Ep 202: How Decluttering Helped This Dad Overcome His Hardest Moments with Stephen Johnston
In this episode of the Wannabe Clutter-Free podcast, host Deanna Yates talks with guest Stephen Johnston about his family's journey through adversity after his son was diagnosed with a condition leading to blindness. They delve into the importance of decluttering in the face of challenges, Stephen's decision to turn a negative situation into a positive by founding the nonprofit Race Against Blindness, and their endeavor to raise $1 million for a clinical trial.
Stephen, a father, radiologist, nonprofit founder, and Ironman athlete, shares how he has been overcoming this adversity, the unexpected challenge of his son's diagnosis, and the steps they've taken as a family to make the most out of the situation, including traveling in an adventure van to create lasting memories.
The conversation touches on the difficulties and triumphs of running a nonprofit, the significance of mental decluttering, and the importance of setting boundaries and priorities.
Key Takeaways:
- The transformative power of turning adversity into positive action
- Practical strategies for overcoming challenges through decluttering
- Insights into managing priorities and setting boundaries amidst adversity
- The significance of creating lasting memories and finding joy in the face of adversity
- The triumphs and tribulations of running a nonprofit organization
About Stephen Johnston:
Stephen is a father, radiologist, non-profit founder, and Ironman athlete. When he found out that his nine-year-old son, Luke, was going blind as a result of a rare disease, he founded Race Against Blindness to fund sight-saving research for his son and thousands of others.
Though Stephen is relatively new to the nonprofit world, he is a man on a mission to raise $1 million for a clinical trial, taking on challenges like Ironman races to raise money and setting an example for his son. So far, they've raised over six figures and have been featured on Good Morning America, in Dan Kennedy's podcast "If I'm Being Honest," and have had TV spots in multiple major markets. Stephen lives outside of Phoenix and spends his spare time training for his next Ironman and traveling with his family to create lifelong cherished memories for Luke. They share all about their adventures in a customized adventure van.
**********
Music: Fresh Lift by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com
**********
Subscribe & Review
Are you subscribed to the Wannabe Clutter Free podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those.
And if you enjoyed today’s episode, it would make my day if you left me a rating and review. You can leave a review on Apple Podcasts, a comment on Spotify Podcasts or Goodpods, or connect on guest video interviews on YouTube. Your review helps other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to read. Let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!
Helpful Links:
some of these may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links I may get paid a small amount. I stand by my recommendations. Thank you for supporting this podcast.
Connect with Stephen Johnston
Follow Deanna Yates, the host of Wannabe Clutter Free on:
- Wannabe Minimalist Family - come join my private group filled with amazing people just like you who are on their journey toward minimalism and simplifying.
We’d love to hear how you’re applying the strategies discussed in this episode. Share your stories and tips with us on social media or via email. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful episodes designed to make your busy life a bit easier.
Thank you for joining us, and remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Here’s to a more organized and less stressful life!
No time to listen right now? Pin this for later!
DOWNLOADS
Our Podcast Guest
Stephen Johnston
RESOURCES & LINKS
HELP OUT THE SHOW
Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Your ratings and reviews really help and I read each one.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts.
OTHER WAYS TO ENJOY THIS POST
Large Call to Action Headline
cheers!
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.
Some of the links on this site are affiliate links for your convenience (which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link I will earn a small commission but it won’t cost you a penny more)! Read my full disclosure policy.
Wannabe Clutter Free is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
© 2025. All Rights Reserved
Home | Terms & Conditions