The Secret to a Clutter Free Home (Hint: It’s Not Motivation) with Amy Slenker-Smith (Ep 257)
About the episode
In this episode, Deanna discusses how making small, simple changes can lead to a bigger, more meaningful impact with Amy Slenker-Smith. They dive into the real-life challenges of decluttering, setting boundaries, and finding what "enough" truly means. Amy shares practical tips that make simplifying your life feel a lot less overwhelming.
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Connect with Amy Slenker-Smith
In this episode of the Wannabe Clutter Free podcast, the host, Deanna Yates, interviews Amy Slenker-Smith, a decluttering coach and the creator of Simply Enough. Together, they talk about how small, consistent actions can lead to big, lasting changes when it comes to simplifying your life. Amy shares her personal journey toward embracing a life with less, how the Simply Start system was born, and why setting boundaries around "enough" can be a total game-changer when tackling household clutter.
Throughout their conversation, Deanna and Amy dive into practical strategies for getting started without feeling overwhelmed, tips for building better habits, and the mindset shifts that make it easier to maintain an organized, clutter-free home. They also touch on the power of community, how borrowing instead of buying can make a huge difference, and why simplifying isn't just about your stuff, it's about creating more space for the life you truly want to live.
Key Takeaways:
1. How to start decluttering when you feel completely overwhelmed
2. Why defining your "enough" is key to living more simply
3. Simple systems that make it easier to stay organized
4. How borrowing and community sharing can reduce clutter and consumption
5. Mindset shifts that lead to lasting, meaningful change
About Amy Slenker-Smith:
Amy Slenker-Smith is a Washington DC-based decluttering coach and author of countless living simply articles at Simply Enough. Through her coaching program and popular blog, Amy’s framework proves that even the most unmotivated can conquer the overwhelm of stuff, save hours in their day, and create a home they love. Her writing has been featured in Forbes, Becoming Minimalist, No Sidebar, Optimal Living Daily, and Redfin.
To learn more about Amy’s work and get started with your own decluttering journey, check out www.simplyenough.net/5days
Time Stamps:
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
04:41 Understanding Overwhelm and Mindset Shifts
10:54 The Simply Start System
19:18 Defining 'Enough' in Decluttering
26:47 The Art of Borrowing from Neighbors
27:48 Building Community Connections
29:12 Overcoming the Fear of Asking
31:18 Effective Systems for Busy Families
35:17 Teaching Kids Life Skills
39:06 Introducing a New Resource for Kids
40:11 Using Intention as a Compass
45:53 Rapid Fire Questions with Amy
47:35 Final Thoughts and Takeaways
Music: Fresh Lift by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com
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About Deanna Yates
Based in San Diego, CA, Deanna helps high-achieving moms clear the clutter from their homes and lives.
Through coaching, courses, summits, and her top-ranked Wannabe Clutter Free podcast, she supports modern women in building organized, peaceful homes where they can thrive.
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