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598 afleveringen, van nieuw naar oud
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Too Much Of A Good Thing
27 oktober 2022 · 33 min
There's such a thing as too much of a good thing. The key to a balanced life lies in moderation, as any of us who's ever overdone it knows that excess quickly becomes miserable. Lees meer
On today's show we first discuss the Swedish concept of lagom, a.k.a. 'good enough' living. Next, we apply age-old, temperate wisdom to spending habits, interpersonal communication, tidying, and emotions.
Here's a preview:
[3:30] The middle is where we want to be. (Don't believe me? I'll prove it)
[6:30] 5 ways extreme thinking gets rewarded every darn day
[9:30] The Swedish philosophy of lagom, a.k.a. living with just the right amount
[17:00] How to apply the concepts of moderation and balance to our spending habits
[22:00] The Traffic Light Rule of interpersonal communication
[26:00] 3 real problems associated with emotion suppression
[29:00] When it comes to your home's tidiness, what's good enough?
Resources mentioned:
Lagom: The Swedish Secret of Living Well
Moderation Is the Key to Life (via Psychology Today)
The Case for Moderation
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The Rescue Effect
25 oktober 2022 · 36 min
The World Wildlife Fund's Living Planet Report is a checkup on the health of Earth, and this year’s report is the most comprehensive yet. Spoiler alert: its findings aren't good. Lees meer
But all's not doom and gloom: Enter the Rescue Effect, a perspective that believes there’s a lot to be optimistic about.
On this episode I’m excited to bring you two contrasting viewpoints to the biodiversity problem. First I speak with Brent Loken, Global Food Lead Scientist for the World Wildlife Fund; in the second part of today's show I speak with conservation expert Michael Mehta Webster about his new book, The Rescue Effect.
Here's a preview:
[2:30] An overview of the major findings from WWF's 2022 Living Planet Index
[6:00] What's going on in the tropics?
[19:00] The rescue effect in practice
[21:00] If nature has an inherent ability to persist, why do species go extinct?
[27:00] Can the rescue effect ensure the survival of human beings amidst the next great mass extinction event?
[33:00] How we can help give species a leg up, according to conservation experts
Resources mentioned:
2022 Living Planet Index (via the World Wildlife Fund)
The Rescue Effect: The Key To Saving Life On Earth
Our Sponsors:
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Rise And Grind?
20 oktober 2022 · 28 min
'Rise and Grind' reveres working for work's sake, and it's immensely popular. Lees meer
But grind culture is capitalism's fuel; worse, it diminishes you and me to cogs in the capitalist wheel.
Today we're discussing hustle culture: What it is, who benefits from the collective all-in, and how we can slowly unsubscribe from a life of overwork.
Here's a preview:
[5:00] Why do the (Western) masses follow grind culture's principles despite its best interest?
[8:30] Who - or what - benefits from overwork? (Hint: It's not you and me.)
[14:30] Rise and Shine over Rise and Grind: Here's how
[22:30] How to practice letting of obligations go IRL, plus: what to do with your newfound free time
Resources mentioned:
Why Are Young People Pretending to Love Work? (via NY Times)
The 'Rise and Grind' of Hustle Culture (via Psychology Today)
Tricia Hersey's interview on We Can Do Hard Things
Episode #308: Prioritizing Your Priorities
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Thousands Of Data Points
18 oktober 2022 · 31 min
Your favorite smartphone apps, your preferred weather forecaster, your go-to photo sharing app, and other seemingly benign technologies likely reveal details about your life to companies looking to collect consumer data. They're eager to gather thousands of data points on each and every one of us every single day because more data means better accuracy for algorithms seeking to predict human behavior. Lees meer
Data gathering can affect our lives in ways we can’t currently anticipate. But what about conscious consumerism? If companies can accurately predict our purchasing behavior - and if they're putting *perfectly* curated advertisements in front of us over and over again - do we minimalists stand a fighting chance?
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month (who knew?!). While keeping your personal information safe online can seem overwhelming there are simple ways to both protect your data and trick the algorithms. Amira Dhalla is on the show today to offer a blueprint about how you can be cyber smart-er.
Here's a preview:
[2:00] Beware of these 'deceptive patterns' that trick us into giving away extra personal information
[10:00] The principles of threat monitoring applied to online privacy: Are quick-win benefits worth potential long-term risks?
[12:30] Why you shouldn't automatically "Accept All Cookies" (online cookies aren't all that tasty!)
[17:00] 5 privacy quick fixes you can enact in 5 minutes or less
[28:00] Thoughts on practicing an ounce of prevention
Resources mentioned:
Firefox browser
DuckDuck Go search engine
securityplanner.org
30-Second Privacy Fixes: Simple Ways to Protect Your Data (via Consumer Reports)
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Energy And The Good Life
13 oktober 2022 · 37 min
"I just listened to your podcast about waste and was surprised to hear that our energy consumption is so high in America! The problem is, I don't know where the energy is going, nor do I understand which things I might be doing to use so much. What are some tips for saving energy? Why do Americans require so much more than other countries?" Lees meer
Waste comes in many forms. Sadly, energy waste is all too common here in the United States.
On today's show we're breaking down two important topics: 1. how much energy humans actually need to consume to live happy, healthy lives, and 2. practical ways to reduce the chances that the energy we're consuming isn’t wasted.
Here's a preview:
[2:30] A breakdown of exactly how much energy Americans use compared to citizens of other countries
[5:30] What research has to say about energy consumption and quality of life
[10:00] Let's chat about your home's holes for a hot minute
[17:45] Reigning in excessive and unnecessary electricity use
[22:00] Is community solar the renewable energy that's right for you?
[25:30] Thoughts on finding comfort in being a tiny bit uncomfortable
[30:00] Everything you need to know about the (two thumbs up!) heat pump
Resources mentioned:
6 Ways to Save Money and Energy at Home (via Consumer Reports)
How Much Energy Powers A Good Life? Less Than You're Using, Says A New Report (via National Public Radio)
Community Solar Basics (via the Office Of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy)
Heat Pump Buying Guide (via Consumer Reports)
A Heat Pump Might Be Right for Your Home. Here’s Everything to Know (via The New York Times)
Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency
How To Make A DIY Chimney Balloon (via Eco Thrifty Living)
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Fashion "Rules"
11 oktober 2022 · 29 min
Fashion rules abound and, historically, it's the patriarchy that has embedded them into our collective psyche. That's right: women's clothing is heavily influenced by the opinions of men, and just a few of the most common man-inspired fashion "rules" include: Lees meer
Women would do well to wear "flattering" clothes (a.k.a. ones that bring them closer to the coveted hourglass silhouette).
External appearance is paramount to comfort (Here's looking at you SPANX, stilettos, and wired push-up bras).
While strong, straight silhouettes are powerful and masculine; tall and curvy ones are inherently feminine. If women want to be taken seriously, they must power dress (think: blazers and straight, tailored slacks).
Fashion rules tend to influence our shopping habits whether we realize it or not. Today I'm speaking with personal stylist Dacy Gillespie about *exactly how* to reject societal messaging around what you "should" wear so you can live your best intentional life.
Here's a preview:
[4:15] The concept of “flattering” is a part of diet culture. Here's why it shouldn't be a priority in your wardrobe
[8:30] Exactly how the trend cycle preys on women's insecurities to sell clothes
[13:00] Thoughts on the guilt many of us experience when we reject commonly held fashion rules
[15:15] Influencer culture and why we shouldn't buy what our favorite influencers recommend
[19:00] The patriarchy and the male gaze: How women have historically been conditioned to prioritize their external appearance over their own comfort
[22:00] Practical ways to reject commonly held fashion rules next time you shop for clothes
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Join our (free!) community here
Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube
Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com or leave a voicemail at (857) 264-1967 (US and Canada listeners only)
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Rapid Fire Q&A
6 oktober 2022 · 32 min
We're at it again! Today I'm answering 5 listener questions in a rapid-fire format. Lees meer
Here's a preview of the questions I'm answering today:
[1:30] Are laundry detergent strips *actually* eco-friendly? What about TruEarth strips specifically?
[7:00] Is eco-friendly pet parenting possible and, if so, how?
[17:45] Is the Yuka app worth the hype?
[22:30] Tofu containers, oat milk cartons, and more: How can I reduce packaging waste from plant-based foods?
[28:00] How do minimalists gift their children during the holidays?
Resources mentioned:
West Paw dog essentials
Yuka app for iOS and Android
TruEarth laundry detergent strips
The Very Best Christmas Gifts That Aren't Toys
Join our (free!) community here
Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube
Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com or leave a voicemail at (857) 264-1967 (US and Canada listeners only)
Thank you to our sponsor! Visit skillshare.com/sustainable for your first month free.
Our Sponsors:
* Thank you to LifeStraw! https://lifestraw.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists/exclusive-content
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(Re)Purposeful Organization
4 oktober 2022 · 30 min
We often think the solution to our household woes lies in better organization, but marketing pros have commercialized tidiness. "Getting organized" often entails purchasing plastic totes and baskets: Before we know it, we've spent boatloads of money to put order to the stuff we're storing. Lees meer
Desk organizers, drawer dividers, specialized hangers, oh my: When we talk about living our best lives with less, we're also talking about living with fewer commercialized organization "systems".
If you're looking for motivation to flex your repurposing and organizational muscles this episode is for you. Today I speak with hospitality and organizing expert Leslie Lehr about stylish organization that goes beyond plastic bins and containers. She's on the show to offer her best repurposing tips (that also happen to be quite simple!) for common household items.
Here's a preview:
[8:45] Exactly where plastic bins and baskets fall short for both organizing and decor
[14:30] Evaluating alternate uses for glassware and vases
[16:00] How to take a ho-hum shoebox and make it aesthetically pleasing
[19:30] Practical reuses for spice jars, plus: the many uses of Mason jars
[24:00] Sentimental bowls, trays, and other houseware items: How to incorporate heirlooms into your seasonal decor
Resources mentioned:
Episode #120: Innovative repurposing jars for mason jars
Leslie on Instagram
Join our (free!) community here
Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube
Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com or leave a voicemail at (857) 264-1967 (US and Canada listeners only)
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Our Sponsors:
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Prioritizing Your Priorities
29 september 2022 · 27 min
"How can I make eco-minimalist choices when I truly don’t have the time? I’m divorced, have two children, and work full time. There simply aren’t enough hours in the day to care for the kids, earn an income, and run the household, let alone add in sustainable living. Help!" Lees meer
Together, let's re-prioritize our priorities. On today's show I'm answering a listener's question about sustainability fatigue: What's the best course of action when we're exhausted, unmotivated, and overworked?
Here's a preview:
[3:30] The 'how' and 'why' behind making sure your heart-first values get onto your To-Do list
[9:15] A deliberate and tragic trade-off: Why items on your To-Do list are not all created equal
[16:00] How to change your verbiage to change your mindset
Resources mentioned:
Episode #200: The Eco-Contradiction Minefield
Episode #303: Life's Changing Seasons
Episode #40: Mindfulness For Modern Families
U-Konserve stainless steel containers with silicone lids
Squeesy (great for applesauce, smoothies, yogurts, etc)
Thank you to our sponsor! Visit skillshare.com/sustainable for your first month free.
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Join our (free!) community here
Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube
Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com or leave a voicemail at (857) 264-1967 (US and Canada listeners only)
Our Sponsors:
* Thank you to LifeStraw! https://lifestraw.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists/exclusive-content
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Taming Your Triggers
27 september 2022 · 23 min
Triggered much? Lees meer
It usually goes something like this. Someone in your life does SOMEthing: Maybe your boss criticizes your work. Perhaps your partner says something that hits you the wrong way. You child stalls as you're trying to get out the door.
There’s an antecedent, and then there’s your go-to reaction. There’s no space between the antecedent and your reaction; there's no intention behind your reaction, either. You simply respond on autopilot.
On today's show I'm speaking with fellow podcaster Jen Lumanlan about how to align your responses with who you'd like to be as a means of living a more intentional life.
Here's a preview:
[3:00] Are you triggered or are you flooded? Here's the difference, according to science
[5:00] Fight, flight, freeze, or fawn: An overview of The Big Four triggering/flooding responses
[11:30] The ways in which culture (and specifically capitalism!) provides us with Little T traumas, every single day
[17:00] What are your needs and how can you meet them? Practical first steps for taming your own triggers
[18:30] Everything you need to know about The Pause
[21:00] The importance of nonjudgemental observation when interacting with our children
Resources mentioned:
Your Parenting Mojo podcast
Taming Your Triggers workshop signup
Join our (free!) community here
Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube
Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com
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Low-Waste Lunchboxes
22 september 2022 · 31 min
"One of the hardest things we haven’t been able to tackle is our kids' snacks: we still end up using a good amount of single use plastic wraps. Do you have any ideas?" Lees meer
Citing convenience, ultraprocessed foods are often sold in single-serve packs. But such snack and lunch items are overpriced (you're literally paying for that extra plastic!); they're also often unhealthy for both people and the planet.
I get it: We're overtired and overstressed, and packing wholesome foods can feel like yet another daunting chore. That's why on today's show I answer a listener's question about how to pack low-waste lunchboxes without the extra stress (dozens of food ideas included!).
Here's a preview:
[1:30] What recent research says about the health effects of ultraprocessed foods on human health
[7:00] The premiums we pay for foods packaged in single-serve plastics
[11:30] 5 quick tips for managing picky eaters
[17:30] The Bento Box route versus the traditional lunchbox: pros, cons, and gear recommendations
[24:00] 30+ low-waste lunchbox ideas
Resources mentioned:
Episode #173: How To Simplify Picky Eating
Leeann's FREE virtual event signup
Eating Processed Foods Tied to Shorter Life (via NY Times)
Ultraprocessed Food Consumption and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Among Participants of the NutriNet-Santé Prospective Cohort (via Journal Of The American Medical Association)
Homemade Cereal Bars (recommended by listener Elsa)
Say hello! Email Stephanie at MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com or leave a voicemail at (857) 264-1967 (US and Canada listeners only)
* Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube.
Lunchbox gear that listeners love:
Lunchbots stainless steel Bento Box (recommended by Lauren)
Planet Box stainless steel Bento Box (recommended by Elsa)
Sistema plastic containers (recommended by Sara)
Packit lunchbox (recommended by Sara)
Reusable sandwich container, preferably stainless steel (recommended by Patricia)
Wean Green reusab…
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Defend The Eco-Trend: Closed Loop Consumption
20 september 2022 · 24 min
Is the future refillable? Lees meer
When we look at the history of plastics, it's disheartening to realize that only 9% of all plastics ever created have been recycled. Another 12% has been incinerated; a whopping 79%, then, has accumulated in landfills and nature.
That's right: your Bonnie Bell Lip Smacker tube circa 1995 is quite likely still somewhere on this planet.
Refillable products (like ice cream in stainless steel jars and shampoo bottles refilled in-store) aren't new. But while most people say they want eco-friendly product options, their purchasing behaviors sing a different tune. Consumers tend to prioritize convenience over eco-friendliness, time and time again.
Today I speak with Izzy Zero Waste Beauty founder Shannon Goldberg about closed loop consumption. Is packaging the problem, or does the problem lie within our consumption?
Here's a preview:
[6:00] 2 major barriers to mainstream refillables
[11:00] Do refillable products *actually* make a dent in our trash production? What about our oversized environmental woes?
[15:00] Refillable products and next-level greenwashing: Why we must expand our collective definition of waste to account for excess carbon emissions from sending back our products
[20:00] Are refillable options sanitary in a post-COVID world?
Resources mentioned:
Loop global reuse platform
Use code IZZYF20 at yourizzy.com for 20% off (Thanks, Shannon!)
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Climate Reparations?
15 september 2022 · 23 min
A hotter planet is here, my friends. Don't believe me? Just turn on the news. Lees meer
On today's show we first break down major current climate events; we then ask ourselves a set of ethical quandaries. Should the global north pay reparations to the global south for its centuries-long polluting behaviors, or are the inequitable and unjust natures of climate change simply bad luck?
Here's a preview:
[4:00] How'd summer go? (Hint: not great, especially in Pakistan)
[12:30] The climate reparations argument: What it is and why it has legs
[20:00] 3 ethical questions for you to answer re: charity versus reparations
Resources mentioned/Further reading:
Advocates Call On U.S. To Help Flooded Pakistan In The Name Of Climate Justice (via National Public Radio)
A Hotter World: Climate Change’s Effects Are Already Unequal (via NY Times)
Send me your Exit Ticket answers! Email Stephanie at MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com or leave a voicemail at (857) 264-1967 (US and Canada listeners only)
Join our private (and super cool) Facebook group. It's free!
Episode #165: Difficult Sustainability Conversations
Episode #143: How To Discuss The Effects Of Climate Change
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Life's Changing Seasons
13 september 2022 · 19 min
When it comes to growing up, we tend to believe it's only for children. Adults, then, are assumed to be fully grown. Lees meer
But even us "grownups" are constantly changing, maturing, and evolving (and often at a rapid pace). Such inner changes also run concurrent with external ones that pop up as we move through our respective life seasons, day after day.
If embracing change as life's only true constant is downright difficult, getting stuck underneath heaps of possessions that served our out-of-date versions makes such an embrace even harder. And what about jobs that are no longer fulfilling, relationships that are no longer harmonious, and life views that are no longer synchronous with the person we are evolving into? It's likely enough to make your head spin.
Today I speak with life coach Jenny Cheifetz about loosening our grips on the past, embracing changes in both our lives and in ourselves, and letting go of our need to hold onto what was. In the first part of our conversation we speak on possessions; in the second, we discuss first steps to decluttering the big intangibles we know on the soul level we've outgrown.
Here's a preview:
[2:30] The internal pause: how and why to conduct a needs assessment
[6:30] Why attaching emotion to possessions ultimately does us a disservice
[11:30] 'Store it at the store' is about to become your new mantra and here's why
[15:00] How to conduct a needs assessment with with your big but intangible baggage
[19:00] Thoughts on 'flow' as a state of being, plus why we as humans are prone to white-knuckle grips
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Materialism's Sweet Spot
8 september 2022 · 33 min
"Much of the time I tell my kids that material possessions aren't that important, but I also want them to take care of the possessions they have. How should I best juggle these messages and still get my points across?" Lees meer
As sustainable minimalists, we want our children to devalue stuff, as we certainly don't want them to associate their sense of self-worth with what they own. But at the same time we also want them to care for their existing possessions even though such care requires a certain amount of 'stuff' reverence.
It's a real paradox: On one hand we preach that stuff doesn't matter, but on the other we shout from the rooftops that stuff matters an awful lot and we best take care of it.
Amidst such conflicting messages, what's a child to believe?
On today's show I'm answering a listener's question about the sweet spot between the two extremes of materialism and reckless ownership.
Here's a preview:
[6:30] 2 parenting practices that result in materialistic children, according to research
[12:00] Best behaviors when bringing children into brick-and-mortar stores
[17:45] The how and why behind letting your child experience the natural consequences of their actions
[24:30] Parents, beware of these two research-backed materialist beliefs
[27:00] How to behave (and what to emphasize) when you buy new items for your children
[33:00] The sweet spot lies in these 3 quiet, simple, and non-grandiose habits that parents model every day
Resources mentioned/Further reading:
The 3 Parenting Strategies That Cause Kids to Become Materialistic (via Very Well Family)
Say hello! Email Stephanie at MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com or leave a voicemail at (857) 264-1967 (US and Canada listeners only)
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Thank you to our sponsors!
Made Trade: Shop the best sustainable goods all in one place at madetrade.com
Thrive Market: Head to thrivemarket.com/sustainable for up to $80 in free groceries
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Our Sp…
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Clutter Blocks
6 september 2022 · 23 min
Many people try to 'Marie Kondo' themselves out of clutter but find themselves unsuccessful. The reason? Decluttering only sticks when you first examine the deep roots into why clutter accumulated in the first place. Lees meer
Today I speak with with celebrity decluttering expert Tracy McCubbin about the excuses we tell ourselves, the clutter blocks that hold us back, and the real reasons why we can't let go of our stuff.
Here's a preview of the clutter blocks we discuss today:
[3:30] I avoid my stuff
[6:45] I'm not worth my good stuff
[13:00] My stuff keeps me stuck in the past
[16:00] My stuff tells me who I am
[18:00] I'm trapped with other people's stuff
Resources mentioned:
Unearth your own clutter block here
Pre-order Tracy's newest book, Make Space For Happiness
Want more episodes like this one? Check out #146: 10 Secrets Of Successful Declutterers
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Thank you to our sponsors!
Thrive Market: Head to thrivemarket.com/sustainable for up to $80 in free groceries
Skillshare: Visit skillshare.com/sustainable for your first month free
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* Join our (free!) community here.
* Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube.
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The Golden Triangle
1 september 2022 · 21 min
A triangle is complete only when its three corners are intact. Our wellbeing similarly demands that three pillars work together in quiet harmony. Lees meer
The Australian Wellbeing Index is a 15-year-and-counting study with data from over 60,000 participants. Its results remain consistent year after year: optimal wellbeing hinges upon 3 essential intangibles.
The good news? These three intangibles are entirely within our control.
On today's show we discuss the golden triangle of wellbeing for optimal life satisfaction.
Here's a preview:
[2:30] How to nurture interpersonal relationships when relationships get hard
[6:30] The difference between financial control versus mindless monetary accumulation, according to research
[13:00] The why and how behind living, breathing, and being your purpose
Resources mentioned/Further reading:
Episode #252: What's Good For Us Is Also Free
Episode #128: How To Save Money Like A Minimalist
Episode #225: How To Live Happier
'Golden Triangle' Of Happiness: Study Finds Three Simple Things Needed For A Happy Life
What Is Real Well-Being?
Say hello! Email Stephanie at MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com or leave a voicemail at (857) 264-1967 (US and Canada listeners only)
Our Sponsors:
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Future-Conscious Thinking
30 augustus 2022 · 26 min
Many people — and many societies, for that matter — rely on short-sighted quick wins as their go-to when managing oversized problems. But what works in the short-term likely isn't best in the long run; worse, such near-sightedness rarely considers its impacts on generations to come. Lees meer
Enter longpath thinking, a mindset that prioritizes future-conscious thinking and behavior.
On today's episode I speak with author and futurist Ari Wallach. Ari argues that when we step away from knee-jerk reactions we both reclaim life meaning and help preserve the planet for future generations. And if making daily decisions by considering their reverberations 500 years from now sounds revolutionary to you, you're absolutely right. Ari's on the show to ease our transition to future-consciousness in 3 simple steps.
Here’s a preview:
[2:00] “Future” isn’t a noun; it’s a verb. Here’s why
[4:30] Debunking lifespan biases so as to create a better world for future generations
[6:00] 3 problems associated with short-termism
[11:30] How an understanding of transgenerational empathy encourages us to act on behalf of future generations
[17:00] What doubling down on sandbag strategies means for fulfilling our collective moral obligations
[20:00] 3 ways to start practicing longpath thinking and acting right now
Resources mentioned:
Longpath: Becoming the Great Ancestors Our Future Needs
Watch Ari's TEDx Talk: 3 Ways To Plan For The (Very) Long Term
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists2448/exclusive-content
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The Gas Stove Love Affair
25 augustus 2022 · 20 min
Good cooks cook on gas, or so we've been told. Any realtor will likely tell you that a gas stove ranks high on homebuyers' lists of new home must-haves, but are they good for us? Are they good for the planet? Lees meer
Fellow Americans, it's time to end our love affair with gas stoves. On today's show, we discuss All. The. Things. the natural gas industry doesn't want you to know about gas stoves, natural gas, and everything in between.
Here's a preview:
[1:30] Gas = luxury? A peek inside the gas industry's marketing campaigns
[4:00] Human health concerns re: burning a fossil fuel in your kitchen
[10:30] Let's chat about fracking for a hot minute
[12:15] CO2's evil stepsister, methane: Here's how this potent global warmer fits into the natural gas conversation
[14:45] Aren't natural gas power plants cleaner than coal power plants? (Yes, but ...)
[17:00] The why and how behind the "electrify everything" movement
Resources mentioned/Further reading:
Did I Turn Off the Stove? Yes, but Maybe Not the Gas (via NY Times)
Vintage 1965 Commercial For Gas Cooking (via YouTube)
We Need To Talk About Your Gas Stove, Your Health And Climate Change (via NPR)
Your Gas Stove Is Bad for You and the Planet (via NY Times)
Cleaner But Not Clean - Why Scientists Say Natural Gas Won't Avert Climate Disaster (via Reuters)
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The Kids' Clothes Conundrum
23 augustus 2022 · 25 min
Have you ever bought an irresistibly on-trend outfit for a child in your life? If so, I'm willing to bet it was worn just a handful of times (or perhaps not at all). Lees meer
Gendered children's fashion is a twentieth century invention and — surprise!— it was invented by marketing pros hoping to sell more clothes. The sad truths are that while kids' fast fashion creates unnecessary clutter for parents, the sheer quantity of it all contributes to our oversized environmental problems.
Today I speak with clothing designer Laurel Thompson about how we can avoid purchasing adorable future trash for the children in our lives.
Here's a preview:
[3:30] The history of children's clothing: How the post-industrial revolution impacted wardrobe longevity
[8:00] Exactly how the design of kids clothes has devolved to the detriment of mothers everywhere
[17:00] From fabrication to construction: 10 things to look for when shopping for children's outfits
[22:00] How to talk to the grandparents in your life about responsibly acquiring kids' clothes
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* Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com.
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The Right-To-Know Revolution
18 augustus 2022 · 23 min
In 1986, California passed Proposition 65. The legislation forced companies that sell products with chemicals linked to cancer and birth defects to label them as such. While the legislation was originally a gigantic win for environmentalists, these days it's a running joke. Cancer warnings adorn everything from organic soaps to steering wheel covers, bikinis, parking garages, Disney Land, and much more. Lees meer
Proposition 65 is a case study in the ways in which good intention advocacy can go woefully wrong. Do consumers have a right to know and, if so, do we truly *want* to know? What lessons can we learn from California, and how can environmentalists both push for policy change and avoid the pitfalls associated with Prop 65?
Here's a preview:
[5:45] California as a leader in environmental action, plus a brief history leading up to the passage of Proposition 65
[14:00] What went wrong: 3 controversies associated with Proposition 65
[21:00] Has the law yielded any positive change at all? (Yes, here's how.)
Resources mentioned/Further reading:
Leave Stephanie a voicemail! (857) 264-1967
You See The Warnings Everywhere. But Does Prop. 65 Really Protect You? (via LA Times)
Prop 65 Was Meant To Protect Residents From Toxic Water. How Did Warning Stickers End Up On Everything? (via Vox)
Our Sponsors:
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Defend The Eco-Trend: Bamboo
16 augustus 2022 · 26 min
In eco-leaning circles, bamboo is hot, hot, hot. The grass (yep, it's a grass!) is touted as *the* solution to deforestation and these days bamboo is the main fiber in some paper products, textiles, bathroom necessities, furniture, flooring, and more. Lees meer
But as with any crop, there are plenty of problems associated with worldwide reliance on a monoculture. Are marketing claims that tout bamboo's benefits nothing more than next-level greenwashing?
Today I put my guest in the hot seat and ask him the not so pie-in-the-sky questions about bamboo. Ryan Fritsch, co-founder of Cloud Paper, is on the show to make the case that bamboo is the best alternative to standing trees and is here to stay.
Here's a preview:
[4:45] 3 things you may not know about bamboo plantations, plus: the importance of relying on 3rd party certifications when assessing whether your bamboo product is actually eco-friendly
[12:30] Understanding the different FSC tiers: Which certification should you be looking for?
[14:00] Bamboo's sourcing concerns: If bamboo is so easy to grow, why are (almost) all of the world's bamboo plantations in Asia?
[17:00] Are bamboo paper products better than ones made from recycled paper? What's the difference between pre- and post-consumer waste, anyway?
Resources mentioned:
Grove Collaborative trash bags
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Thank you to this week's sponsors!
Ettitude: Use code SUSTAINABLE for 20% off bamboo bedding
Thrive Market: Head to thrivemarket.com/sustainable for up to $80 in free groceries
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* Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com.
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A Better Bag
11 augustus 2022 · 26 min
When it comes to trash bags, there's plenty of confusing verbiage. Compostable? Biodegradable? Bags with post-consumer recycled content? Lees meer
While one could certainly make the argument that biodegradable and compostable trash bags aren't worth the money since they're headed to the landfill anyway (those pits aren't gardens, after all); the more cynical amongst us could say there's no such thing as an eco-friendly trash bag if it holds bad-for-the-planet waste.
Purchasing eco-friendly-ish trash bags doesn't give us carte blanche to throw away as much as we want, but buying the right bags is a simple and accessible lifestyle switch. On today's show I'm divulging what to know (and which trash bags to buy) moving forward.
Here's a preview:
[3:15] Are biodegradable trash bags eco-friendly? (What does 'biodegradable' even mean?)
[6:00] Everything you need to know about compostable trash bags: pros, cons, and everything in between
[16:00] Breaking down (see what I did there?) all-things plastic bags with post-consumer recycled content
[22:00] Stephanie's handy-dandy rubric to assess your trash bag purchases moving forward
Resources mentioned:
Green Polly trash bags made of recycled content
HoldOn compostable trash bags (Want 15% off? Use code SUSTAINABLE)
Episode #277: All-Things Eggs
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Thank you to this week's sponsors!
Ettitude: Use code SUSTAINABLE for 20% off bamboo bedding
Thrive Market: Head to thrivemarket.com/sustainable for up to $80 in free groceries
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* Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube.
* Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com.
Our Sponsors:
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Productive Pantries
9 augustus 2022 · 29 min
Your pantry can be your friend or your foe. When it's well-stocked and organized it will support your health goals, but disorganized spaces will likely derail your long-term wellness objectives. Lees meer
The worst part? Pantry staples that are marketed as healthy (ahem ... bars, protein powders, and crackers) are oftentimes the main culprits contributing to brain fog, weight gain, and belly bloat.
Today I speak with Board Certified Functional Medicine Health Coach Leeann Rybakov about how to declutter and organize your pantry for optimal wellness. Leann walks us through what to look for when stocking our pantries with nut butters, protein powders, dressings, sauces, bars, and grains so we can eat with intention (and on autopilot!).
Here's a preview:
[8:00] Pantry items known to cause inflammation and brain fog (declutter them, and STAT!)
[11:30] The problems with "quick-grab" pantry staples (and what to grab-and-go instead)
[15:00] All-things salad dressings and sauces: ingredients to seek out versus ingredients to avoid
[19:00] How to organize the pantry, plus: healthy foods to keep stocked
[28:00] Specific foods to avoid to reduce belly bloat and brain fog
Resources mentioned:
Leeann's list of vetted pantry staples
Schedule a free consultation on Leeann's calendar
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Thank you to this week's sponsors!
Ettitude: Use code SUSTAINABLE for 20% off bamboo bedding
Thrive Market: Head to thrivemarket.com/sustainable for up to $80 in free groceries
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* Email me and say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com.
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The Minimalist Phone Movement
4 augustus 2022 · 27 min
The first iPhone hit the market in 2007 and most of us jumped on the smartphone bandwagon without looking back. 15 years later, countless studies document the pitfalls associated with reliance on powerful tech at our (literal) fingertips: impaired cognitive functioning, loss of self-esteem, and increased depression and anxiety are just a few. Lees meer
The minimalist cell phone movement seeks to take back what smartphones have taken from us, and it advocates for the return of simple phones without distractions, apps, or advertisements.
On today's show I answer a listener's question about the Wisephone. Do minimalist cell phones actually give us our lives back, or do they simply seek to target a very particular subset of buyers?
Here's a preview:
[4:30] Why you should be concerned about your cellular data and privacy (plus: how a minimalist cell phone can protect you)
[9:00] What research says about the human tendency to become psychologically dependent on technology
[14:30] 3 benefits to the "pure and simple" Wisephone
[19:30] 3 real-time problems with the minimalist cell phone movement
[25:00] How and why smartphones are necessary for participation in today's economy (and how to fight back)
[27:30] Weighing long-term, intangible benefits with short-term, tangible ones when deciding whether a minimalist cell phone is right for you
Resources mentioned:
Interview with Elana Mugdan, the ‘Scroll Free for a Year’ winner
Episode #208: How To Protect Yourself From EMFs At Home
Our Sponsors:
* Thank you to LifeStraw! https://lifestraw.com/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists/exclusive-content
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The Pinch At The Pump
2 augustus 2022 · 29 min
Gas prices are through the roof and we're feeling the pinch at the gas station. Is now the right time to invest in an electric vehicle? Lees meer
There's no sugarcoating it: Automobiles leave a big footprint. Extracting petroleum products from the earth and shipping them around the planet is both energy-intensive and damaging (let's not forget about oil spills!). There's also the tailpipe emissions problem: vehicles in the US are responsible for a whopping one-third of all air pollution in the country.
The rollout of electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and traditional hybrids is good news if you’re looking for an alternative to the combustion engine, and that's because these models provide energy-efficient transportation while lowering/eliminating tailpipe emissions, diminishing noise, and reducing operating costs.
On today's show my guest and I outline 5 things to consider before purchasing or leasing your next vehicle. Jon Linkov is the Deputy Autos Editor at Consumer Reports and he brings a wealth of real-world knowledge as both a tester of cars and an owner of an electric vehicle to our conversation.
Here's a preview:
[2:30] The major differences as well as the minor intricacies that distinguish hybrids and plug-in hybrids from electric vehicles
[9:00] The price problem: Weighing sticker prices with federal and state rebates and gasoline costs
[13:00] Everything you need to know about the $7500 US Federal Tax Incentive on (some) electric vehicles
[17:30] Should we be concerned about running out of charge? All-things charging, charging stations, at-home charger installation, and the average driving ranges of top EV models
[22:00] Do EVs and hybrids need more frequent — and more expensive — maintenance? (Hint: the answer is no.)
[24:00] Jon's thoughts on whether alternate technologies are actually fun to drive
Resources mentioned and further reading:
How to Decide If a Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid, or Fully Electric Car Is Right for You (via Consumer Reports)
The En…
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Late Stage Capitalism and Self-Care
28 juli 2022 · 20 min
Underneath all of life's burdens, many of us experience the triple losses of time, freedom, and mental space. Self-care is generally touted as burnout's antidote, and advocates argue that regular self-care routines lower stress, anxiety, and frustration while simultaneously improving energy, concentration, and overall life satisfaction. Lees meer
Sounds wonderful, right? But there's a problem with #selfcare culture: In a capitalist society, anything and everything becomes a sellable product or service, self-care included. Indeed, these days the term 'self-care' is often used synonymously with spa days, last-minute getaways, and other actions that require a financial transaction.
On today’s show we attempt to answer this very 2022 question: Is self-care a commodity that is best purchased, or is the idea that taking care of ourselves must be outsourced the epitome of late stage capitalism?
Here's a preview:
[1:15] Differentiating between an expanded view of self-care versus a narrow, contorted one
[4:33] Understanding the ways in which capitalism misconstrues our collective notion of self-care
[8:15] Defining late stage capitalism (with real life examples!)
[12:20] The 4 categories of self-care
[18:30] Communal care is self-care: 3 benefits to thinking of others - not the self! - first
Resources mentioned:
Why the Phrase 'Late Capitalism' Is Suddenly Everywhere (via The Atlantic)
We Need To Move On From Self-Care To Something That Cannot Be Captured By Capitalism (via The Guardian)
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Thank you to this week's sponsors!
Ettitude: Use code SUSTAINABLE for 20% off bamboo bedding
Thrive Market: Head to thrivemarket.com/sustainable for up to $80 in free groceries
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The Convenience Tax
26 juli 2022 · 28 min
All too often (and perhaps without even realizing it!) many of us live our lives by taking the path of least resistance. What's the easiest choice? What's most convenient? But there's cognitive dissonance to be felt when we sacrifice our values in the name of convenience, and experiencing such dissonance can be uncomfortable. Lees meer
Today I speak with author and social impact expert Sharon Schneider about how seemingly small daily choices can enhance a life of alignment with your heart-first goals. Sharon believes that intentional living often means sacrificing short-term convenience for larger-than-you goals, and she's on the podcast to show us how.
Here's a preview:
[8:30] We shouldn't be give back; we should simply give. Here's why
[10:30] Thoughts on rugged individualism, self-centered living, and curating social circles around different shared values
[12:00] The fundamentals of the Convenience Tax, plus how and why to tax yourself
[17:00] Are we just lazy? The origins of the 'convenience' problem (with ways to resist its allure in the future)
[21:00] 2 ways to make your charitable giving go further
Resources mentioned:
Handbook For An Integrated Life: A Practical Guide to Aligning Your Everyday Choices with Your Internal Compass (via IndieBound)
Have you left your favorite podcasts a review yet? Today's the day to get it done!
Thank you to this week's sponsors!
Ettitude: Use code SUSTAINABLE for 20% off bamboo bedding
Thrive Market: Head to thrivemarket.com/sustainable for up to $80 in free groceries
AprilAire: Check out their air purifying and filtration options at AprilAire.com
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Our Sponsors:
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An Ounce Of (Mess) Prevention
21 juli 2022 · 28 min
Comedian Phyllis Diller famously once said, "Housework can't kill you, but why take the risk?" Lees meer
Our homes are for living, and living is a messy business. But warding off messes before they become unmanageable is indeed possible, and seasoned minimalists often rely on tried-and-true prevention techniques to reduce both housework and overwhelm.
On today's show I offer 5 and a half tips to help you vacuum, fold, and dust less so you can enjoy life more.
Resources mentioned:
Episode #013: The How & Why Of Turning Off "The Noise"
Episode #006: The Ultimate Kid's Capsule Blueprint
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Intuitive Eating
19 juli 2022 · 33 min
Calorie counting, diet cycling, and heaps of food guilt. Sound familiar? Lees meer
We have diet culture to thank for our body image woes, and that's because corporations first sell us unhealthy food that detracts from our health, and then we're sold the promise of yet another restrictive diet as the ultimate - and only - solution.
Today my guest and I answer a listener's question about the fundamentals of intuitive eating. Claire Chewning is a Registered Dietician who believes we can recover from the negative mental, emotional, and physical effects of diet culture by first rejecting the food and weight messages our culture bombards us with every single day.
Here's a preview:
[5:30] An introduction to the 10 principles of intuitive eating
[6:45] The problems associated with diet culture (plus: how diet culture keeps us unhealthy)
[9:30] Distinguishing between calorie deficits and health promoting behaviors
[11:00] The un-learning process as it relates to internalized lies regarding size and self-worth
[23:00] Can intuitive eating help emotional eaters?
[26:00] Intuitive eating first steps
Resources mentioned:
Intuitive Eating, 4th Edition
Claire on Instagram
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Wasted Money
14 juli 2022 · 30 min
Materialistic, overly consumptive, and incredibly wasteful: The stereotype of the average American isn't flattering. And while being wasteful isn't a personality trait most of us aspire to have, for many US citizens, wasting enormous amounts of resources and money is simply our way of life. Lees meer
Fellow Americans, we can do better. On today's show I rank order 10 specific ways Americans waste money without even realizing it; I also offer practical action steps toward resourcefulness for today and onward.
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Minimalist Game Night
12 juli 2022 · 28 min
Ah, game night. Something special happens when we put our phones away, sit around the table, and have fun with our loved ones. But if you have children, game night can be fraught with whines, groans, and tantrums. And after a long workweek? Game night can feel like another To-Do item. Lees meer
On today's show we discuss what research says about the benefits of game night. In Part 1 I offer 6 strategies for curating a successful family game night; in Part 2 I sit down with Ali Aydar, CEO of SPORCLE.com. Ali is on the show to make the point that you can make lasting, happy memories with your loved ones *and* keep your kids learning this summer without spending money on new board games.
(A note from Stephanie: This episode is the fourth in the "Best Things Are Free" series in which the podcast dives deep into life's little pleasures that also happen to not cost money. To listen to other episodes in the series, check out #259: Rich Conversations, #246: Sleep, and #255: Storytime.)
Here's a preview:
[ 2:25] 10 research-backed benefits to family game night
[4:30] Stephanie's 6 best tips for hosting a successful game event
[9:00] Thoughts on being a minimalist who also loves games: also, what to consider when investing in new games
[19:00] How to intentionally incorporate 21st Century technology into modern game nights
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Fashion's Missing Link
7 juli 2022 · 33 min
Perhaps you’ve seen buzzwords like upcycled, renewed, or repurposed on fashion websites and are confused. Perhaps, too, you've invested in natural fibers when purchasing clothes but doing so simply doesn't seem like you're doing enough. Lees meer
While the planet operates in a circular system in which everything is reused and repurposed, the fashion industry operates within a vastly different, linear system. Big Fashion gets away with an awful lot of unethical practices: you're right, then, to wonder whether you're missing a piece of the puzzle.
Today I speak with blogger and podcaster Elizabeth Joy about what it takes to push brands toward planet over profit. Elizabeth drives home the point that a circular fashion system includes all of us — brands, designers, consumers, and politicians — working toward the singular goal of circularity.
This episode is for intermediate sustainable minimalists who have already completed first steps toward overhauling the way they think about clothes and are ready to go deeper into being part of the (circular) solution.
Here's a preview:
[3:00] 2 things Big Fashion is doing wrong in 2022
[10:30] Can synthetic fibers be part of a circular fashion economy?
[17:30] 5 sneaky examples of greenwashing in the fashion industry
[24:30] Everything you need to know about the Higgs Index
[26:30] 3 action steps for conscious fashion consumers that go beyond what we put in our closets
Resources mentioned:
Thousand Fell sneakers
California Cloth Foundry
Episode #274: Plant-Based Fashion
The Fabric Act: Take Action
How Fashion Giants Recast Plastic as Good for the Planet (via NY Times)
Conscious Style Podcast
Remake
Clean Clothes Campaign
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Skimpflation
5 juli 2022 · 21 min
You've likely noticed that we're in a period of inflation, and that's because rising prices are difficult to ignore (hey there, gasoline!). But what about nonexistent customer service, smaller food packages, and the nagging, overall sense that we as consumers are getting the bad end the deal every time we make a purchase? Lees meer
That, my friends, is skimpflation.
When you start looking for skimpflation in real life you'll see it everywhere. On today's show I'm uncovering the sneaky tactics brands use to maintain their bottom line at the expense of consumers; I'm also suggesting 3 action steps for us, the little guys and gals, during periods of inflation.
Here's a preview:
[1:45] An inflation review: What it is and how it affects you and me
[4:20] Greedflation: Why some mega corps jack up prices (and reap increased profits)
[10:00] Sneaky and stealthy skimpflation examples
[13:00] Is this really "family size"? Shrinkflation 101
[15:30] 3 action steps for conscious consumers in times of inflation
Resources mentioned:
Beware Of 'Shrinkflation,' Inflation's Devious Cousin (via NPR)
Cancelled flight? Shoddy clothing? Disappointing meal? Blame skimpflation, the hidden curse of 2022 (via The Guardian)
Here’s What You Need to Know About America’s Super-Hot Inflation (via NY Times)
Episode #279: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
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An Extremely Simple Eco Summer
30 juni 2022 · 25 min
Can a sun-toasting, memory-making, blue sky summer also be eco-friendly? Lees meer
I believe that the greenest habits are the ones that don't cost much money; they'd never upend our already busy lives, either. Today I speak with Paul Hope, Home & Garden Editor for Consumer Reports, and together we offer 8 summer-specific tweaks to your days that are so easy-peasy you won't even realize you're *also* helping the planet.
Here's a preview:
[2:45] Summer is for barbecues: 3 tips for grilling smarter during your next cookout
[7:15] The rise of battery-powered outdoor tools (as confirmed by testing, the new ones actually work!)
[9:50] Adios, old-school sprinkler systems: 2 lawn mowing and lawn watering best practices
[18:00] Common-sense ways to help out your air conditioner on hot days
[21:00] Thoughts on making your freezer work for you this summer
Resources mentioned:
Episode #262: No Mow May
Sustainable Living Guide (via Consumer Reports)
45 Ways to Save More and Waste Less at Home (via Consumer Reports)
RainMachine Touch HD-12
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The Power Of Anticipation
28 juni 2022 · 16 min
A vacation. A dinner party. The arrival of a package you've been waiting for. There’s happiness to be found in looking forward to something, and that's because anticipation simultaneously increases levels of optimism and decreases feelings of irritability. Lees meer
But in a consumerist culture, it's often assumed that anticipation's benefits come with spending money. Don't bigger purchases and grander trips equate to greater happiness? And what about expectation? Isn't expecting something in the future one of life's greatest joy suckers?
On today's show I'm offering four research-backed ways to harness the power of anticipation in your daily life without spending a lot of money.
Here's a preview:
[2:30] The difference between mini-thrills and major thrills (hint: they aren't that different)
[5:50] Experiences over things: What research says about money spent on doing
[10:15] Pinning down your future self as a means of harnessing anticipation NOW
[14:45] Thoughts on anticipation versus expectation, living in the moment, and letting anticipation be enough
Resources mentioned:
Episode #225: The Science Of Happiness
Monk Manual daily planner
Get excited: Reappraising Pre-Performance Anxiety As Excitement
Waiting for Merlot: Anticipatory Consumption of Experiential and Material Purchases
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Seventh Gen, Unilever & SLS
23 juni 2022 · 15 min
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) are found in loads of personal care, beauty, and cleaning products. But there are both environmental and human health concerns associated with SLS and SLES: why, then, do eco-conscious brands continue to include such surfactants in their product offerings? Lees meer
On today's show I'm answering a listener's question about the well-known "green" brand, Seventh Generation. Why does their laundry detergent list Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) as its first ingredient? Is Seventh Generation *actually* eco-conscious, and how does Unilever play into the equation?
Here's a preview:
[1:30] Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is in nearly everything. Here's why
[3:30] The connection between SLS and palm oil
[4:20] Seventh Generation and Unilever: The problems with mega-corporations
[8:30] Human health concerns associated with SLS and SLES
[12:00] 3 considerations when purchasing health, beauty, and cleaning products
Resources mentioned:
Molly's Suds
Tandi's Naturals
Episode #187: A Palm-Oil Primer
Episode #194: Safer Nail Polish Ideas
The Dirty Dozen: Sodium Laureth Sulfate
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Divesting
20 juni 2022 · 31 min
Whenever you add money to your bank account, it doesn't just sit there. Your bank lends your money to industries and projects with the intent of making a profit. Many banks (and all the big name banks in particular) regularly invest OUR money into the fossil fuels industry, thereby funding the continued mining and burning of oil, coal, and gas. Lees meer
To give you a scope of the problem: In 2021 alone, Citigroup, Wells Fargo, Goldman Sachs, and Bank of America spent a combined $137 BILLION on fossil fuel projects.
There's a solution, and it's divesting. Intentionally putting your money in places that don't fund the fossil fuels industry is a small lifestyle tweak that will do loads of good for the planet.
Today I speak with Certified Financial Planner Gary Grewal about finding the right bank or credit union that's aligned with your values.
Here's a preview:
[2:30] What banks actually do with your hard-earned money
[6:10] The big bank worst offenders
[14:30] How to find a better bank
[17:30] 3 reasons why you may want to consider your local credit union for your banking needs
[24:00] Gary's personal and professional thoughts on Aspiration
Resources mentioned:
Episode #258: Conscious Spending
Financial Fives: The Top 325 Ways To Save, Earn, And Thrive To Retire Before 65
Mighty Deposits
Global Alliance for Banking on Values
Nerd Wallet
As You Sow
Banking on Climate Chaos Fossil Fuel Finance Report
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All-Things Eggs
16 juni 2022 · 20 min
There's lots to consider when buying eggs. What does "humanely raised" mean, exactly, and are free-range eggs actually worth the extra cost? Lees meer
As it turns out, there are many misleading claims on egg cartons. On today's short and sweet episode I'm answering listener Lauren's question about intentional egg purchasing. My goal is to arm you with facts - not marketing gimmicks! - so that you can confidently spend in ways aligned with your values the next time you're at your farmer's market or grocery store.
Here's a preview:
[1:45] Cage-free vs. free range vs. pasture raised: Do these distinctions matter?
[6:00] Want to buy the healthiest eggs? Here's what to look for
[8:30] 4 marketing gimmicks designed to confuse consumers
[11:15] 3 3rd party certifications to look for on your next carton
Resources mentioned:
Did you know there's a book based on THIS podcast? Thank you for supporting my work!
Vital Farms
Oliver's Organic
Pete & Gerry's
Happy Egg Co.
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Life Lessons Learned From Plants
14 juni 2022 · 25 min
Life provides countless opportunities each day to practice self-awareness and reflection. For some of us, such introspection happens when we exercise or meditate. For others, it naturally occurs when we're in touch with nature. Lees meer
Today I speak with author Marcus Bridgewater, also known as the uber-popular Garden Marcus on social media. Marcus argues that nurturing plants also helps us grow as people, and so he's on the show to divulge 5 life lessons he's learned that are rooted in his time in his garden.
Here's a preview of the life lessons discussed today:
[4:30] You can't make anyone flourish, but you can nurture an environment conducive to flourishing. Here's how
[6:30] The importance of patience, awareness, and self-observation in the garden and in life
[11:30] Repotting: Giving yourself room to grow as a means of maximizing potential
[17:15] Sharing the fruits of your success with others for the benefit of both your community and yourself
[20:00] How to foster an environment conducive to your personal growth
Resources mentioned:
How to Grow: Nurture Your Garden, Nurture Yourself
Garden Marcus on TikTok and Instagram
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The Trauma Response
9 juni 2022 · 24 min
It feels as though nearly every day Americans must process another mass shooting. Such traumatic events are a part of life in the US today and, if our recent history is to inform the future, these events will continue. Lees meer
Today I speak with psychotherapist Lena Derhally about the human trauma response: which feelings are "normal", and which ones aren't? In the second part of today's conversation we discuss best practices for talking with our children about the tragedy at Robb Elementary School.
(Please note that while today's conversation is centered around the recent events in Uvalde, Texas, Lena's advice is applicable to all instances of gun violence.)
Here's a preview:
[4:00] Ongoing trauma and protective mechanisms: Numbness is normal!
[9:15] Thoughts on media sensationalism and the importance of turning off the news, at least sometimes
[11:30] The research-backed importance of taking action as a means of healing
[15:30] What to say (and what not to say!) to your children about gun violence in schools
[20:30] The importance of maintaining routines, rhythms, and schedules for your children
Resources mentioned:
The Facebook Narcissist
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Plant-Based Fashion
7 juni 2022 · 26 min
The fashion industry is in a state of transition, and that's because fossil fuels-based synthetics simply aren't sustainable. Enter clothing made from plants: they are neither new or revolutionary (hey there, cotton, linen, and hemp!); still, clothing made from renewable fibers continues to expand in breadth and scope during this unique moment in time. Lees meer
On today's show I speak with author Alyssa Couture about the innumerable ways in which plant fabrics support both humans and the planet. Alyssa has a wealth of knowledge regarding the the evolution of plant-based textiles (algae! cacti!); she also offers smart tips for listeners who seek to prioritize plants over synthetics when buying new.
Here's a preview:
[7:30] Bioplastics are the future: A quick primer
[16:00] Is it actually possible to clothe 7 billion people in plants? (Hint: soon)
[18:00] Harnessing the powers of desert and ocean plants to create luxurious (and biodegradable) fabrics
[21:00] How to use your wardrobe as a means of pushing change
Resources mentioned:
Stink documentary
Episode #153: The Future Of Sustainable Fashion
Healthy Fashion: The Deeper Truths
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Countertop Composters
2 juni 2022 · 22 min
Countertop composters have hit the market, and they've hit the market in a big way. Many promise to transform ho-hum food waste into nutrient-rich soil in under 24 hours without odors or hassle. For some of us, these new machines sound like the answers to all our composting prayers. Lees meer
But listener Katie wants to know if countertop composters - and specifically the Lomi by Pela - are worth the hefty price tags. Are their environmental claims overblown, or will such devices actually reduce household waste by up to 50 percent? And what about the energy requirements? Is any product truly eco-friendly if it requires (fossil-fuels sourced) electricity?
On today's episode I'm offering my unbiased thoughts on the Lomi countertop composter. (**Please note all opinions are 100% all my own.)
Here's a preview:
[3:30] Why compost? A quick composting primer
[4:30] 5 benefits to the Lomi countertop composter
[10:00] 5 (significant) drawbacks to countertop composters for conscious consumers (hey there, alliteration!)
[12:00] Let's talk about those energy concerns ...
[18:00] Electricity in the United States: how to read your electric bill with a critical eye
Resources mentioned:
Episode #081: How To Make Great Compost (With Very Little Effort)
Episode #121: Fair Trade, Certified B and More: The 3rd Party Labels You Need To Know
What is U.S. electricity generation by energy source? (Via US Energy & Administration)
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Rebalancing
31 mei 2022 · 29 min
There are certain things in life that don't have to get done, and then there are priorities that absolutely must get done well. On today's show we discuss what it takes to thrive on purpose, and specifically we're discussing the importance of flexibility. Lees meer
Today I speak with author and social impact leader Wendy Teleki. Wendy argues we shouldn't be afraid to recalibrate and make the big changes when we need to. In our conversation today Wendy distills her hard-earned lessons on balancing - and rebalancing - amid an onslaught of ever-changing demands and priorities.
Here's a preview:
[6:20] Thoughts on "having it all" versus letting some things go
[10:45] Why the edge of the wheel is where you want to be (and how to get there)
[20:30] What to do when you find yourself in a role you're not necessarily comfortable with
[25:00] The benefits of creating your Don't-Do list first
[26:00] Thoughts on using the speeding of time as a means of becoming our best selves now
[29:45] Wendy's Number One piece of advice for parents
Resources mentioned:
Rebalance: How Women Lead, Parent, Partner and Thrive
Watch this episode on Youtube
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Quick Fix Thinking
26 mei 2022 · 28 min
We want new stuff and we want it now. The possessions we buy often make us happy, at least for a little while (hello, dopamine!). But before we know it, today's 'it' item becomes tomorrow's clutter. Lees meer
On today's show we are examining the psychology behind quick fix thinking. Why do humans tend to prioritize instant gratification over long-term goals such as having a decluttered, minimalist home and obtaining financial security? The good news is we aren't slaves to our DNA, and in the second part of today's episode I'm offering my best thoughts for stepping away from quick fixes - which, by the way, are also almost always to our detriment - and toward intentional but distant priorities.
Here's a preview:
[5:45] The psychology behind instant gratification: how quick fix thinking changes our brains
[9:50] Why it's so hard to make new, positive habits stick (and why it's so easy to pick up bad habits)
[13:00] 4 reasons why humans tend to prioritize quick fixes over long-term goals
[19:00] 5 action steps for stepping away from quick fixes and towards what's best for us in the future
Further reading/Resources mentioned:
Spying a product and unsure if it's as good as the marketing makes it sound? Send me the product name and I'll do the research for you!
10 Reasons We Rush for Immediate Gratification (via Psychology Today)
The Real Issue With Instant Gratification (via Psychology Today)
Listen to this episode on Youtube
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Desperation Dinners
24 mei 2022 · 31 min
Cooking at home is generally cheaper, healthier, and better for the planet than relying on takeout and meal subscriptions. Still, our busy lives crave convenience: cooking, then, is a self-sufficient skill our culture is in danger of losing. Lees meer
Today I speak with blogger Rachael McKennon about cooking at home and cooking from scratch. Rachael understands that feeding a family is hard work, so she's here to offer her best tips, tricks, and hacks to take the overwhelm out of the task.
Here's a preview:
[6:30] Convenience versus whole foods: The benefits of home cooked meals
[11:00] How to fully stock your pantry before cooking a single thing
[15:00] Kitchen appliances that are actually worth the money (and ones that aren't)
[21:00] 4 desperation dinners for those nights when you're hangry and unprepared
* Watch the extended version of this interview on Youtube.
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Responsible Family Vacations
18 mei 2022 · 26 min
If you are fortunate to embark on vacation with your family this summer, your children will undoubtedly benefit from the experience. There's the need for them to practice flexibility and problem-solving in real-time; there's also the fact that seeing more of the planet will encourage your children to care for its future. Lees meer
Yet there's an elephant in the room, and it's this: vacations often come with a hefty carbon cost.
On today's show - and just in time for summer! - we discuss tangible ways to make your summer holiday more sustainable. Today I speak with travel blogger Samantha Runkel. Samantha has been to a whopping 80 countries and counting and so she's on the show to offer the knowledge she's gained from boots-on-the-ground experience as to how we can be responsible travelers this vacation season and beyond (while also infusing a heavy dose of memory-making!).
Here's a preview:
[4:00] Put your money where your (suitcase) is: Reframing the assumption that long-distance is always eco-unfriendly
[8:00] Carbon offsets: Yay or nay?
[10:15] Where to find green booking options for your next getaway
[11:45] What participating in active regeneration looks like for families with children
[14:30] How and why you should intentionally spread your dollars around on your next holiday
[17:45] Family road trips that aren't completely wasteful
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Subscription Services
12 mei 2022 · 22 min
Many of us signed up for entertainment (streaming television! date night in a box!) and regular home delivery of essentials (toothbrushes! groceries! toilet paper!) at the start of the pandemic. If you're like me, these days you may find yourself signed up for 10 or more subscription services. Lees meer
Subscriptions can be time-saving and convenient, and specialty ones make great gifts. But if you aren't receiving the value you expect from the subscription in question, it's simply a colossal waste of money and resources. There are other drawbacks to the recurring payment model as well, and on today's short and sweet episode I'm uncovering them.
Here's a preview:
[7:30] 5 disadvantages to subscription services that you may not have considered
[8:45] What do recurring charges mean for our data and privacy?
[12:30] Subscription services and the concept of sunk cost
[18:00] One incremental action step for listeners to save money
Further reading:
The Rise Of The Subscription Model (via Forbes)
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Evergreen Rooms
10 mei 2022 · 28 min
Home decor is a lot like fashion: the second we invest in a new piece of furniture or a new decor item, the catalogs and showrooms push a new trend. The items we just bought, then? They're suddenly out of style. Lees meer
Today I speak with interior designer Jessica Velazquez about curating rooms that are timeless. Jessica believes that style must always support lifestyle: when we play it right, we can design spaces that won't expire when stores usher in a new trend.
Here's a preview:
[5:00] Does evergreen and minimalist mean boring? Debunking common home decor myths
[12:00] The Number One way to avoid making costly design mistakes
[18:00] The hierarchy of accent pieces: tips for refreshing a space by zeroing in on accessories
[23:00] What color should we paint our walls?
[27:00] An eco-tip and a correction
Resources mentioned:
Jessica on Instagram
Watch the extended version of this interview on Youtube
Want more episodes like this one? Check out #217: Organized Entryway Ideas
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Made In China
5 mei 2022 · 28 min
We want new things and we want them now. Our spending habits put brands on perpetual searches for ways to shorten the time between design, manufacturing, and distribution, and China has stepped up with the technology and the supply chains to meet our needs. Lees meer
Our consumption habits, then, can only be satisfied by purchasing from China.
Today's show analyzes the ethical and environmental implications associated with excessive reliance on the "World's Factory", as China has affectionately been dubbed. What does manufacturing and lax regulations mean for both the people and the planet, and how can we as consumers do better?
Here's a preview:
[2:00] What the Made In China label means (and doesn't mean) about a product's quality
[5:00] A deep dive into Chinese manufacturing: 5 reasons why China has become the "world's factory"
[7:00] What China's lower compliance standards mean for people
[10:30] The story of Oregon mother Julie Keith, Halloween decorations, and Sun Yi
[14:00] Chinese manufacturing and environmental pollution
[19:15] Practical action steps for listeners that go beyond "just buy local"
Further Reading:
Nearly 14,000 companies violate China pollution rules (via NYTimes)
How your cheap Chinese-made products may be killing thousands in China (via USAToday)
How much do we buy from China? (via NPR)
Are Made In China toys safe? (via The Baby Penguin)
Resources mentioned:
Episode #186: The Lowdown On Wooden Toys with Christina Floyd
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