Lighten Up! The Art Of Living Clutter Free

Melanie Cohen
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Lighten UP! The Art of Living Clutter Free is hosted by Melanie Cohen is a life coach and clutter expert helping women in the messy middle of life clear physical, mental, and emotional clutter. Through honest conversations, practical tools, and gentle mindset shifts, Melanie helps you create space for clarity, confidence, and calm. This isn’t about perfection or willpower. It’s about letting go of what weighs you down and building a lighter way forward. Download her free guide: https://melaniecohen.podia.com/lighten-up-with-50-questions-to-declutter-your-life

  1. 1d ago

    #75 Creating Space for Health: Ayurveda, Habits, and Healing

    Summary:In this episode, Melanie Cohen interviews holistic health and Ayurveda expert Jill Vroman to explore how lifestyle changes rooted in Ayurveda can improve health, digestion, and overall well-being. They discuss practical tips like tongue scraping, mindful eating, and understanding individual constitutions to foster lasting health habits. Key topics:Ayurveda and its role in health and wellnessPractical lifestyle tips like tongue scraping and mindful eatingUnderstanding individual constitutions (Doshas) and imbalancesThe importance of digestion and circadian rhythms in healthCreating sustainable, gentle health habits Sound bites:"Eat only when you are truly hungry""Everyone is unique and has a constitution""Eat until you're 80% full, not stuffed" Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Jill Vroman and Ayurveda02:12 Understanding Ayurveda and Its Benefits05:33 The Role of Nutrition in Ayurveda09:35 Individualized Eating Patterns and Doshas14:34 The Psychological Aspects of Eating19:21 Mindful Eating Practices26:06 Jill's Journey into Holistic Health30:36 Clutter in Life: Physical and Mental Spaces34:16 Final Thoughts on Space and Abundance Resources from Jill:What do you do when you wake up at 3AM and can’t fall back to sleep??Email Jill for easy solutions. Banyan Botanicals - https://www.banyanbotanicals.com Follow Jill on Social Media Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn Connect With Melanie:Schedule Your Lighten UP! Quick Shift Call TodayOr Your 20-minute Discovery Call. Schedule HereRegister for the June 2026 Declutter With Me Zoom decluttering event HereDownload Your Free Copy of “The Lighten UP! 50 Questions to Declutter Your Life” guide HERE Follow Melanie on Social Media:Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok | YouTubeEmail Melanie

    36 min

  2. May 29

    #74 From Mental Clutter to Freedom: Living Life on Your Own Terms

    Summary Join Melanie Cohen and Jackie Cote as they explore the journey from surviving to thriving, the power of letting go, and the joys of RV living. Discover practical insights on mental clutter, embracing authenticity, and creating a freedom-filled life. Key topics Journey from surviving to thriving Letting go of control and mental clutter The realities and joys of RV living Sound bites “It’s an inside job.” “Stop proving yourself.” “Be the one who goes first.” Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:44 Jackie Cote’s Background and Mission 01:56 The Journey to RV Living and Minimalism 04:59 The Power of Letting Go and Creating Freedom 09:15 Overcoming Fear and Making Changes 12:07 Inner Healing and Mindset Shifts 16:31 Relationships, Expectations, and Acceptance 25:16 Living in an RV: Costs, Challenges, and Benefits 37:31 Managing Clutter and Space in Small Living 44:19 The Joy of Authentic Living and Self-Expression 44:57 Final Thoughts on Mental Clutter and Freedom Resources: Connect with Jackie: Website - https://jackiecote.com Instagram - https://instagram.com/jackiecote Connect With Melanie: Schedule Your Lighten UP! Quick Shift Call Today Or Your 20-minute Discovery Call Register for the June 2026 Declutter With Me Zoom decluttering event HERE Listen To The “Lighten Up! The Art of Living Clutter Free!” Podcast: Get Your Free Copy of The “Lighten UP! 50 Questions to Declutter Your Life” guide. Download Here Follow Melanie on Social Media:Facebook Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email Melanie

    49 min

  3. May 22

    #73 The Hidden Cost of Retail Therapy (It’s Not Just Money)

    Summary Melanie Cohen explores the emotional roots of shopping and overspending, sharing her personal journey from emotional eating to shopping addiction, and offering practical insights on managing feelings without resorting to retail therapy. Key topics Emotional roots of shopping and overspending The impact of weight loss on shopping habits The Diderot effect and consumer behavior Strategies for mindful shopping and emotional management Key takeaways Shopping is often a temporary escape from emotional pain. Overspending creates financial and mental clutter. The Diderot effect triggers unnecessary wardrobe updates. Donating items isn’t the best solution; avoiding purchase is. Mindful questioning before shopping can prevent emotional spending. Sound bites “Retail is a very temporary escape.” “I fed feelings instead of feeling them.” “Lighten the load, don’t overhaul.” Chapters 00:00 Understanding Retail Therapy 02:55 The Emotional Patterns Behind Shopping 05:52 From Food to Shopping: A Personal Journey 08:35 Navigating Emotional Spending and Clutter 10:40 outro 2026.mp4 Resources: Support for Emotional Well-being: ⁠https://www.nami.org/⁠ - National Alliance of Mental Illness ⁠https://debtorsanonymous.org/⁠ - A 12-step fellowship for people struggling with compulsive debting and spending. ⁠https://www.spenders.org/⁠ -Support and recovery resources specifically focused on compulsive spending behaviors. ⁠https://www.psychologytoday.com/⁠ - Searchable directory to find licensed therapists and counselors by specialty and location. ⁠https://988lifeline.org/⁠ - Free confidential support in the U.S. for people in emotional distress or crisis. Call or text 988. Connect With Melanie: ⁠Schedule Your Lighten UP! Quick Shift Call Today Here⁠ ⁠Or Your 20-minute Discovery Call⁠ ⁠Register for the May 2026 Declutter With Me Zoom Decluttering Event Here⁠ Listen To “Lighten Up! The Art of Living Clutter Free!” on all platforms including Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Spotify, Substack, and YouTube ⁠Download Your Free Copy of The Lighten UP! 50 Questions to Declutter Your Life” guide HERE⁠ Follow Melanie on Social Media:⁠ Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok | YouTube Email

    11 min

  4. May 15

    #72 What Your Clutter Says About the Legacy You’ll Leave

    Summary: In this episode, Stacey Tunteri, a life and legacy organizer, shares insights on how organizing your digital and physical life can leave a meaningful legacy. We discuss the importance of decluttering, digital organization, and planning for end-of-life to make life easier for loved ones. Key  topics: Legacy planning and its different meanings The importance of digital and physical organization How decluttering improves mental and physical well-being  Sound bites "All clutter is deferred decision" "If Mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy" "Every first time is a step toward mastery" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Clutter and Legacy 00:56 Understanding Legacy and Its Importance 03:26 Stacey's Journey to Becoming an Organizer 06:12 Target Audience and Client Demographics 08:17 The Emotional Weight of Clutter 10:54 Decision Fatigue and Its Impact on Organization 13:04 The Cost of Clutter: Financial Perspectives 15:34 Retail Therapy and Its Consequences 19:21 From Food to Shopping: Managing Emotional Clutter 20:32 Finding New Sources of Joy Beyond Shopping 21:28 The Satisfaction of an Organized Space 23:07 Appreciating What You Have: The Art of Mindfulness 23:55 The Role of Containers in Organization 25:57 Creating Systems for Shared Spaces 28:20 Understanding Clutter and Relationships 30:12 Acceptance in the Face of Clutter 34:46 Imposter Syndrome and Personal Growth 37:30 Legacy Planning: Conversations About Death 40:18 Preserving Family History and Stories Resources: Follow Stacey: Website Email Facebook LinkedIn Instagram YouTube Substack Connect With Melanie: Schedule Your Lighten UP! Quick Shift Call Using This Link Or Your 20-minute Discovery Call Register for the May 2026 Declutter With Me Zoom decluttering event Here Download your Free Decluttering Guide Here Follow Melanie on Social Media: Faceboo Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email

    41 min

  5. May 8

    #71 The Art of Upcycling: How to Transform Waste into Wearable Art

    Summary: In this episode, Melanie Cohen chats with Nancy Smith about her passion for upcycling, waste reduction, and sustainable fashion. They explore personal stories, creative techniques, and practical tips for embracing imperfection and sustainability in clothing and lifestyle. Key topics: Upcycling and visible mending techniques Personal stories of recycling and thrift culture Impact of fast fashion and waste reduction strategies Sound bites: “Waste reduction is a lifelong obsession.” “Fast fashion is devastating our planet.” “Every object and garment has a story.” Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Upcycling and Sustainability 01:42 The Influence of Family on Creativity 04:04 The Journey of Upcycling and Visible Mending 06:44 The Impact of Childhood Experiences on Waste Management 08:37 The Role of Nostalgia in Upcycling 11:27 The Evolution of Nancy’s Crafting Journey 13:58 The Intersection of Art and Sustainability 16:07 The Personal Touch in Custom Creations 18:37 The Whimsy of Upcycled Fashion 21:04 The Future of Upcycling and Personal Expression 25:16 The Journey of Upcycling and Teaching 27:09 Creative Expressions: Showcasing Upcycled Fashion 31:32 Conscious Consumerism in Fashion 34:31 The Impact of Fast Fashion on the Environment 38:10 Clutter, Creativity, and Letting Go 44:38 Finding Balance: The Right Amount of Stuff Resources: Follow Nancy at Floral Ave Designs: Instagram Website Spring Workshop 2026 Registration Connect With Melanie: Schedule Your Lighten UP! Quick Shift Call Today Or Your 20-minute Discovery Call Register for the May 2026 “Declutter With Me Live Zoom Workshop Download The 50 Questions To Declutter Your Life Guide Follow Melanie on Social Media: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube Email

    49 min

  6. May 1

    #70 The Dress, The Shoes, And The Myth of 100%

    Summary:Melanie Cohen shares her journey of sustainable shopping, the challenges of perfectionism, and how to embrace imperfection in everyday life. She discusses the environmental impact of fast fashion, her personal shopping rules, and practical steps for mindful consumption.Key topics:Environmental impact of fast fashionPersonal shopping rules and challengesPerfectionism and mental clutter in decision-making Sound bites:"There are way too many clothes in the world.""We buy 60% more clothing than 20 years ago.""Perfection does not honor who we are."Chapters:00:00 The Challenge of Secondhand Shopping02:33 The Reality of Perfectionism04:40 Navigating Consumerism and Sustainability07:09 Embracing Imperfection and ProgressConnect With Melanie:Schedule Your Lighten UP! Quick Shift Call Today HereOr Your 20-minute Discovery Call HereRegister for the next Declutter With Me Zoom decluttering event HereListen To The “Lighten Up! The Art of Living Clutter Free!” Podcast: Download Your Decluttering Guide HereFollow Melanie on Social Media:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeEmail: melanie@thoughtfullycoaching.com

    10 min

  7. Apr 24

    #69 Your Voice Isn’t the Problem. The Clutter Is.

    Summary In this episode, Beth Knaus shares her journey former beauty industry pro turned copywriter emphasizing the importance of authentic voice and effective communication for women entrepreneurs. Discover how to overcome mental clutter, craft compelling messaging, and leverage AI responsibly. Key topics: The importance of authentic voice in business Overcoming mental and emotional clutter Using storytelling to differentiate yourself The role of experience over certifications Effective communication strategies for women Key takeaways: Your unique voice separates you from the competition. Invest time in self-discovery to craft authentic messaging. Use storytelling to connect with your ideal clients. AI is a tool for collaboration, not delegation. Clutter includes mental, emotional, and physical aspects. Sound bites: “Invest time in knowing yourself.” “Hands-on experience is priceless.” “AI is collaboration, not delegation.” Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:26 Beth’s Journey to Copywriting 04:10 Empowering Women Entrepreneurs 06:51 Finding Your Unique Voice 10:20 Voice and Vision Process 12:43 Working with Ideal Clients 13:56 Challenges with Client Relationships 22:06 The Impact of AI on Copywriting 25:02 Understanding Clutter Beyond Physical Items 25:38 Beth’s Personal Clutter Experience 29:18 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts 32:27 outro 2026.mp4 Beth's Resources: Get Your Communicating with Confidence Workbook Here Website Email Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Connect With Melanie: Email Schedule Your Lighten UP! Quick Shift Call Here Or Your 20-minute Discovery Call Here Register Here for the next Declutter With Me Zoom decluttering event Listen To The “Lighten Up! The Art of Living Clutter Free!” Podcast: Download Your Copy of the “50 Questions To Declutter Your Life” guide Here Follow Melanie on Social Media:Facebook Instagram LinkedIn TikTok YouTube

    34 min

  8. Apr 17

    #68 The Art of Living Clutter Free on a Homestead

    Summary: Deborah Nieman shares her journey from organic farming to managing clutter, offering practical insights on sustainable living, raising goats, and decluttering. Discover how her experiences can inspire a more intentional and clutter-free lifestyle. Key topics: Raising goats and their care Clutter challenges in farm life Transition from city to homestead Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Clutter and Homesteading 02:41 Deborah’s Journey into Homesteading 05:25 The Transition from City Life to Country Living 08:08 The Role of Goats in Homesteading 10:43 Understanding Goat Care and Challenges 13:30 Deborah’s Books and Educational Efforts 20:28 Exploring Heirloom Tomatoes 21:49 Clutter on the Farm 23:46 Aspirational Clutter and Its Challenges 26:18 The Dangers of Clutter 29:00 The Emotional Weight of Clutter 32:29 The Illusion of Space 37:00 Digital Clutter and Its Impact 41:23 Energy of Objects and Letting Go Resources: Get Your Copy Of Raising Goats Naturally, 2nd Edition: The Complete Guide to Milk, Meat, and More Here Get Your copy of Homegrown and Handmade Here Deborah’s ⁠Website⁠ Follow Deborah on social media: Facebook Instagram ⁠Pinterest ⁠YouTube Work With Melanie: Schedule Your Lighten UP! Quick Shift Call Today If You Aren’t Quite Ready to Commit, book Your 20-minute Discovery Call Quick! Register for the April 22, 2026 Declutter With Me Zoom decluttering event HERE Download Your Copy of “Lighten UP! 50 Questions To Declutter Your Life” Here Follow Melanie on Social Media: Facebook ⁠Instagram LinkedIn ⁠TikTok YouTube Connect With Melanie: EMAIL

    44 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Lighten UP! The Art of Living Clutter Free is hosted by Melanie Cohen is a life coach and clutter expert helping women in the messy middle of life clear physical, mental, and emotional clutter. Through honest conversations, practical tools, and gentle mindset shifts, Melanie helps you create space for clarity, confidence, and calm. This isn’t about perfection or willpower. It’s about letting go of what weighs you down and building a lighter way forward. Download her free guide: https://melaniecohen.podia.com/lighten-up-with-50-questions-to-declutter-your-life

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