You can simplify your life and Katy Wells will show you how.
Katy is the host of the globally recognized Top-50 Podcast, The Maximized Minimalist, and a leadin...
285: How to Stop Spinning Your Wheels with Clutter
If you’ve ever felt like you’re stuck on a hamster wheel of decluttering—clearing one space only to have the mess sneak back in—you’re not alone. The good news? It’s not your fault, and there’s a way out of the cycle. In today’s episode, I’m sharing the #1 game-changing strategy to stop spinning your wheels and finally create a home that works for you (instead of stressing you out). We’ll tackle the emotional, logistical, and practical sides of clutter—because spoiler alert: it’s not just about “stuff.” By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear path forward and the confidence to start making progress that sticks. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why your clutter isn’t just physical—it’s tied to your emotions, habits, and beliefs. The three sneaky reasons you feel stuck in the clutter cycle (and how to break free). My holistic approach to decluttering that works for real life (and real people). Simple, sustainable strategies that prevent clutter from creeping back in. Key Takeaways: Clutter is emotional. It’s not about “just toss it”—it’s about uncovering why you’re holding on and finding peace with letting go. Overwhelm is the enemy. Starting small (think: one drawer or one shelf) can create massive momentum. Systems are the secret sauce. Without them, clutter will always creep back. The key? Building habits that fit your life, not someone else’s Instagram-perfect version of it. The Approach That Changes Everything: Holistic Decluttering isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s about understanding the why behind your clutter, taking empowered action with small, intentional steps, and creating sustainable systems that work for you—your home, your values, your story. Think of it like a recipe. Some people need more “root awareness,” while others thrive with an extra helping of “sustainable systems.” It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress—and creating a home that supports your life, not drains it. CTA: If this approach feels like the breath of fresh air you’ve been craving, I’d love to help you go deeper. My Inner Circle coaching program is designed to guide you every step of the way, with personalized support to help you clear the clutter and build systems that last. The next round kicks off on January 6th, and spots are limited—so don’t wait. Head to katyjoywells.com/innercircle to apply now and start the new year with a home (and life) you love. Resources Mentioned: Apply for the Inner Circle: katyjoywells.com/innercircle Follow Katy on Instagram: @katyjoywells for real-talk tips and inspiration.
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284: Stuff and Identity The Hidden Layers of Clutter
Ever feel like clutter is more than just the stuff piling up on your counters or that chair in your room (you know the one)? That’s because it is. Clutter isn’t just physical—it’s emotional, and often, it’s tied to the identity we’re striving for or the insecurities we’re trying to fix. In this episode, we’re peeling back the layers of clutter to reveal what’s really going on beneath the surface. Here’s what we’re diving into: How clutter is connected to your identity and self-worth The emotional weight of items you hold onto (like that stack of unread books) Why letting go can feel so hard—and what to do about it Practical strategies to break free from the cycle I’ll also share Crissy’s powerful story of her book collection and how it became a symbol of unmet expectations—and how she’s starting to let go with grace. If you’re ready to stop decluttering the same spaces over and over again and finally get to the root of your clutter, this episode is for you. Resources & Links: Join the Waitlist for Inner Circle: Your space to uncover the deeper layers of clutter, rewire beliefs, and create lasting change. Let’s connect on Instagram: @katyjoywells Ready for a deeper transformation? The waitlist for my 1:1 coaching program, Inner Circle, is officially open! This is where we go beyond the surface, diving into the emotional and identity-driven layers of clutter to create lasting change in your home and your life. Spots are limited, so don’t wait!
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283: A Simpler Season Toy Declutter
Overwhelmed by toy chaos as the holidays approach? You’re not alone—and today, we’re tackling it head-on. In this episode, I’m sharing how to declutter toys before Christmas without losing your mind (or your kids’ cooperation). We’ll chat about why clearing space now makes the holiday season feel lighter and calmer, plus I’ll give you practical tips to: ✔️ Make room for new gifts while keeping the clutter at bay ✔️ Get your kids on board with donating (yes, it’s possible!) ✔️ Decide what to keep, what to donate, and where to donate it I’m also spilling my top tricks for setting toy boundaries (hello, six-cube cubbies!) and why fewer toys can actually mean more creative play. And don’t miss this: If you’re looking for clutter-free gift ideas, grab my Clutter-Free Gift Guide for just $3. It’s packed with thoughtful, space-saving gift ideas to make your holiday season simpler and more joyful. Resources & Links: Clutter-Free Gift Guide: 75+ Meaningful Gift Ideas Let’s connect on Instagram: @katyjoywells Quick Favor? If this episode helps you breathe a little easier, take a sec to rate, review, and follow the show on Apple Podcasts. Your support means the world—and it helps more overwhelmed moms find the tools to simplify and enjoy their homes.
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282: 5-Minute Gratitude Reset: A Simple Practice for a Stress-Free Holiday
Get FAST Results With My Free Guide: 75 Things to Declutter! Ready to kickstart your decluttering journey? Download my free guide for quick wins that make a big impact. Download now. Join My Next 14-Day Challenge! Need a little extra motivation? Join our upcoming 14-day challenge to tackle clutter together and transform your space. Sign up here. Work 1-1 With Me: Looking for personalized support? Let’s work together one-on-one to create the clutter-free life you’ve been dreaming of. Learn more. Connect with Me on Instagram! Follow me for daily tips, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes peeks at my life. Let’s connect! Follow me on Instagram.
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281: Scarcity and Emotional Spending with Financial Expert Brie Sodano
Hey there, friend! This week on The Maximized Minimalist Podcast, we’re diving into something I KNOW so many of us deal with—scarcity mindset and emotional spending. And to help us unpack it all, I brought on financial expert and author Brie Sedano. Let me tell you—this convo is packed with golden nuggets that’ll leave you thinking, Wait, how did she get in my head? We’re talking about why scarcity isn’t just in your mind (spoiler alert: it’s also in your body!), how it triggers some not-so-great spending habits, and what you can do about it. Plus, Brie’s new book, Cash Confident: Practical Money Management for the Modern Woman, is a total game-changer. Think of it as your step-by-step guide to ditching money guilt and building systems that actually work for YOU. And oh, the stories we share—like, who knew scarcity mindset could show up as hoarding granola bars or buying one more lipstick you’ll never wear? If you’re ready to get real about money without the shame or judgment, this episode is for you. Here’s What You’ll Learn: Why scarcity mindset isn’t just in your head—and how it hijacks your decision-making. The surprising connection between emotional spending and self-worth. Why you don’t need a budget (yes, really) and what to do instead. How to tune into your body’s cues to avoid WTF money moves. The secret to letting go of money guilt—and actually enjoying what you buy. Links Worth Clicking: Brie’s New Book: Cash Confident: Practical Money Management for the Modern Woman Clutter-Free Gift Guide 🎁: Ready to simplify your gift-giving this holiday season? Grab my guide for just $3! 75 Things to Declutter (Free Guide): Need a quick win? Download my free guide for fast results! 14-Day Challenge: Ready to tackle clutter? Join my next challenge and transform your space! Home Management Blueprint: Get a personalized plan tailored to YOU! Start here. Follow Me on Instagram: Let’s connect! Follow me for tips and inspo.
You can simplify your life and Katy Wells will show you how.
Katy is the host of the globally recognized Top-50 Podcast, The Maximized Minimalist, and a leading declutter expert.
It’s her mission to uncover the root cause of people’s clutter problems and guide them through practical and sustainable solutions in the forms of decluttering physical, mental and emotional clutter and what’s holding them back in life.
Through her online programs, social media channels, youtube channel and podcast, she has helped hundreds of thousands of families transform their home from chaotic to calm, have less stress and anxiety and gain freedom from clutter.
Tune in and buckle up - your life is about the change. Listen weekly on Wednesdays!
Get started decluttering your home with her FREE guide here: https://www.decluttersurvivalguide.com
To learn more about Katy and her signature programs go to: https://www.katyjoywells.com
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