Clutter Free Academy

Hey there, friend! You know that feeling when you've spent an entire weekend decluttering, only to find your house looking exactly the same three weeks later? You are definitely not alone! In this enlightening episode of Clutter Free Academy, Kathi Lipp and Tonya Kubo tackle the persistent challenge of the clutter cycle. They explore why homes seem to accumulate clutter despite repeated decluttering efforts and offer practical solutions for creating lasting change. Listeners will discover: The value of setting realistic goals with a maximum of three priorities per day Ways to help children develop organizational skills without creating tension The importance of understanding different organizational styles within the family Why small, consistent actions lead to lasting change The hosts share personal experiences with generational clutter patterns and discuss how different organizational styles within families can impact home management. Click here to be notified when the next podcast episode is released! Al

Hey there, friends! Have you ever struggled with an overwhelming burden of household clutter?  There is hope!  In this episode of the Clutter Free Academy podcast, hosts Kathi Lipp and Tonya Kubo dive deep into the challenges of managing household clutter and offer practical solutions to help listeners reclaim their spaces and find peace. They discuss the emotional toll that clutter can take. They share personal stories of their own clutter battles, including Tonya's experience of renting dumpsters multiple times per year to clear out excess items.  Listeners will discover:  Research that shows cluttered homes can contribute to chronic stress and depression in mothers.  The importance of "pre-deciding"  How to create clutter-busting routines  The difference between their free Clutter Free Academy community and the more intensive Clutter Free for Life membership  By the end of the episode, listeners will be inspired to take the first steps towards a clutter-free life, whether

Hey friends! You know how we're always looking for ways to make our homes work better for us without breaking the bank? We have a treat for you! In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, Kathi Lipp interviews Lauren, a TikTok sensation known for her creative approaches to saving money on groceries. With a quarter million followers, Lauren shares her journey of feeding a family of seven while maintaining a tight grocery budget, as well as personal stories from her grandmother's Depression-era cooking wisdom. She discusses how she manages to create meals using pantry cleanout items and creative substitutions. Listeners will discover: Lauren's seven strategies for reducing grocery costs The truth about expiration dates and food safety How to effectively use Buy Nothing groups Strategies for stretching ingredients How to work around food allergies while staying on budget Whether you're dealing with a tight budget, wanting to waste less food, or just trying to be a better steward of what God's given us, you're go

Have you ever looked around your home and felt that knot in your stomach, thinking, "I don't want to leave this mess for my kids." In this poignant episode, Kathi Lipp welcomes literary agent and editor Kathleen Kerr to share her experience cleaning out her great aunt's home. After her great aunt's passing, Kathleen and her family faced the overwhelming task of sorting through decades of accumulated items in a historic Maine farmhouse where nothing had left since the 1930s. Kathleen discusses how her family approached this daunting project, working in teams to tackle different rooms while processing their grief and complex emotions. Listeners will discover: How to navigate family dynamics when dealing with heirlooms The importance of asking for help before situations become unmanageable How this experience has changed Kathleen's own approach to keeping family mementos. The episode offers practical advice for listeners who might face similar situations, while also providing a compassionate look at how hoardi

Hey there, friend!  In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, we sit down with Lisa Woodruff, founder of Organize 365 and creator of the PaperSolution Financial Binder. Join us as discuss the importance of organizing financial documents and how it can simplify estate planning and reduce stress for families.  Listen along to learn:  Why everyone needs a financial binder, regardless of wealth The difference between a binder and digital solutions  What to include in your financial binder  Real-life stories of how organization saved families time and money Tips for getting started with financial organization Lisa shares practical advice on how to begin organizing financial documents, including setting up a designated container for collecting important papers. She emphasizes the peace of mind that comes from having all crucial information in one place, especially during unexpected events like natural disasters or family emergencies.  You'll also will learn how to create a financial binder and keep things suc

Hey there, friend! In today's episode, we're diving deep into the power of the words we use when it comes to our clutter - not just the things we say out loud, but those whispers in our hearts that can either paralyze us or propel us forward. In this eye-opening episode of Clutter Free Academy, Kathi Lipp sits down with authors Angie Hyche and Liana George to discuss the powerful impact of language on our decluttering journey. The trio explores the common phrases - or "dirty words" - that keep people stuck in cycles of clutter and shame. Listeners will discover: Why no one is "born organized" and how organization is a learned skill The real meaning behind "just in case" thinking and how it relates to fear The importance of starting small and celebrating progress Why cleaning and organizing are "morally neutral" activities If you've ever felt overwhelmed, ashamed, or just plain stuck when it comes to decluttering, this episode is for you. Join the Clutter Free Academy Facebook Group to receive your 30-Day 1K

Are you ready to create some breathing room before the holiday chaos begins? In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, hosts Kathi Lipp and Tonya Kubo discuss their annual 30-Day 1K Challenge, where participants declutter 1,000 items during November. They explain why this challenge is perfectly timed before the holiday season and how it's achievable for everyone, regardless of their current clutter situation. Kathi and Tonya emphasize that perfect systems aren't necessary for progress, encouraging listeners to take "imperfect action" rather than waiting for the perfect plan. Listeners will discover: Why starting small is crucial for success How to gamify decluttering to get the whole family involved Tips for handling sentimental items and adult children's belongings The importance of community support during decluttering Whether you're a busy mom trying to reclaim your kitchen table, an empty-nester ready to part with decades of "someday" items, or just someone tired of feeling overwhelmed by stuff, this cha

Hey there, friend! Have you ever felt like cooking dinner is just one more overwhelming task on your never-ending to-do list? Trust us, We've been there. But what if we told you that just five minutes of prep could transform your entire cooking experience? In this episode of Clutter-Free Academy, host Kathi Lipp shares her top five pre-cooking habits that can transform any kitchen experience. Joined by Tonya Kubo, Kathi reveals simple yet effective strategies to make cooking less stressful and more enjoyable. Kathi and Tonya provide practical advice for listeners looking to implement these habits in their own kitchens, regardless of size or layout. Listeners will discover: The benefits of gathering all ingredients before starting to cook Why printing recipes or using a tablet stand can make following instructions easier The value of laying out all necessary tools before beginning to cook Listeners will come away with actionable steps to create a more organized, efficient, and enjoyable cooking experience, u

Do you know how sometimes cooking can feel like a chore? Well, imagine turning it into a party where everyone brings a dish, shares their cooking adventures, and leaves with new recipes and closer friendships. In this episode of Clutter-Free Academy, Kathi Lipp and Tonya Kubo dive into the delightful world of cookbook clubs. Kathi introduces the concept, explaining how these gatherings can transform cooking from a solitary chore into a social, enriching experience. Listeners will discover: What is a cookbook club and how to start one How to choose and assign recipes from a selected cookbook Tips for hosting, including using paper plates for easy clean-up How to incorporate discussion questions to enhance the social aspect Kathi and Tonya also touch on the importance of making cooking enjoyable and how cookbook clubs can reignite passion for home-cooked meals. Want to start your own cookbook club? Our kit makes it easy. Get yours here.  And as promised, here is Kathi's favorite scheduling app! http://www.sig

Hey there, friend! Are you feeling overwhelmed by the thought of cooking dinner tonight? We've been there. In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, we're diving into the world of easy, delicious meals that won't drain your energy or your wallet. In this second installment of their two-part series, Kathi Lipp and Tonya Kubo continue their discussion about Kathi's new book, Sabbath Soup, offering practical tips and strategies for stress-free meal planning and cooking. They discuss the importance of valuing both time and energy when it comes to meal preparation, and offer encouragement to listeners who may feel overwhelmed by the daily task of feeding their families. Listeners will discover: The importance of cooking ahead and freezing leftovers for low-energy days Strategies for involving family members in meal planning and preparation The value of establishing clear expectations and dividing kitchen responsibilities Insights into the recipes featured in Sabbath Soup and their ease of use for both novice and e

Ever feel like you're running on empty, but your family still expects dinner on the table? This episode of Clutter Free Academy is for you! In part one of a two-part series, Kathi Lipp and Tonya Kubo tackle the common challenge of meal planning and preparation when energy levels are low. Drawing from her personal experiences and upcoming book "Sabbath Soup," Kathi shares valuable strategies for creating nutritious meals without exhausting oneself. Listeners will discover: The importance of pre-planning meals to avoid unhealthy quick fixes Strategies for breaking down meal prep tasks throughout the week Utilizing technology and services for efficient grocery shopping Energy-saving techniques for food preparation Kathi and Tonya's relatable anecdotes and practical tips make this episode a must-listen for anyone struggling to balance healthy eating with limited energy. Preorder Sabbath Soup here and receive your free download bonus Sabbath Soup Shortcuts. The preorder bonus ends October 8, 2024. Click here to

Have you ever had those moments where you're staring into the fridge at 5 PM, wondering what on earth you're going to feed your family? Well, friend, We've got some good news for you! In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, Kathi Lipp and Tonya Kubo discuss the concept of Sabbath cooking and how it can save both time and money. They explain the benefits of meal planning and batch cooking, emphasizing how these techniques can reduce food waste and lower grocery bills. Kathi also discusses her upcoming book, "Sabbath Soup," which provides a comprehensive guide to this cooking method. Listeners will discover: How to use ingredients you already have on hand Batch cooking techniques for soups, salads, and casseroles Tips for proper food storage and freezing The financial benefits of cooking ahead and reducing food waste Kathi shares personal anecdotes about her experiences with budget-friendly cooking and offers practical advice for listeners looking to implement Sabbath cooking in their own homes. Plus, here's

Hey there, busy friends! Have you ever wished for a true day of rest from cooking? In this episode of Clutter-Free Academy, Kathi Lipp and co-host Tonya Kubo dive into time-saving strategies for meal planning and preparation. Kathi introduces her upcoming book, "Sabbath Soup: Weekly Menus and Rhythms to Make Space for a Day of Rest," and shares insights on how to manage meals when time is in short supply. They share real-life ideas for streamlining kitchen routines, including tips for freezing ingredients, using kitchen gadgets efficiently, and repurposing leftovers creatively. Listeners will discover: The concept of "loop meals" or "leftovers on purpose" The benefits of batch cooking and prepping ingredients in advance Using AI tools like Claude to assist with meal planning The value of pre-made meals and "catering by Costco" during busy times Kathi and Tonya share personal anecdotes and practical advice for getting delicious meals to your table without losing your sanity. Trust me, your future self will t

Hey there, friend! Are you tired of feeling like a short-order cook seven days a week? In this episode of Clutterfree Academy, host Kathi Lipp and co-host Tonya Kubo dive into the revolutionary concept of "Sabbath Soup," as featured in Kathi's upcoming book. Kathi emphasizes starting small, such as preparing one soup for Sunday, and gradually building up to a full week of planned meals. She also addresses common challenges like limited kitchen space and adapting the system for different family sizes and dietary needs. Listeners will discover: The importance of planning and protecting Sabbath rest Tips for organizing the kitchen for efficient meal prep Strategies for reducing cooking time and streamlining the "big cook day" How to involve family members in the meal-planning process Kathi and Tonya discuss the mental and emotional benefits of having a structured meal planning system, including reduced stress, more quality time with family, and true rest on the Sabbath. As mentioned by Kathi in the episode, he

Listeners will discover: How to implement a fair and fun chore wheel system The value of allowing teens to develop independence and responsibility Navigating the transition when teens leave for college and return home How building a strong family community prepares teens for life's challenges This episode provides listeners with actionable strategies for fostering independence, improving communication, and creating a harmonious household environment. Click here to be notified when the next episode is released. Also, stay up to date and sign up here to receive our newsletter. Meet our Guest Amy Betters-Midtvedt Links Mentioned: amybettersmidtvedt.com Amy Betters-Midtvedt on Facebook Amy Betters-Midtvedt on Instagram Order Amy's book You'll Make It (and They Will Too) here Clutter Free Resources: Learn more about Clutter Free for Life Join our Clutter Free Academy Facebook Group Let's stay connected To share your thoughts: Leave a note in the comment section below. Leave an honest review on iTunes. Your r

Do you ever say you'll start holiday prep early, but then suddenly it's December and you're in a tinsel-covered panic? Well, no more! In this episode, Kathi and co-host Tonya Kubo dive into part two of their discussion on preparing for the holidays in August. They offer practical advice for early holiday planning. Kathi and Tonya emphasize the importance of considering family needs, budgeting, and self-care in the planning process. Listeners will discover: How to plan for those perfect holiday photos How to plan for budget-friendly holiday travel How to create a realistic holiday decor plan (even if your husband Roger thinks there's no such thing as too many Christmas lights.) Throughout the episode, Kathi and Tonya offer relatable anecdotes and practical strategies to help listeners reduce holiday stress by planning ahead. Kathi shares her love for early holiday meal planning and cookbook perusing in this episode. She mentions one of her favorite recipes called Raclette. Check out Raclette photos in the ba

Do you feel stressed out during the holidays? Trust us, your future self will thank you for listening to this episode. In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, Kathi Lipp and co-host Tonya Kubo discuss the importance of making key decisions in August to ensure a less stressful holiday season. Kathi and Tonya emphasize the benefits of early planning, such as reduced stress, better financial management, and more time to enjoy the holiday season. They share personal anecdotes and practical advice, making the episode both relatable and actionable for listeners. Listeners will discover: How to decide on holiday gathering dates, locations, and participants early to avoid last-minute conflicts. How to plan gift exchanges, considering family dynamics and financial situations. How to set a realistic holiday budget, including categories like gifts, food, and decorations. So grab a cool drink, find a comfy spot, and listen in on how to get started on making this Christmas your most organized and enjoyable one yet! Wou

Hey there, friends! Have you ever wondered how to balance your love for vintage items with a desire for a clutter-free home? In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, host Kathi Lipp welcomes designer Hillary Prall for part 2 of their insightful discussion on balancing vintage design with clutter-free living. Hillary, who is both a vintage enthusiast and the daughter of a hoarder, shares her personal journey of clearing out her mother's estate while maintaining her love for antique and vintage items. The conversation delves into the emotional and practical challenges of dealing with a hoarder's legacy. Listeners will discover: Strategies for incorporating vintage pieces into home design without overwhelming the space The importance of documenting family stories and the history behind heirlooms The need for setting boundaries, both with possessions and with family members who may struggle with hoarding tendencies This thought-provoking episode offers a compassionate look at the complexities of dealing with fa

Hey there, friends! Have you ever struggled with finding the balance between loving vintage and clutter? In this enlightening episode of Clutter Free Academy, host Kathi Lipp welcomes designer and content creator Hilary Prall. Kathi and Hilary explore the challenges of breaking free from generational clutter habits and finding a balance between loving vintage items and maintaining an organized home. As the daughter of a hoarder, Hilary offers valuable insights on curating spaces, letting go of sentimental items, and developing strategies to resist hoarding tendencies. Listeners will discover: How to set clear goals How to understand personal limits when it comes to collecting The importance of displaying and enjoying items rather than storing them away This episode offers a unique perspective on the intersection of design, organization, and personal growth, making it a must-listen for anyone struggling with clutter or seeking to create a more intentional living space. Click here to be notified when Part 2 o

Are you tired of the constant battles over stuff in your home? Well, buckle up, because in this episode, we're diving deep into the world of decluttering conflicts. In this episode of Clutter-Free Academy, host Kathi Lipp welcomes guest Donna Jones, author of "Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life" and podcast host of "That's Just What I Needed." The discussion centers around the intersection of decluttering and conflict resolution within relationships. You'll be encouraged to approach decluttering conflicts with empathy, clear communication, and a focus on mutual solutions. Listeners will discover: How possessions often become a source of conflict, especially between generations How to start difficult conversations about possessions and space in a healthy way The importance of finding win-win solutions in conflicts over clutter Throughout the episode, Kathi and Donna emphasize that while conflict can't be avoided, it can be handled in healthy ways that lead to more peaceful lives and homes. Click here to be noti