Minimalist Moms Podcast | Simple Living for Overwhelmed Moms

40 Episodes
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By: Diane Boden

The Minimalist Moms podcast is designed to accompany you on your journey towards a more purposeful life. This includes every aspect: your mindset, daily routine, connections with others, and naturally, your possessions. Your host, Diane Boden, invites you to join her as she engages in conversations with a diverse range of experts such as Dana K White, Dawn Madsen, Ginny Yurich, Charles Duhigg, Gretchen Rubin, Joshua Becker and many more. Together, they delve into the realms of minimalism, intentionality, and embracing a life of simplicity.

Could Imperfect Hospitality Be the Most Meaningful? | Abby Kuykendall (Bonus Episode)
Today at 4:00 AM

For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience, I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!

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Do you long for deeper connection but feel overwhelmed at the thought of opening your home? In toda...


16 Conversations to Have With Your Boys | Joanna Schroeder (EP407)
Yesterday at 4:00 AM

How do we raise boys who are not only confident, but also compassionate and emotionally intelligent? In this episode, parenting journalist Joanna Schroeder shares insights from her new book Talk to Your Boys, with practical scripts and tips for tackling subjects like masculinity, consent, bullying, and mental health. Drawing on research and insights from over 80 boys themselves, Joanna shares how we can build stronger connections with our sons while equipping them to navigate adolescence with confidence and care. Learn how to build trust, spark connection, and raise emotionally intelligent young men who care for themselves and others.

...


When Kids Can’t Unsee Violent Images: Dr. Robyn Koslowitz on Parenting in the Age of Social Media (Bonus Episode)
Last Monday at 4:00 AM

Child psychologist Dr. Robyn Koslowitz explains why kids get stuck replaying violent images they’ve seen online—and why telling them to “just think about something else” can make it worse. She shares what parents should say instead, how to tell the difference between healthy vigilance and trauma-driven hypervigilance, and practical tools to help kids feel safe without overprotection.

Links Discussed in This Episode |

Connect with Dr. Robyn Koslowitz:WebsiteInstagramBook: Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle and Become the Parent You Always Wanted to Be 


About Dr. Koslowitz |

Dr. Koslowitz directs The Cente...


Sobriety, Storytelling, and the Truth About "Mommy Wine Culture" | Jessica Guerrieri (Going Deeper)
09/12/2025

Going Deeper episodes will be less structured with a more conversational tone. These conversations will focus on interesting people I've come across that share similar values, perspectives and intentions expressed on the Minimalist Moms Podcast.

In this episode, I sit down with debut author Jessica Guerrieri to talk about her novel Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea—and the real-life journey that inspired it. Jessica opens up about motherhood, addiction, and the cultural pressures of “mommy wine culture,” sharing how sobriety, writing, and community became lifelines in her story. This is a raw and hopeful conver...


Simple Strategies to Organize, Protect, & Enjoy Your Family Photos | Haleh Shoa (EP406)
09/10/2025

Drowning in thousands of photos? In this episode, photo organization expert, Haleh Shoa shares practical tips to declutter, back up, and enjoy your digital and physical memories. From the Daily Delete habit to the 3-2-1 backup method, you’ll learn how to simplify your photo collection, preserve family stories, and finally make space to enjoy the moments that matter.

Links Discussed in This Episode |

Diane's Resource: Mootsh PhotosApp: Daily Delete Photo CleanerBackblazeProjector Stream (SUMMER25)Skylight FrameAura FrameHaleh's Resource: The Photo ManagersConnect with Haleh:WebsiteInstagram


About Haleh |

Haleh Shoa is th...


Parenting with Language That Heals, Not Hurts | Amy Hughes (Bonus Episode)
09/08/2025

Our words matter more than we realize. The phrases we use with our children—often without thinking—can leave lasting impressions on their hearts, shaping how they see themselves and their relationship with us as parents. In this episode, I’m joined by Amy Hughes—writer, speaker, and mother of nine—whose new book Words Like Honey helps parents recognize the unintended harm in common phrases like “Hurry up,” “Calm down,” or “Don’t be sad.” Amy explains how these words can cause stress, anxiety, or self-doubt, and offers life-giving alternatives that nurture confidence, security, and resilience. Filled with relatable stories and pr...


Disney Animators Share How Faith Inspired the Creation of Light of the World | Tom Bancroft & John Schafer (Bonus Episode)
09/04/2025

For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience, I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!

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What if you could see the story of Jesus through the eyes of someone who knew Him best...


Control That Frees You: Finding Peace, Not Perfection at Home | Christina Lee (EP405)
09/02/2025

What if “control” didn’t mean perfection, but peace? In this episode, Christina Lee, co-founder of Graceful Spaces Organizing, shares how she’s reclaiming the word “control” — not as a path to perfection, but as a tool for peace. We talk about the difference between healthy control and perfectionism, how simple systems can reduce overwhelm at home, and why an organized space should reflect your values, not Instagram standards. Christina opens up about a time she felt completely out of control, the mindset shifts that brought her back, and how parents can take small, doable steps toward a calmer, more empowered...


Finding the Perfect Nanny: What Every Parent Needs to Know | Sarah Davis (Bonus Episode)
08/28/2025

Finding the right nanny isn’t just about childcare - it’s about trust, connection, and building a family rhythm that works. In this episode, the founder of Olive You Nanny, a nanny placement agency with over 20 years of experience, shares her journey from babysitting in high school to running a trusted agency. You’ll hear practical advice on hiring the right nanny, creating clear expectations, and building strong, respectful relationships that help both families and caregivers thrive.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why personality and values matter just as much as skills when matching...


Stop Wishing, Start Loving the Life You Already Have | Kate Strickler (Naptime Kitchen) (EP404)
08/26/2025

Ever catch yourself scrolling and thinking, “I love my life, I just wish…”? In this episode, I sit down with Kate Strickler—mom of three, founder of Naptime Kitchen, and author—to talk about finding joy in the life you already have. Kate shares honest stories, practical tips, and simple perspective shifts to help you stop measuring yourself against someone else’s highlight reel and start embracing what’s real. If you’re tired of wishing your days looked different, this conversation will encourage you to see your home, your family, and your time in a whole new light.

Links Disc...


Building Your Bravery Muscle: Why Facing Discomfort is the Key to Fulfillment | Jill Schulman (EP403)
08/25/2025

What if bravery wasn’t about being fearless—but about taking small, deliberate steps in the face of fear? In this episode, I’m joined by Jill Schulman, a Marine Corps veteran and leadership expert, to talk about her new book on courage. She shares how to move past routine, confront challenges in relationships, career, and parenting, and why building a supportive “brave tribe” matters. If fear has been holding you back, this conversation will help you see bravery in a whole new way.


Links Discussed in This Episode |

Diane's Resource: Book: The Comfort Cr...


Raising Kids in a One-Bedroom Apartment (Living Well in Less Space) | Krystyne Jaspers (EP402)
08/21/2025

What if small space living could actually give your family more—more connection, more creativity, and more clarity about what really matters? In this conversation, Khrystyne Jaspers shares her story of raising two kids with her husband in a one-bedroom Manhattan apartment for over a decade. What started as a necessity turned into a lifestyle and eventually a business, as she now helps families rethink and reimagine the spaces they call home.

Khrystyne opens up about the lessons she’s learned from minimalist living, from managing toys and creating flexible living arrangements to letting go of the exce...


Reclaiming Identity Beyond Motherhood | Vanessa Bennett (EP401)
08/19/2025

Is motherhood supposed to define everything about who we are as women? In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, therapist and author Vanessa Bennett joins us to discuss her new book The Motherhood Myth—a resource that’s less about parenting tips and more about rediscovering ourselves as whole, complex individuals. Vanessa opens up about her own journey navigating codependency, partnership, and the pressures of modern motherhood—revealing how societal systems shape the way women experience identity and fulfillment. Together, we dive into why motherhood should be part of who we are, not the whole, and how reclaiming individuality creates health...


From Picky to Passionate: Helping Kids Love Cooking (and Eating!) | Danielle Kartes (EP400)
08/19/2025

What if mealtime could be more than just eating—and actually become one of the best ways to teach kids confidence, responsibility, and creativity? In this episode, I sit down with the author of The Best Kids Cookbook to explore how cooking together can shape not only healthier eating habits, but stronger family connections. We talk about the unique approach her cookbook takes—encouraging critical thinking, recipe flexibility, and adaptations for dietary restrictions—while making the kitchen a fun, welcoming place for all ages. Whether your kids are just starting to stir ingredients or ready to cook a full meal...


From Meltdowns to Mindful: Simple, Playful Ways to Help Your Kids (and You) Stay Calm | Lisa Danahy (Bonus Episode)
08/15/2025

What if you could help your kids—and yourself—move through the day with more calm, focus, and balance? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Lisa, an educator with a background in psychology, who brings a wealth of experience in early childhood education and social-emotional learning. Lisa shares her own journey from a career in human resources to working closely with children and families, and why she’s so passionate about integrating mindful movement into daily life. We’ll explore simple, playful techniques—like balloon breath and the thunder and lightning exercise—that can help both kids and adults manag...


Why Childhood Shouldn’t Be Rushed | Lyndsey Mimnagh (EP399)
08/12/2025

What if we stopped rushing childhood—and instead focused on raising whole, curious, and connected human beings? In today's episode, I'm joined by Lindsay Mimnagh, founder of Treehouse Schoolhouse. Drawing on her background in education, Lyndsey shares how she learned to see children as complete individuals, body, soul, spirit, and mind, and why this holistic view changes everything in parenting and education. Whether you homeschool, send your kids to school, or just want to nurture curiosity and connection in your home, this conversation is a reminder that the most meaningful education begins with relationship, wonder, and presence.

Wh...


Overbooked & Overwhelmed: A Better Way Forward For Busy Moms | Tara Sun (Bonus Episode)
08/06/2025

For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience, I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!

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Diane sits down with author Tara Sun to discuss her new book, Overbooked and Overwhelmed. Tara shares h...


Back-to-School, Back-in-Balance | Anna Dearmon Kornick (EP398)
08/05/2025

Feeling overwhelmed as the school year is swiftly approaching? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck in survival mode this year. In this episode, Time Management Coach Anna Deamon Kornick, shares simple, actionable strategies to help busy, ambitious moms take back their time, design routines that actually work, and prioritize what matters most. We also discuss: the 5 essential routines every mom needs for better balance, how to plan your week with intention (without over-planning), what to do when it all feels like too much and more!

Links Discussed in This Episode |

Diane...


"Art is the Signature of Man" | Jake Weidmann (EP53)
08/05/2025

This episode is a part of the Clear Intentions series.

In this episode, artist and Master Penman Jake Weidmann shares how he came to see creativity not as a luxury, but as sacred work - an expression of purpose, worship, and connection. We explore the tension between craftsmanship and convenience in an AI-driven world, and why slowing down to create with intention still matters. Whether you're an artist or simply seeking deeper meaning in your work, this conversation will inspire you to rediscover the beauty and calling of creativity.

Links Discussed in This Episode |

...


Embracing Whimsy and Imagination Outdoors | Susie Spikol (EP397)
08/01/2025

What if the secret to raising curious, connected, and creative kids wasn’t found in an app—but in a mossy patch of forest floor? Naturalist and author Susie Spikol returns to share stories and insights from her new book, Forest Magic for Kids: How to Find Fairies, Make a Secret Fort, and Cook Up an Elf Picnic. Blending folklore, nature exploration, and hands-on activities, the book is a whimsical and practical guide for reconnecting children with the natural world—and their own imaginations. Together, Susie and Diane dive into the everyday enchantment waiting just outside our doors—from dandelio...


Interrupting the Hustle: Spiritual Practices for Clarity and Renewal | Bill Simmons (EP52)
07/29/2025

What if the interruptions in your life weren’t distractions—but divine invitations? In this soul-stirring episode, Bill Simmons, CEO of Hope Rises International and author of The Way of Interruption: Spiritual Practice for Organizational Life, shares how the spiritual discipline of pausing, praying, and letting go of control can radically reshape how we lead, work, and live.

Through personal stories and practical wisdom, Bill explores the tension between productivity and presence, and how integrating faith practices like the psalms into your daily routine can bring clarity, peace, and purpose—especially in high-pressure environments. He also opens up abo...


Crafting a Conscious Home: From Intentional Consumption to Decluttering Toxins | Jill Czarnik (EP396)
07/29/2025

In today's episode, I sit down with Jill Czarnik. She opens up about the wake-up call that launched her wellness company, The Tribalist, and the surprising role that AI and home organization play in building a lox-tox lifestyle. She also shares her 4-C framework, a simple but powerful way to realign your life with what really matters. We start the conversation talking about decluttering and intentional consumption and then we move into sustainability and what it looks like to cultivate a home that haas fewer toxins. Simplicity, intentionality, sustainability, decluttering - all the things that I loved to talk...


Discipleship Without All the Pressure: Parenting from Weakness, Not Perfection | Chris Ammen (Bonus Episode)
07/24/2025

For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience, I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!

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In this episode, Diane sits down with Chris Ammen, a children’s pastor from Chattanooga, Tennessee, auth...


From Brain Games to Brave Moves: Jerry Kolber’s Journey from TV to Purpose-Driven Podcasting (Going Deeper)
07/24/2025

Going Deeper episodes will be less structured with a more conversational tone. These conversations will focus on interesting people I've come across that share similar values, perspectives and intentions expressed on the Minimalist Moms Podcast.

In this episode, Diane sits down with TV producer-turned-podcaster Jerry Kolber (co-creator of Brain Games and creator of Who Smarted?) for a candid conversation about creativity, purpose, and the pursuit of meaningful work. Jerry shares his journey from producing hit educational TV to pivoting into podcasting during the pandemic. Along the way, he opens up about his passion for blending fun and...


PREVIEW: Herbalism Is for Everyone: Demystifying the Power of Plants | Rachelle Robinett (EP51)
07/23/2025

Enjoy this short preview for the most recent episode of the Clear Intentions podcast with my guest, Rachelle Robinettt.

In the full episode, you’ll hear:

What is Herbalism? A lifestyle and health system based on plant use—not just alternative medicineYou’re Already an Herbalist: How everyday rituals reflect ancient herbal wisdomCan a cup of tea shift your entire day?Types of Herbal IngredientsDebunking Myths: Herbalism is not anti-science or a medicine-only approach


Search "Clear Intentions with Diane Boden" wherever you listen to podcasts to enjoy the full episode. And be sure t...


Herbalism Is for Everyone: Demystifying the Power of Plants | Rachelle Robinett (EP51)
07/22/2025

Diane sits down with herbalist and author Rachelle Robinett for a deeply grounding and inspiring conversation about the healing power of plants. Together, they explore the ancient, globally practiced art of herbalism, and why it might be exactly what our stressed-out, fast-paced culture needs right now.

From nervines and adaptogens to bitters and mushrooms, Rachelle gently walks us through how herbs can support sleep, digestion, emotional balance, mental clarity, and more. You'll learn that you don’t need a garden, a degree, or decades of study to benefit from herbalism—just a teapot and a few mindful minu...


450 Pieces of Clothing & Still Nothing to Wear | Erin Flynn (EP395)
07/17/2025

In this episode, Erin Flynn—entrepreneur, author, and founder of the Cladwell app—joins us to talk about the moment she found herself surrounded by 450 pieces of clothing and asked, “How did I end up here?” Her memoir, The Road Less Worn, is a journey through identity, cultural expectations, and what we hold onto—literally and figuratively—that no longer fits. We explore how closets mirror our inner lives, the difference between dressing for success and dressing for someone else’s story, and what it takes to unravel a “more-is-more” mindset. Erin shares personal stories, mindset shifts, and lessons from building a st...


Resilient Souls: Navigating Grief with Courage and Community | Stewart Bogle (EP50)
07/16/2025

This podcast is part of the Clear Intentions series of the show.

After losing his wife to stage four metastatic breast cancer, Stewart Bogle spent twenty years processing his grief and ultimately writing, Learning to Dance in the Darkness. In this episode, he shares his journey through loss, the creation of his grief support community Resilient Souls, and practical tools for building resilience, supporting grieving children, and living with intention after trauma.

Links Discussed in This Episode |

Connect with Stewart:Website: resilientsouls.com.auSubstack: resilientsouls.substack.comFacebook: facebook.com/stewart.bogle.resilient.soulsInstagram: instagram.com/s...


"Skinimalism": A Simplified Approach to Skincare | Shiwa Aziz (Bonus Episode)
07/15/2025

For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience so if this topic is something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out one of the hundreds of other episodes in the podcast archives OR join me back here next week for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!

In this episode, I dive into the concept of skin minimalism with Shiwa Aziz, founder of the clean skincare brand Moon and Skin. Together, we explore how simplifying your skincare routine can lead to healt...


[REPLAY] Teaching Children How to Play Independently | Sarah Therese (EP135)
07/11/2025

Many of my current listeners may have missed this earlier episode with guest Sarah Therese—and even if you’ve heard it before, it’s definitely worth a re-listen, especially if you're parenting a child who struggles with independent play.

In this thoughtful conversation, we dive into the importance of solo play in childhood, how to support it in age-appropriate ways, and whether there’s such a thing as too much independence. Sarah also offers practical tips for mamas whose kids just aren’t getting the hang of it yet. It might take some trial and error, but the gr...


Beyond the "Smoke & Mirrors" of Mom Influencers | Jo Piazza (EP394)
07/11/2025

Bestselling author Jo Piazza unpacks the inspiration behind her new thriller—a sharp, suspenseful dive into the world of trad wives and influencer culture. From the hidden hustle behind curated domesticity to the surprising truth about who’s really running the show, Jo explores what makes the trad-wife aesthetic so addictive—and so deceptive. If you’re fascinated (or disturbed) by picture-perfect online lives, this one’s for you.

Links Discussed in This Episode |

Diane's Resource: Waking Up app | Healing Starts in the Body: A New Way to Meditate | Cate Zoltan (EP48)Book: Swipe Up for More!: Insi...


Rethinking Mortality to Live with Purpose | Karen Salmansohn (EP393)
07/10/2025

What if thinking about death could actually help you feel more alive? Drawing from her upcoming book Your To-Die-For Life: How to Maximize Joy and Minimize Regret…Before Your Time Runs Out, Karen Salmansohn challenges the idea that we have "someday" to chase our dreams or deepen our relationships. She unpacks the concept of “near-life experiences”—when people feel like they’re just going through the motions—and offers actionable tools to snap out of autopilot and into a life that actually feels worth living. Through personal stories (including the loss of her father), cutting-edge research, and deeply practical strategies...


Healing Starts in the Body: A New Way to Meditate | Cate Zoltan (EP49)
07/08/2025

Diane sits down with the founder and CEO of the Undo app, Cate Zoltan, to explore a radically different approach to meditation—one that starts in the body and leads to real, lasting transformation.

Born from a method developed by her husband, a former Yogi Monk, the Undo app offers a unique, body-based practice that moves beyond traditional, goal-oriented meditation. Instead of striving for enlightenment or mental stillness, this method helps users reconnect with their physical selves, process unresolved emotions, and gently release stored trauma.

Together, they discuss how the body-mind connection holds the key to...


"Simplify, Simplify" (Modern Wisdom from Thoreau's Walden) | Jen Tota McGivney (EP392)
#392
07/02/2025

Discover Henry David Thoreau’s philosophy of living a good life and learn how to apply it to your own. In this episode, Diane chats with Jen Tota McGivney, the author of Finding Your Walden about how Henry David Thoreau’s timeless wisdom can help us simplify, strive less, and embrace what truly matters. They explore practical ways to live more intentionally—through digital sabbaths, mindful consumption, and creating space for personal retreats. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or craving a slower pace, this conversation offers thoughtful insight and modern applications of Thoreau’s classic call to live deliberately.


<...


The Bible, Simplified | Zach Windahl (EP48)
07/01/2025

This episode is a part of the Clear Intentions series.

Note: I have listeners of all faith backgrounds that listen to the podcast. This episode is coming from a christian perspective so if that’s something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out the other episode that dropped this week or join me back here next Tuesday for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!

Feeling lost when it comes to reading the Bible? You're not alone. In this encouraging conversation, Diane sits down with Zach Windahl, author of The Bible Si...


PREVIEW: From Numbing to Thriving: A Year of Radical Habit Change | Katie Day (EP47)
07/01/2025

Enjoy this short preview for the most recent episode of the Clear Intentions podcast with my guest, Katie Day.

In the full episode, you’ll hear:

Katie’s year of eliminating alcohol, sugar, social media, and negativityThe science and strategy behind radical habit changeHow to use intention and experimentation to create meaningful shiftsHow to know when to abstain vs. moderate


Search "Clear Intentions with Diane Boden" wherever you listen to podcasts to enjoy the full episode. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss a guest.

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"Clea...


From Numbing to Thriving: A Year of Radical Habit Change | Katie Day (EP47)
06/30/2025

This episode is a part of the Clear Intentions series.

Diane sits down with Katie Day to explore her powerful journey of radical habit transformation. A former theater kid and improv comedian, Katie opens up about how the COVID-19 pandemic became a turning point—pushing her to reevaluate not only her routines but her sense of identity and purpose. Katie shares what happened when she eliminated alcohol, sugar, social media, and negativity for a full year. Through that bold experiment, she discovered the transformative impact of intentional living, the brain’s capacity for change, and the freedom that c...


Enjoying a Summer That Works for You AND Your Kids | Andryanna Gonko (EP391)
06/27/2025

Summer is here—and for many moms, that means juggling even more. In this episode, Diane sits down with Andryanna Gonko—Canadian mom of three, writer, speaker, and host of The Juggle Is Real—to talk all things motherhood, work, and self-care during the season that often pulls us in every direction. Andryanna opens up about a summer that pushed her to the brink of burnout and the powerful lessons she learned about protecting her energy, setting boundaries, and embracing a slower pace. Diane and Andryanna share practical, soul-nourishing strategies to help moms enjoy the magic of summer—without losing t...


Parenting Dyslexia: Building Confidence, Dismantling Shame, and Advocating for Your Child | Dr. Lisa Rappaport (Bonus Episode)
06/25/2025

For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience so if this topic is something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out one of the hundreds of other episodes in the podcast archives OR join me back here next week for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!

Joining me today is licensed psychologist and dyslexia expert Dr. Lisa Rappaport to explore what it really looks like to support a child with dyslexia—at home, at school, and beyond.

Drawing f...


Slow Craft, Deep Roots: Rediscovering Punch Needle Art | Micah Clasper-Torch (Bonus Episode)
06/24/2025

For those that are new around here, I release bonus episodes that serve a niche part of my audience so if this topic is something that doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, check out one of the hundreds of other episodes in the podcast archives OR join me back here next week for a conversation that you don’t want to miss!

Micah Clasper-Torch a fashion designer and punch needle artist joins the show to talk about her creative journey and the resurgence of heritage crafts in modern life. Micah shares how her background in fashion d...