Declutter Your Home and Mind: A Minimalist Journey with Shannon Leyko (Ep 226)
In this episode of Wannabe Clutter Free, Deanna Yates sits down with Shannon Leyko, author, podcast host, and minimalist expert, to discuss the emotional challenges of decluttering, especially when sentimental items and family dynamics are involved. Shannon, a mother of three and military wife, shares her deeply personal journey of simplifying her life while balancing family, loss, and the emotional weight of possessions tied to loved ones.
Together, Shannon and Deanna tackle the tough conversations we often face with family members—whether it’s about gifts that don’t fit our needs or sentimental heirlooms we feel obligated to keep. They explore why it’s so hard to let go, the guilt many of us feel, and how we can shift our mindset to embrace minimalism with intention and grace.
Whether you’re just starting your decluttering journey or you’re already on the path to a simplified life, this episode provides practical advice and relatable stories to help you move forward. Shannon offers tips on involving kids in the decluttering process, how to handle unwanted gifts, and the importance of making space for what truly matters without feeling judged or overwhelmed.
Key Takeaways:
- Why sentimental items hold so much emotional weight and how to decide what to keep
- Practical steps to begin decluttering your home, no matter how overwhelmed you feel
- How to kindly and effectively handle family members who give clutter-causing gifts
- What to do if a family member asks about a gift you’ve decluttered
- Strategies for involving your children in the decluttering process
- How to develop a minimalist mindset that promotes long-term simplicity and peace
About Shannon Leyko:
Shannon Leyko (LAY-KOH) is an author, podcast host, mother of three, and military wife. Her book, You’re Completely Normal, debuted as an Amazon Top 50 hot new release in 2020, and her podcast, Paring Down, has reached the top 5% of all podcasts in under a year. She is a former Miss New York in the Miss America Organization, former professional vocalist, and was also a reality television development producer before working in social media and on her podcast. Her online platform, Paring Down, is built around helping people declutter their homes and schedules in order to make room for what matters-- without the judgment, shame, or comparison.
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Music: Fresh Lift by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com
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Connect with Shannon Leyko
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.
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Thank you for joining us, and remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Here’s to a more organized and less stressful life!
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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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