Minimalist Moms Podcast | Purposeful Life & Parenting Tips

Diane Boden
  • 4.7 (990)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Minimalist Moms podcast is designed to accompany you on your journey toward a more purposeful life. Through thoughtful parenting tips and meaningful expert interviews, we explore every aspect of intentional living - your mindset, daily rhythms, relationships, and, of course, your possessions. Your host, Diane Boden, invites you into conversations with a diverse range of voices, including Dana K White, Dawn Madsen, Ginny Yurich, Charles Duhigg, Gretchen Rubin, Joshua Becker, and many more. Together, these expert interviews unpack practical ways to embrace minimalism, live with greater intention, and build a truly purposeful life.

  1. More Than a Provider: The Emotional Reality of Fatherhood | Jon Gustin, Tired Dad (EP450)

    2D AGO

    More Than a Provider: The Emotional Reality of Fatherhood | Jon Gustin, Tired Dad (EP450)

    We don’t talk enough about how heavy fatherhood can feel. In this episode, I’m joined by Jon Gustin (known as “The Tired Dad”) for a candid conversation about the emotional weight dads carry behind the scenes. From postpartum challenges in his marriage to addiction and the pressure to provide while staying present, Jon shares what led him to speak out - and why so many men quietly relate. This is an honest look at modern fatherhood, vulnerability, and healing - for the whole family. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube ChannelConnect with Jon:WebsiteInstagramBook: The Tired Dad: 100 Reflections on Showing Up for What Matters MostAbout Jon |Jon Gustin is the founder and owner of The Tired Dad LLC, where he has amassed more than two million followers for his portrayal of life as an ordinary father and the lessons he’s learned. Gustin is also the co-host (along with his wife, Jessica) of The Tired Dad & Tired Mom Podcast. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MINIMALIST * Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    30 min
  2. Beyond Freezer Meals: A Smarter Way to Prep Fresh, Flexible Dinners | Crystal Schmidt (Bonus Episode)

    3D AGO

    Beyond Freezer Meals: A Smarter Way to Prep Fresh, Flexible Dinners | Crystal Schmidt (Bonus Episode)

    In this episode, Diane sits down with cookbook author and gardener Crystal Schmidt to talk about her approach to meal prep, outlined in her book Freeze Fresh Meal Prep. Instead of relying on fully pre-made freezer meals, Crystal introduces the concept of “meal starters” - prepping the fresh components of a dish ahead of time and freezing them, then finishing the meal later with pantry staples. We talk about how this method helps reduce food waste, simplify weeknight cooking, and make the most of seasonal produce. Crystal shares practical tips for getting started, including how to choose what to freeze, which vegetables need blanching, and what actually holds up well in the freezer. She also offers ideas like freezing cookie dough for easy treats and using what you already have on hand to build a system that feels sustainable. This conversation is a helpful guide for anyone looking to make home cooking more flexible, efficient, and aligned with real life. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube ChannelCrystal's Resource: Merlin Bird AppConnect with Crystal:Instagram | Youtube | WebsiteBook: Freeze Fresh Meal Prep: 160 Meal Starters and Make-Ahead Dishes for the FreezerAbout Crystal|Crystal Schmidt is the bestselling author of Freeze Fresh, and creator of Whole-Fed Homestead. With a passion for good food, she inspires others to grow their own produce, create delicious meals, and preserve fresh ingredients. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MINIMALIST * Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    27 min
  3. How Your Space Shapes Your Life: Designing Homes, Habits, & Connection | Leidy Klotz (EP449)

    3D AGO

    How Your Space Shapes Your Life: Designing Homes, Habits, & Connection | Leidy Klotz (EP449)

    What if creating a more intentional life starts with rethinking the spaces around you? Today I’m joined by behavioral scientist and author, Leidy Klotz to explore a powerful (and often overlooked) idea: our surroundings don’t just reflect who we are - they actively shape who we become. While so much advice focuses on mindset, habits, and routines, Leidy invites us to zoom out and consider where those things are happening. From the layout of your kitchen to the design of your neighborhood, physical spaces influence your ability to connect, focus, learn, and thrive. In this conversation, we unpack how to work with your environment - not against it - and how even small, intentional changes can have a profound impact on your daily life. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube ChannelDiane's Resource: EP207: Swedish Death Cleaning: Morbid or Mandatory? with Emily McDermottPrevious Episode: Simplify Your Life Using SubtractionConnect with Leidy:WebsiteBook: In a Good Place: How the Spaces Where We Live, Work, and Play Can Help Us Thrive About Leidy |Leidy Klotz is a behavioral scientist and engineering professor at the University of Virginia who studies how and why humans design. He has written for the Washington Post, Fast Company, Scientific American, and Harvard Business Review; has published his work in top journals like Nature and Science; and has been interviewed on Hidden Brain, Freakonomics, Mindscape, and The Atlantic’s How to Build a Happy Life. Klotz has advised clients ranging from the Departments of Energy and Homeland Security to CapitalOne and Amazon. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MINIMALIST * Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    32 min
  4. The Case for Stepping Back: Raising Kids Who Don’t Need You for Everything | Jenna Michael (EP448)

    5D AGO

    The Case for Stepping Back: Raising Kids Who Don’t Need You for Everything | Jenna Michael (EP448)

    What if raising independent kids actually made life easier - for everyone? Today I’m joined by Jenna Michael, author of Let’s Choose Less and the children’s book We Can Help, for a conversation about simplifying family life by inviting our kids into it. Jenna’s work centers around one powerful idea: children are more capable than we often give them credit for. And when we allow them to participate - really participate - in the rhythms of daily life, we’re not only building their confidence and life skills… we’re also creating a more sustainable, connected home. We talk about why parents tend to step in too quickly (hint: time pressure and perfectionism), how to thoughtfully hand over responsibility, and what it looks like to balance independence with a strong sense of safety and attachment. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.Subscribe to the Minimalist Moms Youtube ChannelDiane's Resource: [REPLAY] Love People, Use Things | The MinimalistsPrevious Episode: Let’s Choose Less: Simplifying Life with Young Kids | Jenna Michael (EP389)Jenna Can't Stop Talking About: Homemade CandlesConnect with Jenna:WebsiteInstagramSubstackBook: Let's Choose Less: A Young Family's Guide to Simply LivingBook: We Can HelpAbout Jenna|Jenna Michael is a wife, mother, author, and coach specializing in simplified and intentional living for families. Her writing covers topics such as family-friendly activities and events, wellness, travel, gifts, and essential parenting tips. Her coaching helps moms turn these valuable insights into practical action, reduce clutter and chaos, and ultimately pursue a life of purpose on purpose. In her free time, you can find her at the gym, curled up with a book, or enjoying the outdoors. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MINIMALIST * Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    34 min
  5. [REPLAY] Love People, Use Things | The Minimalists

    APR 24

    [REPLAY] Love People, Use Things | The Minimalists

    If you’ve been a listener here for awhile, you’ll know that minimalism goes beyond stuff. I’m thrilled to share today’s guests, Joshua Fields Milburn and Ryan Nicodemus - otherwise known as ‘The Minimalists’. Today they’ll dive deeper into the seven essential relationships in our lives: stuff, truth, self, money, values, creativity, and people and how minimalism makes room in our lives to re-evaluate and heal these areas.   Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MINIMALIST * Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    48 min
  6. Can Ancient Faith Heal Modern Burnout? | Josh Nadeau (Bonus Episode)

    APR 22

    Can Ancient Faith Heal Modern Burnout? | Josh Nadeau (Bonus Episode)

    In this episode, Diane sits down with philosopher, artist, and founder of Sword and Pencil, Josh Nadeau, to talk about his book, Heaven Meets Earth: A 40-Day Journey of Transformation Through the Nicene Creed. Josh explains how the Nicene Creed - written in 325 and foundational to historic Christian belief - can serve as a stabilizing anchor in a time marked by distraction, burnout, and cultural noise. We discuss how intentional living can take shape through small, daily practices, and how this 40-day journey invites just 5–15 minutes a day of reflection, prayer, and art. Josh shares how ancient rhythms like silence, fasting, and structured prayer can feel freeing rather than restrictive when rooted in relationship with Christ. We also explore how beauty, art, and contemplation can help reorient our attention and deepen our faith, offering a grounded, accessible way to engage spirituality in everyday life. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.Diane's Resource: Previous Episode: "Art is the Signature of Man" | Jake Weidmann (EP53)Josh's Resource:Connect with Josh:Substack: https://substack.com/@everydaysaintsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/swordandpencil/Book: Heaven Meets Earth: A 40-Day Journey of Transformation Through the Nicene CreedAbout Josh|Josh Nadeau (nuh-doh) is an artist, writer and creative theologian from the west coast of Canada. Beauty is his apologetic, and his work seeks to translate ancient ideas of embodying the transcendent for a modern time. His art and writing invite Christians to recover the “holy ordinary” and behold the beauty of Jesus in everyday life. He has appeared on numerous podcasts, contributed to magazines and websites, and created art for Jordan Peterson’s History of Western Civilization, The Chosen, Searock, Vuvivo, the Daily Wire, and other churches and organizations. Josh holds an undergraduate degree in physics, a master’s degree in theological studies and—as he quips—a doctorate from the School of Hard Knocks. He is a husband, father, reader, boulderer and explorer of every good and perfect gift Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MINIMALIST * Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    35 min
  7. Capable Kids: The Key to Helping Children Thrive | Sissy Goff (EP447)

    APR 21

    Capable Kids: The Key to Helping Children Thrive | Sissy Goff (EP447)

    Today’s kids face more anxiety, stress, and pressure than ever before. In this episode, I sit down with therapists and parenting experts Sissy Goff and David Thomas to talk about the missing piece many parents overlook: capability. Capable kids believe they can do hard things. They face challenges with confidence, bounce back from setbacks, and keep going when life gets complicated. Drawing from more than fifty years of combined counseling experience, Sissy and David share practical, research-backed strategies to help parents raise confident, resilient kids who can navigate stress and thrive. Whether you’re parenting young children or teens, this conversation will equip you with tools to build confidence, resilience, and a deep belief in who your child is becoming. Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.Diane's Resource: Minimalist Moms Youtube ChannelDavid's Resource: Hope HealsSissy's Resource: App: Pray As You GoDavid Can't Stop Talking About: Book: Theo of GoldenSissy Can't Stop Talking About: Hootenanny GamesConnect with Sissy & David:Website: https://www.raisingboysandgirls.com/Instagram: @RaisingBoysAndGirls and @SissyGoffBook: Capable: How to Teach Your Kids the Strengths, Skills, and Strategies to Build Resilience About Sissy + David|Sissy Goff and David Thomas are parenting experts who have spent over 30 years helping kids and families build confidence and resilience. They serve as Executive Directors of Daystar Counseling Ministries in Nashville and are bestselling authors of over 25 books, including Raising Worry-Free Girls and Raising Emotionally Strong Boys. They also co-host the popular Raising Boys and Girls podcast, with more than 13 million downloads, encouraging parents to feel less alone and more equipped. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MINIMALIST * Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    28 min
  8. Redefining "Selfish": Choosing a Life That Feels Like Yours | Kerry Docherty (Going Deeper)

    APR 21

    Redefining "Selfish": Choosing a Life That Feels Like Yours | Kerry Docherty (Going Deeper)

    Going Deeper episodes will be less structured with a more conversational tone. These conversations will focus on interesting people I've come across that share similar values, perspectives and intentions expressed on the Minimalist Moms Podcast. In this episode, Diane sits down with author and Faherty Brand co-founder Kerry Docherty to talk about her memoir, Selfish, and the idea of redefining what it means to choose yourself. Kerry shares how the concept of “selfishness” emerged during couples therapy, when she realized how much of her life had been shaped by prioritizing others - often at the expense of her own voice and desires. We talk about what it looks like to reconnect with yourself, make choices that feel aligned (even when they’re uncomfortable), and allow every part of who you are to have a place at the table. ------------------------------------------------- Previous Going Deeper Episodes: Buzzing with Purpose: Teaching Kids to Protect Pollinators Building Fount: Business, Family, & the Balance In Between Ironman Battling Brain Cancer Unschooling My Parent is a Hoarder Links Discussed in This Episode |Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane.Connect with Kerry:WebsiteInstagramBook: Selfish: Unlearning, Reclaiming, and Telling the Truth About Kerry|Kerry Docherty is the author of her memoir SELFISH: Unlearning, Reclaiming, and Telling the Truth and her children's book SOMEWHERE, RIGHT NOW (featured on Dolly Parton's Imagination Library). She is the cofounder of the lifestyle clothing company Faherty Brand and is passionate about community building, sustainability, and creativity. She lives with her husband and two children on the New Jersey shore, where she is constantly looking for sea glass. Episode Sponsors |The Minimalist Moms Podcast would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Enjoy the Podcast?Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can also share this with your fellow mothers so that they can be inspired to think more and do with less.  Order (or review) my book, Minimalist Moms: Living & Parenting With Simplicity. You can contact me through my website, find me on Instagram, Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook. Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://AvocadoGreenMattress.com/MINIMALIST * Check out BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    31 min
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4.7
out of 5
990 Ratings

About

The Minimalist Moms podcast is designed to accompany you on your journey toward a more purposeful life. Through thoughtful parenting tips and meaningful expert interviews, we explore every aspect of intentional living - your mindset, daily rhythms, relationships, and, of course, your possessions. Your host, Diane Boden, invites you into conversations with a diverse range of voices, including Dana K White, Dawn Madsen, Ginny Yurich, Charles Duhigg, Gretchen Rubin, Joshua Becker, and many more. Together, these expert interviews unpack practical ways to embrace minimalism, live with greater intention, and build a truly purposeful life.

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