This Organized Life

On today's episode we are joined by SBO Partner, Erin Barbot founder of Erin Barbot & Co. This is Erin’s second visit to the TOL Podcast-Erin first appeared all the way back in episode 54 where she talked all about her 365letgo project. I invite you to go back in and listen! Erin is based in Silver Spring, MD with her rock-n-roll husband, three amazing kids, scruffy dog, Stevie and a fish named Charlie.  Today we chat about an area of organization that often gets overlooked:  Home Maintenance.  You know, things like getting your AC serviced, the carpets cleaned and the house exterminated-(all the fun stuff!)  Erin shares some simple strategies that you can do RIGHT NOW to streamline the process of running a household.  Best of all, they don't cost a penny! This is one episode you won't want to miss!  Click on the link below to listen to our conversation: If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it with a friend?! CONNECT WITH ERIN WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM  PINTERES

On today's episode, Erika and I talk about some strategies for de-cluttering people on social media who no longer spark joy :). Whether it's someone's ongoing political rants, or boastful post about their kids accolades that you perceive as "braggy,"  sometimes you just don't want to see it. Most times it's really not about them, and more about you. Perhaps you are struggling with something in your own life, and scrolling through other people's seemingly perfect IG feed is bringing you down (trust me, I've been there!), that's usually a good indicator that it's time to put yourself in a social media TIME OUT. As hard as it is to imagine, it wasn't too long ago that we led full lives before the invention of the smart phone!  Let's get back to basics (even if for a short while!) Who's with me?  Check out the full episode here: If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it with a friend?! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE WATCH LAURIE ON ABC Your Opinion Matters!   I am so apprecia

Welcome to part 2 of my interview with New York Times best selling author, Gretchen Rubin.  In addition to several blockbuster books, Gretchen is also the host of the award winning podcast, "Happier with Gretchen Rubin," which she co-hosts with her sister Elizabeth Craft. Quick Side Note: If this is your time tuning in, make sure to go back and check out last week's episode where we talked about her book, The Four Tendencies, and what life is like as upholders! Today, in part 2 of our interview, Gretchen and I talk about her new book Outer Order, Inner Calm, and how removing physical clutter has a direct correlation to feelings of empowerment, accomplishment, and you guessed it, calm!  I loved chatting with Gretchen, and I invite you to check out part two of our conversation here: If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it with a friend?! CONNECT WITH GRETCHEN WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK OUTER ORDER, INNER CALM Your Opinion Matters!   I am so appreciative of anyone who

On today's episode of TOL we are joined by New York Times best selling author, Gretchen Rubin.  She has written several blockbuster books including Better Than Before, The Happiness Project, and the newly released Outer Order, Inner Calm. Gretchen  is also the host of the award winning podcast, "Happier with Gretchen Rubin," which she co-hosts with her sister Elizabeth Craft. In part one of our 2-part interview, Gretchen and I do a deep-dive into her book The Four Tendencies (which was a HUGE game-changer for me, and I hope for each of you!). Each tendency focuses on the value each of us place on both outer and inner expectations. What does this have to do with organizing?  I guess you'll have to listen to find out :) Whether you are looking for ways to improve communication, understand motivation, or perhaps you are a personality geek like me, you will LOVE this episode!  I invite you to check out part one of our conversation here: If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it

On today's episode of TOL we are joined by SBO partner, Kate Swenson, founder of ORDER by Kate in Atlanta, GA.  Kate not only runs a successful organizing business, but a non-profit too! We chat about her passion for animals (she has 2 rescue dogs and a rescue horse!) and why she started a non-profit dedicated to providing aid and funding for homeless animals in need of care.  What does this have to do with organizing you ask?   We talk about the connection between how giving back reduces the guilt associated with emotional clutter. She shares how she incorporates both of her passions with her clients, and shares some resources for all of you! It's a great conversation filled with valuable info! You can listen to the entire episode right here: If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it with a friend?! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE BC2A.ORG | ORDERBYKATE.COM | FB: ORDERBYKATE | IG: ORDERBYKATE HABITAT FOR HUMANITY | DRESS FOR SUCCESS | VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA | TO FIND A

On today's episode of TOL we are joined by my new friend, Meggan Wood. Meggan is mom to two girls, wife to her hubby, Landon, and the co-founder/visionary behind Lily-Jade.  Meggan shares her story of  how she struggled, as a new mom, to find the perfect diaper bag, so she decided to do something about it! Meggan's solution was to carry her leather tote filled with a ziploc bag “organizational” system. Her friends thought it was hilarious but her husband, Landon, knew she was on to something. Encouraging her vision, Landon asked her to design the diaper bag of her dreams, and friends, that’s how she went from happy homeschool mom to successful business owner in one year!  We also talk about her passion for adoption, and why it's near and dear to her heart.  She talks about the importance of community and how she and the team at Lily-Jade give back (preach it, sister!). Regardless of whether you are a mom,  a woman with a vision, or simply want to enjoy a chat between 2 women who love helping others,  I invite

Hey Friends! On todays' episode of TOL we are joined by one of our SBO Partners, Michaela Santen, founder of Simple-Sweep in Portland, OR. Michaela started Simple Sweep six years ago after a career as a television news producer. Michaela specializes in helping people live better with less stuff. She is a regular contributor on the NBC affiliate station KGW where she shares her tips for living an organized life. But she is also a real life human, with 3 kids, a dog, 2 cats and a husband so she knows how chaotic life can get. With all of our hectic schedules we don't always have large chunks of time to dedicate to decluttering, am I right?  I asked Michaela to come on TOL to share 20 THINGS YOU CAN GET RID OF TODAY WITH NO REGRET. Listen to our conversation below: If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it with a friend?! CONNECT WITH MICHAELA WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK  20 THINGS LIST Your Opinion Matters!   I am so appreciative of anyone who takes a moment to help the gr

Hey Friends! On todays' episode of TOL we are joined by one of our long time SBO Partners, Beth Wilson from Wilson Home Organizing in Tacoma, WA where she lives with her chef husband and 2 adorable pugs! This is also Beth’s second appearance on TOL, she was a guest on episode 059, if you want to go back and check it out. Beth talks about BULLET JOURNALING.  What it is, How it works, and Why she prefers pen & paper to a digital option. I learned so much from our conversation, and can't wait to do some additional research,  because as we all know, there is no one-size-fits all approach to reducing stress and increasing productivity. You can listen to our entire conversation right here: If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it with a friend?! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE BULLET JOURNAL | CONNECT WITH BETH ON IG | CONNECT WITH BETH ON FB READ MORE ABOUT BETH'S JOURNEY WITH BULLET JOURNALING  Your Opinion Matters!   I am so appreciative of anyone who takes a moment to h

Hey Friends! On todays' episode of TOL Erika and I talk about the Hallmark Holiday, otherwise known as Valentine's Day. If you are looking for some clutter free gift options (other than flowers and chocolate), we've got your back. They range in price, category, and just as an FYI, the items we talk about are strictly our opinion derived from our own research. No paid endorsements. No free goodies.  Just our own honest editorial suggestions.  Listen to the full episode here:  What are your thought's on V-Day? Do you love it? Do you dread it?  What are you memories of Valentine's Day when you were young? We'd love to hear your stories!  Feel free to pop into our facebook group, This ORGANIZED Life Podcast and join the conversation! If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it with a friend?! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Movie Scratch Off Poster ($15): available at uncommon goods Wine Tasting Kit ($99): available at winc.com Cooking Classes (starting at $49): available at surl

Hey Friends! On todays' episode of TOL Erika and I share our thoughts about Netflix show: Tidying Up with Marie Kondo.  Why people like it, and why we fear that the series might be setting people up for increased feelings of shame, embarrassment, and failure. Regardless of whether you have seen the series or not, this is a great episode, and we'd love for you to join the conversation in our facebook group, This ORGANIZED Life Podcast. Click below to listen to our conversation: If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it with a friend?! Your Opinion Matters!   I am so appreciative of anyone who takes a moment to help the growth of our show by SUBSCRIBING and listening each week.  We would be so grateful if you would click the  5-star button & leave a short REVIEW on apple podcast (aka Itunes).     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

Hey Friends! On todays' episode of TOL we are joined by my real life friend, Jennifer Artur, founder of Body Flow Movement Studios. Jennifer is a world class Pilates Instructor, Cyclist and Equestrian. She is also a mom to two teenage kids and married to her husband, Tony for 20+ years. We chat about why New Year's Resolutions fail, giving ourselves grace and forgiveness when life gets busy, and how to build exercise into your lifestyle-regardless of your season of life. I loved our chat and think you will too! Click below to listen to our conversation: If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it with a friend?! CONNECT WITH JENNIFER WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK A special thanks to our sponsor for this episode, 2BOrganized.com.  If you have ever thought about starting your own Professional Organizing business, but weren’t sure where to begin,  2B Organized may be just what you are looking for! 2B Organized has franchise opportunities available throughout the country with loc

Hey Friends! On todays' episode of TOL we are joined by my real life friend, Danielle Datz, founder of Danielle Datz Designs. We chat about some simple strategies to consider when planing a room renovation.  Whether you are working with an interior designer or going DIY, these 5 tips are key components to help you maximize your budget and minimize your stress! Click below to listen to our conversation: If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it with a friend?! Connect with Danielle on Instagram  A special thanks to our sponsor for this episode, 2BOrganized.com.  If you have ever thought about starting your own Professional Organizing business, but weren’t sure where to begin,  2B Organized may be just what you are looking for! 2B Organized has franchise opportunities available throughout the country with locations currently in Missouri, California, Texas and Ohio.  The process of starting your own business can be completely turn-key with this franchise business model.  No str

Hi Friends, With MLK day just around the corner, Erika and I thought it would be fitting to chat about service project ideas that you can do to make an impact.  Whether you want to support on the local level or global level, your gifts can be used to help others! Maybe you don't have a cause that you are passionate about, and that's ok. This episode is designed to help narrow down the countless options out there. Click below to listen to our conversation: If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it with a friend?! If you are not sure where to start, we suggest asking yourself the following questions: 1.) Who would you like to help? Is there a specific group of people or cause you are passionate about? Look for projects that relate to your passion and interests. You may also just want to perform particular community service activities that allow you to do hobbies you enjoy, like cooking or sports, and that's fine too. Tip: Start by thinking about categories like children or the

Hey Friends! On todays' episode of TOL we chat with SBO Partner & Professional Organizer, Kimbra Naber, founder of the ReOrg Project.  Kimbra is a wife, mom and world traveler!  We chat about all of the moving parts that go into planning a trip, and she shares 4 key areas that are so important and often get overlooked. This is one episode you won't want to miss! Click below to listen to our conversation: If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it with a friend?! A special thanks to our sponsor for this episode, 2BOrganized.com.  If you have ever thought about starting your own Professional Organizing business, but weren’t sure where to begin,  2B Organized may be just what you are looking for! 2B Organized has franchise opportunities available throughout the country with locations currently in Missouri, California, Texas and Ohio.  The process of starting your own business can be completely turn-key with this franchise business model.  No stressing about building a website

Hey friends!    I am so excited to kick off 2019 with two of my favorite people:  Amy Revell & Kirsty Farrugia, hosts of the ever popular podcast, The Art of Decluttering.  Kirsty & Amy both run their own successful organizing companies in Australia, and they are proud members of our SBO Partner Program! We chat about New Year's Resolutions (yay or nay?), Goal Setting, and how we inspire others to live their best lives. It's a fun episode that you won't want to miss. Click below to listen to our conversation: If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it with a friend?! A special thanks to our sponsor for this episode, 2BOrganized.com.  If you have ever thought about starting your own Professional Organizing business, but weren’t sure where to begin,  2B Organized may be just what you are looking for! 2B Organized has franchise opportunities available throughout the country with locations currently in Missouri, California, Texas and Ohio.  The process of starting your own

For our last episode of 2018, I wanted to share my personal 365 gratitude project, and more importantly, what I learned from it. I'm not a big New Year's Resolution person, however at the end of 2017 I decided to embark on a project, which I called 365 Days of Gratitude. Essentially I committed to documenting one thing, each day, that I was grateful for, and why.  I gave myself 3 simple rules:  1) Limit to one post a day  2) Each post had to be in the moment (no pre-planning)  3) No duplicate posts allowed I used my personal Instagram page as the guinea pig, figuring that I would leave my SBO page for pretty pics, since you will see that I am far from a professional photographer (LOL!).  If you look back through the days, you will see that I actually lost count a couple of times, and had one accidental duplicate, but otherwise I held up to my end of the bargain! On today's final episode of 2018, I share 5 things that I learned from this project, with the hope is that it inspires you to create your own version

On today's episode of TOL we are joined by SBO Partner, Mary Cornetta, founder of Sort & Sweet in Long Island, NY. I asked Mary to join us today to talk about gifts for the Millennials (since she is a Millennial herself!) Just to clarify, Millennials consist of anyone born between 1981 and 1996 (yes, she is a baby compared to yours truly!).  Although there may a shift towards minimalism in "stuff", Mary shares that there is no shortage of gift ideas, and let's us in on a few of her favs! Check out our conversation here:  If you know someone who would enjoy this episode, will you please share it with a friend?! CONNECT WITH MARY WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM |FACEBOOK Bonus Episode Alert! ***Are you an aspiring Entrepreneur? Do you have a passion that you want to turn into a profession, but not sure how?  I invite you to check out our 8 episode mini-series, called This ENTREPRENEUR’S Life, where we talk candidly about the struggles and successes of turning your passion into a profession. We are releasing them as b

Today we are talking all about the connection of gift giving and the 5 love languages.  According to Gary Chapman, there are five ways we express and experience love --which he calls "love languages."    The 5 love languages are:  Acts of Service, Words of Affirmation, Physical Touch, Quality Time & Receiving Gifts.  In our conversation, we talk about specific gifts that are appreciated by each love language.  If you liked this podcast please share it with a friend! Below is a cheat sheet with all the ideas we discussed on the episode: ACTS OF SERVICE: Give them a day off Do their chores; be proactive in helping Making a meal for someone Doing something selfless for someone Volunteering your time QUALITY TIME: Plan a romantic weekend away Schedule routine date nights Committing a certain amount of time technology free every day Take a Road Trip Taking a class together PHYSICAL TOUCH: Cuddling/Hugs Back rubs/foot rubs Massages Be intentional about showing affection (ie kissing hello and goodbye) Ho

ENTER OUR 365 DAY GRATITUDE JOURNAL GIVEAWAY! Howdy TOL friends! We are kicking off December with a special guest, my friend Lauren Raja, founder of Justin Jean PJ's. Lauren tells her story of how an unexpected and tragic loss of her husband in 2014, became the very foundation of her business.  She goes on to share with us how in her darkest days, she found the strength to complete even the simplest of tasks with the help of a white board (that she still uses today!) Bring your tissues, and get ready to feel inspired as you listen to my conversation with Lauren: If you liked this episode will you take a moment to share it? (we have a nifty little share button at the top of this post!) I'd be so grateful if you would please check out Lauren's AMAZING PJ'S which make for great holiday gifts!  My new personal favorite is the DARIEN UNISEX DRAWSTRING PANT . (I have them in camo and the dog print of course!) CONNECT WITH LAUREN WEBSITE | LAUREN'S STORY | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM Bonus Episode Alert! ***Are you an

Today we are joined by my friend, and fellow Organizer, Lisa Clement, owner of Chaos Organizing of Texas. You may remember back to episode 91, we interviewed Lisa's long time friend and business partner, Martha Carol Stewart (a great episode on back to school organizing tips). If you haven't listened, I suggest you check it out! But today, we are in the holiday spirit and Lisa shares all kinds of simple tips and tricks to make your home festive, without adding to the clutter! She even turned me onto a new app (and you know how I love productivity apps!) to keep track of holiday gifts, called SANTAS BAG. I loved my chat with Lisa, and I am sure you will too! If you liked this episode will you take a moment to share it with a friend? (we have a nifty little share button at the top of this post!)  CONNECT WITH LISA WEBSITE  |  FACEBOOK |  INSTAGRAM ***Don’t forget to check out our new mini-series, This ENTREPRENEUR’S Life, where we talk candidly about the struggles and successes of turning your passion into a