Simple Purposeful Living Podcast

If it feels like your kitchen has turned into a 24/7 all-you-can-eat buffet and you're just the exhausted head chef trying to survive… this episode is for you. We're diving into the wild world of summer mealtimes—when school's out, appetites are up, and the “I'm hungry!” chorus never ends. But don't worry—we're not just commiserating. We're sharing practical, stress-saving ideas for snacks, lunches, and easy meals that'll keep your kids fed and your sanity intact. No more mealtime meltdowns or grazing chaos. Just smart strategies, fresh inspiration, and tiny tweaks that make a big difference. Whether you're feeding toddlers, teens, or a mix of both, this episode will help you ditch the mealtime overwhelm and bring a little calm (and flavor!) back to your kitchen.

Today, Scott joins me to answer your questions about what we've learned in nearly two decades of marriage. Spoiler: we're still learning. From love languages and conflict resolution to staying connected in the chaos of parenting, this episode is full of honest reflections, funny moments, and the little habits that keep us growing together—even when life is loud and messy. We share the tiny tweaks that have made a huge difference in our marriage, how we navigate different personalities and busy schedules, and why some of our favorite moments have come from the hardest seasons. Whether you're newly married, deep in the little-kid years, or just wanting to feel seen in the everyday grind of couplehood, this is a cozy, real-life look behind the scenes. Plus, hear what tweak Scott says has made his life easier lately—and no, it's not just the car wash subscription.

Do you think budgeting is boring, restrictive, or just not for you? Let's change that!

You don't need a summer overhaul—just a tiny tweak (or ten)! Today I'm sharing some of the best real-life hacks from ALL OF YOU that make summer smoother, simpler, and way more enjoyable. From laundry baskets for every family member to cold lunches prepped at breakfast, you'll hear creative ways women are cutting stress and embracing the season. Whether it's setting a casual summer schedule, using more paper plates (no shame here!), teaching kids to cook, or keeping popsicles stocked for those hot afternoons, these tips are full of real-mom wisdom. I also dive into the importance of slowing down, letting go of guilt over the “perfect” summer, and giving kids both structure and freedom. If you're looking for easy wins and simple inspiration, this episode is packed with golden ideas to help you find your groove this season—no perfection required.

☀️ Summer's calling—but instead of a carefree breeze, it might feel more like a pressure cooker. If you're a mom wondering how to “do summer right” without burning out, this episode is for you. We're diving into 8 simple lessons to help ease the pressure and bring more peace, joy, and intention to your summer. From naming your anxiety out loud to honoring quiet time (yes, even if no one naps anymore!), we're sharing mindset shifts, gentle tweaks, and hard-earned wisdom from 16 summers in the trenches, and you'll find tiny strategies to help your days feel less chaotic and more connected.

Feeling like May is running the show? You're not alone—and that's exactly why this episode is all about simple systems that save your sanity. We're talking about the Sunday Sweep, our weekly rhythm that keeps life from unraveling when things get busy. It's not fancy, it's not perfect, but it works—resetting the house, lightening the mental load, and helping the whole family start the week with calm instead of chaos. Plus, grab your free 7-Day Meal Rotation and May Lighten-the-Load Checklist in the show notes—because a little rhythm goes a long way. Mentioned in This Episode: May Lighten Your Load ✔️List Weekly Meal Rotation Simple Purposeful Living Shop

This week, I'm joined by the always-relatable Kate from Naptime Kitchen to talk all things simplifying life when everything feels like too much

Welcome to the "Momma Mayhem Maycember" Extravaganza! In today's episode, we're diving into the whirlwind of what I fondly call "Maycember" – that chaotic fusion of May and December, when the end of the school year collides with all the other events that life throws at us. But fear not, I've got a treasure trove of life hacks, tips, and tricks to help you sail through this storm like a seasoned pro. From planning your weeks out ahead, to asking for help, you won't want to miss these tips I've got for you.  But wait, there's more! I challenge you, my fellow superheroes, to think of three things you can do each day to help you THRIVE and not just SURVIVE.  So, buckle up and join me on this roller coaster ride to discover all the ways I like to make life easier during this wild and wonderful time of the year!  Ready? Set? Let's conquer Maycember together!  Mentioned in This Episode: 6 Ways to Survive End-of-Year Busy May Lighten Your Load List

Join us for a refreshing Spring Q&A episode where we dive into all your burning questions!

Easter is right around the corner, and I'm here to sprinkle a little extra magic on your celebrations!

Spring is here—and so is the beautiful chaos of outdoor practices, school events, and nonstop evenings. If dinner feels like an afterthought lately, you're not alone! In this episode, I share 20 easy, on-the-go meals that are perfect for busy families. We're talking wraps, sliders, baked tacos, pancake dippers, and more—all quick to prep, easy to pack, and totally kid-approved.

Ready to ditch the overwhelm and finally make fitness and nutrition simple, sustainable, and actually enjoyable? In this episode, I'm joined by my amazing friend and powerhouse personal trainer Amy Boyd of BA Fitness Training. Amy is passionate about helping women feel strong, energized, and confident in their own skin—without the pressure of perfection or complicated routines. We dive into practical tips for reclaiming your health, creating intentional habits that last, and showing your body the love it truly deserves. Whether you're just getting started on your wellness journey or looking to level up your routine, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired, motivated, and ready to take action. Let's simplify health together—and have fun doing it! Mentioned in This Episode: -Thrive all year with clean, easy meals from Green Chef at www.greenchef.com/purposefulfree and use code purposefulfree for 50% your first box and 2 months of FREE salads -BA Fitness Training -BA Fitness Training Instagram -Fit After 40 Podcast

Today's show is bursting with freshness as I chat with the delightful Becky Rapinchuck from Clean Mama about all things spring cleaning and simplifying life. Dive into our conversation packed with tips and tricks to banish clutter and revitalize your space this spring! Becky spills the beans on how she kickstarted Clean Mama, unveiling the secrets to making cleaning feel like a breeze. Discover the art of dividing and conquering tasks, finding your groove in different seasons of life, and granting yourself a generous serving of grace during busy times because, hey, seasons change! But wait, there's more! Becky unveils her magic potion, Oxygen Whitener—your bleach-free ticket to dazzling whites. Plus, snag a Cleaning Routine Freebie and Clean Mama's Free Guides to level up your cleaning game. Hop on over to cleanmama.com or stalk Becky on socials @cleanmama for a treasure trove of cleaning wisdom and inspiration. Let's make this spring sparkle!

Friendships are one of life's sweetest gifts, but they're always evolving.

If winter has you itching to declutter, you're not alone! ❄️ But let's be real—decluttering can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? How do you avoid getting stuck? And how do you keep from filling the space back up again?

Hey there, friends! Welcome to another special Ask Me Anything episode where I'm answering YOUR burning questions about everything from family time to crafts, cleaning hacks, and more! Let's dive right in and have some fun! I am answering all your questions including an update on my book, crafts with kids, cleaning, meal planning, and more! That's all for today's Ask Me Anything session! Thanks for sending in your questions. If you've got more, feel free to reach out anytime. Remember, these tiny tweaks can make life a whole lot easier and a lot more fun! Keep doing your thing and enjoy the journey! Mentioned in This Episode: Use code PURPOSEFUL to get UP TO $300 off today!: https://airdoctorpro.com/  Use code PURPOSEFUL for 20% OFF any AquaTru Water Purifier: https://www.AquaTru.com 

Ever feel like life hit the fast-forward button, but you're stuck in slow motion? This episode is for you! We're diving into that all-too-familiar feeling of being “behind” and flipping the script. It's not about playing catch-up—it's about reframing how we see our journey and embracing where we are right now. ✨ In This Episode, We Cover: ✔ How my chaotic start to the year left me feeling behind (spoiler: it wasn't as bad as I thought) ✔ The 4 mindset shifts that will change how you handle overwhelm and help you move forward with confidence Feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone. Sometimes, life's unexpected twists can leave us stuck in a cycle of frustration and shame. But the truth is, you're not behind. You're right where you're meant to be.

What if you could turn a dull, screen-heavy weekend into a month full of intentional, joyful moments? In this episode, we're diving into the magic of a “January Menu” — a simple, focused list of fun, meaningful activities to make the most of your time. From baking banana bread with the kids to learning quirky new skills like pickling onions, this tweak to your month could transform how you experience winter. Planning isn't about perfection; it's about intentionality. A simple menu of meaningful activities can help you reclaim your time, create lasting memories, and enjoy the moments that matter most.

“It's the new year, time for a new you”—sound familiar?  While the idea of a complete life overhaul can feel exciting, it's often overwhelming and unsustainable. In this episode, we dive into a refreshing perspective: you don't need a whole new you. Instead, let's focus on simple, meaningful tweaks to create lasting change without the burnout. I'll share the secrets to building healthy habits that stick, even when motivation wanes or life feels chaotic. From identifying areas of your life that feel out of sync to overcoming perfectionism, instant gratification, and other common roadblocks, this episode is packed with practical advice and relatable examples. Whether you're looking to boost your energy, manage stress, or create space for self-care, this episode will inspire you to start small, stay consistent, and celebrate progress over perfection. Mentioned in This Episode: Use code PURPOSEFUL to get UP TO $300 off today!: https://airdoctorpro.com/ 

Ever opened the fridge only to find a sad, moldy pile of produce you meant to use? You're not alone. In this episode, we tackle the problem behind wasted food and last-minute dinner chaos: lack of a plan. But don't worry—it's easier than you think! Meal planning isn't about perfection or gourmet meals; it's about creating a simple system that works for you. Discover how meal planning can help you save money, reduce food waste, and bring more calm to your busy life. Whether you're looking to eat healthier, spend less, or avoid the dinner-time scramble, we've got practical tips to help you get started—no eye rolls required. Mentioned in This Episode: Use code PURPOSEFUL for 20% OFF any AquaTru Water Purifier: https://www.AquaTru.com 

As 2024 wraps up, it's time to hit pause, take a deep breath, and get ready to crush 2025 with clarity, intention, and maybe even a little fun.  In this episode, we're diving into the magic of reflecting on the past year—the wins, the struggles, and those “what was I thinking?!” moments—and using it all to fuel our next chapter. I'll spill the tea on how accountability totally transformed my year (hello, book deal!) and how leaning into coaching, counseling, and some seriously uncomfortable decisions made me stronger, braver, and a whole lot more focused.  We'll also get real about why most New Year's resolutions flop by February and how to avoid that sad little statistic with simple, fun goal-setting hacks that actually work. Whether you're ready to ditch bad habits (looking at you, morning phone scroll) or finally set goals you'll stick to, this episode will have you laughing, reflecting, and feeling fired up to make 2025 your best year yet. Let's do this—because progress is way more fun than perfection! Mentioned in This Episode:

The holidays are a magical time, but when December 26th rolls around, the joy of the season can feel overshadowed by the daunting task of undecorating. In this episode, we're diving into simple, purposeful strategies to tackle post-Christmas clean-up without the overwhelm. From organizing ornaments to embracing a blank slate, we've got tips that will leave your home feeling refreshed, cozy, and ready for the New Year. Whether you're working with a real tree, artificial decor, or bins of treasured holiday items, this episode will inspire you to streamline your storage and savor the process. Plus, don't miss our hacks for making undecorating a fun family affair! Mentioned in This Episode:

Are you ready to create a holiday tradition that will have your guests laughing, bonding, and making unforgettable memories? For the past five years, we've hosted Reindeer Games Parties, and they've become the highlight of our holiday season! These festive gatherings are so much fun, we host them three times a year—for family, friends, and coworkers alike. In this episode, I'm sharing everything you need to know to host your own Reindeer Games Party, including:

Hosting a holiday gathering can feel overwhelming. Between cleaning, prepping, and making sure everyone is happy, it's easy to forget the most important part: enjoying time with loved ones. In this episode, we're diving into 30 simple hosting hacks that will transform your holiday season from stressful to seamless. From menu planning to cleanup tips, these tricks will help you focus on what truly matters: connection, gratitude, and a joyful holiday vibe. Let's toast to a holiday filled with love, laughter, and less stress. Cheers to making merry memories this season!

Welcome to another festive episode of the Merry Made Easy series! This week, we're diving into simple yet brilliant holiday decorating tips to make your home a stress-free, magical winter wonderland. Decorating doesn't have to feel like a chore—let's turn it into a joyful experience filled with warmth, wonder, and laughter!   Whether you're decluttering, shopping your own home for decor, or adding cozy holiday scents, this episode is packed with ideas to simplify your season and elevate your holiday cheer. Plus, we're sharing DIY tricks, clever organization hacks, and even safety tips to ensure everything goes off without a hitch.  

Today, we're diving into the wonderful (and sometimes overwhelming) world of holiday gift-giving! Get ready for all the insider advice to simplify your holiday season and make choosing the perfect gifts a breeze. Whether you're shopping for that hard-to-buy-for friend, your loved ones, or struggling with planning in general=, I've got you covered with my top tips to make the whole process smoother.   To take the stress out of planning, I've crafted a super handy Holiday Checklist that covers all the essentials! This free guide is designed to keep you on track and make the holidays as enjoyable as they're meant to be. Want to grab this sanity-saver? Head over to simplepurposefulliving.com/holiday for your FREE copy today!   Don't forget to check out our 50 Best Experience Gift Ideas for Everyone on Your List Blog Post—where I lay out experience gift ideas for everyone on your list, no matter the age.   And before you go, let me share a little lifesaver I swear by – the Brain Dump Notepad! For those days when your mind's going a mile a minute, this notepad helps you clear your head, stay organized, and stay calm. It's like a mini de-stressor in notepad form! Use code “PODCAST” at checkout for a 10% discount, because you deserve a smooth holiday season!  

Ready to take the stress out of holiday planning, Mama?

Today's episode is a treat and a fan-favorite for a reason! I'm diving into all your juicy questions, and nothing is off-limits! Want to know some fun, quirky facts about me? Or how Simple Purposeful Living got its start? You've come to the right place. We're covering everything from my family's favorite snacks that are always stocked in the pantry, to my personal hobbies that might just surprise you, and even some secrets about my tried-and-true cleaning routines that keep my home feeling fresh and organized!   This episode is like a behind-the-scenes pass into my life, and I can't wait to share it all with you. So grab your favorite snack, sit back, and get ready for a fun, honest, and heartfelt chat about life, family, and all the things that make Simple Purposeful Living what it is today.   And before you go, don't miss out on the ultimate tool to bring ease and joy to your mealtimes! Our 52-Week Meal Planner is here to help you simplify, streamline, and have more fun planning meals for your family. AND, just for being such incredible podcast listeners, use code “Podcast” at checkout for 10% off your order. Happy listening, and happy planning!  

Today's episode is a breath of fresh air! I'm thrilled to be joined by the incredible Kim Stuart, an acclaimed author and podcaster, who's here to help us navigate life with more grace and less stress. Let's face it, life can be chaotic, and sometimes we all need a reminder to slow down and show ourselves a little kindness. Kim dives into the beauty of giving ourselves permission to rest and refuel, no matter what's on our to-do list. She shares practical insights on how to extend grace to ourselves, even when we feel overwhelmed by the pressures of productivity. Plus, she opens up about how our relationship with God can shift our perspective on both grace and productivity. It's a conversation that's sure to leave you feeling inspired, lighter, and ready to embrace more peace in your life. Trust me, you don't want to miss all the wisdom and encouragement Kim shared with us in this powerful episode!   Before you go, check out our Simple Purposeful Living Gratitude Journal—it's the perfect place to reflect on your blessings and express grace daily. And because we love our podcast listeners, use code “Podcast” for 10% off your order!   If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find more from Kim by following her on Instagram @kimberly.stuart.writes or visiting her website at www.kimberlystuart.com/. And don't forget to check out her book, Star for Jesus, for even more inspiration. Tune in, relax, and let this episode fill your cup!    

Welcome to a spooktacular episode, where we're brewing up some devilishly good Halloween fun!

Get ready for a game-changing episode, because today I'm joined by the queen of lazy-geniusness herself, Kendra Adachi!   Kendra is not only a podcaster and best-selling author but also an expert in compassionate time management. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by endless to-do lists or guilty about not “doing it all,” this episode is for you! Kendra is here to share her brilliant tips on how to be more productive in a way that's gentle, flexible, and—most importantly—realistic. We dive into how different strategies work for different women, why your values are key, and the myths we've all believed about time management. Plus, she's here to banish the shame and pressure we tend to put on ourselves. You won't want to miss the empowering, mindset-shifting wisdom Kendra drops in this episode!   To connect with Kendra and preorder her upcoming book, see the links below! Instagram: @thelazygenius Facebook: Kendra Adachi, the Lazy Genius Kendra's New Book: The PLAN: Manage Your Time Like a Lazy Genius  

Get ready for some serious decluttering magic, friends! Today, I'm thrilled to have the fabulous Shannon from Paring Down—aka the Declutter Queen herself—on the show!   You all know how much I love simplifying life, and Shannon is here to sprinkle her decluttering wisdom all over your home this fall.

Today, I'm thrilled to sit down with the inspiring Hannah Brencher – an author, speaker, and fierce mental health advocate. Hannah takes us on her eye-opening journey of breaking free from unhealthy phone habits and reclaiming life in a way that feels more intentional and joyful.   In this episode, we dive into the practical (and totally doable!) ways you can start unplugging, the amazing benefits that come with it, and how to tackle that nagging fear of missing out when you put your phone down. We'll also chat about the all-too-real notification fatigue and the life-changing difference a little bit of digital detox can make.   If you're ready to disconnect to reconnect with what really matters, then this episode is for you!   To connect with Hannah and get your hand's on her BRAND NEW BOOK, see the links below! Instagram: @hannahbrencher Facebook: Hannah Brencher Sheats  Hannah's New Book: The Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World  

Get ready to turn your home into the ultimate cozy fall retreat!

Ready to tackle the school year like a pro? Today, we're diving into the ultimate routines that'll keep your life running smoothly, even during the back-to-school hustle.

Today we are making meals that much easier in the chaos of the back to school season. Meal ideas, tips and tricks, and some tweaks of the week from none other than y'all!   For resources mentioned in this episode, see the links below! Back to School Meals Blog Post BEST-SELLING Meal Planner   And if you want access to our FREE back to school checklist so that you can make sure you've got everything you need before school starts and leave the stress behind, click the following link!   https://simplepurposefulliving.com/back-to-school/   Simple Purposeful Living Shop DISCOUNT  

Today I'm sharing  all my tips to make your time more efficient, effective and purposeful, especially during this chaos of the back to school season. Tune in to hear all my advice and continue to simplify your life on purpose.   For resources mentioned in this episode, see the links below! Back to School Time Management Tips Blog Post Weekly Plan Notepad Brain Dump Notepad Meal Planner   And if you want access to our FREE back to school checklist so that you can make sure you've got everything you need before school starts and leave the stress behind, click the following link!   https://simplepurposefulliving.com/back-to-school/   Simple Purposeful Living Shop DISCOUNT  

Today we are helping you declutter and reorganize your kid's rooms as the back to school season of chaos rolls around.   We've got all the tips to break things down into smaller, bite sized chunks, and simplify you and your kids lives on purpose by getting rid of what's not used and needed, freeing up that mental and physical space for more of what actually matters.   See below for additional resources mentioned in the episode!   Declutter Kid's Rooms Blog Post: https://simplepurposefulliving.com/declutter-kid-rooms/   Back to School Money Saving Tips Podcast Episode and Blog Post: https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-5j8bk-146cee0?utm_campaign=w_share_ep&utm_medium=dlink&utm_source=w_share https://simplepurposefulliving.com/15-back-to-school-money-saving-tips/   Simplifying Toys Podcast Episode and Blog Post: https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ezcui-15d7e73- https://simplepurposefulliving.com/toy-organization/   School Supply Organization Blog Post: https://simplepurposefulliving.com/school-supply-organization/   Simple Purposeful Living Shop DISCOUNT  

In today's episode, we welcome Stacy Meyers, a mom of four and the voice behind Humorous Homemaking. Stacy discusses her shift from seeking worldly success to focusing on her household, aiming to make other moms feel normal and encourage laughter.   Stacy and I connect over our shared struggles with body image and disordered eating. Stacy talks about the power of transparency in building genuine connections and how she navigates food choices without falling into diet culture. We also explore the importance of wearing clothes that make you feel good and the impact of curating a positive social media feed.   Stacy shares her journey toward self-compassion and offers advice for moms struggling with body image, emphasizing the importance of setting a positive example for their children. They also discuss the joy of finding humor in everyday life and the supportive community on Instagram.   If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more from Stacy, you can find her on Instagram @humoroushomemaking!   Simple Purposeful Living Shop DISCOUNT  

Today's episode is packed with all things exciting! Get ready as I spill the beans on my latest “hits,” “misses,” and obsessions. We're diving into health tips, must-know Costco hacks, blockbuster movies, page-turner books, delicious meal ideas, and of course, my current favorite Instagram pages!   If you're curious about the Instagram pages I'm loving right now, check them out below: @humoroushomemaking: Your go-to for laughs and home-making tips that keep it real. @naptimekitchen: Transform your kitchen with easy recipes and meal prep ideas that fit into your busy schedule. @coasttocoast2: From fashion to family adventures, this page is a delightful journey across the map of everyday life.   Tune in and get inspired—it's time to turn your “likes” into loves and discover new favorites with me!   Simple Purposeful Living Shop DISCOUNT  

Today, we're diving into every parent's favorite rollercoaster: planning those unforgettable, sometimes nerve-wracking, but always fabulous children's birthday parties!

Today's episode packed with practical tips to transform your chaotic moments into mindful bliss! Join me as I unveil the secret practices that have revolutionized my motherhood journey. From soothing sensory rituals that ground you in the present moment, to visualizing your ideal scenarios with clarity and purpose, we've curated a toolkit just for you.   Discover how breathing techniques can be your anchor amidst the storm, and why mindful walking isn't just a stroll—it's a path to serenity. Whether you're juggling diapers or deadlines, these techniques are designed to fit seamlessly into your day. So, grab your earbuds and get ready to feel more present and empowered!   And hey, if you're craving even more mindfulness magic, head over to our blog for 25 Simple Mindfulness Daily Activities to Reduce Stress. Because let's face it—when it comes to finding calm in the chaos, you can never have too many tools in your arsenal!   Simple Purposeful Living Shop DISCOUNT  

Tune in to today's episode as we dive deep into phone fasts!   In a world where our phones often steal the spotlight, taking a break can be revolutionary. Join me as I unpack the startling statistics on our phone addiction and explore why a little digital detox might be just what we need.   I'm sharing the eye-opening lessons I learned firsthand from my own phone fast journey. From reclaiming precious moments of presence to dodging the comparison trap, this experience was a game-changer.   Let's challenge ourselves to disconnect to reconnect—let's embrace the joy of living in the moment.   Ready to take the plunge? I dare you to join me in trying out your own phone fast and share your transformational stories with me on Instagram. Together, let's unlock a world beyond the screen and rediscover the beauty of being present. Are you in? Hit play now and let's get started!     Simple Purposeful Living Shop DISCOUNT