Stay ConnectedThe evolution of the MINIMALIST MOMS podcast is now CLEAR INTENTIONS.
"Clear Intentions" is an interview-based podcast where guests share their personal stories and hard-earned expertise, offering listeners deeper insight into life’s most meaningful pursuits.
Each episode invites you to reflect on your own path, using these powerful narratives as a guide for personal growth and clarity.
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In this deeply reflective episode, acclaimed poet and author Jill Bialosky joins us to share the heart behind her newest memoir, The End Is the Beginning: A Personal History of My Mother. Unlike traditional memoirs or self-help books, Jill’s latest work offers a poetic, emotionally rich narrative told in reverse—from her mother’s death to her birth—unfolding a tender portrait of a woman shaped by love, loss, faith, and resilience. In this episode, Jill reflects on writing through grief, the unbreakable bond between mothers and daughters, and how memory shapes identity. A powerful listen for anyone navigating loss, caregiving, or the quiet beauty of remembrance.
Jill Bialosky's newest work of prose is The End is the Beginning: A Personal History of My Mother. Her most recent volume of poetry Asylum: A Personal, Historical, Natural Inquiry in 103 Lyric Sections, was a finalist for the National Jewish Book Award. She is the author of five acclaimed collections of poetry, four critically acclaimed novels, most recently, The Deceptions, a finalist for the Gotham Book Award, and a two memoirs, Poetry Will Save Your Life and New York Times bestselling memoir History of a Suicide: My Sister’s Unfinished Life. Her poems and essays have appeared in The New Yorker, The Atlantic Monthly, Harper’s, O Magazine, The Kenyon Review, Harvard Review, Paris Review and Best American Poetry among others. She co-edited with Helen Schulman the anthology, Wanting a Child. She is an Executive Editor and Vice President at W. W. Norton & Company. In 2014 she was honored by the Poetry Society of America for her distinguished contribution to poetry.
Clear Intentions 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!
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.
Minimalism isn’t about living in a blank, sterile space — it’s about making room for what truly reflects you. It’s less about having less, and more about living with intention. On today’s episode, I’m chatting with designer and author Whitney English, about her brand-new book Organize First, Decorate Second. We talk about how to bring order to your space before you style it — and why a home that feels like you doesn’t have to feel chaotic.
Whitney English believes in living a beautiful, intentional life — one rooted in gratitude, creativity, and growth. She’s built two seven-figure businesses from the ground up, holds a degree in interior design, and studied management at Parsons in New York. Her work has been featured in O Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and twice on the Today Show. In 2008, Country Living named her one of their Women Entrepreneurs. Above all, her favorite roles are wife to David and mom to their three kids.
Clear Intentions 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!
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.
Is it possible that sibling rivalry holds the key to teaching kids grace, empathy, and lasting family bonds?In this episode, author and third-time guest Justin Whitmel Earley returns to talk about his new children’s book, The Big Mess—a heartfelt story centered on sibling reconciliation and the value of family amidst everyday chaos. Justin shares what led him from writing for adults to crafting stories for kids, inspired by his love for parenting and the power of imagination. He offers practical insights on turning daily messes into moments of grace, building habits of forgiveness, and nurturing healthy sibling dynamics. Whether you're navigating screen time or sibling squabbles, this conversation is packed with wisdom for every parent looking to raise kids with empathy, creativity, and connection.
Note: I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!
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Justin Whitmel Earley is a writer, speaker, and lawyer. He is the author of The Common Rule, Habits of the Household, and Made for People, though he spends most days running his business law practice. Through his writing and speaking, Justin empowers God’s people to thrive through life-giving habits that form them in the love of God and neighbor. He continually explores both how physical habits are more spiritual than we think and how spiritual habits are more physical than we think. He lives with his wife and four boys in Richmond, Virginia, spends a lot of time around fires and porches with friends, and is a part-owner of a local gym.
Clear Intentions 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!
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.
What if our system was built to support moms just as much as their babies? In this episode, I sit down with Lauren Scocozza, VP of Product at Willow, to unpack how the company is reimagining motherhood—starting with the hidden weight moms carry every day. From the mental load of breastfeeding to the link between nursing stress and postpartum depression, we explore how Willow is putting moms first through innovative products, mental health support, and bold policy advocacy. If you're ready to hear what true maternal support can look like, this conversation is for you.
Note: Willow is launching its Mother’s Day campaign on 4/22, committing to provide 1 million hours of maternal mental health support to new mothers nationwide. Partnering with Canopie, a preventive maternal health care platform, Willow will offer free, personalized, virtual mental health services to help mothers thrive during their postpartum journey. The services include cognitive behavioral assessments, on-demand programs, and clinician-led virtual classes. This initiative comes in response to the fact that one in five women experience Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), yet only 15% receive proper treatment. Willow’s partnership aims to ensure that mothers can access the support they need, with Canopie’s program boasting proven success in improving emotional health for its users.
Clear Intentions 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!
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.
Note: I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!
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What does it mean to truly believe you are worthy, especially in the midst of life's struggles? In this heartfelt interview, Erin Eddy, founder of So Worth Loving and co-host of the podcast God Hears Her, opens up about her personal journey of faith and self-worth. Erin shares the inspiration behind her podcast, which encourages women to remember that God hears them, even in their toughest moments. She reflects on her experience with a difficult divorce, battling imposter syndrome, and rebuilding her faith. Erin also discusses the importance of honest conversations with her daughters about self-worth, leadership, and life’s challenges.
Eryn Eddy Adkins is the founder and CEO of So Worth Loving, a lifestyle brand that uses apparel and community to bridge pain and shame toward an awareness of self-worth. With 15 years of impactful storytelling, her work has reached hundreds of thousands worldwide and been featured in CNN and Oprah. She is the co-host of the Our Daily Bread Ministries podcast God Hears Her and the author of So Worth Loving.
Clear Intentions 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!
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.
What if you could take control of your personal safety by strengthening your mind, body, and emotions? In this empowering episode, I speak with Stephanie Cyr, executive health coach and founder of Power Up Moves, about her holistic approach to personal safety. Stephanie explains how she blends self-defense techniques with mental and emotional strategies to help people feel confident and secure in any situation. She shares her journey from attorney to personal safety expert and offers powerful insights on situational awareness, setting intentions, and communicating with confidence. Tune in for practical tips on living fearlessly, building resilience, and taking charge of your well-being, both inside and out.
Links Discussed in This Episode |
Stephanie Cyr (NBC-HWC) is the founder of PowerUp Moves, a personal development program focused on building strength, safety, and confidence through empowerment self-defense. With over 25 years of experience in violence prevention, she developed the first accredited minor in Empowerment Self-Defense at San Francisco State University and authored *The PowerUp Moves Notebook*. A seasoned martial artist and attorney, Stephanie also consults for organizations like PAVE Prevention and the Association of ESD Professionals, and serves with the Joyful Heart Foundation. She's contributed to K–12 and university self-defense education, and her work bridges personal safety, mental health, and public health. Stephanie holds degrees from Rutgers and the University of Maryland School of Law, and is a certified integrative nutrition health coach.
Clear Intentions 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!
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.
Note: I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next week for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!
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What if you could break free from the toxic thought patterns that keep you stuck, drained, and held back? In this powerful episode, bestselling author and pastor Kyle Idleman shares insights from his new book Every Thought Captive: Calm the Mental Chaos That Keeps You Stuck, Drains Your Hope, and Holds You Back. Drawing from both Scripture and neuroscience, Kyle unpacks how renewing your mind—through intentional thinking and the power of God’s truth—can lead to lasting mental, emotional, and spiritual transformation. He offers practical tools for recognizing and redirecting destructive thoughts like insecurity, offense, and despair, and emphasizes the importance of community and speaking God’s Word out loud. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just hungry for clarity and freedom, this conversation will inspire you to invite the Holy Spirit into your thought life and experience real change from the inside out.
Take a brief survey for the show to influence future episodes.
Kyle Idleman is the senior pastor at Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, Kentucky, one of the largest churches in America. On a normal weekend, he speaks to more than thirty thousand people spread across fifteen campuses. More than anything else, Kyle enjoys unearthing the teachings of Jesus and making them relevant in people’s lives. He is a frequent speaker for national conventions and influential churches across the country. Kyle and his wife, DesiRae, have been married for over thirty years. They have four children, two sons-in-law, and three grandchildren. They live on a farm in Kentucky, where Kyle doesn’t do any actual farming.
Clear Intentions 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!
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.
What if the key to better health isn’t found in a pill bottle—but in community, creativity, and connection? Today I’m joined by author and researcher Julia Hotz to talk about her new book, The Connection Cure, where she uncovers how movement, nature, art, service, and belonging can transform our well-being. From dementia care farms in Norway to social prescribing programs around the world, Julia shares powerful, real-life stories of how people are healing through human connection. We dive into how prescribing joy, purpose, and relationships could radically shift how we think about healthcare. If you’ve ever felt like something’s missing from modern medicine, this conversation will open your eyes to what really makes us well.
Julia Hotz is a solutions focused journalist based in New York. Her stories have appeared in The New York Times, WIRED, Scientific American, The Boston Globe, Time, and more. She helps other journalists report on the big new ideas changing the world at the Solutions Journalism Network. For her insights on social prescribing, she has been invited to advise health and community organizations, teach in medical schools, deliver talks at TEDx, university symposiums, and international conferences, and write editorials for publications including The Wall Street Journal, Slate, and more. She proudly serves on the board of Walk with a Doc, and as an advisor to Social Prescribing USA.
Clear Intentions 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!
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.
Note: I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next week for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!
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What does it really mean to be a Christian in today’s world of confusion and cultural contradictions? In this episode, Diane talks with Glen Pia, lead pastor at Rock Harbor Church, about his new book What’s a Christian? Anyway. How can ancient truths—like the Nicene Creed—help anchor our faith in a time when trust in the Church is wavering? Glen shares his perspective on the intersection of politics, faith, and community, and how believers can stay rooted without losing heart. Through personal stories and pastoral insight, he unpacks how to live with integrity and clarity in a complicated spiritual landscape. This conversation offers a thoughtful look at reclaiming what’s essential in the Christian journey.
Take a brief survey for the show to influence future episodes.
Glenn Packiam is the Lead Pastor of Rockharbor Church in Costa Mesa, California, and a Senior Fellow at Barna Group. He has written nine books, including his latest, What’s A Christian, Anyway?, and two bestsellers: The Intentional Year (co-written with his wife, Holly) and The Resilient Pastor. Glenn holds a Doctorate in Theology and Ministry from Durham University in the UK, where he is also a Visiting Fellow at St. John’s College. He regularly speaks at church leadership conferences and has taught at institutions such as Durham University, Denver Seminary, Oxford, Cambridge, Biola University, and Asbury Seminary. Previously a founding leader and songwriter for the Desperation Band, Glenn has contributed to multiple worship albums and released three solo projects through Integrity Music. He has written or co-written over 65 worship songs, including "Your Name" and "My Savior Lives," and lives in Orange County, California, with his wife and their four children.
Clear Intentions 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!
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.
Join me today as I speak with creator of The Freedom Moms, Ashley Buffa. Ashley is the mother of 10 children (yes, 10!), a business owner, and a dedicated non perfectionist home systems extraordinaire! On today's episode, Ashley answers questions such as: where do we start when managing a large household (kids rooms? toys? schedules?) Sticking points when it comes to getting everyone organized (and how can we move through these challenges) and more!
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!
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.
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