Practically Happy (formerly Live Free Creative)

How are you doing? Things are wild out there in the USA, and today's show talks about one simple way to help feel a little better, a little more grounded and connected. Raising the frequency of tiny positive emotions and events. These glimmers can make a big impact on your overall feelings of peace, even in difficult circumstances. SPONSOR: Try Factor Meals for 50% off at FactorMeals.com/FactorPodcast use code FACTORPODCAST. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wow the country feels in chaos and a deluge of change in the last couple weeks. I was asked to write some stress-management and resilience tips to help the public servants with whom I work find a little peace, and thought it would be great to share the same, simple ideas here with you! Listen in for 5 simple reminders for feeling a little better even in uncertainty. SPONSOR: Try FACTOR MEALS for 50% off with the code PRACTICALLY50OFF Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I chat with Amy Wilson, the hilarious and insightful co-host of What Fresh Hell: Laughing in the Face of Motherhood, a podcast that brings humor and heart to parenting. She's also the author of Happy to Help and a talented performer who's graced both Broadway and television screens. We chat about getting comfortable with the discomfort of letting people down (sometimes, including yourself!) SPONSOR: Take 20% off any water purifier at Aquatru.com using code 'HAPPY'! Peaks of the Week: I'm loving this countertop Soda Stream sparkling water maker Who knew corded headphones still work perfectly? Huge fan of these BUILT Puffs Protein Bars! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week was the first full week of 2025 and it was chaotic for me and completely tragic for some others. Amid the wildfires in LA, a complete water infrastructure breakdown in Richmond City, and the first snowstorm of the year, I share some candid updates from home, work, and life. In the show I reference: @andreagibson's poetry on Instagram This episode about Sleep Like it Matters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I loved using the free printable reflection guide from YearCompass to look back on 2024 and prepare for 2025. Tune in to hear some of my reflections and click below to print your own! Year Compass Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is all about taking a moment to reflect on 2024 and think forward to 2025-- it's the perfect time of year to find closure and anticipation. I recently learned of a new tool for this process called YearCompass. Click HERE to download the worksheets! SPONSOR: AquaTru countertop water purifiers are a healthy solution for toxin-free hydration! Get 20% off with code "HAPPY" at AquaTru.Com Past episodes about planning the year: Episode 17: Plan a Whole Year Episodes: 117, 118, 119 and 120 from year overview, through quarterly, monthly, and weekly planning. Episode 159: Writing down for Better Planning Episode 162: Creating a Big Dreams Map Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this second part of the Tattoo Chronicles, Miranda shares the stories and symbols behind the second half of her tattoos-- including her botanical half-sleeve done by the incredible Elle Carney (@ellecarnival on Instagram). SPONSOR: Breathe easier with an indoor air purifier from Air Doctor! Use code HAPPY for up to $300 off and a 3-year warranty! Previous shows referenced in this episode: 313: Tattoo Chronicles pt. 1 273: Expansive Spirituality 136: Tattoos, Taboos, and Trusting Yourself Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the last 6 years I have added some really beautiful and meaningful art to my body. I am often curious about the why behind other people's tattoos, so I thought you might like to hear some of the stories behind mine! Previous episode about tattoos: Episode 136 Tattoos, Taboos, and Trusting Yourself SPONSOR: Get the skills you need for a cozy, peaceful holiday season and beyond with BetterHelp online therapy! Take 10% off your first month by signing up at BetterHelp.com/PRACTICALLY Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda  Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I have been a productivity and efficiency guru for basically my whole life-- but the last few years the pace hasn't resonated. I am embracing the reality of limited time and limited tasks, which is why the book Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman resonated with me so much. Tune in to get my cliffs notes and consider picking up your own copy if you find yourself nodding along and wanting to learn more! SPONSOR: Stay hydrated and healthy with LMNT, the no-sugar electrolyte drink I have been loving for years. Listeners get a free exclusive sample pack with ANY order! Visit LMNT.COM/HAPPY to give it a try! Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda  Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's all happening! The holiday season is upon us. This episode is a reminder to take a moment for reflection and clarity before diving into the chaos. Enjoy a guided journey through what it looks like to find alignment as you approach gifting, activities, and engagement this season. SPONSOR: With AQUATRU you don't have to worry about what is in your water. Take 20% off any purifier with the code HAPPY! Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda  Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Something I've noticed since starting my new job: I feel like people are telling me what a good job I am doing all the time-- Its AMAZING! How can we create similar cultures of verbal validation even at home with our families? Ideas here! SPONSOR: AIRDOCTOR purifies indoor air of 99.99% of allergens! Take $300 off plus a free 3-year warranty with the code HAPPY at airdoctorpro.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of *Practically Happy*, we explore how identifying and leveraging your unique signature strengths can enhance your life satisfaction and resilience. Miranda walks listeners through practical exercises to discover their top strengths and apply them in daily life. Tune in to learn how embracing your strengths can boost confidence, reduce stress, and create a more fulfilling personal and professional life. SPONSOR: Take care of yourself with BETTERHELP therapy! Visit Betterhelp.com/PRACTICALLY for 10% off your first month! Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda  Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oooof, what a week! I recorded this episode on the heels of the election...Here's how I am taking care of myself. Also, some fun things to look forward to despite feeling all the feels. SPONSOR: Stay hydrated and electrolyte balanced with LMNT! Get a free exclusive sample pack with any order at DrinkLMNT.com/HAPPY (Mango Chile & Grapefruit are my personal faves) Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda  Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm dressing up as Katy Perry for Halloween and channeling some of her confidence and zest! In this show I share some of the ways dressing up/pretending can build character strengths we aren't otherwise accessing easily. Also, how my first week at my new job has been! Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A couple weeks ago I hosted the Renewal Retreat in Southern Utah. This episode gives you a chance to sit in on the community conversation questions from the retreat and have your own free mini-retreat moment! Pull out a paper and pen and reflect! SPONSORS: Get up to $300 off your purchase of any Air Doctor Air Purifier with code HAPPY Build better mental health with BetterHelp virtual Therapy. Take 50% off your first month at betterhelp.com/PRACTICALLY Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I share about loosening up, discovering the magic of Morning Pages, and learning to listen to and trust my intuition. Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dave and I celebrated 18 years of marriage last week, so I invited him on the show to share four memories from our life together--and I shared four of my own! Quality and meaningful relationships are one of the highest indicators for happiness across the lifespan, and I hope this episode is a fun way to hear some insights into a relationship that is aging well. SPONSOR: LMNT electrolyte hydration. Get a free sample pack (a $20 value!) when you purchase anything at DrinkLMNT.com/HAPPY I drink LMNT every day to balance my electrolytes after my workout, and I love the funky fun flavors. I hope you enjoy it, too! Other Episodes with Dave as a guest: Episode 10: Making Space for Marriage Episode 60: Encouragement Matters Episode 96: Dividing Household Duties Episode 155: Fifteen Lessons for Fifteen Years Other Episodes Mentioned: Episode 17: How to Plan Your Year Find full (unedited) transcript at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I've spent my whole life OPTIMIZING and the last few years learning how much I might have passed the mark...oops! Today's show discusses what Over-Optimizing looks like, how to recognize it, and issues a very important invitation: watch an episode of TV without doing anything else at the same time. Can you handle it? (If your hands tingle at the idea of not multi-tasking watching a show, this episode is for you!) Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's officially fall, and I can feel the season changing. My personal life is about to enter a new season as well, details of which I share today along with an old favorite encore episode about time and seasons. Enjoy! Subscribe to my new Substack (replacing my long-running newsletter) HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We often plan to reduce or avoid stress-- but stress is unavoidable! In addition to planning to reduce stress, it is imperative that we learn to plan for recovery! Tune in to learn about what that means. Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I dive into the second half of my incredible trip to Istanbul and Cappadocia Turkey this summer, and share details of the adventures we experienced. Tune in for a candid recap, and visit the show notes for an outline of the itinerary. Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm back after a long and wonderful summer break. This episode gives a quick overview of my summertime travels, including the first half of a more detailed trip experience hosting a women's trip in Turkey. Tune in for a casual conversation about what it was like, and return next week for part 2! Join me on my upcoming trips: The Renewal Retreat in Southern Utah October 9-13, 2024 Thailand Fitness + Wellness Week February 22-29, 2025 Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When I heard Meikel share on Instagram about protecting our peace as women, I knew I had to invite her to share on the Pass the Mic series! Tune in for this candid conversation about what it means to be an open-hearted woman in a tough world. Work with Meikel and follow her on Instagram _________________ Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sexuality is a natural, human experience-- yet so many of us fail to develop healthy prespectives, mindsets, and identities around our own sexuality and itimate relationships. Today I pass the mic to LCSW and Sex Educator Kristin Hodson to discuss what it looks like to learn about initmacy and develop intentional sexual beliefs and behaviors. This 2020 conversation has been a popular episode and is a not-to-miss listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

These last couple years have pinched many folks' finances, and it can be tough to know how to shift and adjust to make do. In this episode, I pass the mic to Jen and Jill, the hosts behind the wonderful Frugal Friends podcast, to share some ideas for aligning our spending and saving with our values in order to feel a little bit better. Bonus: their NEW BOOK is available for pre-order NOW! Order their new book on AMAZON, and be sure to subscribe to Frugal Friends Podcast! ____________________________ Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's been a full 4 years since the social reckoning of the summer of 2020, with a clear focus on anti racism and inclusion at the forefront of our lives. What has changed for the better? What has gone backwards? In this Pass the Mic (back in time) episode, I interview Anti Racist Educator Jasmine Bradshaw in the summer of 2020 and learn some tips for incorporating diversity and anti racism into my daily life. Listen to Jasmine on the First Name Basis podcast Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can you both be a mom and be a whole person? How can you ensure your decisions for your family align well with your personal values? In today episode, Motherhood Education Expert Rachel Nielson, host of 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms podcast tells us about what it means to be a Self-Assured Mom and how we can start working toward it. Find Rachel at 3in30podcast.com and listen weekly to her show 3 in 30 podcast! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Preethi Harbuck is a travel expert in the truest sense of the word. She has been to over 90 countries, all 50 United States, all 63 National Parks, and many with her SIX children in tow! We recorded this episode about travel back in 2020 when travel was not advisable-- but the principles stand today. Tune in as I pass the mic to Preethi for some travel tips! Follow Preethi on Instagram at @localpassportfamily and visit her website at localpassportfamily.com ______________________ Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I've wanted to design and operate a short-term rental for years...so of course I watch with my jaw on the floor as my long-time friend Lydia Ojuka builds her short-term rental empire. In this pass-the-mic episode, hear all about the process to choosing, designing, and strategizing short-term rental real estate as a career. Follow Lydia on Instagram at @lydiakia Book a stay at ModernWestCo Sundance HERE // Midnight HERE Book the Oak Grove Cabin HERE _____________________________________________________ Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back in 2019 I sat down with positive parenting expert and educator Ralphie Jacobs to record and produce her (now bestselling) audio courses. At the end of a couple days of recording I pressed record to ask her a few candid questions about parenting on purpose, and this is what she said! Follow Ralphie for parenting tips and ideas at @simplyonpurpose Buy the audio courses here Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I Pass the Mic to Monica Packer, host of About Progress podcast and creator of the Sticky Habits Intensive for women. Listen in as Monica shares why habits must be built differently if you're a woman, and some tips for getting started. Episode Sponsor: Green Chef!! Try GreenChef for 50% off plus 20% off your next month with code PRACTICALLY50 Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you identify as a perfectionist? Do you know what perfectionism sounds like? In this episode, I share some research about some distinctions between perfectionists and strivers. Tune in to learn more! SPONSOR: Visit factormeals.com/practically50 to take 50% off your first month and 20% of the following month with code Practically50! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What even is a "retreat" and why do they matter? In this episode I share some great research about retreats, and share my story in beginning to plan and host them. Also: Applications for the Renewal Retreat are open now! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you feel when your house is messy? Are you an all-day tidier? Or do you feel like you can't spend time doing hobbies until the dishes are all in the dishwasher? This episode is for you: the neat freaks! When you teach your brain to loosen up, you'll feel a lot better! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As summertime approaches, I am always looking for simple ways to add fun and whimsy to our experiences. This episode shares 6 ways to invite magic into everyday experiences and wake our brains up to the fun of even normal activities, done in new ways. Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I love a good word swap! The added perspective and benefit of shaking it up a little bit in simple ways is so interesting. Today I invite you to consider how instead of more Patience, you might need to practice PRESENCE. Sponsor: Try Green Chef today and get 50% off plus 20% off the next 2 months! Use code PRACTICALLY50 Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mother's Day can be a complicated holiday for many women. Whether or not you identify as a mom, have a relationship with your own mom, or want a specific type of recognition each year, there can be a lot to sort through. I this episode I share some of the (complicated) history of Mother's Day as well as some research about clear communication and mind-reading. SPONSOR: Try Factor Meals for 50% off with code practically50! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Women are individuals always before they are mothers. In this encore episode from season one of the podcast, I share four ways to consider retaining and renewing your wholeness as a human while also fulfilling your role and relationship as a mother. Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When I learned about the phenomenon of the U-Shaped Curve of Life Satisfaction, I was both surprised and comforted. As I'm settling into midlife, with its unique challenges and opportunities, I've appreciated reflecting on this unique season and how I'm not alone. Tune in to learn more about what studies show us about midlife contentment and challenge. Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever wondered what some levers you could pull in your life to experience more fulfillment and deeper satisfaction? This episode introduces you to the framework of PERMA, which provides some elements to consider as you build wellbeing with intention. SPONSOR: Try GreenChef for 50% off plus 20% off the following two months with code PRACTICALLY50 Download the free worksheet at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy National Poetry Month! I have shared my love of poetry over the past couple years on the show with my segment, Pause for a Poem. Today I go a bit deeper and share some specific ways that I engage with poetry for wellbeing, reflection, and connection. I also share some favorite poems and collections, linked below: Instructions for Traveling West by Joy Sullivan What Kind of Woman by Kate Baer Home Body by Rupi Kaur Mother's Milk by Rachel Hunt Steenblik Projections by Sarah Lockwood A Thousand Mornings by Mary Oliver Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over 98% of those listening to Practically Happy are female, and this show is for you! Learning about how my menstrual/hormonal/energy cycles mirror the seasons of the year changed my life. Here is a conversation with feminine health expert April Davis of @hausofvagina to share more! Find full show notes at livefreecreative.co/podcast Travel to Turkey with Miranda July 18-25 Register HERE Follow Miranda on Instagram @livefreemiranda and the show at @practically.happy.podcast Get one-on-one coaching with Miranda RIGHT HERE Pick up a copy of MY BOOK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices