Optimistically Overwhelmed

DeDe & Chelsea are BACK with a fresh new season, and are ready to help each other (and YOU) stay “Optimistically Overwhelmed!”  ❤️  The ladies have missed this podcast tribe and couldn't wait to get back behind the microphone.   After they catch up (where in the world have they been?!?) DeDe and Chelsea share their beauties … starting with Chelsea's Back-to-School theme.  You also won't want to miss a special “Make it a Claudine Day” call-in.     DeDe finishes up the episode with a beauty about gratitude, and shares a classic story about optimism and reminds us we can all find blessings in our lives (even admist the trials).     Have a great day … Go Be Great … and Shine bright!

DeDe and Chelsea were thrilled to interview an amazing life coach for teens on this week's new episode.  Lindsay (from Youth Rising Coach) is not only a life coach, but a busy mother of six from Prince Edward Island (hello … dreamy!!).   One of the many things Lindsay is passionate about in her work is giving parents some “tools” to help them with their teenagers, and it was clear to DeDe and Chelsea that it was EXACTLY what they needed to hear.  Tune in and listen to Lindsay's 3 important shifts that parents can make when dealing with their children. The ladies know their listeners are going to love and listen (and re-listen) to Lindsay's advice and tips.  You can also find the Youth Rising Coach on YouTube, her website, and on Instagram! (see links below) Hope you all have a wonderful week … Go shine BRIGHT!   Episode Links: Youth Rising website Youth Rising YouTube channel @youthrisingcoach on Instagram

Join in and listen as DeDe & Chelsea chat about their latest “beauties!”  In this episode DeDe brings in another surprise call-in …. someone that brought some “glitter” to her family's life in 2021.  DeDe describes what she learned about opening her heart (even when she didn't think she had space) and about the importance of having REAL-life connections. Chelsea is READY for springtime and shares what “beauty” she has found in this new season.  Springtime is amazing and by observing it we can  see so many real-life applications. Thank you for joining the ladies … they are so happy to have you in their “tribe” of listeners!

Hooray!   DeDe & Chelsea are back after a little “spring break” … and they have missed their tribe! Come listen in as they catch up and share their latest beauties.  Chelsea's beauty comes from the concept of “putting on your OWN oxygen mask first” (like in the airplane safety instructions), and what she's recently learned about prioritizing our health, reaching out for help, and making sure we have enough “oxygen” to live our purpose. DeDe shares some sweet thoughts about being better friends, and making real connections.  We all know it's hard to fit more into our lives, but we should take the time to make those connections and find joy in the process. Have a great week everyone … Go shine BRIGHT!   Episode Links: Brooke Romney post: “It's time to stop just being friendly, a start being a friend”

Welcome to another new episode of Optimistically Overwhelmed … where DeDe and Chelsea hunt for “beauties” and share them with their tribe! Chelsea chats about how easy it can be to fall into a “comparison trap,” but then how freeing it can be to focus only on your OWN road and journey (instead of someone in the “lane” next to you). When she can't control what is going on in the world DeDe says she can either be defeated/depressed or she can make what small difference she can and “Rise Up!”   The ladies hope you enjoy this episode and feel so grateful for your support!  Please share with friends and spread the “beauty!”   Episode Links - Courtney: Beyond the Cake episode with Charity Lighten 

DeDe and Chelsea are excited to share this new episode with the tribe.  They are the first to admit that they can't do life alone - we all need "experts" to turn to when we have questions or struggles.  Introducing a fun, new concept to our show ... "phone-a-friend!"  During her beauty DeDe phones a surprise "expert" to help talk her through a current situation and to get some helpful advice.  You won't want to miss their sweet discussion, and the realization that when you are pouring SO much of yourself into others you need to also be drinking and filling yourself. It's hard to believe but we've all reached the 2-year milestone of the pandemic!  Chelsea shares a subtle lesson she's learned from the last two years about "reframing" our days and not attaching fixed labels (like "good day" or "bad day").   Come and listen in - and don't forget to share with your friends!

Welcome to another brand new episode of Optimistically Overwhelmed!  We are all effected by the scary news in the world right now, but DeDe and Chelsea agree that this is exactly when we NEED to find beauties around us and share them.   Elephants are amazing animals and can teach us so much!  Chelsea shares some lessons she learns about sisterhood from female elephants and the way they protect and encircle each other. DeDe chats about boundaries, and some pretty big changes she made after re-evaluating her priorities.  And she shares a hilarious way to think about our roles “in the band” and the importance of evaluating/prioritizing so we are NOT a grumpy tambourine player in the back.   Episode links: “3 Ways to Set Boundaries” by Brene Brown

On this episode DeDe and Chelsea are thrilled to introduce their listeners to the amazing Adriene.  This mother of 4 shares with the ladies her journey from homeschooling her children in her converted red barn schoolhouse to sharing her talents and heart with other children in the community.  From the lessons and work ethic she learned from her immigrant grandparents to the passion Adriene has for igniting children's imaginations … you will fall in love with her big heart as she shares about her life. Like so many of us, Adriene had to pivot during the pandemic with her small business and she chats with the ladies about the beauty that came from that pivot (for her family AND her business).   You also won't want to miss Adriene describing the process and experience she had writing (and publishing) an illustrated children's book with her four children!  (“The Magic Maple Tree” )   Episode Links: - Adventures in the Schoolhouse:  Website, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook - Find "The Magic Maple Tree" book here

Join DeDe and Chelsea for another new episode!  Chelsea shares what she learned about focusing on the “buds” (and not just the “roses” and “thorns” in our lives), and how much hope those potential buds are bringing her as she looks ahead to 2022.   Self-love is something the ladies believe strongly in, and DeDe explains why, what type of self-love they are referring to, and (most importantly) how to FIND that self-love.   As always, the ladies LOVE feedback from their tribe … feel free to reach out to them and share your insights into “nurturing the buds” and “self love!”

Episode Notes:   After their winter “break” DeDe and Chelsea are back on the mics with a new episode. The ladies have missed their tribe, and couldn't wait to get this 2022 party started! DeDe & Chelsea begin the episode by each sharing a “beauty” that described 2021 … what they learned and discovered during another crazy year.  After that time of reflection the ladies share how they are looking ahead to '22, and what goals they are reaching for.     Episode links: - Book, The Paris Library, by Janet Skeslien Charles - Book, The Long Winter, by Laura Ingall's Wilder - Google's “Year in Search” video

DeDe & Chelsea were thrilled to finally sit down and have a long chat with their friend Jenny for today's new episode.  They covered everything from intentional parenting to the importance of doing hard things, pivoting during COVID and giving yourself an “off-season.”  Plus SO SO SO much more. Come and listen in, and be inspired by Jenny's nuggets of wisdom, stories, and positive attitude!   Episode Links Jenny's interview with Two Average Girls podcast

DeDe and Chelsea hope everyone had an AMAZING Thanksgiving, and wanted to let the “tribe” know how grateful they are for their incredible support and loyal listening!! On this new episode DeDe & Chelsea both base their “beauties” on the upcoming holiday season!  Chelsea shares a family tradition that helps her stay on top of the busy month, and offers other suggestions to “Keep Calm and Merry On.”   Christmas time is DeDe's FAVORITE season - so you will definitely find her “Dancing in December!”  DeDe focuses this episode on the importance of gratitude, and how it can bring so much joy to the season when we open our eyes to the beauty around us, and when we look outside of ourselves.     Episode Links: “Live in Thanksgiving Daily” by Joseph B. Wirthlin

DeDe & Chelsea could not be more thrilled to be back with the “tribe” this week on a brand new episode!   DeDe's “beauty” focuses on real-life connection, and asks us all “what kind of ‘influencer' are you?”  And what are you letting influence you?  DeDe reflects back on the last few weeks and gives wonderful examples of how she was “influenced” by real experiences and real people.   Chelsea shares what she's learned recently about “emotional intelligence” and about a few characteristics found in emotionally intelligent people.  She breaks down one characteristic in particular … the ability to fail (or FALL!) and try again.   *Don't forget - we'd LOVE to hear from you!  You can email us at optimisticallyoverwhelmed@gmail.com   Episode Links: - “Why emotionally intelligent people still follow Colin Powell's 13 Rules for Leaders” by Bill Murphy Jr. - Post about “failing” by Simon Sinek   ALSO - check out the *Major* Beauty Counter deal this month with code CLEANFORALL20. DeDe's link Chelsea's link 

DeDe & Chelsea are so excited to be back with their tribe and sharing their latest “beauties” on this new episode!    Since challenging us all to “check our temperature” and where we are at DeDe has been doing some re-alining and asking herself who she is when the world isn't watching.  On this episode she shares some “mini” beauties and questions that have helped her with “Faithing It Til' She Makes It.”   November is a great time to discuss gratitude, and Chelsea shares some new thoughts on how to make “Gratitude Grow” like a weed and spread.  She challenges the tribe to find things to be grateful for in places you don't normally look, and shares the amazing power that comes from mindfully practicing gratitude.     Episode Links: - The ladies would LOVE to hear from you ... feedback, YOUR beauties, and more.  You can email them at optimisticallyoverwhelmed@gmail.com   DeDe & Chelsea wanted to share something they both are obsessed with - the products AND the company ... Beauty Counter. The month of November you can get 20% off (including the holiday gift sets!) with the code "CLEANFORALL20."  You can find out more at their sites below: DeDe's Consultant page Chelsea's Consultant page    

DeDe and Chelsea can't wait for you to meet their amazing guest, Bre, on today's episode!  Bre's story of pivoting after the pandemic hit, and building a life that she loves will inspire and touch you.  After DeDe was introduced to Bre, and sat down to hear her experience DeDe KNEW that this amazing woman needed to share her story of strength and resilience with all of you.   Come listen and fall in love with this amazing hustler, momma and wife! Episode Links: Bre's Website Bre's Instagram

Are you ready for some deep-thinking?!?! :)    DeDe and Chelsea are coming at you with some self-reflecting questions in this week's new episode.     After her family's recent vacation, Chelsea couldn't stop thinking about the beauty and inspiration she found at Walden Pond in Concord, MA.  In this episode she talks about the beauty of quiet, and finding a place (or a time!) to recharge, reflect and be inspired.   DeDe then leads a conversation on happiness, and how to ask yourself what your baseline happiness “temperature” is.  When life gets hard, what can we do to get that baseline back up to the perfect temperature?     Come listen in, and feel free to share this episode with friends!    Episode Links - “Where's Your Walden?” by The Walden Woods Project - “How to (Still) Be Happy” on Science Rules! with Bill Nye

100 episodes!  100?!?!  DeDe and Chelsea are celebrating BIG on this milestone episode with ….. (drum roll) …. a surprise guest!!!   Join DeDe, Chelsea (and their guest) as they recount some of their favorite “beauties” from the last 99 episodes.     The ladies agree that they feel so blessed to have this platform to share positive, uplifting, and inspiring messages with their tribe.  It's been one heck of a journey, and has stretched them WAY out of their comfort zones.   THANK YOU to you amazing listeners for your incredible support!   Please join them on this fun episode (which, as always, has lots of laughing and lots of tears)!

DeDe finally joined the “40 club” a few weeks ago and the ladies decided to do a fun/unique episode about what they learned in their 30's.  They laughed, they cried, and they reminisced about the beautiful and the hard (and everything in-between).    DeDe & Chelsea each shared & discussed some (of the many!) lessons they learned … and they hope that no matter what decade YOU are in that you can learn, relate to, laugh, or cry with them!

The ladies are excited to share their latest “beauties” on this week's new episode.  As life “picks up” and as they are trying to remember how to “juggle the juggle,” DeDe and Chelsea are still looking for inspiration and optimism to share with this tribe.    After watching her soccer kids play defense Chelsea talks about the vital role of a defender when it comes to sports, and when it comes to our families.  Although defenders rarely get the glory, their incredible efforts determine the outcome of the “games.”   DeDe opens up about an exciting opportunity from years ago that she let pass by, and that she often regrets missing out on.  But after watching the recent “LulaRich” documentary she shares how glad she was she did what was right for her and reminds us that we can't be ALL the things.   Episode Links - Amber Robin instagram: AmberRobinStands - Amber Robin Podcast: Latter-day Families STAND Podcast - "LulaRich" documentary on Amazon Prime

After a week away DeDe and Chelsea are SO excited to be back on their microphones and sharing their latest “beauties.”     Chelsea is here to tell you that no matter what the “weather” we can always “B.Y.O.S” (or Bring Your Own Sunshine!).  After hearing that phrase on her workout (thanks Robin!) she couldn't get it out of her mind, and it helped her (more than once) change her day around.  You don't have to wait for the sun to be shining (or your life to be better) to have a great day!   DeDe then reminds us of the amazing lessons we can all learn from a classic princess … Cinderella.  And that even though we have the right to complain with the unknown or hard times we face, we should still hope and have faith that everything will be okay. 

September 9th marks nine years since Chelsea's oldest sister, Claudine, passed away.  Last year they released a special episode (Episode 59) where they interviewed Claudine's husband & oldest son, and invited their listeners to join them in providing small acts of service on Claudine's behalf to #MakeItAClaudineDay.     This year DeDe & Chelsea are so honored to share another “Make it a Claudine Day” episode.  This time they had the privilege of sitting down and interviewing Brooke, Claudine's daughter-in-law that she never met.  Not only will the listeners be touched by Brooke's unique perspective of joining a family after they suffered such a loss, but they will also love Brooke's sweet and beautiful heart as she shares experiences that connect her to Claudine.   The ladies also loved discussing Brooke's incredible photography business, the hard work that goes into creating a business like that, and her business name that has a sweet nod to Claudine.  (“Claud Nine Photography”)   Please come and listen in to this special episode … and share with friends!  The world could certainly use some Claudine joy & light.   Episode links: Claud Nine Photography website, and Instagram Optimistically Overwhelmed, Episode 59 (Sep 4, 2020): "Make it a Claudine Day"

DeDe & Chelsea do a check in on their “Basics+Balance” this week before they get to the latest results of their “beauty hunting!”     The ladies know how a shift in perspective can change your whole day, and DeDe's beauty focuses on pointing out what went right in her day (and in her family's day).   Chelsea shares her thoughts on having inner critics, and what she learned from the Disney movie “Luca” about the power that comes from NAMING that inner critic.

The ladies are back for another new episode!  Join DeDe and Chelsea as they discuss their latest “beauties.”     Many of us have heavy hearts as we watch so many in our world hurting right now, and Chelsea discusses how she wants to handle the helpless feelings that the news brings.   DeDe leads an interesting discussion about the 4 roles that are in every great story, and how we get to choose which of those roles/characters we can play in OUR lives.   Episode Links - “Are You A Hero, Victim, Villain or Guide?” with Donald Miller 

“Hey Look Ma, [we] made it!!!”  DeDe & Chelsea survived the summer and are kicking off the new school year with this latest episode.  The ladies catch up and share their excitement at sending their kids off to school, and each discuss their families' Back-to-School “themes.”     While the ladies picked these themes in hopes of inspiring, encouraging, and guiding their kids … they also work as personal reminders to THEM, and they hope that their tribe will feel the same!   Episode links - “Everything is Figureoutable: My Oprah Supersoul Session” by Marie Forleo  - “Everything is Figureoutable” book by Marie Forleo

On today's new episode DeDe & Chelsea begin with a re-cap of their time on Catalina Island with a group of 100 teenage girls!  (Spoiler alert: They survived … and it was awesome!)   Chelsea then shares a continuation of her beauty from last episode (about resilience), and focuses more on how to help the YOUTH today become more resilient and prepared to face challenges.  She explains what a “cobra effect” is and lists some tips we can all use to build that all-so-important resilience in our kids.     DeDe's beauty is an *actual* physical beauty she saw at camp, and she relates how that beautiful moment she witnessed reminder her that the impossible is possible.  She goes on to recount some lessons she learned at camp and the importance of the moments that reconnect us with ourselves.     Episode notes: "Resilience - Spiritual Armor for Today's Youth" by Elder Lynn G. Robbins "Building Resilience: Eight Tips for Parents" by Wendy Ulrich and Lyle Burrup "Resilience guide for parents and teachers" by the American Psychological Association

DeDe & Chelsea are checking in on the “tribe” with this brand new episode!  They hope everyone is enjoying their summer - with lots of family, sun and fun!   Raise your hand if you ever think, “there is not enough TIME!”  During this episode DeDe discusses how she is trying to make friends with “time,” and shares how easy it is to blame time … when the real problem might be what we are DOING with our time.   Chelsea shares one powerful lesson she learned from her cancer battle, and how important it is to build up the “virtue of resilience” in our lives.  She discusses how resilience is the immune system of the human spirit, and the importance of strengthening that immune system in order to withstand other trials coming our way.    Episode Links: Resilience: Hard-Won Wisdom for Living a Better Life by Eric Greitens

DeDe and Chelsea have their latest “beauties” all ready to share with you on this new episode!  Come listen in and be inspired.   Chelsea has been dying to introduce their listeners to the concept of being a “Lazy Genius” (from Kendra Adachi's best-selling book, “The Lazy Genius Way.”)   She describes her “beauty” as being a more tangible follow up to “judging your juggle” (from Episode 88) and shares ways she has implemented some of the principles Kendra teaches about being a “genius about things that matter, and lazy about the things that don't.”     On this episode DeDe tells the listeners she felt like she was on the “struggle bus” for the first few weeks of summer.  She then shares a beautiful thought about holding on and safeguarding the “non-negotiables” in her life … no matter how hard it can be, and how that gave her purpose and strength.     Episode Links - Lazy Genius website - Lazy Genius podcast - Lazy Genius instagram

DeDe & Chelsea have summer on-the-brain as they share their beauties on this new episode.  Both ladies agree that (for a lot of reasons) this summer already feels “different” … it's not the shut-down summer of COVID 2020, and it's not like summers of past years.  But, they are both ready to tackle this summer head-on.   Chelsea shares a beauty that she is using to give her permission to “decline what doesn't align” with what her goals and wishes are for her family this summer.  Part of that is saying “no” to some good opportunities, and part of that is reminding herself of the blessings that came from a slow summer last year.   DeDe compares her upcoming summer to being in “Jurassic Park!” :)  She also shares the best ways to “outrun a dinosaur” (or in her case … survive summer!)  Our listeners will want to hear these great reminders - no matter what your summer is looking like.   Come and listen in!!!  We love our tribe and welcome any feedback and comments.

DeDe and Chelsea are back from a small hiatus and are bringing some “beauties” your way!  Before they get into those beauties they check in on their BASICS + BALANCE. Are you in a transition right now as summer starts?  It’s a great time to re-evaluate yourself!   On this episode DeDe relates some wonderful lessons we can learn from whales, and reminds us that everything WHALE be okay.  Chelsea shares a juggling metaphor she heard, and encourages us to prioritize the glass balls we are juggling over the plastic balls that are okay to drop.

DeDe and Chelsea have an exciting “catch up” to share with their listeners, and then get right into their “beauties” for the week.    Chelsea explains how she tries to preserve and “bottle up” the small wins, and how that especially helps during the hard times.    DeDe reminds us that we are all “contagious”... our attitude, our body language, and more.    Episode Links: Drops of Awesome by Kathryn Thompson Ted Talk: "You Are Contagious" by Vanessa Van Edwards

Do you remember what you were doing on Day 1 of the pandemic?  Well, our special guest Katie was in the hospital having her first baby!   Katie is a ray of light and exudes so much joy.   She not only shares her experience of having a newborn during the pandemic, but also her positive outlook on life and lessons that she’s learned.   DeDe and Chelsea both agree this episode is a MUST-LISTEN!  They were amazed by Katie’s attitude and spirit.

The ladies are so excited to bring you more of their “beauty hunting” finds in this week’s episode.  DeDe found beauty as she came to the realization that she is finally at the end of this pandemic “marathon” we’ve all been running and discusses the importance of shifting our focus to THRIVING (not just surviving).   Chelsea found beauty this week as she learned about the concept of being “stone catchers” and to stand up & help those who need our protection and love.   Come and listen as they discuss these topics, and don’t forget to hunt for “beauties” in your own lives!   Episode Links: - April 2021 Talk by Dale G. Renlund, “Infuriating Unfairness” - Bryan Stevenson’s book, “Just Mercy” - Brooke Romney’s book, “I Like Me Anyway: Embracing Imperfection, Connection & Christ”

DeDe and Chelsea are thrilled to introduce their tribe to Kathie on today’s episode.  Kathie is someone they have both known (and looked up to!) for a LONG time.     Kathie shares so much goodness that she has learned as a mother & grandmother, and as a long-time member of our local school community.  DeDe & Chelsea asked Kathie for her thoughts about our current school situation during the pandemic and about her journey as a leader in the school district.    After her battle with cancer Kathie retired from her job, and eventually started a new journey as a Certified Life Coach.  The ladies loved hearing her experiences, and what she has learned about herself as she has stretched and grown.   Episode Links: Kathie Nielsen Coaching: - Website - Instagram - Facebook

Come listen to the ladies share some awesome “beauties” on this week’s new episode.  The overwhelm can be REAL when it comes to documenting our family photos, and Chelsea shares a beauty that gives her permission to let go of any “perfectionism” in documenting and to instead focus on creating works of HEART (not ART)!  DeDe shares an inspiring beauty that came to her when she was worried about the noise of the world and it’s influence on our families and our children.  She encourages us all to be LOUDER than the noise… be the loudest voice your kids “hear.” Come & be inspired, and feel free to share this episode with friends! 

DeDe & Chelsea are so excited to introduce Chelsea’s sister Celene to their podcast tribe!  The interview was so much fun, and they know that you will love hearing Celene’s wisdom, advice, and perspective.  As a busy mother of 6 (from 7 to 22 years old) she has a wealth of parenting knowledge, but Celene also shares about keeping a minimalist home, getting through hard times, and gives us an awesome “beauty” about slowing down.

This week DeDe and Chelsea each offer up their latest “beauties” that brought some positivity and inspiration to their lives.   DeDe gets into a discussion on leadership and how we can do 1 of 3 things in all aspects of our lives: Lead.  Follow.  Or get out of the way!   Chelsea shares how she’s learning to lean into her strengths, and to not let her weaknesses bring her down.  And how we can focus on those strengths … while delegating our weaknesses to our “tribe!”   Come listen in, and feel free to share this episode with friends!   Episode links:  - Ted Talk “Listen, learn … then lead” by Stanley McChrystal  - Janssen Bradshaw’s post on Everyday Reading

DeDe and Chelsea are thrilled to introduce Amelia on the podcast this week!  The ladies had such a great time getting to know Amelia and loved her story.   As the founder and CEO of Saga, Amelia shares about her work to bring families together through her social audio app.  Saga is an app that saves family memories through audio recording  [Think…. personal + private + family podcast!]   DeDe and Chelsea are ALL about family, connections, and learning from each other (that is why they do this podcast!) and they were inspired by Amelia’s journey and reasons for starting her app.  They all discussed the importance of saving their family stories, and how powerful it can be to listen to a loved one’s voice.   Come listen in and be inspired to record YOUR family memories!   Episode links: Link to Saga website Link to Saga in the App Store (or search under “Saga Memories”

52 weeks.  1 year since the start of the pandemic.     On today’s new episode DeDe & Chelsea separately picked “beauties” that happened to do with this milestone we are at.  Look at how much can change in a year!  And, guys, we MADE it!   Listen in as the ladies discuss healing after this year of change, and also how they’ve shifted their perspective. 

DeDe and Chelsea are so excited to share with their tribe the FIRST interview of this podcast season … their good friend Larisa!     They guarantee you will be uplifted, inspired and feel so much “light” as you listen to Larisa share everything from life as a busy woman (a dentist, with 4 young kids, and a wife of a physician) … to hilarious stories of their life during COVID.     Larisa shares such sweet messages like “leaning into the light” when we are off-balance, using perspective and gratitude, and focusing on finding the good on the “hot mess” days.   Come listen in and smile big as we catch up with this incredible human!

Just so you all know, DeDe and Chelsea have (once again) found a way to solve all of the problems of the world … you’re welcome!  :)    What is the answer?  To be a cheerleader!  To cheer on the people in your life.  EVERY day.  Cheer them on through their high moments (and be happy for them!), and cheer them on through their low moments (when they need you the most).   DeDe shares some tender thoughts after losing a friend in her community;  a “cheerleader” who loved and encouraged everyone.  She goes on to give us ideas of HOW we can be cheerleaders.   Chelsea has a special SURPRISE for her “beauty” and brought on an “expert” cheerleader to share with the ladies why it’s important to “get out your airhorn & binoculars!”  What does that mean? … To be on the lookout for those who need cheer and to let people know how you feel.   After you listen in … then invite all of the cheerleaders in YOUR life to listen to this episode, and thank them for cheering you on!

DeDe and Chelsea both had some thoughts that they couldn’t shake, and that they have been wanting to share with their tribe.  DeDe discusses shifting our mindsets from getting bogged down by all we “have” to do… to asking ourselves “what do we ‘get’ to do today?”  Such a good reminder to choose gratitude, and to focus on progress over perfection.   Chelsea shares the lessons she has learned in life (and from Anna in Frozen II) about just doing “the next right thing” when life gets overwhelming or when we can’t see the light ahead.   Come listen in, be uplifted and inspired, and don’t forget to share with your friends!

As DeDe & Chelsea have reflected on the last year, they knew that being “Beauty Hunters” helped them look for the good on those hard days. It helped them stay positive and “optimistic” by looking for the beauties around them. But what can help us with the “overwhelm” that we are all most certainly still facing?  The ladies discuss two ways that they tackle that overwhelm: Basics and Balance. Listen in and hear DeDe discuss the importance of doing her “basics” each day, and as Chelsea gives us an analogy about keeping “balance” in your car’s tires. We hope this episode inspires you and encourages you to evaluate your Basics+Balance and to keep looking for the “beauties” in life.   Episode links: Video: Admiral McCraven addresses the University of Texas at Austin, Class of 2014

DeDe & Chelsea are BACK with a fresh new season, and are ready to help each other (and YOU) stay “Optimistically Overwhelmed!”     Before diving into their “beauties” on this episode they briefly introduce you to a new focus they want to carry over during this season …. Basics+Balance+Beauties.  [more to come next week!]   Listen in as Chelsea discusses different types of “rest” that she learned about, and challenges us to look at where we have a “rest deficit.”  (and we’re NOT just talking about a good night's sleep!)   Be inspired as DeDe motivates us all with her beauty ... it is a perfect “anthem” for this year.   The ladies are so thrilled to be back with their tribe, and hope you use our new release day (Monday!) to re-focus and to start your week off on the right foot!   Episode links: "The 7 Types of Rest That Every Person Needs" article  and "The Real Reason Why We are Tired and What to do About It" Ted Talk by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith First rehearsal video of "This is Me" by Keala Settle from Greatest Showman

How would YOU wrap up 2020 in one podcast episode?  That was the question facing DeDe & Chelsea as they approached this new episode … the last one of the year.     Months ago the ladies started sharing their “beauties” on each episode…  Their takeaways from recent life experiences, or inspiration they found around them as they strove to be “beauty hunters.”     So, on this episode, DeDe and Chelsea share their “beauties of 2020.”  Which was no small job!  You better believe that tears were shed as they looked back, REMEMBERED, and reflected.  Recording this podcast during COVID became a sort of “journal” of their year, and they knew they needed to (and we all need to) say “goodbye” to this year and move ahead.   Come and listen in.  Try to list YOUR “beauties of 2020.”  Give space to the reflection we all should be doing after this crazy year, and remember how much we have grown and how resilient we all are.  Then … “go shine bright!”

DeDe and Chelsea cannot WAIT to share with you our special guest this week, Rosalie Mastaler.  The ladies always say that one major plus of doing this podcast is the connections they are able to make with inspiring people, who they would otherwise never have met … and Rosalie is the perfect example of this.     On this episode Rosalie touches our hearts as she shares her family’s journey, and it is full of faith, hope, love and positivity.  Rosalie’s son, Hunter, tragically lost his leg and she discusses how it has changed their lives… the grief, the entrance into being a family with “special needs”, the way she controlled the narrative, her process of writing their story, and more.     DeDe and Chelsea found so much beauty and inspiration in Rosalie’s message, and we know you will too.  They are so grateful to her for sharing her positivity and her story of endurance.   Episode links: - Rosalie’s website - Read and listen to her story here - Find out more from Casey Mulligan Walsh, who taught Rosalie how grief & joy can coexist at her website - Find out more about Erik Weihenmayer, founder of No Barriers.  Who’s motto is, “What’s within you is stronger than what’s in your way.”  - Creating a “bridge” not a platform as a writer, by Ashleigh Renard

 DeDe and Chelsea sure are happy to be back on the podcast today - they’ve missed their tribe, but had a wonderful week off with family for Thanksgiving.   This week the ladies discussed their latest beauties.  You can tell DeDe & Chelsea are “in tune” because they both picked beauties that ask a question … a question that makes you ponder and reflect on your lives.     Come listen in as DeDe describes exactly what a “lollipop moment” is and challenges you to reach out to someone who has made an impact in your lives.     Chelsea shares her love of family history, and discusses the Pilgrims who got on the Mayflower because that is what they felt they were called to do.  What is it YOU might feel called to do like the Pilgrims?  What is YOUR Mayflower moment?   Episode links: - Drew Dudley TEDxToronto talk: “Everyday leadership”  - Tim Ballard's book, "The Pilgrim Hypothesis"

DeDe and Chelsea can’t WAIT for our tribe to get to know Amanda (from Ever So Organized®).  Not only are you going to hear some amazing tips and advice from this professional organizer, but you will love hearing about her journey from being a Disneyland float driver to a school teacher and now to starting her own business.  The ladies also discuss Amanda’s journey of starting a family, her experience during COVID with 3 little ones at home, and more.     Chelsea and DeDe are so thrilled they had the chance to interview Amanda and they know you’ll enjoy hearing from this positive, organized and upbeat member of our tribe.     Episode Links: Ever So Organized website Ever So Organized Instagram Ever So Organized: Freebie Handouts

DeDe and Chelsea were among the many who were so saddened to hear of the passing of Collin Kartchner last month.  He left behind his beautiful wife and four children.  Our Episode 65 (about the Social Dilemma) had just come out the week of his passing, and on it DeDe discussed what she learned from Collin in one of his podcast episodes.   Collin Kartchner was an incredible force for good in the world.  His mission was to #SavetheKids … from the harmful effects of smart phones, pornography, and social media addiction.  He also taught us parents SO much: about how technology is eroding family relationships, and how our children are modeling our behavior.  Collin was MAKING A DIFFERENCE in a huge way. After his passing, his wife Lizzy posted: “If he made an impression on your life, inspired you to change your direction to a clearer course even if it was hard, if he made you laugh, touched your heart … help him live on in you.”  And that is why we are doing this episode.  We want his memory and his fight to live on .. so we are doing our small part to continue his conversation on this podcast.  Join in and listen to Dede and Chelsea share their “beauties” that they learned from Collin Kartchner.   Help spread Collin’s message and share this episode with your tribe.    Episode Links - Collin Kartchner Instagram - Collin Kartchner website - The Collin Kartchner podcast - Collin Kartchner TedTalk -11 ways to honor his memory, article on Protect Young Minds - Collin Kartchner Obituary, written by his sister

DeDe and Chelsea are thrilled to introduce you to their friend Robin, a mom of four littles with a Marriage & Family Therapy background.  Robin’s upbeat personality and sense of humor will draw you in, and her sage advice will give you the motivation you need to face life’s challenges.  Robin and the ladies discuss how important it is to change your perspective when facing something tough.  Sometimes you need to step back and get a better look, OR you might need to lean in and focus.  Robin also chats about how important it is to have a “tribe” … and we thrilled to have her in OUR tribe.  

Hey friends!  In this episode DeDe & Chelsea share their latest “beauties.”  DeDe continues to be inspired by Magnolia Journal’s latest issue and we chat about how important the “anchors” (big and small!) are in our lives.  Especially in these chaotic times, we need our anchors to steady us and give our hearts peace & rest.  Chelsea discusses her upcoming focus for November and how she can “choose gratitude over complaining.”  The ladies discuss the harmful (physical and emotional!) effects complaining have on us, and how a great way to show our thankfulness this time of year is to consciously work on our complaining.     Episode Links:  Huffington Post: “How Complaining Physically Rewires Your Brain for Negativity” by Dr. Travis Bradberry   Brooke Romney Post: "Teen Talk Tuesday: Complaining"

Trust us when we say you are going to LOVE this episode with Chelsea’s cousin, Bethany (of @shiplapaddict fame).  Not only does she “do it all” with a successful instagram account, podcast and blog … but she does it with such positivity and humility.     In this interview Bethany shares how she grew her Instagram account into a business, and all of the ups and downs that comes with that process.  We discuss her transition from being a stay-at-home mom to an empty-nester … and how she found something for herself that utilized her passion for decorating.     Episode Links: Check out her Instagram account @shiplapaddict for dreamy home inspiration….   her fun podcast @athomewithjandbod for some laughs and positivity …   and her blog “shiplapaddict.blog” for all-things-Bethany!