Simple Families with Denaye Barahona Ph.D.
Simple Families offers solutions for living well with children. In this show, we focus on child behavior, positive parenting, family wellness, and decreasing the mental load. As a Mama with a doctorate in Child Development, Denaye’s perspectives are grounded in research, but more importantly real life.
00:25:56
2023-03-16
Today, I'm bringing you a much-requested life update episode. In the past year I've moved off social media and have limited how much I share publicly on a day-to-day basis. As my kids grow and establish their own identities, this has been a change that fe...
00:40:04
2023-03-10
Today, I am speaking with the Founder of MomWell (formerly Happy as a Mother) Erica Djossa, who you may recognize from viral her maternal mental health memes on Instagram. Erica is a psychotherapist whose work on social media focuses on strategies to cope...
00:52:15
2023-02-23
I don't know about you, but parent anxiety seems to surround me at every turn. In today's episode, I'm chatting with Dr. Dana Dorfman, author of the new book, When Worry Works. Dana explains that even though anxiety is an unavoidable part of parenting tod...
00:49:38
2023-02-16
Overparenting is a pervasive practice in our society today. My guest Julie Lythcott-Haims identified over-parented students in her former role as the Dean of Freshman and Undergraduate Advising at Stanford University and wrote the NYT best-selling book Ho...
01:02:41
2023-02-09
Music is one of life's simple pleasures that unites cultures and ages. Through my kid's Suzuki classes, I've found, music can teach big life lessons too. In this episode, I am speaking to Heather Watson Hardie about her musical journey as a child, a music...
00:22:16
2023-02-07
Many of us idealize 'The Family Dinner'. You know the scene - whole family at the table, eating homemade food, with each member telling everyone how their day went. This is rarely a reality in the modern home. Today, I share tips for a more peaceful (and ...
00:56:50
2023-01-26
While many parenting books detail the source of difficult childhood behavior or cover diagnoses, Dr. Ross Greene provides parents with a universal guide for dealing with challenging behaviors. In his bestselling book, The Explosive Child, Dr. Greene says ...
00:47:12
2023-01-12
Sharing life stories will not only preserve family history but also simplify learning important life lessons. It was an absolute pleasure to speak to Devan Sandiford, distinguished writer and story-teller, who eloquently shares his life through stories of...
00:49:41
2023-01-05
As humans, we experience a vast array of emotions. We are sometimes confused about our own emotional experiences and often confused by the emotions of others (especially our kids!). Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett, psychologist, neuroscientist and distinguished ...
00:27:51
2022-12-15
When I asked listeners to send me questions for a holiday episode of Q&A, I received so many inquiries. Interestingly, so many of them contained the word 'Scrooge!' I am answering your questions regarding gifts, extended family, compromise, and finding yo...
00:35:35
2022-12-08
I went into this episode not a huge fan of Disney, but my mindset has been shifted. I learned a lot from Jen Hoffman & Lauren Gaggioli, who dissect the life lessons of Disney movies on their podcast Magical Mindset Moments. I really enjoyed this conversat...
00:26:31
2022-11-30
Today I'm answering a listener's question on gift-giving. What do we do when a child asks for a holiday gift we don't want them to have?
Links from the episode
Simple Families Episode 247: Over-gifter
Sponsors
Kiwico – Get your first month of ANY cra...
00:04:07
2022-11-26
This week, we’re featuring an episode from a podcast you should check out. The Whole View, hosted by Stacy Toth, is an alternative health podcast that helps guide you on new ways to be your best self! Each week Stacy and her expert guests myth bust some...
00:59:34
2022-11-17
As a neuropsychologist with over 40 years of practice, Dr. William Stixrud has seen many parenting trends come and go. His best-selling book The The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives with co-author ...
00:53:06
2022-11-10
FRILUFTSLIV is the Norwegian word describing a popular Nordic way of life: Passion for nature and getting outdoors. I loved learning more about this concept (and cultural differences) from Linda Åkeson McGurk, and author and mother who has raised childre...
00:42:49
2022-10-26
Parents are faced with all sorts of complicated questions from their children. Today, Mary-Robb Wilson is here to give us her wisdom to answer some big questions in her new book Soulshine.
Links from the episode
Soulshine Book Website: www.soulshinebook....
00:48:43
2022-10-19
The addition of children is one of the most pivotal changes experienced in a partnership or marriage. Reconnecting and strengthening partnerships in the parenthood stage is what we are chatting about today with Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Abby ...
00:06:14
2022-10-17
I would love to introduce you to one of my favorite podcasts. 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms is hosted by Rachel Nielson, who is a lover of practical ideas, conversations with kindred spirits, and her two wild miracle children who keep life interesting. She c...
00:48:13
2022-10-12
October is National Bullying Prevention Month. While many of us know someone or have been a victim of bullying ourselves, it remains a source of great pain for some of our youth with long-lasting effects. Kayla Taylor is a mom who lived through the pain w...
00:31:27
2022-10-05
It's more than a month into the new school year, and many parents are feeling stress getting out the door in the morning for school and/or work. Although a consistent, smooth morning routine is never guaranteed, I am sharing some simple things you can do ...
00:46:45
2022-09-28
I'll be honest, cooking and meal planning has never come easy to me. If you've listened to Simple Families for long, you've heard me sing the praises of a meal-planning company called PrepDish and its founder Allison Schaaf. Although this episode of my ch...
00:55:33
2022-09-20
When it comes to setting boundaries, clarity saves relationships. Implementing boundaries is a vital component to building a healthy relationship, whether with a partner, relative or friends. After reading Nedra Glover Tawwab's book Set Boundaries, Find P...
00:49:17
2022-09-14
I've always been intimidated by poetry. However, Maggie Smith has changed that. Not only have I found myself enjoying poetry, but I've also found it to be a way to get off auto-pilot and center myself on the hard days. Maggie is on the show today to share...
00:47:43
2022-09-07
This generation is increasingly looking to peer groups and the internet for child-rearing advice--a change from the past. Today, I'm joined by coach Deborah Porter who shares the benefits of understanding the seasons of parenthood and the value of mentors...
00:45:11
2022-08-30
We have many academic and expert guests on the podcast, but today we have a meaningful story of lived experience. In this episode, Ginger Zee, Chief Meteorologist for ABC News and New York Times Best-Selling author, shares the story of her mental health j...
00:01:34
2022-07-28
I would love to introduce you to a new podcast called "American Girl Fan Club" the newest show to be released on the American Girl Podcast Network.
This podcast is hosted by two superfans, who interview experts, creators, authors, designers and more-- ...
00:57:57
2022-07-26
Child anxiety rates are on the rise, therefore, it's a topic that feels familiar to many parents. Last week I discussed child anxiety with expert Dr. Eli Lebowitz. In today's episode, I'm joined by fellow mom and mental health professional Niro Feliciano....
00:53:47
2022-07-19
Child anxiety is a topic on the mind of millions across the world. I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Eli Lebowitz about his innovative Space Treatment method, which he outlines in his new book Breaking Free of Child Anxiety & OCD. This method of trea...
00:54:07
2022-07-13
Many of us are hitting the road or taking to the sky this summer for travel. If you've traveled with kids, you know that it's not easy. And if you are traveling with anxious or inflexible children, it can feel even more daunting. This is a two-part episod...
00:56:22
2022-07-05
Social media gives us all an opportunity to create a false narrative of our lives. And too often, that narrative is of a life we wish we had or what we want to be. The result is a distorted sense of reality. For many of us, social media came into our live...
00:01:59
2022-06-30
I would love to introduce you to "Let's Change Beauty" - a podcast powered by the Dove Self-Esteem Project. Let’s Change Beauty features intimate conversations with esteemed experts and celebrated guests from the worlds of beauty, gaming, sports, techno...
00:54:48
2022-06-21
It can feel impossible to carve out an identity and personal space in motherhood. In today's conversation, Eve Rodsky shares her own experiences and encouraging words to set us on the path to finding ourselves again. Eve transformed a “blueberries break...
01:02:04
2022-06-14
In today's society, we could all use a little more practice in critical thinking. Julie Bogart is known for her common sense parenting and education advice. She’s the author of the beloved book, The Brave Learner, which has brought joy and freedom to co...
00:49:17
2022-05-31
In light of the recent tragic events in Texas, I am moving up the interview with Dr. Kate Truitt. I have found Dr. Truitt's method of Havening so simple, yet powerful for managing stress and anxiety. I utilize this self-directed method on myself and have ...
00:32:13
2022-05-24
Got questions? Leave them for me on Speakpipe. Today, I am answering five different listener questions. Tune in to learn more about handling screen time, the middle childhood years, getting rid of toys and art, power struggles, and siblings challenges (we...
00:53:15
2022-05-17
We all talk to ourselves. For better or worse, our “chatter” or self-talk can have a profound impact on our moods, relationships, and confidence. It’s easy to operate on auto-pilot and let these thoughts come and go. But in my conversation with Etha...
00:51:48
2022-05-10
A few times a year, I invite a member of the Simple Families to share their story on the podcast. Today, we are on a journey to simplicity with Meredith Bay-Tyack. Meredith has been a long-time member of the community, but she opening admits that she’s ...
00:48:44
2022-05-03
In today’s world, we are faced with distractions at every turn. It can be hard to focus on the things that matter. In Joshua Becker’s new book, he explains that distractions make us feel restless, tired, and unfulfilled. In our conversation today we d...
00:56:06
2022-04-26
Niro Feliciano set out to write the book on happiness…then she realized happiness wasn’t even the goal. Today, she joins me to discuss what contentment means and how we can ditch the metrics t0 move towards it. She’s a cognitive psychotherapist, mom...
00:49:47
2022-04-21
Entrepreneurship and motherhood can seem like an overwhelming combination, but for Nell Shapiro & Stephanie Merks, it has brought them additional joy and purpose. The founders of Kibou are joining me to talk about turning their idea of a minimalistic mom-...
00:52:21
2022-04-14
Procrastination has been on my mind lately, so I invited an expert, Dr. Tim Pychyl, to dissect and explain the many examples I could list in my life where I find myself delaying tasks that feel important. I was fascinated to learn that not all my delays a...
00:51:17
2022-04-07
Welcome back to Part II of Analog Curious (if you missed Part I, catch it here). In this episode, I continue to explore my analog curiosity and provide some useful ways I have been able to decrease the impact of screen time and social media use. One thi...
00:41:21
2022-03-31
If you follow me on social media, you may have noticed that I’ve been on a bit of a digital detox. Or what I’m calling, being “analog curious”. This means I want to know what life feels like relying on technology less. In the past two years, techn...
00:40:14
2022-03-17
Let’s redefine what “bad behavior” in childhood really means. So often, we view challenging behavior as a sign of our own shortcomings as parents, but our episode today explains that most difficult behaviors are actually a neurological response to s...
00:45:09
2022-03-11
If you (or your loved ones) are living with clutter; trying to make space for connection over content; or moving to a smaller home or retirement community, then you’ll love hearing from my friend, Matt Paxton. Matt is an Emmy-nominated hoarding expert a...
00:40:06
2022-03-03
Mothers all over the world have faced similar challenges across generations. Today, I’m chatting with Ana Tajder. Ana is the host of Thank you, Mama a podcast where she interviews woman from around the world about the lessons they learned from their m...
00:39:12
2022-03-01
Today we are talking about accommodating, especially accommodating anxious behaviors in our kids. Sometimes accommodating is also known as enabling. This happens when an anxious person asks another person in their life to do something specific that reliev...
00:40:44
2022-02-19
Parenthood rarely turns out as we expect. In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Rachel Nielson, the host of the podcast 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms. Rachel is a mother, teacher, and writer. In this episode she’s sharing her journey to motherhood.
...
01:07:14
2022-02-10
In honor of Valentine’s Day and the Re-Launch of my Partners in Parenthood program, I have my partner, David, on the podcast today. We are talking about the highs and lows of parenthood and about how we have grown together in the process.
The post Par...
00:46:08
2022-02-04
In today’s episode, Kanesha Baynard opens up about her experience and expertise with the topic of multigenerational family living. This type of living arrangement has become increasingly more common in recent years with the pandemic and child care chall...
00:47:15
2022-01-13
In today’s episode I’m joined by Laura Fenton. Laura is a writer, editor, and the author of The Little Book of Living Small. She and I are chatting about the ways that small living has impacted our lives and what it looks like in practice.
Find Laura...
00:39:55
2021-12-16
Are messiness and minimalism compatible? In fact, we messy people probably need minimalism the most–because we can’t handle having a lot of ‘stuff’. My guest today is Rachelle Crawford. Rachelle and I have bonded over our natural tendencies toward...
00:46:54
2021-12-09
On the podcast I often feature the voices of parents and professionals who support children. As support people, our vantage point is unique. But what about the viewpoint from those with lived experience? Today, I’m speaking with lived experience educato...
00:45:55
2021-12-02
It’s that magical time of the year…you probably started to feel it back in October when the decorations hit the stores. The pressure to shop early and the FOMO has never been stronger. There’s a good chance you have kids that are excited for the hol...
00:32:26
2021-11-19
I’m thrilled to welcome our first Mother-Daughter duo to the podcast today. Quyionah Wingfield and her daughter Serenity are entrepreneurs. They’ve written books, launched online dance classes, and now their first family game app. All their ventures h...
00:19:40
2021-11-11
Do your kids have too many toys? When it comes to toys, there is no perfect number. But in today’s episode we are talking about why children don’t need a lot of toys. Having an abundance of toys is not only unnecessary but could be harmful.
Want to...
00:42:52
2021-10-28
I frequently hear from women who are diagnosed with ADHD after entering motherhood. Those who are diagnosed with ADHD often struggle with executive functioning. In short, executive functioning is our ability to plan, organize, and coordinate life. And as ...
00:23:25
2021-10-21
I find it confusing when we are told that as parents we need to set boundaries. We need to hold our ground. But so often when we do that, we end up in power struggles.
Power struggles can happen in any relationship. They are especially common in...
00:41:44
2021-10-13
Today, we are discussing interoception. If you don’t know what that means, you aren’t alone. You might be surprised to learn you know more about it than you realize. Interoception is sometimes called the “Eighth Sense”, it’s the sense of the ent...
00:54:57
2021-10-06
The COVID vaccine is going to be available for younger children in the coming weeks here in the U.S.. I don’t know about you, but this has been on my mind for some time. Today, I’m sharing my decision-making process. This episode may or may not resona...
00:18:58
2021-09-30
Parenting is one of our most important jobs in life. But we also don’t get formal performance reviews like we do in the working world. Sometimes that can leave us guessing.
How am I doing? You want to know, right?
Since there isn’t a formal ...
00:15:25
2021-09-17
We just moved into a new house. We’ve been renting for almost a year and found a permanent spot right down the road. Even though it’s not a far move, it’s been a big move. Big life transitions like this can feel really out of control. There’s alwa...
00:13:38
2021-09-02
As adults we are accustomed to a certain type of communication. Usually, it involves spoken word and it’s fairly civilized. That’s not always the case when it comes to communicating with our kids.
Our children are still developing the ability to reg...
00:14:39
2021-07-29
Starting the day…it can feel like a lot. It can be busy and overwhelming. There are so many things that need to get done and so little time to do them all. I know in many parts of the world people are preparing to go back into the world and back to scho...
00:16:25
2021-07-14
Many of us have been decluttering our homes for some time. But what about our brains? Mental clutter is real. Parenthood can feel heavy. We are tackling the 10 reasons that parenthood feels cluttered and overwhelming. If you are committed to self-care but...
00:47:52
2021-06-24
Minimalism looks different for everyone. When Christine Platt found minimalism she expected it would involve moving towards an all-white, barren aesthetic. But in search of an intentional life, she has built a home and lifestyle that is unique to her indi...
00:23:24
2021-06-10
What if I get rid of something that I might need someday? How will my kids react? Making a big lifestyle change can feel scary. Moving towards simplicity is no exception to this. In today’s episode, we are discussing common fears around living a simpler...
00:27:38
2023-03-23
You should know this by now. I’ve asked you a hundred times. How could you forget?
Today we are going to talk about consequences, punishment, and discipline. How do we raise kids to take ownership and care for themselves and their belongings? Today I...
00:26:40
2021-05-20
I’m going to start today off with a quote:
“We’re often afraid that if we give our kids an inch, they will take a mile. Every single grain of rice in their bowl must be eaten up, every toy in its proper place, every “I” dotted and “t” cros...
00:20:57
2021-05-05
There are many ways in which society has constructed parenting to be far more complicated than necessary. The result is parental overwhelm. As parents, we all have the same goals. Raising happy, healthy, successful kids. In order to reach those goals, we ...
00:22:38
2021-04-29
Summer used to be synonymous with time-off and relaxation. But times have changed and many parents now feel a sense of dread and overwhelm around the unstructured time that comes during the summer—especially after spending over a year at home. Today, we...
00:40:29
2021-04-22
I’ve seen numbers that say over 90% of women are unhappy with their bodies. Our body image, or the way we perceive our own bodies, is impacted by family, friends, social media, the news, and more. Many of us entered motherhood with pre-existing body ima...
00:29:09
2021-04-14
In this episode, I’m doing a quick-fire Q&A. I have a long list of questions from you all and I’ll be moving through, answering a variety of questions. We will be covering whether or not I have a junk drawer, parenting kids with bad attitudes, capsule...
00:42:16
2021-04-08
For the longest time, I was a budget-resister. As a minimalist, I don’t buy a lot of stuff so I didn’t think I needed a budget. But I was wrong–moving towards a consistent, air-tight budget has been one of the most intentional changes that we have m...
00:16:27
2021-03-03
Sometimes the road to self-improvement can also lead us toward self-doubt. Things that we previously thought we were doing okay on, we suddenly start to think we aren’t doing well enough. This especially happens in parenting. I hear from parents all the...
00:52:17
2021-02-04
Bedwetting and accidents can be taboo to speak about as our kids get older. However, we’ve been challenged by these things in our home so I understand the importance of this topic first hand. I’ll warn you, my guest Dr. Steve Hodges and I are going to...
00:50:36
2021-01-21
Our family recently downsized in a big way. I’ve had many people ask why we sold our lovely home and the short answer is: It’s complicated. My husband, David, is joining me in today’s episode for a candid conversation about the perils of homeownersh...
00:13:28
2021-01-06
In today’s world, we are inundated with information. Whether it be about parenting, cooking, art projects, gardening…the world is quite literally at our fingertips thanks to Google.
The result is that we often feel like, if the information is availa...
00:13:01
2020-12-23
We are knee-deep in the holiday season, so let’s take a moment to talk about over-gifters—these are people in your life, or especially your kid’s life, that give more gifts than you’d like. Generally speaking, these are good, well-intentioned, lov...
00:12:54
2020-12-16
We have different expectations for our kids’ behavior based on the type of environment that we take them into. Perhaps you feel at ease when you pull into a playground, and your kids can jump out to just run, yell, and play. But what if you have to take...
00:09:58
2020-12-10
There’s so much empty space left to fill during the holiday season. That emptiness often leads to discomfort. But, as humans, we have a way of filling those voids without pause. It’s true; there’s so much missing this holiday season. It might feel s...
00:24:28
2020-11-18
This gift guide isn’t meant to literally click and buy (although I’ve included links for ideas). Instead, it is intended to make you think differently about gifting. Our kids may grow out of their toys, but they won’t grow out of spending quality ti...
00:12:15
2020-11-12
Organization can feel like a false promise of more. If only you could be more organized, you could manage MORE stuff. You could handle MORE on your calendar.
But the truth is, the sheer quantity of…everything…is inundating us.
My efforts at organiza...
00:28:46
2020-11-05
We all want our kids to eat well. We will try anything and everything to make it happen. But what if sometimes we try too hard and end up mucking it up in the process? There is plenty to be said about simplicity and feeding children–today we are explori...
00:21:37
2020-10-28
Today we are talking about upsetting our kids. Sometimes as parents, we have to make hard decisions for our kids. Decisions they don’t like. Decisions that upset them. We are talking about feeling that tension between what your child wants you to do ver...
00:18:13
2020-10-21
In today’s episode, Part III, we’re going to talk about how we can work to improve and better understand the challenging relationships that we have in our lives. We will cover setting boundaries, empathic listening, building connection, and communicat...
00:18:31
2020-10-14
In last week’s episode, we started talking about challenging adult relationships. I asked you to think about who that person(s) is for you. Now, this week we will talk about setting goals for those relationships and the impact of idealizing these relati...
00:19:35
2020-10-07
We all have challenging people in our lives. Maybe it’s your brother or your mother or a best friend from childhood. Our goal is to try to start viewing this person through a new lens—so you can reframe your mindset and your attitude.
This topic of r...
00:10:24
2020-09-30
Stress can lead to anger and irritability. In today’s episode, we are talking about how anger can spill over onto the people we love the most, including our partners and children. I’m sharing how we talk about this concept with our kids.
In this wild ...
00:22:33
2020-09-16
One of the greatest, if not THE greatest, obstacle to simplicity with kids is FOMO. The fear of missing out. We worry about our children missing out on toys, experiences, and opportunities that they desire. We worry our children will be negatively impacte...
00:16:04
2020-09-09
Today I’m sharing my best relationship tool. It’s called expansion and contraction. Expansion and contraction is a simple way to find the rhythm in your family. In fact, it’s probably something you do all the time without even noticing. However, onc...
00:13:37
2020-08-26
Our family was on vacation recently–and my husband and I wanted to explore some new sights. We love to wander around and breathe it all in. My kids don’t always share this joy. In fact, on this particular trip, their legs seem to quit functioning alto...
00:26:43
2020-08-19
Do you feel like you need some new screen time rules for your kids? There’s a good chance that your kids have consumed an increased amount of screen time during the pandemic. Whether it’s for work, school, or pleasure—we’ve all been home more and ...
00:17:29
2021-09-09
Back-to-school season can feel busy and stressful–especially this year. In today’s episode I’m answering some of your back-to-school questions. Heads up, next week I’ll be starting a one-week special offer on Simple Families Foundations.
The post ...
00:27:40
2020-07-29
Right now, many of us are thinking about back to school decisions. Educating your child in a pandemic is no easy task. Homeschooling? Distancing Learning? In-person school? Even if we are privileged to have a choice, making hard decisions for our families...
00:24:06
2020-07-22
The toy industry sells us the story that our children need toys to be happy. In fact, we are sold the story that our kids need lots of new toys to be content. You may have come to believe that more toys=more joy and find yourself spending countless dollar...
00:08:52
2020-07-15
We’ve all picked up on a few habits during this crisis–and some of those habits might not be serving us. Today I’m sharing more about my attempts to moderate caffeine, a habit that I’ve leaned on hard the past few months. I’d love to hear from y...
00:24:38
2022-06-28
When we speak to our kids, words do matter. We don’t have to get it right all.the.time, but I like to use the same phrases repeatedly to help drive home important lessons. Therefore, I’m sharing the 10 exact expressions my kids hear on a regular basis...
00:08:10
2020-07-01
In our house, we have three primary rules that guide the way we parent our kids. Today, I’m sharing the three rules and how we talk to our young children about them.
Here they are:
Respect the rights of other people,
Protect and care for the env...
00:16:25
2020-06-23
Many of us have been decluttering our homes for some time. But what about our brains? Mental clutter is real. Parenthood can feel heavy. We are tackling the 10 reasons that parenthood feels cluttered and overwhelming.
The post Mental Clutter 101 appeared ...
00:38:59
2020-06-17
We are wrapping up our first year of homeschooling and I wanted to share my reflections with you. I know that many people are considering homeschooling next year due to the pandemic, but our family is planning to send the kids to school. Tune in to hear t...
00:21:44
2020-06-03
Are you wondering how to talk to young kids about race? I’m so pleased to welcome Jasmine Bradshaw to the podcast today to share her insights. Jasmine and her husband Carter are the voices behind the podcast First Name Basis. Her work is a resource that...
00:04:58
2020-05-27
Today I’m introducing a new format for summer. I’ll be intermittently sharing some shorter episodes like this one that include a few straightforward tips and tools that you can implement right away. We are going to start in the pantry, one of the spac...
00:20:48
2020-05-20
I love you, I hate you. You always yell at me. You never cook anything I like. Young children tend to think in black and white. Their feelings can be big, bold, and intense. In this episode, we are discussing why this happens in everyday conversations. We...
00:23:24
2020-05-13
Do your kids show a strong preference for one parent or the other? In today’s episode we are discussing why this dynamic exists and some tips for helping to balance things out at home.
Show Notes/Links
Simplifying Siblings
Episode 160: Selfless or Sel...
00:31:33
2020-05-06
In today’s episode we are chatting about high-functioning anxiety. Many of us experience challenges with fear, worries, and anxiety. I’m sharing more about my experience and some of my favorite tips and resources.
Mental Health Resources:
Betterhelp
...
00:26:09
2020-04-29
Today we are talking about minimalism, money, and developing a spending plan. For years I was a budget-resister. I wanted nothing to do with having a budget for our family. But now I’m singing a different tune. The reality is, developing a solid spendin...
00:54:36
2020-04-22
In honor of the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, I am joined by Stephanie Seferian from the Sustainable Minimalists Podcast. We are chatting about realistically moving towards sustainability and raising kids to love our Earth.
I’m also answering a questio...
00:35:08
2020-04-15
In times like this, it can be hard to explain the News to our children. In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Andrea Barbalich, the editor-in-chief of The Week Junior. The Week Junior is a brand new magazine that simplifies the news for kids. Andrea a...
00:17:24
2020-04-14
In today’s episode we are discussing how to develop a play space that is suitable for children of multiple ages. Do we really need baby toys? Can we find toys that grow with children? How do we balance safety and developmental needs? These are questions...
00:25:58
2020-04-08
Not all reward sticker charts are created equal. In today’s episode, I’m going to explain how to use a reward chart effectively–and I will also explain why we don’t use them very often.
How to Use a Reward Chart
How to Use a Sticker Chart
The po...
00:12:58
2020-04-07
You are enough. You are doing enough. In today’s episode, I’m taking a question that many parents across the world are wondering: Am I providing enough structure/educational stimulation for my child in this time of crisis?
The post Q&A | Am I doing en...
00:16:17
2020-04-01
Irritability. Potty accidents. Night wakings. Tantrums (child AND adult). Difficult behaviors can increase during times of stress. In today’s episode we are discussing the implications of stress and uncertainty on child and adult behavior. Because most ...
00:16:07
2020-03-31
Who could use a little quiet time right now? I see you nodding your head. Yes, me too. In today’s episode we are talking about initiating quiet time with young children. During this period of social distancing, even short periods of quiet time can be li...
00:53:15
2020-03-25
We all know that it’s important to stay home right now–it is our social responsibility. The Weidner family is one of a million reasons this continues to be important. Today I am bringing you their story. Hillary and her husband Jordan are not stranger...
00:16:32
2020-03-24
If you have bored kids driving you crazy right now, the easy solution might be to shower them with new toys and activities to keep them busy. But sadly, Amazon doesn’t have the answer to all our problems. An onslaught of new stuff will keep kids busy fo...
00:14:48
2020-03-18
I’m feeling grateful that I have the ability to work from home during this season of life. But having the whole family home right along with me isn’t exactly a “walk in the park”. Today I’m sharing my 7 best tips for staying sane in an extended...
00:13:31
2020-03-17
Are you inundated by the news right now? Is there such a thing as too much news? We are raising children in an era of constant exposure to the news–it hits us instantly 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. With the current pandemic, it has many of us captivat...
00:52:02
2020-03-11
Partnership is transformed in parenthood. Today I am joined by Shane Birkel, a podcaster and couples therapist. Shane and I are discussing communication and relationship patterns for partners during the early years of parenthood.
Show Links:
Shane Birkel...
00:12:21
2020-03-10
I know you are already inundated with the news on COVID-19. But we are going to talk about it a little here today too–I’m taking a question from an audience member wondering how we are handling it in our family.
Show Notes/Links
Green Kid Crafts
Kid...
00:43:34
2020-03-04
I’m joined by Courtney Carver, author of the brand new book Project 333: The Minimalist Fashion Challenge That Proves Less Really is So Much More. In today’s episode, she shares her minimalist wardrobe challenge that has spread throughout the world. I...
00:12:22
2020-03-03
How do I teach my daughter to value her inner-beauty? How do I teach her that self-worth isn’t sealed into pretty?
I will teach her that strangers can’t see the beautiful stuff on the inside. However, out of some bizarre cultural norm she will find th...
00:13:22
2020-02-25
What if you are too overwhelmed to deal with your overwhelm? I hear this a lot. This week we are launching a new round of The Mental Unload–my signature 7-day program that focuses on decreasing mental clutter. Even if you think you don’t have the time...
01:02:23
2020-02-19
The truth is, parenthood rarely turns out how we expect. Today, I’m happy to introduce you to my friend Jen. I met Jen over twelve years ago–long before my motherhood journey began. She’s the mother of a son with special needs and twin daughters. Je...
00:16:11
2020-02-18
We often feel a great responsibility to keep our kids occupied and happy. That can be a heavy burden to carry. In today’s episode, we are talking about understanding this need and setting boundaries to benefit the whole family.
Show Notes/Links:
Visual...
00:14:38
2020-02-11
What if your kid says “yuck” at the dinner table. Cooking a meal for your family is hard work and when your kids express distaste, it can really get under your skin. The truth is that most kids think in black and white: they either love a food or they...
00:48:25
2020-02-05
What is executive functioning? As parents, it is important to understand that executive function is one of many components that is in-development in the early years of life. As our children grow, they slowly develop the ability to make plans, organize the...
00:20:06
2020-02-04
Do my kids fight? YES. Today I’m sharing some of my favorite tools and thoughts around sibling relationships. I’ll be honest, this is one of my biggest challenges in parenthood. But with time, I’ve been able to develop empathy that gives me the abil...
00:23:15
2020-01-29
I am wrapping up a treat-free month with my kids. Back in December, the cookies, candy, and treats got more than a little out of hand. This month has been a learning process for my kids, but more importantly for me. I’ve been able to let go of some of m...
00:46:13
2020-01-23
Anyone parenting with a busy schedule will tell you that the quality of food you are feeding yourself may be lacking. It can take time, thought, and effort to feed ourselves well. On the podcast today, I’m chatting with my wellness guru, Megan Lyons. We...
00:12:18
2020-01-21
Do you have a kid who struggles to take “no” for an answer? That’s the question we are covering today. The truth is, somtimes we need to firm up our “no” when talking to our kids–I’m giving you a few examples of what this sounds like. I’m ...
00:50:59
2020-01-15
In today’s episode, I’m sharing a journey to simplicity. Marie, a Simple Families community member is giving us a closer look inside her day-to-day life. She’s been working towards simplicity for over a year and has found that a simpler life improve...
00:13:13
2020-01-14
Should we insist that our kids apologize or say “I’m sorry”? I actually don’t. However, both my kids have come to apologize and express authentic empathy in their early years (without my demanding it). They have learned to do so naturally through ...
00:27:50
2020-01-08
In three years of podcasting, I’ve never shared my own views on sleep. This is not an accident. The reality is that I’m afraid to approach this divisive topic. I do have a lot of opinions on the topic, but today–I’m sharing the 7 most important th...
00:16:43
2020-01-07
How do you get your kids to sleep in later? That’s the question for the day. Although there is no magic bullet, I have a few tips to help you move in the right direction. Including some strategies around using an “Okay to wake clock”. I’m also sha...
00:40:38
2020-01-02
Happy New Year! Today we are talking about the Simple Families “word for the year”: Community. Building a community in parenthood can feel like “one more thing” we have to do. But it’s invaluable to you and your family as you grow, change, and f...
00:58:03
2019-12-18
Back in January, I joined the sober curious movement as I gave up alcohol for the year as a New Year’s Resolution. It was an amazing year and I learned so much about myself. Today I’m sharing my month-by-month experience and Brooke Conley joins me for...
00:43:23
2019-12-11
Stepping into new spaces can make anyone uncomfortable. For many of us, developing a relationship with an individual with special needs might be new territory. In today’s episode, we have Mama/Author/Advocate Heather Avis sharing her ideas about raising...
00:16:41
2019-12-10
Are you wondering how to talk to your kids about Santa? That’s what we are chatting about today.
Actually, I’m introducing something brand new today! Starting in 2020, I’ll be adding a second weekly episode to the Simple Families Podcast. In additio...
01:14:15
2019-12-04
In today’s episode, I’m bringing you a Journey to Simplicity. I’m chatting with Dr. Gillian Goddard, a physician living outside of New York City with her husband and four kids. Although Gillian’s life may feel anything but simple, she and her fami...
00:35:43
2019-11-20
Ready for a mindset shift around gifts this holiday season? In today’s episode, we are discussing how to gift with intention. This includes shifting the conversation around gift-giving with your kids and choosing gifts that will keep-on-giving. I’m al...
00:56:11
2019-11-13
If you are striving to simplify the holidays this year, take a listen to my chat with three of my favorite minimalist mamas, Erica Layne from The Life on Purpose Movement, Zoë Kim from Raising Simple, and Rachelle Crawford from Abundant Life with Less.
B...
00:14:47
2019-11-06
Some days I feel like every mother I know is ridden with stress and overwhelm. This type of parenthood seems to be slowly becoming the norm. In today’s episode (episode 178) we are talking about what happens when your cup overflows. When your cup overfl...
00:52:24
2019-10-30
I really don’t know much about art, but I’m learning. One thing I know for sure is that art is important, for kids and adults alike. Today I’m chatting with author Meri Cherry about art + kids. The tagline on her book “Creative Activities and Proj...
00:50:22
2019-10-23
In honor of my birthday week, I’m bringing you a casual conversation with my husband David. It’s his first appearance on the podcast and we are talking all things love, marriage, and parenting.
The post SFP 176: Conversation With My Husband appeared ...
00:22:18
2019-10-16
Parenting an early bloomer comes with its own set of challenges. Those of us who have precocious children know this well. Today, we are discussing the ins and outs of early blooming from a child development perspective. And I’m sharing more about my per...
00:26:21
2019-10-09
Right now, I’m tired. We just returned from a two-week international trip with our family. Today I’m sharing all the details: the plans, the obstacles, dealing with jet lag, letting go of expectations, and why we keep doing it.
Show Notes/Links:
Pack...
00:45:27
2019-10-01
When it comes to kids, buying more sustainably can feel intimidating. If you are unsure of where to start or how to prioritize, we are chatting more about this today. Our guest is Brendan Synnott, the CEO of Pact, and he’s bringing us insight on the sus...
00:17:54
2019-09-25
Life with young children is always evolving. The way we spend our time changes too. Finding the right balance that works for each of us is incredibly important. The way I spend my time is going to look very different from the way that you spend yours. In ...
00:39:24
2019-09-18
Have you started talking to your kids about money? Money can be a taboo topic, even within families. In today’s episode I’m chatting with Liz Frazier Peck author of Piggy Banks and Lemonade Stands: How to Teach Young Kids About Finance (and They’re ...
00:18:22
2019-09-11
Is there such a thing as overly-responsive parenting? I believe so. Early in parenthood I found myself being a mindreader. It is important to be in tune with our kids’ needs, but we also need to give them the opportunity to step up and advocate for them...
00:19:07
2019-09-04
Do your kids have too many toys? When it comes to toys, there is no perfect number. But in today’s episode we are talking about why children don’t need a lot of toys. Having an abundance of toys is not only unnecessary but could be harmful. We are tal...
00:19:31
2019-08-21
Life gets busy. Sometimes it gets hard to make time for the simple things–like taking your kids for a walk in nature. But the value of the free and simple things should never be underestimated. Today, I’m sharing my favorite strategies for hiking with...
00:45:22
2019-08-07
In today’s episode, we are discussing the 5 Love Languages as they pertain to children. I am joined by Diane Debrover, the Deputy Editor of Parents Magazine where we talk through each of the Love Languages and explore how they show up in children. Spoil...
00:14:02
2019-07-23
Summer is supposed to be relaxing, yet I have found that this summer we’ve had a lot of transition, a lot of change, and my brain has been very busy. Therefore, today’s episode is dedicated to just that: We’re talking about the “Tip of the Iceberg...
00:52:12
2019-07-10
Today I’m chatting with Jane Monnier about her journey towards reducing mental and physical clutter. Jane is a longtime member of the Simple Families Community. She’s also is a rocket-scientist-turned-military-wife-and-mother who has lived around the ...
00:45:16
2019-06-26
In today’s episode, I am chatting with Rich Karlgaard, Publisher of Forbes Magazine, about his new book Late Bloomers. Rich is a self-proclaimed late bloomer. He’s sharing more of his story along with some research that will give fellow parents of lat...
00:21:15
2019-06-19
It happens. All kids will use less-than-desirable language as they are growing up. Whether its potty words or outright profanity, we all deal with this as parents. Today I’m reflecting on how we’ve been managing it in our house–including what is wor...
00:38:48
2019-06-12
I recently went through and did a huge book overhaul. I got rid of all the “twaddle” in favor of prioritizing high quality, well-written children’s books. To quote today’s guest Emily Cook, “well-read children will grow into well-read adults”....
00:17:00
2019-06-04
It’s officially book launch week! In today’s episode I am sharing more about the publishing process behind Simple Happy Parenting, along with my goals and hopes for the book and what exactly I am afraid of.
The post SFP 161: Behind-The-Scenes appeared...
00:51:05
2019-05-29
There is a fine line between selfishness and selflessness in parenthood. In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Hunter Clarke-Fields of Mindful Mama Mentor. We talking about martyrdom in motherhood and how trying to be-it-all and do-it-all is not actua...
00:23:42
2019-05-22
Slow living with kids…what does that look like? Frankly, the days can feel painfully slow. But sometimes they can be delightful. What gives? Today we are talking about shifting toward a slower lifestyle and what that looks like with family life. Finding...
00:44:30
2019-05-15
I get to be on the other side of the table today! In today’s episode, I am being interviewed by the host of Minimalish, Desirae Endrees. I had the pleasure of being a guest on Minimalish last week and I loved our chat so much that I wanted to re-air th...
00:18:39
2019-05-08
In today’s episode I am sharing more about our decision to homeschool. Homeschool was never in the plans for our family, so I will tell you more about our decision to go down this path. I’m also sharing some of the vital pieces in making this process ...
00:41:12
2019-05-01
Changing your mindset and finding joy usually doesn’t happen overnight. Baby steps, right? In today’s episode, I am chatting with authors and happiness experts Marc and Angel Chernoff. We’ll explore the small ways we can increase happiness and life ...
00:22:13
2019-04-24
On the podcast today I am reading the first chapter of my new book, Simple Happy Parenting: The Secret of Less for Calmer Parents and Happier Kids.
Show Notes/Links:
Preorder the book: Simple Happy Parenting
Grab your spot in The Masterclass
...
00:51:13
2019-04-17
Simplifying parenthood may sound like a lofty goal. But in today’s episode, I am chatting with Nicole Smith, a mother who has made huge strides. Nicole is sharing her ‘Journey to Simplicity’ that has happened over the past few months.
Nicole is...
00:49:12
2019-04-10
In today’s episode, Tsh Oxenreider is sharing more about her “Journey to Simplicity”. Tsh is a wife and mother of three who has been on the path towards a simpler, more intentional life for over a decade.
Tsh is an author and the voice behind T...
00:15:09
2019-03-27
Overparenting is a phenomenon that happens for many parents who have the best of intentions. We want the best for our children and as a result, we want to do everything and be everything for them. This happens because we are fearful of not doing enough. W...
00:41:47
2019-03-20
In the age of social media, it’s impossible to avoid “the comparison game”. In this episode, I am chatting with my friend Erica Layne from The Life on Purpose Movement. We are exploring the tendency to compare our family to others and how the compar...
00:25:35
2019-03-13
Recent Family Photo (Au Pair Included)
Since we brought our first au pair last summer I have received nearly constant questions about the experience. So today, I am sharing my thoughts on all types of childcare arrangements (including daycare, fam...
00:42:25
2019-03-06
Last week, we had a primer on the importance of outdoor play with Linda Åkeson McGurk. This week, I am re-airing an important follow up piece on the scientific perspective on this topic.
In today’s episode, I speak with Carla Hannaford, world-reno...
00:52:23
2019-02-27
Today I have one of the top Simple Families episodes! I am re-sharing my chat with Linda Åkeson McGurk about the importance of getting kids outside in all sorts of weather–even in the heart of winter.
There’s no such thing as bad weather, only b...
00:47:33
2019-02-20
The journey into motherhood isn’t easy for any woman. But after giving birth here in the U.S., there is societal pressure to return to a “normal life” almost overnight. In other cultures, this transition comes more gently. Women are given more time,...
00:45:58
2019-02-13
As a parent raising children in the United States, I realize that I have a lot to learn from other cultures around the world. In today’s episode, I am exploring an international perspective with Indian mother Devishobha Chandramouli. Devishobha is raisi...
00:27:14
2019-02-06
Why is it that some kids turn into zombies in front of a screen? Then they get angry and act crazy when we turn it off? That’s what we are talking about in today’s episode. I’m going to be skimming the surface on some brain research and share how I ...
00:46:53
2019-01-30
In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Amy Lang about sex. She’s sharing her best tips on how to talk to kids about sex, the human body, teaching consent, and the sexualization of childhood. This is a conversation that needs to be on the radar of all...
00:22:59
2019-01-23
The way that you parent will look very differently from that of your close friends and family members. Today I am answering a listener’s question. We are discussing how to manage these relationships when you have very different expectations for your own...
00:37:04
2019-01-16
In today’s episode I am chatting with professional organizer Rachel Rosenthal. If you are anything like me, you might struggle with complex organizational systems. Rachel is bringing her best tips to keep it simple and approachable–and maybe make 2019...
00:10:52
2019-01-09
If you’ve ever wanted to drink less alcohol, then you might want to tune into this episode. I’ve had a lot of questions about my 2019 resolution to give up alcohol–even though I wouldn’t classify myself as a heavy drinker. Today on the podcast I a...
00:41:53
2019-01-02
In today’s episode I am chatting with Erin Loechner. Erin is an author, blogger, designer, and mother of two. She shares her journey towards simple living along with her best tips for making slower New Year’s Resolutions–including arm circles, wakin...
00:26:31
2018-12-27
Independent play doesn’t come easily to all children. In today’s episode we are discussing what to expect from independent play as well as how to support our children to do it more often. When it comes to independent play, it’s important that we do ...
00:16:40
2018-12-18
About 95% of everything I put on the internet is real life, not staged. The other 5% includes things like the photo in this post, because I generally don’t frolic in fields in pretty dresses. Today I am answering a question from a reader about how much ...
00:39:42
2018-12-12
I don’t know about you–but my kids have the tendency to move slowly. They function on their own timeline. The result is that as parents, we often find ourselves “hurrying” them to speed up and get on our agenda. In today’s episode I am chatting ...
00:48:05
2018-12-04
Taking the road less traveled is not always simple. During the holiday season the list of obligations grow rapidly and saying “no” can seem out of reach. Today I am chatting with Rachel Rainbolt from Sage Parenting. Rachel and I are talking about the ...
00:35:25
2018-11-28
Buying new toys for our children can be exciting–but it can also be overwhelming. There are so many options out there and our children are inundated with marketing materials. Today I am chatting with Lizzie Assa from the Workspace for Children. She and...
00:59:26
2018-11-19
We all believe that the holiday season is the happiest time of the year. But is it really? Today I am chatting with Happiness Guru Gretchen Rubin about finding happiness in the holiday season. You may know Gretchen from one of her New York Times bestselli...
00:23:39
2018-11-14
Welcome back to Part II of the Holiday Q&A (If you missed Part I, catch it here!). Rachelle Crawford from Abundant Life with Less and Zoë Kim from Raising Simple are joining me to answer the rest of your holiday questions. Today we will chat about mi...
00:32:04
2018-11-07
The holidays are upon us. I am here to tell you that you don’t need to do or buy all.the.things. Today is the first of a two-part series focused on answering your questions about living a more intentional holiday season. I am joined by Rachelle Crawford...
00:35:48
2018-10-31
Dare I say that developing a gratitude practice is actually easy? I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly small acts of gratitude have changed my life. In today’s interview I am chatting with mother and gratitude expert Josie Robinson about her unlike...
00:33:44
2018-10-24
Starting in the early days of pregnancy we set expectations for ourselves. Perhaps your kids won’t have screen time. You will breastfeed for one year or more. Your kids will only eat organic. In today’s episode Natalie Telyatnikov [from Better Postpar...
00:32:41
2018-10-17
Most of us feel like there’s no way we could add one more thing to our plate. But the truth is that starting a side-hustle (or part-time passion-driven work) can actually be a form of self-care. I know that for me, working helps to fill up my cup so I c...
00:41:50
2018-10-10
Sometimes there is so much to be done that we find ourselves needing coffee to wake up in the morning and wine to take the edge off and calm down in the evening. In today’s episode I am talking with Brooke Conley about alcohol + motherhood. If you have ...
00:26:32
2018-10-03
Today on the podcast I am sharing a Q&A episode. That means I am taking your questions and giving you my honest, unfiltered answers. In this episode we are talking about how many gifts to give, how to manage sibling squabbles, minimalism in different regi...
00:28:29
2018-09-26
As parents, we just want to give our kids the best. We want to give them opportunities and send them to the best colleges. Sometimes that means signing them up for all the classes and starting the resumé in the earliest years. In today’s episode I am ...
00:34:54
2018-09-18
In today’s society we often feel like we need to be out and about, entertaining our children and staying busy. In this episode I am joined by author Rahima Dancy. We are discussing the educational value of just staying home with our children–because t...
00:39:17
2018-09-12
[Heads up–there’s a wee bit of audio issues in the first part of the interview, but hang it there–it gets better!]
This month we are going to be rethinking education. For anyone that has followed the podcast for sometime, you will know that I am an...
00:27:41
2018-09-05
Back by popular demand, today’s episode is a Q&A format. I am answering a variety of your questions about positive parenting, minimalism, moving, homeschooling, and childcare [all rather unapologetically–because remember this is opinion and what works...
00:25:11
2018-08-29
Today is the first ever male guest on the podcast. While it’s long overdue, I am happy to welcome my friend Clark Davis. Clark is the final interview in the series ‘Journey to Simplicity’ this month. In today’s episode, Clark shares his insight on...
00:37:39
2018-08-22
This is my favorite podcast episode yet. This month we are exploring the journey to simplicity in four real-life families. Because minimalism just makes good sense for families. Today I am chatting with Kristen Puzzo. Kristen is an active member of the...
00:37:22
2018-08-15
Some people make big life changes in search of simplicity–Lilly Neubauer is one of them. When the busyness in her life spiraled out of control, Lilly quit her job to get her family back on track. I look forward to sharing her story with you today.
Lill...
00:39:43
2018-08-08
We are launching off a new 4-part series: Journey to Simplicity. I am interviewing four real families about moving towards minimalism and how it has impacted their lives.
Today I am chatting with Rachelle Crawford. Rachelle and her family of 5 live i...
00:33:14
2018-08-01
We know the environment in which we live and the food we eat have an impact on the development of our children. In today’s episode I am speaking with author + science writer Jena Pincott about all-natural biohacks for parents.
Biohacks involve making c...
00:31:46
2018-07-26
The value of play in childhood is often underestimated. Our children need to play and when pushed into academics at a young age they miss vital opportunities to develop and grow. In today’s episode we are discussing the balance between work and play.
...
00:49:19
2018-07-18
Children benefit from the opportunity to play in open-ended, unstructured environments. Today I am talking with Nicole Roccaro from Naturally Curious Children. We talk about finding a balance in play, leaning towards unstructured activities, and following...
00:42:46
2018-07-11
Horseplay is developmentally beneficial for our growing children. If you have a kid who plays rowdy, then you need to hear this. We need to find a way to encourage this behavior rather than discourage it. In today’s episode, I am chatting with Frances C...
00:17:17
2018-07-03
Never underestimate what your children are learning through play. In the early years, play is the main vehicle for learning and education. In today’s episode, I will be introducing you to the importance of play. We chat about stages of play, types of pl...
00:25:53
2018-06-27
Child behavior is anything but straightforward. My children are well-behaved, but as humans–they have their “moments”. As parents, we can feel powerless when our kids aren’t cooperating or being respectful. Today on the podcast I am explaining how...
00:45:07
2018-06-20
In today’s episode I am chatting with Hunter Clarke-Fields of Mindful Mama Mentor. Hunter specializes in mindful parenting and in this episode we are talking about control in parenting.
As parents, we feel like we should have control over our children....
00:48:56
2018-06-13
The words that we speak to our children become their inner voice. And the average woman speaks 20,000 words per day. While we can’t always be intentional in the way we speak to our children, we can do better.
In today’s episode, author Tracy Cutchlow...
00:47:06
2018-06-07
What does it mean to “raise successful kids”? Today I am chatting with Krista from A Life in Progress. I knew I could rely on Krista to bring some excellent perspective to this topic and she comes through in this episode. When it comes to life, Krista...
00:51:24
2018-05-30
Parents spend a great deal of time and money baby-proofing the home. But how does this process impact our kids? Today, I am chatting with Nicole from The Kavanaugh Report. Nicole and I are both passionate about creating a home that is child-friendly rathe...
00:40:55
2018-05-23
Zoë Kim has lived in 24 homes in 13 different states. She’s an expert at moving and has a healthy dose of wanderlust, but she also manages to connect to the communities in which she lives.
In today’s episode, Zoë and I are discussing moving, find...
00:24:14
2018-05-14
I haven’t always lived in places that I love. But I have found gratitude and contentment in some surprising places. Today on the podcast, I am sharing how I created a home that I love along with how I engage in my community to increase a sense of attach...
00:50:45
2018-05-08
In today’s episode we are exploring the idea of “putting down roots” and becoming attached to the places that we live. Melody Warnick shares her own personal experience and the research on this concept called place psychology. If you ever sp...
00:44:17
2018-04-30
Have you ever dreamt of starting an organic garden? Today on the podcast I am chatting with my friend and homesteader Beth Brettell from High Sierra Permaculture. She’s a former designer turned homesteader, and along with her partner Bret they have crea...
00:45:52
2018-04-24
As mothers, we often carry the heavy responsibility of feeding our families. Despite what Pinterest leads us to believe, cooking for a family doesn’t have to be fancy. In today’s podcast episode I am chatting with Erin Odom of The Humbled Homemaker.
...
00:40:00
2018-04-17
We know that the kitchen is the most used room in the house–yet simplifying the kitchen is anything but easy. On the podcast today I am chatting with Melissa Coleman of The Faux Martha. Melissa is a food blogger and she is sharing her story about how th...
00:45:15
2018-04-10
Every parent wants to feed their children nutritious food. That probably means a heaping dose of vegetables, ample proteins, and a well-rounded source of vitamin-rich foods. Even if we know what we should be feeding our children, we don’t always know th...
00:24:06
2018-04-03
In our house, mealtimes are pleasant. My kids eat well and we enjoy each others company. I don’t have it all figured out, but I do have a Ph.D. in Child Development with a research background in child wellness. That means I use a combination of both res...
00:35:53
2018-03-27
I don’t have a regular yoga or meditation practice, although I wish I did. Yet each day I find moments of mindfulness and presence in regular activities. In today’s podcast episode I am speaking with Shawn Fink from The Abundant Mama Project. We are c...
00:40:51
2018-03-20
She’s skinny, crafty, active, accomplished in her career, family-focused, and well-dressed (all the time, even at drop off). She’s the perfect mom. She’s the mom that we are secretly striving to be–the one that does it all and has it all.
...
00:40:53
2018-03-12
Parenthood is notoriously associated with sleep deprivation. Good sleep goes beyond just getting kids to sleep through the night. Do any of these things resonate with you?
At the end of a long day you desperately need sleep, but you can’t put your Ins...
00:44:51
2018-03-07
Stress and overwhelm are an epidemic in childhood–which means mindfulness for kids has become essential. As adults, many (if not most) of us carry significant amounts of stress and overwhelm on a daily basis. It has become so ingrained into our society ...
00:02:29
2018-03-01
In today’s episode, I am sharing some simple (yet exciting) changes coming to the podcast and the Simple Families Community. Listen in to hear more, and click here to join the conversation for this month.
The post SFP 96: Simple Families in March app...
00:13:08
2018-02-12
In today’s episode I am sharing more about what my typical day looks like. Like many women, I am always seeking to find a balance between having a career and spending quality time with my family. I am the primary caregiver for my 1-year-old and 4-year-o...
00:38:13
2018-02-05
Traveling with kids can be intimidating and even downright scary. But it’s also rewarding. In today’s episode, I have a special treat. I am chatting with my best friend and travel-with-kids-guru Amanda about adventuring both in and out of the country ...
00:38:45
2018-01-29
In today’s episode, I talk with Carla Hannaford, world-renowned biologist and outdoor advocate, about her studies on the connection between movement and brain development. If you are brand new to learning about brain development, tune into episode 92 fo...
00:09:58
2018-01-29
In today’s world of baby gadgets and excitement around milestones, many babies are skipping the crawling stage and going straight to walking. But is this actually a good thing? In today’s episode, I discuss why crawling is important to development [an...
00:07:40
2018-01-24
There are so many children’s books out there, how do you choose what to include in your home library? In today’s episode, we talk about why not every classic makes the cut in our family and what I look for in both new and classic storybooks.
The pos...
00:47:21
2018-01-22
There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes. Today, Swedish mother Linda Akeson McGurk joins us to talk about raising our kids to be more connected with nature. Linda’s new book is one of my favorites–and her blog, Rain or Shine Mamma, is...
00:35:08
2018-01-08
This week, I am excited to be talking on the podcast with Courtney Carver from Be More With Less. On the blog and podcast, I frequently discuss the “how” of minimalism. But in this episode, Courtney takes us one step further. She explains why simple ...
00:04:59
2018-01-03
We need to respect our children and their desires–but we can also help to steer them to buy more intentionally. In today’s episode we discuss how to get older children on board with simplicity using 3 simple questions.
The post SFP 88: How can I...
00:36:04
2018-01-02
Fitness and nutrition are on the minds of many at the beginning of a New Year. As we transition into motherhood, our bodies change. I know for me personally, the way I view my body changed after babies. But the way I use my body changed also. Fitness in m...
00:13:51
2017-12-14
Is your holiday season feeling busy? In today’s episode we talk about how to find calm this holiday season–including tips to keep it simple.
How to combat busyness?
How to minimize decorating?
How to drop the guilt?
How to decrease the sugar?
Ho...
00:32:53
2017-12-07
In today’s episode I have an interview with Megan Lyons from The Lyon’s Share Wellness (Facebook | Instagram). Megan is a health and wellness coach based in Dallas, Texas and provides services worldwide. In our chat today, we talk all about sugar. She...
00:07:32
2017-12-06
Potty training regression is discouraging and frustrating. In today’s episode we discuss how to handle a situation when a child suddenly starts having accidents after they’ve been successfully potty trained.
Suggested Book: Oh Crap!
The post SFP 8...
00:10:43
2017-12-06
Early risers can leave moms and dads feeling exhausted and irritable. In today’s episode we talk about how we can survive this common stage, especially with little ones who still require some supervision.
Suggested: Ok to Wake Clock + Visual Timer
T...
00:07:24
2017-11-15
Dealing with a child that whines and complains a lot is draining. In today’s episode we talk about how we can help model the kind of attitudes we want to see in our children, along with how to validate their feelings without encouraging the unwanted beh...
00:07:23
2017-11-09
Starting solids with your baby can be intimidating, especially when you add in the worry of choking. In today’s episode we talk about baby led weaning and how you can tell if your baby is just gagging (and why that’s totally normal) versus choking.
...
00:04:47
2017-11-08
Most babies go through a stage with separation anxiety. Even though it’s a normal development stage, it can be hard on both mom and baby. In today’s episode, we discuss how to handle a clingy baby and still get the things we need to do done.
The po...
00:14:57
2017-10-30
The mental load in motherhood is overwhelming. In today’s special episode, we are discussing why this matters and what we can do about it. Denaye also introduces a simple, 4-step plan to begin peeling back the layers.
Want to starting unpacking the men...
00:06:43
2017-10-19
It’s very easy to get overwhelmed by parenting a high-needs child. Today I discuss my top recommendation for understanding and improving challenging behavior.
The post SFP 78: How can we start enjoying our child more? appeared first on Simple Families...
00:06:11
2017-10-18
Sometimes we get into the habit of saying certain things to our kids–but maybe we need to reassess our words. Today we are discussing the reference to being a “good girl” or a “good boy”.
The post SPF 77: What are your thoughts on the term “...
00:05:18
2017-10-04
I don’t really recommend food sharing. In today’s episode, I discuss why.
The post SFP 76: How do you handle food sharing? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:08:44
2017-10-03
Today we are discussing how to manage hunger and weight in early childhood.
The post SFP 75: Does my kid eat too much? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:09:08
2017-09-28
In today’s episode we discuss collaborating with your child’s caregivers. I lay out some specific communication strategies that I use and give you an example of a personal situation I am facing right now.
The post SPF 74: How can I find a middle gr...
00:06:05
2017-09-27
Parenting can be divisive when it comes to friendship. Today we discuss what happens when two friends parent differently, including what to do…and what not to do.
The post SPF 73: How do you handle friends who have different parenting styles?...
00:07:32
2017-09-21
In today’s episode we are talking about “when kids should just know better.” I explain why I don’t really like this phrase and a new way to look at these situations.
The post SFP 72: When should my kid “know better”? appeared first on Simpl...
00:06:32
2017-09-20
Playing outside seems so simple and natural, but often it doesn’t happen that way for many families. In today’s episode we are discussing how to promote outdoor play in families.
The post SFP 71: How can we play outside as a family? appeared first ...
00:07:46
2017-09-14
Many children go through a stage where they bite, hit, or otherwise use behaviors that are undesirable. In today’s episode we discuss how these behaviors typically aren’t aggressive, instead they are primitive forms of communication.
The post SFP 7...
00:08:52
2017-09-13
Do you have a kid who asks the same question repeatedly? Or how about one who constantly requests the same movie, book, or song? In today’s episode we are discussing why kids need this type of repetition.
The post SFP 69: Why do kids repeatedly ask t...
00:06:58
2017-09-07
In today’s episode I am sharing the best parenting advice I have ever heard along with my thoughts on keeping a small child in a bed.
The post SFP 68: How can I get my kid to stay in bed? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:06:43
2017-09-05
Masturbation and genital touching in your children is a natural and normal part of development. In today’s episode we discuss how to address this concern when necessary.
The post SFP 67: How should I handle young children who masturbate? appear...
00:09:15
2017-08-31
Even if we don’t buy toy guns for our children, they may decide to turn sticks and other devices into make-believe guns. In today’s episode we talk about this type of play and whether or not we should purchase toy guns for young children.
The post ...
00:15:35
2017-08-30
In today’s special episode we take a closer look at choosing a preschool/daycare for your children. I explain how I made the decision for my own children and important factors to keep in mind during the process.
The post SFP 65: SPECIAL EPISODE: How ...
00:09:20
2017-08-24
It can be hard to listen to our kids compare themselves to others. Today, we are discussing “social graces” in young childhood and how to support children through this challenge.
The post SFP 64: What to do about kids who compare themselves to othe...
00:10:56
2017-08-24
In today’s episode we discuss hand-me-downs. It can be hard/awkward to refuse a generous offer from a family member or friend–so today we talk about doing it graciously. We also discuss best tips for keeping a kid’s wardrobe simple.
The post SFP ...
00:10:18
2017-08-17
Rowdy play can be scary for parents to watch, but this type of play has huge benefits for our kids. In today’s episode we are discussing the benefits of horseplay.
The post SFP 62: What are your thoughts on rowdy play? appeared first on Simple Famili...
00:06:45
2017-08-17
Keeping kids on a schedule while traveling is difficult. In today’s episode, we discuss the importance of children getting good sleep–regardless of where they are lying their heads.
The post SFP 61: How do you keep a routine when away from home? ap...
00:06:55
2017-08-10
Today we are talking about Lego overload and how to contain it all. We also discuss great toys for older kids.
LINKS:
The Toy Detox
The post SFP 60: What are your thoughts on managing Legos? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:07:56
2017-08-10
In today’s episode, we discuss how to manage kids who don’t like to be contained: whether it be in the carseat, the shopping cart, or the stroller.
Today’s sponsor: KIND snacks [more details here]
The post SFP 59: How do you survive with a k...
00:08:13
2017-08-03
Today we are discussing options for first bikes. I explain my personal favorites and a little about my distaste for powerwheels.
LINKS:
Amish Bike (Valley Road Wood Works)
Wishbone 3 in 1 Bike (affiliate)
Ybike (for babies-affiliate)
The post ...
00:09:55
2017-08-02
When you ask your kid to do something and they have their own agenda…it can be so frustrating. Today we are discussing how to move things along when a little one is filibustering the day.
LINKS:
More about my big move
The Cooperation Mini-Course
...
00:08:51
2017-06-29
Moving with kids is hard–we are currently in the midst of it in my family. In today’s episode I am sharing tips for moving with young children.
The post SFP 56: What are your tips on moving with kids? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:09:00
2017-06-28
In today’s episode we are talking about whether I give my children milk. I also discuss the transition from formula/breastmilk to cow’s milk after the first year of life.
Show Notes/Links:
How I Feed My Kids
How I Feed My Kids (Your Questions Answ...
00:07:45
2017-06-22
Gifts serve so many purposes. They excite the gift giver and receiver. They can make the gift giver feel like they are leaving a part of them when they aren’t present. But it’s deeply ingrained in our culture. In today’s episode we discuss how to h...
00:09:38
2017-06-21
The sibling relationship sets the stage for many relationships to come. We need to let our children use this dynamic to practice handling conflict. It will be anything but graceful in the early years, but this conflict serves a deeper purpose.
The pos...
00:06:51
2017-06-15
In today’s episode we discuss how often a kid needs to go to school–we discuss how to find that magic window of time and how to shed the guilt around it.
The post SFP 52: How much preschool does a kid need? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:05:59
2017-06-14
Gifting at birthday parties can be tricky for those trying to be intentional. In today’s episode I discuss my personal favorite gifts to give at parties.
LINKS:
Seedling Craft Kits
Back to the Roots Garden
National Geographic Little Kids
This p...
00:30:58
2017-06-06
I recently explained exactly how I feed my kids [read the post here]. I loved the enthusiastic response that I received from readers and members of the Simple Families community. Because of the overwhelming response, I decided to do a special podcast epi...
00:05:10
2017-06-06
I have shared before that I have a daily laundry habit–and it’s amazing. In today’s episode I am answering a question about this and telling you how I make it happen at our house.
LINKS:
The Simple Families Facebook Group
The post SFP 50: How d...
00:05:54
2017-05-18
Does your child whine and complain throughout the day? In today’s episode I discuss how to handle a complainer.
The post SFP 48: How Do I Deal with a Complainer? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:05:52
2017-05-17
Bedtime can be a struggle for children–regardless of the age. In today’s episode we discuss this topic.
The post SFP 47: How Do I End Bedtime Meltdowns? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:03:28
2017-05-04
On the podcast today I am explaining the best timing for potty training–and it might not be what you think.
SHOW NOTES/LINKS
My favorite tips and tools for potty training
The “Oh Crap” Book
The post SFP 46: What is the best timing for potty ...
00:07:10
2017-05-03
Separation anxiety has a way of making us feel very loved and very crazy. We are talking more about this on the podcast today.
The post SFP 45: What can I do about separation anxiety? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:06:03
2017-04-26
In today’s episode we are discussing about “back talk”. I give you my best strategies for handling it and some tips to keep in mind.
The post SFP 44: How should I handle back talk? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:05:56
2017-04-25
Today we are discussing the best way to get your kid’s on board for clean up.
SHOW NOTES/LINKS:
The Toy Detox
The Cooperation Mini-Course
The post SFP 43: How much should I expect my kids to clean up? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:05:23
2017-04-18
In today’s episode I am discussing the pros and cons of enrolling a young child in classes.
The post SFP 42: Are baby classes worth the money? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:07:46
2017-04-17
You don’t need to do a lot of arts and crafts activities to meet your kid’s needs. In today’s episode, I am discussing why this is.
SHOW NOTES/LINKS:
Why I Don’t Do Pinterest-Worthy Activities With My Kids
IDEAS FOR LESS-MESS ARTS + CRAFTS
Dry ...
00:08:02
2017-04-11
Independent play can be difficult to teach to toddlers. In today’s episode, we talk about how to encourage this type of play and the benefits.
The post SFP 40: How do I get my child to play independently? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:07:46
2017-04-10
You don’t need a separate play room for your kids–having the toys in the living space has it’s advantages. In today’s episodes, I will discuss what to keep in mind when combining the living space and the playing space.
Show Notes/Links:
Our Mini...
00:07:14
2017-04-04
I hear this time and time again: time-outs don’t work. So why do we keep using them? In this episode we talk about why I don’t recommend time outs for very young children.
Cooperation Mini Course
The post SFP 38: What to do when time-outs aren...
00:06:16
2017-04-03
Parents are not referees–it’s important that they realize that early. In today’s episode, we talk about managing competition in sibling relationships.
The post SFP 37: How do I handle competition between siblings? appeared first on Simple Familie...
00:04:51
2017-03-30
It’s not always easy to let “things” go. In today’s episode, we discuss how to keep the conversation positive with kids–along with two key questions to ask.
The post SFP 36: How can I teach kids to let go of their possessions? appeared first ...
00:04:52
2017-03-29
On the podcast today I am answering a question about how to discipline very young children.
The post SFP 35: How should I discipline very young children? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:06:11
2017-03-28
Birthday celebrations shouldn’t be complicated—they should be focused on what is important. In today’s episode, I discuss why we should keep celebrations small, intimate, and focused on the needs of the child.
The post SFP 34: Is it possible to ...
00:06:24
2017-03-27
In this episode we discuss switching a child’s bedroom in anticipation of a new sibling. I also talk about making the switch from the crib to a toddler bed.
The post SFP 33: Should I change my toddler’s bedroom? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:07:40
2017-03-21
In today’s episode we are discussing how to repurpose items we have from decluttering.
The post SFP 32: How do I repurpose the things I have from decluttering? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:08:44
2017-03-20
Every parent deals with kids that interrupt. Today we are discussing two approaches of how to handle this challenge.
The post SFP 31: How do I stop my kid from interrupting? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:05:35
2017-03-16
Many of you are probably blessed with family and friends who love to give your children gifts. In this episode we are discussing how to talk to family members about toy minimalism.
The post SFP 30: How do I handle family members who give too many gifts...
00:06:13
2017-03-15
Our kids are not going to be good at everything. In today’s episode we discuss how to approach a child that is not having success in sports or other activities.
The post SFP 29: Should I encourage my kids to do things they aren’t good at? appeared ...
00:06:08
2017-03-14
Sometimes our kids can feel impossible at meal times. In this episode, I give my best advice–and it might surprise you.
The post SFP 28: How do I end food battles with my kid? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:08:21
2017-03-13
In today’s episode I am answering a question from a mother about pretend play. She wonders how often she should intervene when there are disagreements or when the play shifts to an inappropriate story line.
The post SFP 27: When should I interrupt my...
00:05:15
2017-03-09
Sometimes babies get restless–but how much entertaining should we do as parents? In today’s episode I answer a question about how to handle a restless, bored baby.
The post SFP 26: What should I do if my baby gets bored? appeared first on Simple Fami...
00:03:47
2017-03-08
In today’s episode we discuss how to handle big transitions with toddlers–things like moving, starting a new school, and having a new baby.
The post SFP 25: How much transition can a kid handle? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:06:03
2017-03-07
Preparing for your first baby can be overwhelming. Today I discuss how I suggest you spend time preparing during pregnancy, including some of my favorite books.
Show Links/Notes:
The Best 5 Books to Read Before a Baby
The post SFP 24: How do I prepar...
00:06:49
2017-03-06
In today’s episode we discuss how to maintain a minimalist play space when you have children of various ages.
Show Notes/Links:
Video Tour of our Minimalist Playroom
The 25 Best Toys
Get the Toy Detox
The post SFP 23: How does toy minimalism work...
00:07:52
2017-03-02
In today’s episode I respond to a question about how much we should push our kids to be successful. I explain that parents should provide support when teaching new skills, but kids might actually benefit when parents “disappear” and give them opport...
00:10:10
2017-03-01
In today’s episode we are discussing how to handle the “stranger danger” talk with your children. I am not a fan of putting fear and anxiety into children. I think you can educate them and prepare them for life without scaring them. It’s importa...
00:08:53
2017-02-28
It can be difficult to wean a baby off of a bottle. In this episode I discuss the transition from formula/breastmilk to cow’s milk. I also explain the attachment to the bottle and why this process is so difficult. I also discuss things to keep in mind ...
00:10:00
2017-02-27
In this episode I will discuss three things to consider when preparing your child for a sibling. We will also discuss what type of behavior and emotions you might encounter from a young child during this period as well. I wrap up with the one thing I wish...
00:05:30
2017-02-23
In this episode I answer a question from a mother about her child that is shy and slow to warm up. I discuss ways to support and encourage her.
The post SFP 18: How Should I Handle My Shy Child? appeared first on Simple Families.
00:06:08
2017-02-22
In this episode we talk about making the difficult transition to daycare as a toddler. I discuss why it is so difficult for kids to separate and give (a strange) analogy.
The post SFP 17: Am I Traumatizing My Kid When I Leave Him at Daycare? appeared f...
00:07:44
2017-02-21
It seems like kids are starting school earlier and earlier. In today’s episode, I will be discussing how to decide on the best age for a child to start preschool.
Highlights:
Preschool vs. Daycare–what’s the difference?
What type of curriculum a...
00:08:02
2017-02-20
The kids of today need minimalism. In this episode I am sharing with you some of the benefits of minimalism with kids and family.
Highlights:
What is minimalism?
Four benefits for our children.
Show Notes/Links
Does your Kids Have Shiny Object Synd...
00:10:51
2017-02-16
Kids shouldn’t be playing with their food. That means making a mess should be the exception, not the expectation. In this episode I will discuss how to handle throwing and playing with food at mealtime.
Highlights:
Understand the motive
Control of E...
00:09:32
2017-02-15
It can be hard to get kids to go to bed. In today’s episode, I am answering a question about how to get a child to go to bed (and stay in bed).
Highlights:
Bring the positive energy.
Pattern your days for success.
Get kids to stay in bed
The po...
00:11:04
2017-02-14
Sharing is hard. In this episode, I am explaining why sharing can be such a struggle for young kids. I will also introduce the strategy that we use at home to handle sharing easily and effectively.
Highlights
Why it’s so hard for kids to share
Walk ...
00:08:44
2017-02-13
Our kid’s behavior can be frustrating–particularly when they won’t “stop” when we ask them to stop. Today we are talking about why it’s so hard to get kids to “knock it off” and how we can handle these situations with success.
Highlights
...
00:08:26
2017-02-04
I got rid of my oversized wardrobe in favor of creating a tiny collection of clothing articles that I really love. This has been an amazing change in my life. In this episode, I will share with you how I got started and some of my favorite things.
The H...
00:08:16
2017-02-04
Getting our kids to cooperate with everyday tasks can seem impossible. Brush your teeth, take a bath, put your shoes on…even the simple things can be a struggle with young children. In this episode I am going to explain why cooperation is so difficult. ...
00:09:31
2017-02-04
Nearly all parents resort to using “time-out” with their kids at some point. But the problem is it rarely works. In this episode I explain how to use time-out correctly and why I don’t really use it much myself.
The Highlights
What exactly is ...
00:09:20
2017-02-04
The first year of feeding solid foods to babies is incredibly important. In this episode, I am giving you tips to get started the best way possible.
The Highlights
How to introduce tastes
How to introduce textures
The importance of positive talk
Sho...
00:06:13
2017-02-04
In this episode I am answering the question, “how much do you play with your kids?”. I don’t actually play with my kids very much and I am going to give you an explanation of why.
The Highlights
What quality time looks like in our house.
How I f...