communicate with a partner about money and her number one tip for approaching it in a positive way   Where you can find Jessi: Her Blog and Website Instagram Pinterest Facebook     A big thanks to Warby Parker for sponsoring the Cohesive Home Podcast. Get your stylish and affordable glasses for only $95 delivered straight to your door by heading to HERE to order your try on program today!!

How do you goal set for the New Year? In Episode 52 of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Kate and Melissa give you full access to their goal setting process by talking through 2019 LIVE. The two share their personal, family, and business goals as well as what worked and didn’t work in 2018. This episode is like sitting down with your girlfriends for a fun 2019 planning session; grab your paper and write down your goals too! In this episode: The major goal that Melissa knows she has to accomplish so she can meet her other goals Why 2018 was Kate’s best year yet MUTU - 12 week post-partum recovery program- mutusystem.com How Kate plans to prioritize wellness in 2019 and the major mistake she’s made in the past Melissa shares her family’s plans for 2019 and their next big move Why Kate and her family are choosing to live tiny for 2019 Kate and Melissa’s business goals and how they hope to grow their side hustle You can find her candles at Blokeanddame.com What will Cohesive Home be upto in 2019? Listen to find out and subscribe to our newsletter to catch our survey going out at the end of the month. We need your help! Thank you to Cohesive Home sponsor Care/of. Care/of offers daily personalized vitamin packs with high-quality and researched backed ingredients. We love Care/of because their simple, 5 minute quiz makes choosing the right supplements for your individual needs so easy! Prioritize your health in 2019 by trying Care/of and save 25% using code “COHESIVE HOME.”    

Already feeling stressed by the holidays? Need permission to simplify and celebrate in the way that is best for YOUR family? In this episode, Kate and Melissa share the ways they've uncomplicated their holiday celebrations and how to find traditions that feel right for yours. They also share about how to deal with family that doesn't agree with the way you celebrate and how to keep your values in mind when creating new traditions.   In this episode: > Why Kate and Melissa quit trying so hard > Simple traditions that won't wear you out > Let go of the social and family guilt to do more and be more > Do what's best for your family and forget what the world communicates to you about "perfect" holidays   For new episodes and resources, head to cohesivehome.com for more!  

For Episode 50 of the Cohesive Home Podcast, we're welcoming Jennifer Pepito: homeschooling mom of 7 and owner of Peaceful Press, a homeschooling curriculum and resource shop to the show. Melissa and Jennifer chat about seasons of life and knowing when it's time to make a change, along with the steps they took to make those changes with a large family. Why she chooses essentialism over minimalism and living intentionally as a family while still creating memories together during the holidays.   Even if you're not a homeschooling family, we think you'll be inspired by this conversation and walk away with a few ideas to shape your cohesive home! Stay tuned till the end when she shares a discount code for one of her amazing products.    Connect with Jennifer: Peaceful Press website and Instagram Jennifer on Instagram

Do you know all the ways you can lead a simple life at home? In this episode of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Kate and Melissa share the 4 main ways you can live an intentional and minimal life. The two share about their experiences with capsule wardrobes, zero waste living, clearing their family schedules, and decluttering with plenty of wisdom and tips for your own simple living path! Read on for more:   What's your favorite way to live simply? Capsule wardrobes--for more listen to Episode 13: Minimalist Wardrobes Zero wasters--head to Episode 21 to hear our experiences with zero waste living. Interested in trying a zero-waste shampoo/conditioner/body wash option that Melissa LOVES? Check out Plaine Products and use code: PLAINELOVE for 10% off! Clearing out the family schedule-- head to Episode 06 for more! Decluttering--you know Kate and Melissa have so much to share on this topic! Get your fill by listening to: Episode 31: Change and Decluttering, Episode 34: Minimalism 5 Years Later, Episode 12: Newbie Decluttering Tips, and Episode 2: Generational Clutter.   Challenge: choose one of the above that you're a bit intimidated by and give it a try for 1 week. See if you can make some real, impactful change in your family's lives and email us with the results: hello@cohesivehome.com   Please leave a review on iTunes to let us know what you think of the show and share it with a friend; sharing is caring! Until next time.....  

The Nester is in the (Cohesive) House! Join Kate and Melissa for a chat with Myquillin Smith, better known as the Nester, about how you can create your own Cozy Minimalist Home. You are going to love all of the tips and suggestions she offers.   In this episode: Kate and Melissa share about one of their favorite podcasts: the Friendlier Podcast with Sarah Kopper and Abby Olena, a show in which two incredibly related moms share their favorite recipes, books, and chat about the most relevant topics. It’s like listening to a conversation between two great friends and feeling part of their welcoming community! You can find more here: Listen to the podcast Find them on Instagram   Kate also shares about her newest venture, Streamlined Motherhood. Motherhood not filling your cup like you hoped? Wanting to actually thrive in motherhood instead of just survive? Kate is hosting her own podcast, offering resources, and 1:1 Motherhood Support Sessions to help you live a life that fills your cup! For more head here:   Listen to the podcast or find her on iTunes Get her Mama Wellness Guide and Video (sign-up required) Sign-up for your FREE 30 minute Motherhood Support Session   Melissa now has a YouTube channel! In this episode, she shares about her latest project and how she is creating resources to help support you and your family’s wellness through healthier habits, tricks, and encouragement. Help her reach 100+ followers by the end of this weekend by heading here:   Melissa’s YouTube channel (don’t forget to like and subscribe!) Melissa’s website Find her on Instagram   Interview with the Nester: Melissa spends some time chatting with Myquillin Smith, author and entrepreneur with an eye for creating beautifully imperfect homes. Her latest book, Cozy Minimalist Home, guides readers to creating their own simple, but welcoming space. Where to find the Nester:   Her website Buy her latest book “Cozy Minimalist Home” Follow her on Instagram   Thanks so much for listening to Episode 48 of the Cohesive Home Podcast. We would love for you to subscribe and leave us a review on iTunes!

Have you ever faced a really difficult decision about your kids? In episode 47 of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Melissa and Kate are bringing it with vulnerability and honesty, sharing how they handle difficult situations and decisions. Melissa opens up about her decision to stop homeschooling her kids and what's next for them. Kate shares how the launch of her podcast got pushed back by a death in her family and how she's dealing with both. This episode will help you feel encouraged and less alone in your struggles!   In this episode: Melissa shares why they stopped homeschooling and how she's processing that decision. Kate talks about her struggles recently and why routine matters. They both chat about ways to overcome struggles and make difficult, but needed decisions.   Thanks for listening to Episode 47! Please subscribe at cohesivehome.com and leave us a review on iTunes!  

Homeschooling, planners, and fall routines for the win! Kate and Melissa are back fun and informative episode about how they are working the homeschooling in a small space life. Melissa shares about their transition to apartment living and Kate gives the lowdown on homeschooling in her home on wheels. The two also share their planner systems and how they organize their days. Read on for more.   In this episode: -- Melissa shares their homeschooling curriculum and the places they homeschool during the day. -- Kate real talks life in 200 sq. ft with three little kids and how she homeschools her 7 year old with a toddler underfoot. -- How to REALLY homeschool simply if you’re short on space and time. -- Free spirit Melissa’s super traditional way of tracking her days. -- Kate’s rebellious planner side and the one system she just can’t quit. For episodes, updates, and more, please subscribe on our website cohesivehome.com and receive our FREE guide “7 Steps to Your Cohesive Home.” Thanks for listening!

Has homemaking gotten a bad rap? In Episode 45 of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Melissa and Kate tackle the meaning of the word "homemaker" and update it for today's home creators. They share their own personal experiences with homemaking and their top tips for creating a home of your own, whether you live in a physical home, an apartment, or even a home on wheel; it all counts!   Covered in this episode: *The qualifiers to being a homemaker (big hint: there are none!) *Why you should embrace homemaking *Melissa announces their new home choice and why it's the perfect one for their family *Kate shares her greatest influence when it comes to her minimalist design sense *Melissa talks about how she was raised versus how she runs her own home *Tips for creating a home that is welcoming and fits your family *Why you should outsource *What's coming up this fall for Cohesive Home; a new series on intentional home design for raising families! *Melissa is going back to school for aromatherapy! Contact her with questions or to simply talk oils. *Kate shares her new podcast and upcoming re-launch of The Streamlined Life offering coaching and resources to help mamas to thrive in motherhood; stay tuned for more!   Thank you for listening to episode 45 of the Cohesive Home Podcast. Subscribe on our website for updates, announcements, and more!  

Melissa and Kate are back from their epic break and jumping back into the podcasting saddle with Episode 44 of the Cohesive Home Podcast. In this episode the two share what life was really like behind the scenes and why a break from the podcast was a necessity. They dig into the value of rest and share the major life lessons learned from taking a step back. If you've ever wondered if your life has become too hectic, this episode will give you the courage to put yourself and your family first!   This episode was recorded from Melissa's Oklahoma bungalow and Kate's nomadic home on wheels so please excuse the ambient background rain.    Topics discussed:     --Kate and her family's transition to the full-time travel life --The number one reason why Kate took a step back from her overscheduled life --Kate shares the most crucial step to take to connect deeply with your kids --Melissa shares her family's big news and what it was like to work through an uninspiring season of life -- Why it's so important to find work you love and how this is changing Melissa and her husband's journey --Where you'll find Melissa's family next summer and why it's crucial to not let go of your dreams -- The value of deep rest and assessing your family's needs -- The big dream that Kate and Melissa have for Cohesive Home and are going to make happen in 2019   Thank you for listening to the Cohesive Home Podcast! Will you share it with a friend or leave a review on iTunes? Find us online at cohesivehome.com and Instagram @cohesive_home

In our first interview of 2018 Melissa chats with Grace Druecke of the Bali Market. She shares her inspiration behind her beautifully curated shop and minimalist living journey, as well as tips on how to bring calm and balance into your home. We hope you enjoy this episode! Visit The Bali Market Use discount code COHESIVEHOME for 20% off! Listen to our Less But Better | Bathroom episode. 

No matter their age, all kids crave a space to call their own, whether it's a bunk in a shared room with siblings or their own bedroom. In EP 43, Kate and Melissa share their thoughts on creating kids spaces: from decluttering to design and function. If you have little people in your life, you'll enjoy this laidback chat about giving them a space of their own.    This episode is sponsored by one of our favorite go-to snacks for our kids: KIND bars. You can get your very own box of 10 bars for FREE, just pay shipping, and see why we love them so much. Head to kindsnacks.com/cohesivehome for all the details.    To catch the latest episodes and updates from Cohesive Home, head to cohesivehome.com to subscribe and thanks for listening!  

Overcoming fears and chasing dreams: in episode 42 of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Melissa and Kate share step-by-step how to face down your fears and make progress toward your family's dream. The two unpack some of the hurdles you might face going after a dream and strategies to make it happen. They also share their own personal experiences with facing down fear and encouragement to help you do the same! Head to cohesivehome.com to subscribe for the latest podcast episodes and news. Mentioned in this episode: Keep Your Daydream YouTube and Podcast   Kate on Instagram: @thestreamlinedlife   Melissa on Instagram: @melissarisenhoover   Melissa's shop on Instagram: @blokeanddame    

DISCLAIMER!! We talk about SANTA in this episode. Please do not listen with your children if you don't want any childhood dreams crushed. =) SECOND DISCLAIMER!! Melissa's mic didn't work in this episode so please ignore the sound quality and just know the content of this episode is really good...we promise you'll love it.    In episode 41 of the Cohesive Home podcast, Kate and Melissa chat about how, even with life getting in the way, they are trying to find peace this Christmas season. They talk gifts, Santa, and figuring out how simplicity and Christmas work together for their families. At the end Kate shares a fun life update for her family! Subscribe at cohesivehome.com for the latest updates, with new episodes every other Tuesday!

In Episode 40 of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Kate and Melissa revisit one of their favorite topics: food. In this follow-up to episode Episode 9 "Simple Family Food" the two talk about the latest in their personal food journeys, helpful resources, and thoughts for incorporating minimalism into your food philosophy. Listen on or read more below: Mentioned in this episode:   Oh She Glows cookbook by Angela Liddon   How Not to Die by Dr. Michael McGreger   Rich Roll Interview with Dr. Rhonda Patrick on Longevity, Epigenetics, Microbiome Health & The Difference Between Eating for Long-Term Wellness Versus Performance   Creative QT:  Spend $50 get the NEW Chore Sticks for FREE! Available at www.creativeqt.net on Black Friday thru Sunday, November 26.     Subscribe at cohesivehome.com for the latest updates, with new episodes every other Tuesday!

In another round of our Interview Series, Kate chats with Jeff and Andre Shinabarger-- social entrepreneurs, community builders, and parents with an inspiring view on life. Listen in as Kate talks with them about their views on the connection between minimalism and generosity, showing your kids the world, and overcoming fears. You will love this thoughtful conversation on living purposefully and with less. To find our more about Jeff and Andre Shinabarger:   www.plywoodpeople.com   IG: @plywoodpeople      @loveorwork Buy the book: More or Less

Ever wonder if your life would make a good movie? Or is your life still stuck in the opening credits? In this episode, Kate and Melissa share a unique approach of visualizing your family's life as a story. They share specific steps to implement so that you can move from a mundane life to one full of passion and without regret.    Three major points to think about when imagining your life's story: 1. What are you drawn to? 2. Where have you gone? 3. Where are you going?   More questions to ponder: 1. What's stopping you? 2. What's your plot twist? 3. What is your legacy?   Mentioned in this episode: Donald Miller Storyline conference Rob Bell "Robcast" episode 151 "Sign of Jonah" Melissa's favorite glasses: Warby Parker   More from Kate and Melissa: Kate's blog: The Streamlined Life Melissa's Youtube Channel: Melissa Risenhoover Sign up for new episodes and updates at cohesivehome.com

What would it be like to live with no car? In today’s episode, Melissa interviews Sarah Kopper. She’s the co-host of both the Friendlier and Family Pedals Podcasts, she’s an advocate for car-free family transportation, a writer, and a mother of two. We hope you will be inspired and look at bicylcing as a family totally differently!  Family Pedals Podcast Sarah's Instagram @FamilyPedals Friendlier Podcast

Kate and Melissa are back with another short and sweet Q&YAY! In Q&YAY episode 5, they answer the listener question, "how do you do it all?" The two openly share how the last few months have gone for them individually as Cohesive Home has grown. They also talk about their plans for Cohesive Home over the next several months and how running a business impacts their families. What We're Into Now:   Kate: "The End of Absence: Reclaiming What We've Lost in a World of Constant Connection" by Michael Harris   Melissa: "The Year of Living Danishly" by Helen Russell   Thanks for listening! Head to www.cohesivehome.com to sign up for updates and the latest podcast episodes.

  In episode 38, Melissa and Kate team up with 4 other lady podcasts to chat about community. The two share their thoughts on building online community, ways to find your people online, and the value of believing in abundance over scarcity. Let's jump in!     People/topics mentioned in this episode:     scarcity mindset vs. abundance mindset: read this article from The Simple Dollar     Muse and the Catalyst Podcast     Erin Tannehill of A Welder's Wife     Idea of community over competition from Rising Tide Society         To learn more about the other podcasts in our round-up, read on:     25% Friends / Sarah and Kim are 100% friends but only 25% alike. They're two girls who appreciate their similarities, respect their differences, and always find common ground. On their podcast they chat about everything from serious and deep topics like vulnerability and relationships to the fun and silly like their favorite treats and their love for their pets.     Friendlier / It's like eavesdropping on a phone call between Sarah and Abby, long time friends—and now parents—who love to talk, read, and eat. Every episode they review books, share recipes, and explore a sometimes random/sometimes serious topic.     Girl Next Door / Listening to The Girl Next Door Podcast is like catching up with girl friends over a cup of coffee or a cocktail. Former next door neighbors Erica and Kelsey invite you to join them for candid, hilarious conversations about raising a family, marriage, living with intention, pursuing creativity, and building community.     Minimalist Moms / Minimalist Moms is a bi-weekly conversation between two minimalist-living moms, Megan Ericson and Diane Boden. Our goal is to inspire you to think more and do with less.       Subscribe to the Cohesive Home Podcast at cohesivehome.com. Thank you for listening!

The Cohesive Home Q&YAY is a quick and feisty chat with Melissa and Kate to kick your weekend off right. In this episode, the two answer the question: “As a mom I find it hard to meet other like minded mamas. Do you have any advice on how to make this easier?” Listen to the full episode to hear their answer as well as what they're reading and thinking about this week or read more below: Cohesive Homies Community Groups: sign up online, make some new friends, and build your community! Put yourself out there Approach someone you could see yourself being friends with, but also be open-minded Use your kids' activities to search for like-minded people Don't be afraid to share your story and be vulnerable You will find your people! Kate is reading: "Being There: Why Prioritizing Motherhood in the First Three Years Matters" by Erica Komisar LCSW Melissa is crushing hard on: the entire East Coast. Contact her if you want to help host her visit to your New England hometown! Thank you for listening! We'll be back Tuesday with another full-length episode. In the meantime, follow us on Instagram @cohesive_home and subscribe to updates at cohesivehome.com.  

Join Melissa as she speaks with Larisa Barth in the latest edition of our interview series. Larisa is a mother, entrepreneur, maker, and minimalist living simply, zero waste, and intentionally in Wyoming. She shares how tragedy in her family's story ultimately changed her direction and led her to start a non-profit serving her community. That's not the end of her story though, but the beginning of a new chapter in which Larisa and her family realize what they really value is intentional simplicity and learn the power of less. Listen in to hear more of her inspiring story! SHOW NOTES: Larisa's Etsy shop: Joy in the Morning Designs PROMO CODE: 'cohesivehome' Larisa on Instagram: @joyinthemorn Recommended Reading: Joy of Less Held Your Hole Life   To join in the GIVEAWAY of a "Live Your Values" bracelet by Joy in the Morning Designs, head to our Instagram @cohesive_home  (ENDS 9/19/17) To sign-up for updates and the latest episodes form Cohesive Home AND get a FREE copy of our 24 page guide "7 Steps to your Cohesive Home", head here

We're back with a follow-up to our popular Episode 11: Planning. In this episode we share our favorite ways to plan and stay organized while raising kids and juggling all the things we do. We talk about how our ideas of organization and planning have changed since last year and what's new for each of us. Head to cohesivehome.com/cohesivehomepodcast/37 for show notes and to sign-up for all latest Cohesive Home news! Melissa loves her padfolio, which she got from Target, and making lots of To Do lists. You can find the same one here. Thank you so much to our sponsor for today's show, KIND Snacks. Head to www.kindsnacks.com/cohesivehome to get your FREE 10 sample snack box today!

Ever wonder what a day in the life looks like for Melissa and Kate? In Q & YAY Episode 3 the girls chat candidly about what a normal day looks like for each of them. They share about homeschooling and juggling three kids each while keeping a podcast going, spoiler alert: it involves coffee. #momlife  For show notes go to cohesivehome.com/cohesivehomepodcast/qandyay003 This episode is brought to you by Patreon. Head to Patreon to support the Cohesive Home Podcast!

Is it fall yet? In a land of pumpkin spice lattes and cozy throws, Kate and Melissa chat about a different way to create comfort in this week's episode. Calling it "homeyness," the two mamas talk about what really makes them feel at home and the art of creating that feeling yourself. Find show notes and subscribe for updates at cohesivehome.com/cohesivehomepodcast/36 

How do you deal with a partner who is a maximalist? In this Q & YAY episode, Melissa and Kate answer a listener's question on how to deal with a partner who will not declutter and share a surprising perspective. They also chat about their current favorite podcasts and music you should know. Listen now or read more below: It's not on our timing Deal with your own stuff first before requiring that of your partner We can’t change people, bottom line. Change comes from within! Kate recommends the Muse and the Catalyst podcast, hosted by Megan and Aaron Schiller. Melissa loves Zach Winters' new album To Have You Around This episode is brought to you by Patreon. Head to Patreon to support the Cohesive Home Podcast!

What did you want to be when you grew up? In this episode, Kate and Melissa look back at their childhood dreams and compare them to where they are now. They also chat about their own kids' dreams, how to help your kids believe in the possibilities of dreaming big, and also why it matters to do it as a family. Head to cohesivehome.com/cohesivehomepodcast/35 for show notes and to subscribe to the latest episodes and updates! Thank you so much to this episode's sponsor: KIND Snacks! Head to kindsnacks.com/cohesivehome to get your FREE 10 Snack Variety Pack.    

Join Kate and Melissa for the first ever Q & Yay, a short chat where the two answer a listener question, share what they're loving right now, and update you on Cohesive News. These super short episodes are the perfect kickstart to your weekend and will be posted every Friday! On this first episode, Melissa and Kate answer the question: “How can I edit my creative ideas so I’m not running into a rat race of my own creation?” Listen to the episode to find out more! Find show notes at: cohesivehome.com/cohesivehomepodcast/qandyay001 

What does the practice of minimalism look like 5 years later? In Episode 34, Melissa and Kate kick-off the third season with a look back at their minimalism journeys. The two share what they got right, what they wish the had done differently, and the advice you need to know if you're just starting out simplifying. Head to cohesivehome.com/cohesivehomepodcast/34 for show notes, to sign-up for updates and hear the latest podcast episodes, now airing two times per week!

After a few weeks off from recording, Melissa and Kate are back chatting about the value of self-care in their daily routines. They share how they establish better self-care habits, the importance of postpartum self-care, and how to reset after major changes. Sign up for updates and the latest episodes at cohesivehome.com!   Check out our Cohesive Homies Group board HERE!

Some dreams just take time and perseverance; on this episode of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Melissa and Kate share practical tips for staying the course. They chat about the benefits of community, communication, and flexibility. They also make a big announcement at the end of the episode! Talked about in this episode: The Cohesive Home Family Philosophy Worksheet ...and cat hair. Sign up at cohesivehome.com for the latest podcast episodes and resources.

Katrina Onstad, Canadian journalist and author of "The Weekend Effect" joins Kate on the podcast to chat about how to create a happier and more relaxed weekend. She shares the latest research as well as her own personal experiences, and you'll love this laid-back chat about the importance of a relaxed childhood for your kids, how to cut back on work AND be more productive, the value of getting out in nature, why being social (in person) matters, and more. Visit Katrina on her website Buy Katrina's book "The Weekend Effect" here. Sign up for updates and more on our website at cohesivehome.com.

Big changes equals big purging: In this episode Melissa welcomes Kate back to the podcast after her maternity leave. The friends chat about Kate and her new baby as well as Melissa's new home and how these big life changes are prompting some much needed decluttering sessions. But how do they tackle it all? Listen and find out!   Things we chat about: Melissa's blog: Ourpeaceofwildthings.com Kate's blog: Thestreamlinedlife.com The Rich Roll podcast

From Canada to Argentina (and beyond) in an Earthroamer: Josh and Jenna are the inspiring couple behind the website Nomad Yoga Family. Although the couple had it all--you know, a thriving yoga studio, their dream home, beautiful children, and plenty of international travel--they decided in 2015 to sell-up and embrace a nomadic lifestyle. They now live in an Earthroamer with their two kiddos and travel to yoga studios throughout North America and beyond to offer business consultations and to teach. For more info on Josh and Jenna head to Cohesivehome.com

From California Dreaming to East Coast Homesteading: in today’s episode, Melissa chats with the family behind the homesteading blog and YouTube channel Sew the Land. In 2016, Lorraine, Jason, and their daughter, Penelope, moved cross-country from California to North Carolina in search of fertile land and a new dream. From working in the fashion industry and computer drafting to becoming new homesteaders, the couple has embraced a life of gratitude, minimalism, and connection to the land. Subscribe to the Cohesive Home newsletter to catch the latest podcast episodes, feature articles, and updates from us at cohesivehome.com. Find Show Notes HERE

Cait Flanders is a finance blogger, a minimalist, and the co-host of the Budget and Cents podcast. In 2011, she decided to get serious about paying off her 30,000 in debt and began blogging her progress. When she paid off the last of it in 2013, she further experimented with hacking her life by successfully completing a two year shopping ban, got rid of 75% of her belongings to live more simply, and started the podcast Budget and Cents with Carrie Smith. To catch the latest episodes of the Cohesive Home Podcast, make sure to subscribe at cohesivehome.com. Podcast music: Fernweh (Shore) by Zach Winters

What makes a cohesive home? In the 30th episode of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Melissa and Kate share tips for identifying your family’s values, creating a happier home, and living simply. They reflect back on the last year of podcasting and offer encouragement for your journey, wherever you may be on it. Subscribe to the podcast on cohesivehome.com or your favorite listening app to catch the latest episodes!

Johnny cakes, locusts, and creating homes: in episode 29, Kate and Melissa share the lessons they've learned about living simply from reading the "Little House" book series with their children. The two chat about everything from free-range play and responsibility for kids, keeping foods simple, and the risk with buying things on credit. Melissa also shares some exciting news, and Kate gives an update on her pregnancy. Head over to cohesivehome.com to subscribe and receive an email for the latest podcast episodes and news from Cohesive Home!   Things mentioned in this show:  Melissa's Blog Kate's Blog Kirk's post

Simplifying our homes by choosing quality over quantity: in this episode, Melissa and Kate start a new series in which they chat about applying the philosophy of "less but better" to the family bathroom. The two share how they have simplified their bathrooms over the years and ways in which they are consciously choosing better products and avoiding consumerism. Kate and Melissa also share their love of Turkish towels and chat about a minimalist company worth checking into: the Bali Market. For more information, visit the show notes at cohesivehome.com and subscribe on your favorite podcast player for new episode updates!

Toss the 10 step decluttering guides and tailor your simplicity approach to YOUR Values: In this episode, Melissa and Kate explore the idea of family-sized minimalism inspired by individual values. They walk you through the steps of figuring out your own values and how to purposefully apply them to your home and life. The two also chat about the impact of living simply with children and practical tips for implementing minimalism in a family home. For updates and new episodes, subscribe to the Cohesive Home Podcast on iTunes or on our website cohesivehome.com     59m8j5m8

Would you ever give up social media? In this episode, Melissa shares how she recently deleted her Instagram account and what life has been like post-social media. Kate shares her own struggles to cut back on tech use and the two mamas refer back to a previous podcast episode on technology, Episode 3. Kate and Melissa share some of the reasons why going tech-light is in alignment with living minimally and why you should evaluate your own use. Practicing minimalism is about more than getting rid of physical clutter, but also shedding any time commitments or habits that lessen life quality. For links mentioned in this episode, head to http://www.cohesivehome.com/cohesivehomepodcast/26. Subscribe to the Cohesive Home Podcast on iTunes to hear the latest episodes!

The mamas chat about the must have items for your baby and why you should consider going minimalist with baby gear. Whether you don't have kids or have a house full of them, you'll enjoy this lighthearted and silly episode on the benefits to starting your family out with a minimalist mindset. Kate and Melissa also share about Basal Baby, a new subscription bundle service for newborn clothes and give out a special discount code for the Cohesive Home community. Subscribe on iTunes or our website to receive updates on the latest episodes!

In this episode, the two couples chat about what it takes to achieve dreams while also raising a family. They share their stories as well as chat about what it means to be in a supportive partnership, how it's not always possible to chase dreams and what to do in the meantime, and the role of individual dreams vs. family dreams. The husbands, Brandon and Kirk, also share some words of wisdom for supporting a partner starting a new business and their tips on how to mix marriage and business. Stay until the end of the podcast when Brandon and Kirk drop a big announcement.   Subscribe on iTunes and on our website cohesivehome.com to catch the latest episodes of the Cohesive Home podcast!

In Episode 23 of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Kate and Melissa share their thoughts on simplifying resolutions and instead encourage you to focus on internal change. They chat about the ups and downs of 2016, popular resolutions for 2017, and ways to make habit changes an intentional part of your everyday instead of once a year. The CH mamas also review the new  "Joy of Less" journal by Francine Jay and give the details for a giveaway. Make sure to subscribe to the podcast to catch the latest episodes! 

In Episode 22 of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Melissa and Kate share the ways each of their families handle spending and how they align finances with their individual values. They also share a few tips for budgeting and cutting back on expenses to create a more purposeful financial approach. Check back in January 2017 for the next episode of the Cohesive Home Podcast and subscribe at cohesivehome.com for updates!

In Episode 21 of the Cohesive Home Podcast, Kate and Melissa chat about creating a more sustainable home through zero waste living. They share some easy tips and resources for reducing waste and also challenge you to try it out yourself. If you've ever wondered how to take minimalism to the next level or if you've ever worried about your environmental impact, then you'll enjoy this episode. Subscribe to the Cohesive Home Podcast on iTunes to catch the latest episodes every Friday! And sign up on our website to receive updates via email!