This Organized Life: Decluttering Tips for Moms, Entrepreneurs and Professional Organizers

Latest Episodes:

ep 262: Fridge Organization Tips with Kimberly Hermann Dec 16, 2021

Show notes

As we approach the homestretch of the holiday season, our fridges are often found doing double duty. Not only are they the workhorse of everyday meals and snacks, they are also the temporary storage for holiday meal prep, out of town guest food and lots of leftovers!
According to Johns Hopkins study 31 to 40 percent of the American food supply is wasted, and Americans spend $161.6 billion a year on food that goes to waste.
Joining me today is Kimberly Hermann. Kimberly is my partner promoter, social media and YouTube manager, not to mention mom of 3 girls, and a fellow Enneagram 8.
During our conversation, we each share our tips on keeping the fridge from becoming a food graveyard.
Some of our tips include:
Using glass stacking food storage containers
“Zoning” the fridge in food categories
Doing a weekly sweep of leftovers or expired food
As a mom of young kids, Kimberly shares some practices that she uses in her own home to both empower independence for her kids, and freedom for herself!
I also share some funny real-life stories you won't want to miss.
Happy Organizing!
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Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!HOT MESS: A Practical Guide to Getting Organized is my witty little survival guide that helps you get to the root of your clutter. Learn about the 3 types of clutter, Physical, Emotional, and Calendar, along with how to avoid the 5 Clutter Pitfalls.
Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.
Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.
Connect with Me
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ep 261: Sunday Routines with Toni-Ann Mayembe Dec 09, 2021

Show notes

Hi Friends,
Today, I am joined by Toni-Ann Mayembe, who you may know from her popular blog and podcast, Real Happy Mom. As a wife, m om, full-time dentist, and reservist in the Navy, Toni-Ann teaches how to use routines in every aspect of life.
During our conversation Toni-Ann shares the 3 main types of routines she practices:
● Morning Routines
● Evening Routines
● Sunday Routines
We spend the majority of our conversation talking about how starting with a Sunday routine can have a positive impact on the week ahead. She walks us through her personal routine, highlighting 5 key areas:
● Getting clothes ready
● Meal planning
● Going over her planner/calendar
● Cleaning out her purse/bag
● Restarting devices
This episode is filled with so much great content, I found myself taking notes and leaning into Toni-Ann’s every word.
If you find yourself struggling to find time or have trouble keeping up with all of life’s demands, you’re going to want to check out our conversation.
Watch our conversation on YouTube or lis ten in your favorite podcast app.
CONNECT WITH TONI-ANN
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | PINTEREST | TWITTER
TONI-ANN’S BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
TAKE THE STAIRS
EXCLUSIVE PROMOS FOR TOL LISTENERS!
10% OFF YOUR COLOR GURU WITH CODE “ORGANIZEDLIFE”
Download Toni-Ann’s Free Routine Checklist using promo code SIMPLYB
Please support us!
FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!
REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!
Struggling with Clutter?
Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!
Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!
HOT MESS: A Practical Guide to Getting Organized is my witty little survival guide that helps you get to the root of your clutter. Learn about the 3 types of clutter, Physical, Emotional, and Calendar, along with how to avoid the 5 Clutter Pitfalls.
Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.
Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.
Connect with Me
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ep 260: Hand-Me-Downs Dec 02, 2021

Show notes

Before we get into today’s episode, if you have or want to start your own professional organizing business, and are looking for guidance with the tactical and strategic parts of running a business, our SBO Partner Program may be just what you’re looking for. Click here to learn more.
Today’s episode is all about Hand-Me-Downs. From how and where to store them, to deciding what is worth keeping, we’ve got you covered.
There’s nothing more frustrating than finding a bag or bin of hand-me-downs that you forgot about only to discover after your kids have outgrown them!
Below are 5 tips to keeping “grow clothes” organized.
SORT BEFORE YOU STORE. Sort by size-take time to purge anything with wear and tear
STORE CENTRALLY. Whether you store hand-me-downs in an extra dresser, bin in the attic or under the bed, the key is to have one place to look.
LABEL BY SIZE OR SEASON. The clearer you can make it, the easier it will be to find when you need it.
ASSESS FIRST. Just because something is in good shape, doesn’t mean it’s worth keeping. Other things to consider before you bin it:
Would my child wear this?
Do the seasons match?
Do they need another ________
As kids get older, their own personality and style plays a role in what items they wear.
REMOVE GUILT. You don’t have to keep something just because someone gave it to you. If you (or your kids) won’t wear or use it, there are plenty of other people who will!
During the second half of the show we talked about what to do with the items you aren’t keeping, including donating, consigning and hosting a clothing swap.
With the holidays around the corner, this is a great time to purge closets. Feel free to share this episode with your friends!
XOXO-
Laurie
Please support us!
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Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!
Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.
Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.
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ep 259: Thanksgiving Episode-Life Lessons from Rick Hall Nov 24, 2021

Show notes

Happy Thanksgiving friends!
Today’s Thanksgiving episode has been inspired by and dedicated to the life of my dear friend Rick Hall who unexpectedly passed away suddenly at the age of 54 a few weeks ago.
If you’re a long-time listener of TOL, you may recall hearing Rick on episode 178 where we talked about Spring Cleaning under Quarantine (FYI: he secretly wanted to be my co-host!)
As I was preparing my annual Thanksgiving episode, I found myself reflecting on all of the things for which I am most grateful. As I sat quietly on my back porch with a cup of coffee, I kept coming back to Rick; how he lived and the life lessons he taught me. As you read through this list, you’ll see there is not one mention of material things (although he did love his Converse collection!)
So here goes…
Practice Gratitude-I made this a daily practice in 2018 and it has changed how I look at life. Even in our darkest moments, there is always something to be grateful for. You never know how much time you have left, so live every day with intention
One practical tip:Change your language from "I have to" to " I get to"
Be Present- One-One attention has become a priceless commodity. If you've ever tried to get someone's attention when they are distracted, it's a crappy feeling. On the flip side, when you give someone your undivided attention you are showing them that they matter.
One practical tip:put your phone away when you are with others. If you need to be reachable for loved ones, let them know that in case of emergency to call, rather than text, because you won't be looking at your phone for a while.
Prioritize people over things-especially during the holiday season, surround yourself with people who matter to you-it’s so much more fulfilling and life-giving than stuff.
One practical tip: Don't wait to have someone over until your home is “perfect”, memories are made between humans, not stuff.
Relationships Matter- We are built for community and connection.You never know the impact you’re going to have on someone else's life. Which brings me to the next lesson...
Tell people that you love them-Rick ended every conversation with “love ya sis” and he meant it. He also gave the best hugs. Sometimes our best form of communication is non-verbal.
One practical tip: If you’re not a mushy person, that’s ok-me either. Write someone a letter or send them a text-don’t ever assume that someone knows how much you care about them.
Live Selflessly- This doesn’t have to be epic. A small gesture like bringing someone a meal, or paying for someone's coffee can have a ripple effect on your mood and those who you have impacted.
One practical tip: Don't add to your already full plate. Try incorporating small acts of service in your daily routine and watch what happens.
Be authentic-This is one of my core values. If people don’t love you for who you are, then they are not your people.
One practical tip: Remember that we don’t always have to agree, but we can still love one another.
I hope that by sharing these life lessons with you, I can continue his legacy of kindness and generosity.
Happy Thanksgiving!
XOXO-
Laurie
Please support us!
FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!
REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!
Struggling with Clutter?
Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!
Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!
Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.
Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.
Connect with Me
WEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

ep 258: Shiny Object Syndrome with Amber Hawley Nov 18, 2021

Show notes

Hi, Friends! Before we get into today’s episode, will you please take a moment to fill out our short listener survey?
Joining me today is Amber Hawley. Amber is a licensed therapist, multiple biz owner and former tech industry dropout. She hosts the Easily Distracted Entrepreneur podcast, where she supports ADHD {and ADHD-ish} business owners to overcome what she calls “shiny object syndrome.”
Amber & her husband have both struggled with ADHD and we speak candidly about strategies for overcoming distractions in both home and business.
During our conversation Amber shares:
How she craves organization as a way to reclaim control
The struggle to NOT do all the things (and strategies on how to work through it)
The importance of delegating (and how to do it)
If you or someone you love struggles with ADHD, this is a must-listen episode.
Amber reminds us that with the right strategies, anyone can live an organized life.
Make sure to check out the links we talked about below in our show notes, including her Free Shiny Object Checklist.
XOXO-
Laurie
Prefer to watch our conversation?
Click HERE to head over to our Youtube channel!
CONNECT WITH AMBER:
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | LINKEDIN
AMBER'S BOOK RECOMMENDATION
WILD SUCCULENT WOMAN
Please support us!
FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!
REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!
Struggling with Clutter?
Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!
Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!
HOT MESS: A Practical Guide to Getting Organized is my witty little survival guide that helps you get to the root of your clutter. Learn about the 3 types of clutter, Physical, Emotional, and Calendar, along with how to avoid the 5 Clutter Pitfalls.
Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.
Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.
Connect with Me
WEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

ep 257: 2021 Holiday Gift Guide Nov 11, 2021

Show notes

Hi Friends!
It’s one of my favorite episodes of the year…our Holiday Gift Guide! We’re posting it early this year to help you get a jumpstart on your shopping.
Joining me is none other than THE Joshua Palau. We spent the hour sharing our favorite gift ideas with y’all. Each of our lists have been researched and curated on our own, without sponsorship, or input from anyone else.
Don’t worry about grabbing a pen, we’ve got you covered. We’ve included all links mentioned in the episode for you below in the show notes.
We round out the episode by sharing some tips to keep your gift giving under control (make sure to download our holiday gift tracker!)
This is one episode you won’t want to miss!
XOXO-
Laurie
Joshua’s Picks:
Experiences
Broadway is Back – (but also local theatres)
Coldplay
Billie EIlish
Boston Calling Music Festival
Content
The Every – Dave Eggers
Renegades
Paul Mccarthy – The Lyrics
Audible
Luminary
Athleisure and Fashion
Jordan 1 Lows
Vuori – Kore Shorts are my favorite
Mack Weldon
WFH
Standing Desk
Tiny dry erase board
On Air Sign
Laurie’s Picks:
Fav One-Stop Shops:
1. Willinglee.co:• Local Austin• Give back 1% of sales• Support local artisans
2. Gold Belly
• Sustainable• Supports Community• Personalized Creature Comforts
3. Mark & Graham: Monogrammed central!
● Great customer service● Great packaging● High end looks and affordable prices● customizable
i. Travel Jewelry Caseii. Catchall trayiii. Packing cubesiv. Eyeglasses trayv. Watch boxvi. Gardening bagvii. Manicure setviii. Wine totesix. cord(tech) organizers
4. Uncommon Goods
• Based in brooklyn• Support local artisans• Certified B corp• Pay fair living wage• Paid time off for maternity & paternity leave and caring for aging parents
Holiday Gift Planning Guide:
1. Make a list (don’t forget postal carrier, hairdresser, teachers, garbage collectors, etc)2. Set a budget (don’t overspend)3. Shop early (shipping delays)4. Designate a holding location5. Keep track of incoming and pending gifts6. Keep a folder/envelope of receipts (toss after the holidays!)7. Simplify wrapping (different wrapping per person, or same wrapping different bows)
Download our Holiday Gift Tracker
JOSHUA’S BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
MALIBU RISING | WE ARE THE BRENNANS
Please support us!
FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!
REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!
Struggling with Clutter?
Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!
Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!
HOT MESS: A Practical Guide to Getting Organized is my witty little survival guide that helps you get to the root of your clutter. Learn about the 3 types of clutter, Physical, Emotional, and Calendar, along with how to avoid the 5 Clutter Pitfalls.
Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.
Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.
Connect with Me
WEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

ep 256: Moving Made Simple with Ali Wenzke Nov 04, 2021

Show notes

Hi Friends!
Did you know that 20% more people are projected to move in 2021 than in 2020?
Today I am joined by blogger and author of The Art of Happy Moving, Ali Wenzke. Ali and her husband Dan have moved 10 times in 11 years across six states and now reside in the Chicago suburbs with their 3 kiddos.
During our conversation, Ali shares both tactical and practical strategies like:
Trying to find people and resources in your new location before you move
Packing strategies to simplify the “unpack” process
Creating a “heart box” with your must-have favorite items
Which rooms she recommends unpacking first
She talks about creating a “bucket list” before you move and the importance of a healthy mindset to offset what can be a stressful time in your life.
Make sure to download Ali’s moving checklist that is filled with great tips and ideas!
XOXO-
Laurie
Prefer to watch our conversation?
Click HERE to head over to our Youtube channel!
CONNECT WITH ALI
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TWITTER
BUY HER BOOK
ALI’S BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
ANYTHING BY KRISTIN HANNAH OR FREDRIK BACKMAN
Please support us!
FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!
REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!
Struggling with Clutter?
Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!
Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!
HOT MESS: A Practical Guide to Getting Organized is my witty little survival guide that helps you get to the root of your clutter. Learn about the 3 types of clutter, Physical, Emotional, and Calendar, along with how to avoid the 5 Clutter Pitfalls.
Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.
Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.
Connect with Me
WEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

ep 255: Travel Tips with Janelle Azar Oct 28, 2021

Show notes

Hi friends! Before we get into today’s episode, will you please take a moment to fill out our short listener survey? Joining me today is SBO Partner, Janelle Azar, founder and owner of A Meaningful Space based in Michigan. As a professional organizer, she specializes in residential organizing, moving and relocations, and closet design. She is also Enneagram 1 aka, the Perfectionist or Improver (which we will talk about!)
I invited Janelle on TOL to talk about travel organization. With more people returning to travel whether for work or pleasure, I thought we could all use a refresher on travel tips 101. As an avid traveler, Janelle has tapped into her “organizing brain” and streamlined and simplified the process into 2 phases: Planning & Packing.
During our conversation she walks us through the details of her 5 step process:
Step 1: is to Research your Destination
Step 2: Start Packing Early
Step 3: Consider the Essentials
Step 4: Packing the Suitcase
Step 5: Must Have items in your Carry On/Personal Tote
Whether you are hopping in the car, bus, train or plane, there’s something in this episode for everyone.
Make sure to download Janelle’s Free Travel Checklist before you go!
XOXO-
Laurie
P.S. When it comes to packing, do you prefer to roll or fold? We want to know!
CONNECT WITH JANELLE
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK
JANELLE’S BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
DON’T KEEP YOUR DAY JOB
Please support us!
FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!
REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!
Struggling with Clutter?
Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!
Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!
Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.
Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.
Connect with Me
WEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

ep 254: Entertaining & Decorating Tips with Marian Parsons Oct 21, 2021

Show notes

Before we get into today’s episode, will you please take a moment to fill out our short listener survey?
Hi Friends!
You’re going to love today’s guest--joining me today is Marian Parsons.
Marian Parson is a pastor's wife, mother of two boys, paint enthusiast, lover of all things home and owner of Miss Mustard Seed, an online resource for making your home beautiful and inviting. With the holidays just around the corner, I thought it would be fitting to have Marian on the show to talk about her new book Feels Like Home .
During our conversation we unpack
Why people seem to crave encouragement in the areas of creating a warm and inviting home
The cross-over between organization and decorating
How to keep things simple while entertaining
How a quick “room reset” can make you feel as though you’ve had a complete makeover!
I love Marian’s advice on how to create a “living mood board” in your home, regardless of budget or design expertise.
For more information on Marian, make sure to check out the links below.
XOXO-
Laurie
CONNECT WITH MARIAN
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | PODCAST
MARIAN’S BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
STEAL LIKE AN ARTIST | KEEP GOING | THE PRACTICE
Please support us!
FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!
REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!
Struggling with Clutter?
Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!
Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!
Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.
Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.
Connect with Me
WEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

ep 253: Minimalista with Shira Gill Oct 14, 2021

Show notes

Hi Friends!
Today I am joined by home organizing expert, Shira Gill. Shira is known for her online makeover programs, popular lifestyle blog, and Instagram feed that have inspired a global audience.
She can now add author to her list of accomplishments! Her new book, Minimalista Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Better Home, Wardrobe, and Life, is due to release on Nov 2nd.
I invited Shira on the show to talk about all the things…
How she got started
What her life was like growing up
How her childhood relationship with clutter and organization has shaped how she parents, lives and runs her business
In the second half of the show we dive into her new book, including her 5 step process that she uses with her clients. Her book is filled with gorgeous images designed to inspire you.
I’m so grateful to be surrounded by friends and colleagues like Shira who continue to inspire and empower others to live simply and love their space.
I hope you enjoy this honest conversation as much as I did!
XOXO-
Laurie
If you are a professional organizer or thinking about becoming one, I’d love to hear from you. I currently have openings for 5 one-one mentor spots and our group partner program continues to grow! Schedule a free intake call to see if it’s a right fit for you!
CONNECT WITH SHIRA
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | MINIMALISTA BOOK
SHIRA’S BOOK RECOMMENDATION
THE COMPOUND EFFECT
Please support us!
FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!
REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!
Struggling with Clutter?
Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!
Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!
Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.
Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.
Connect with Me
WEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

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