Raising Eco Minimalists
37 episodes - English - Latest episode: 8 months ago - ★★★★★ - 21 ratingsA community for those raising kids who care about the wellbeing of their mind, body, community, & the earth. Living a low waste and minimalist lifestyle can often feel like going against the grain of society. And when you throw kids into the mix? Finding a community of like-minded individuals to learn from, support, find encouragement, and overall who share the same values - at a similar level - can be challenging. This podcast is that community. Join me, your host, a self-described anxious eco-minimalist, every other week as I dive deep into issues and topics related to living an eco-friendly and minimalist lifestyle with kids. But above all, form a community that raises kids who care about the wellbeing of their own minds, bodies, and our earth (and everything that calls it home.) Be sure to subscribe to ensure you never miss an episode.
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Episodes
A conversation about shifting values and wondering if your efforts matter with Jessie Stokes - ep 34
September 07, 2023 16:00 - 31 minutes - 21.9 MBIn this episode, I'm talking with Jessie Stokes, owner of the Tiny Yellow Bungalow zero waste shop and blog. Jessie is also the author and creator of the Zero Waste Vegan Cookbook. Together, Jessie and I have an honest conversation about what happens when your values have to shift, how to navigate the guilt, and also wondering if our small efforts really make a difference. Transcript coming soon. You can learn more about Jessie here: https://www.tinyyellowbungalow.com/ Support the sh...
10 tips for secondhand shopping with tweens - ep 33
May 04, 2023 16:00 - 34 minutes - 23.9 MBSecondhand shopping with tweens can be a whole different experience. You may start receiving pushback or asks for particular brands or character-type clothing. In this episode, I'm sharing 10 tips for navigating shopping for tweens who are more opinionated about their clothing - and may be against secondhand items. Resources: Episode 6: Thrifting Tips for Kids Clothes and Gear with Addie Fisher Episode 8: Capsule Wardrobes for Kids (Sustainable/Ethical) with Erin of My Green Closet Th...
Book review: Spit that Out! The Overly Informed Parent's Guide to Raising Healthy Kids in the Age of Environmental Guilt - Ep. 32
March 16, 2023 19:00 - 23 minutes - 16.3 MBIn today's episode, I'm reviewing the book Spit That Out! The Overly Informed Parent's Guide to Raising Healthy Kids in the Age of Environmental Guilt by Paige Wolf. I shared what I like and dislike about the book to help you determine whether it's one you want to read or not. You can find the full transcript here. Support the show Let's connect! Sign up and receive the eco-activity book with over 15 activities for kids. Email me: [email protected] Blog (Reduce, Reu...
After the move: how we are establishing roots, building community, and learning - ep. 31
February 16, 2023 17:00 - 32 minutes - 22.1 MBIn part two of my story of how we downsized by half and moved five hours away to a small town where we knew no one, I'm sharing about how we are working to establish new roots. I'm sharing how we're working to build our community in many different ways, things we've learned, and some of the challenges we've faced. If you haven't had a chance to listen to part one (episode 30), listen to that episode first as it will provide some good context to what I'm sharing in this episode. Find th...
Why we uprooted our lives, downsized by half, and moved to where we knew no one - ep. 30
February 08, 2023 17:00 - 34 minutes - 23.4 MBWe're back! It's season 3, and we're approaching the third anniversary of the pod. In this episode, I'm sharing my family's story of why we uprooted our lives, downsized our belongings by half, and moved five hours away to a small town where we knew no one. It's the story of how I got to where I am right now, early 2023. This story starts in fall of 2021. Link to transcript Support the show Let's connect! Sign up and receive the eco-activity book with over 15 activities for kids. ...
Why you and your kids need to know about 988 - ep. 29
July 14, 2022 17:00 - 27 minutes - 18.7 MBTW: Suicide, mental health crisis Full transcript Have you heard of 988? It's a new mental health, substance abuse, emotional crisis, and suicide helpline launching July 16, 2022. In this episode, I talk about what the new helpline is, who it's for, share key points about it, and also some challenges that have come up (and what you can do to help). If you or anyone you know is feeling suicidal or in a mental, emotional, or substance abuse crisis, please call 1-800-273-8255 or visit the N...
How to raise kids who are feminists and value equality - ep. 28
June 29, 2022 18:00 - 32 minutes - 22.5 MBIn today's episode, I'm talking all about the fallout of SCOTUS overturning Roe vs. Wade. I'm sharing how access to reproductive rights and choice is directly linked to how we approach the climate crisis, as well as many tips on how to raise kids who are feminists, or, who value equality. I share -my definition of feminism, and why it goes beyond burning bras -how women's rights are also climate action -how we can encourage our kids to value equality -why we can't all be equal, unless we'r...
Kid friendly, eco-minimalists swaps that will save you money - Ep. 27
May 11, 2022 18:00 - 44 minutes - 30.5 MBFull episode transcript What's your sustainability personality quiz See all episodes mentioned in this episode here. General tips -Use what you have -Wait -Buy Nothing Group -Buy secondhand -Toy swap/Clothes swap -Book library -Toy library -Reduce commitments -Prioritize time outside (picnics, parks, music events, etc) -Walk/bike/skate to places -Upcycle clothing (pants/shorts, long sleeves to tanks) -Reduce convenience items -Start a garden Specific swaps Eat me now fri...
How to raise a global citizen with Jess and Jen - ep. 26
April 20, 2022 16:00 - 34 minutes - 24 MBJess Purcell of Thoughtfully Sustainable (episode 5) and Jen Panaro of Honestly Modern (episode 11) are back to talk about two new projects they've been working on. Find the full written episode transcript here. The first is a new book for everyone raising an eco-minimalist called "How to Raise a Global Citizen: For the parents of children who will save the world", which is a multi-author compilation of resources, amazing content, and tips from parent bloggers around the world. Their s...
A low (zero) waste Easter with kids
April 06, 2022 05:00 - 23 minutes - 16.4 MBLooking for ways to enjoy a more eco-friendly Easter with kids? In this episode, I dive into all types of eco-swaps and resources to help you do just that. A zero-waste Easter? Here you come. Find the full episode transcript here. Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast): Wooden eggs on Etsy Paper eggs on EarthHero (get 10% off using code 'LauraD10' at checkout) ThredUP (use the link to get $10 ...
A low (zero) waste Easter with kids - ep. 25
April 06, 2022 05:00 - 23 minutes - 16.4 MBLooking for ways to enjoy a more eco-friendly Easter with kids? In this episode, I dive into all types of eco-swaps and resources to help you do just that. A zero-waste Easter? Here you come. Find the full episode transcript here. Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast): Wooden eggs on Etsy Paper eggs on EarthHero (get 10% off using code 'LauraD10' at checkout) ThredUP (use the link to get $10 ...
The importance of reading and representation in books with Dr. Artika Tyner - Ep. 24
March 29, 2022 21:00 - 34 minutes - 23.5 MBToday I'm speaking with the incredibly Dr. Artika Tyner - the founder of the Minnesota-based organization 'Planting People, Growing Justice'. Its mission is to raise awareness about illiteracy in kids and how that contributes to the cradle to prison pipeline. They also work to increase representation in books and toys. Full episode transcript Support the show Let's connect! Sign up and receive the eco-activity book with over 15 activities for kids. Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalis...
Minimalist Parenting & Safe Lawns for our Kids with Linda Yin - ep. 23
March 02, 2022 18:00 - 46 minutes - 31.7 MBIn today's episode, I'm talking with fellow eco-minimalist parent Linda Yin. She's an enthusiastic minimalist (her words), and has found her sustainability land in the form of safe lawn advocacy for all kids and living beings. In this episode, we have a fantastic conversation about what it means to be a minimalist as a parent, how it changes after having kids, how it looks different for everyone, and more. Then, we jump into Linda's sustainability lane: safe lawns, where we talk about th...
How to reduce food waste at home (with kids) - Alison of ends & stems - ep. 21
February 09, 2022 16:00 - 40 minutes - 27.9 MBGot food waste? Over 30-40% of all food is wasted. Yet, we have people in our own communities and elsewhere that are going hungry. We know composting is important, but reducing food waste first is the goal. However, when we throw kids into the mix, it can feel completely out of our control and overwhelming. In this episode, I'm talking with Alison Mountford of ends & stems - a professional chef who has a focus on helping busy families get food on the table without the stress, drama, an...
How to enjoy an eco-friendly Valentine's Day with kids - ep. 22
February 09, 2022 16:00 - 16 minutes - 11.6 MBValentine's Day with kids can be hard to navigate, because on one hand, we want our kids to be able to participate in the card exchange and other activities at school or daycare. But, the traditional activities can cause a lot of waste. So what do we do? This quick episode focuses mainly on the card exchanges that happen at schools, between friends, and at daycares. I share tips on how to rethink your Valentine's Day activities, as well as give specific, eco-friendly exchange options. Com...
Season 2 Intro - We're back!
February 08, 2022 18:00 - 3 minutes - 2.75 MBThe pod is back for another season, and this episode is a quick recap of where we started and where we are going. It's also a mushy two minutes of gratitude and appreciation and excitement for you being here. Subscribe to ensure you never miss and episode! NEW for season two....TRANSCRIPTS! Click here for the transcript for this episode. Let's connect! Email me: [email protected] Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew) Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewb...
Bonus! The top four things you can do in 2022 as an eco-minimalist raising kids
December 31, 2021 18:00 - 25 minutes - 17.6 MBIn this bonus episode - I review the top five episodes of 2021 (season one), and share four things you can do in 2022 to help you and your kids manage your mind, body, community, and planet. Support the show Let's connect! Sign up and receive the eco-activity book with over 15 activities for kids. Email me: [email protected] Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew) Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog) Support the Show Leave a review on Apple a...
How to graciously tell someone: "no gifts, please" for yourself and your kids - ep. 19
November 09, 2021 16:00 - 35 minutes - 24.3 MBIn this episode, I'm talking about a topic that everyone is talking about (just not to each other). And that topic is how to tell someone: "no gifts, please". As we move into the holiday season, many people are wondering how they can broach the topic of not exchanging gifts without offending their friends/family. The good news is that it can be easier than you think. In this episode, I talk about: Why some people may be insistent on gifts Why you may not want to exchange gifts 10 ti...
A Low (zero) Waste Halloween with Kids - Ep. 018
September 29, 2021 14:00 - 32 minutes - 22.6 MBAmericans spend BILLIONs of dollars a year on Halloween celebrations. The amount of waste that goes into the items we buy is a lot. Not to mention, expensive! I even give lots of ideas to the common question: what do I hand out to trick or treaters that's eco-friendly and low waste? This episode talks about how to have an eco-friendly Halloween with kids. Here are the questions I answer and topics covered: -frightening Halloween statistics -what to give trick-or-treaters (non-candy and ...
Boundaries & Simply Sustainable Parenting with Lindsay Short - Ep. 17
September 15, 2021 14:00 - 39 minutes - 27.3 MBIn this episode, I'm talking with Lindsay Short of Simply Sustainable Parenting. Lindsay and I cover a variety of topics, but the meat of the episode is focused on something I think many of us struggle with - setting boundaries. Here are the questions we answer and topics covered: Lindsay’s definition of sustainability (and how it’s different than the traditional meaning) How mindfulness and mental health play into the sustainability movement How we can incorporate mindfulness, mental h...
How to Stop Overscheduling - Ep. 16
August 18, 2021 05:00 - 25 minutes - 17.4 MBResearch shows that kids who are overscheduled don't eat as well, sleep as well, or make friends as well as kids who aren't overscheduled. Additionally, overscheduling kids when they're younger can lead to things like anxiety, depression, and hamper their ability to solve problems and make good decisions. As parents/guardians, we are probably well-intentioned by signing our kids up for all the things. But it can not only be detrimental to their wellbeing, but ours too. Here are the quest...
Raising Young Changemakers with Stacy C Bauer - Ep. 15
August 12, 2021 16:00 - 40 minutes - 27.9 MBThe future of our planet can sometimes feel very bleak - especially for those of us who have kids. Oftentimes we find ourselves asking what their future will look like, how much weight will they have to carry, and what will become of our society. My guest today is Stacy C. Bauer - mom, teacher, and author. Stacy had the idea in 2020 to write a book about inspiring kids making change today. She set out to find 20 kids for one book and ended up with 84 kids and seven books. I talk with Sta...
Science for kids at home (and why it's important) with Medinah Eatman - Ep. 14
August 04, 2021 19:00 - 41 minutes - 28.6 MBYou know science is important, but do you really know why? How does incorporating science for kids at home help with living sustainably? And what about kids who don't have access to good science learning? In this episode, I'm talking with Medinah Eatman, or, Science Teacher Mom. We answer the questions above, and lots, lots more. Here are the questions we answer and topics we cover: Medinah's experience being on the show ‘George in the Jungle’ on NBC What STEM is, and why is it import...
What is light pollution (and why is it a problem) with Caitlin Johnson - Ep. 13
July 21, 2021 05:00 - 35 minutes - 24.1 MBArtificial light pollution at night - what is it? Why is it a problem - especially for us and our kids? In this week's episode, I'm talking with Caitlin Johnson, founder of the Twin Cities (Minnesota) chapter of the International Dark Sky Organization. Here are the questions we answer and topics we cover: What is light pollution (specifically artificial light pollution at night)? Why is artificial light pollution at night bad? How does light pollution affect humans? What about pollinato...
How to reduce plastic with kids (and is it all bad?) - Ep. 12
July 14, 2021 05:00 - 34 minutes - 24 MBSingle-use plastic and kids. They seem to go hand and hand, right? During the month of July, millions around the world partake in a challenge called 'Plastic Free July'. But reducing plastic can be daunting and overwhelming. And what if I told you it may not all be bad? This episode covers: What is plastic free July? Is all plastic bad? What’s the problem with straw bans and plastic bag bans? Tips for reducing single use plastic Some of my favorite places to shop plastic free (and fi...
How to compost at home with kids with Jen Panaro - Ep. 11
June 30, 2021 20:00 - 37 minutes - 26 MBHave you ever wondered how to compost at home? Or maybe you've thought about it but feel overwhelmed. Maybe you're already a composter but interested in learning about other methods, or how to get kids involved. In this episode, I'm talking with Jen Panaro of Honestly Modern, who I refer to as the composting guru. Jen walks us through anything and everything composting - making it a perfect episode if you're brand new or a seasoned composter. The resources she provides are extensive, an...
The Sustainable(ish) Guide to Green Parenting with Jen Gale - Ep. 10
June 25, 2021 15:00 - 41 minutes - 28.8 MBYou may know the name Jen Gale, or recognize the 'Sustainable(ish) name. Well, this episode I'm excited to share my interview with Jen where we talk about all things eco-parenting! Jen's book The Sustainable(ish) Guide to Green Parenting came out in May of 2021, and after I read it, I knew it was a fantastic resource for anyone who wants to have kids, who has kids, or who has kids in their lives. There are great tips not only for green parenting, but that are applicable even if you don't h...
What is a fiver party? How to eco-minimalize a kids birthday party - Ep. 009
June 16, 2021 05:00 - 26 minutes - 18.3 MBHave you ever heard of a fiver party? What is it? How do you throw a fiver party? It may surprise you that this up and coming trend is somewhat controversial! In this episode, I cover: What is a fiver party How are fiver parties different than regular parties How to explain a fiver party Is a fiver party right for me / my kids birthday? Are fiver parties tacky? What to do if you're worried your kid will be disappointed Fiver party invite wording Resources mentioned in this episode...
Capsule Wardrobes for Kids (Sustainable/Ethical) with Erin of My Green Closet - Ep. 008
June 02, 2021 05:00 - 34 minutes - 23.6 MBIn this episode, I'm talking with Erin of My Green Closet all about kids capsule wardrobes. We discuss and answer questions such as: What is a capsule wardrobe? How many items are in a kids capsule wardrobe? What items do I need? How can I reduce my children's wardrobe Benefits of a capsule wardrobe for kids The difference between an adult and kids capsule wardrobe Do you need a capsule wardrobe for each season? What NOT to include in an capsule wardrobe How to spot greenwashing...
How to help a child with anxiety - Ep. 007
May 19, 2021 04:00 - 34 minutes - 24 MBIn this episode, I'm sharing 14 ways my husband and I work to help my son manage anxiety. These tips can be used for kids and many are applicable to adults too. These tips are ones we personally use in our home. I am not a medical professional, nor should this be taken as medical advice. This episode should also not be used to diagnose any type of mental illness. If you have questions or concerns about this, please check with your primary doctor (or your child's). These are just tips tha...
Thrifting Tips for Kids Clothes and Gear with Addie Fisher - Ep. 006
May 05, 2021 04:00 - 35 minutes - 24.1 MBIn this episode, I'm talking with thrifting queen Addie Fisher of Old World New. Addie and I are talking about all things thrifting and kids, including: Why thrift? How thrifting is not a new concept The rise in popularity of thrifting How thrifting can help support your local community Thrifting tips and resources for kids items Answer questions such as: What should I look for in thrift shopping kids clothes and gear? What should you not buy at thrift stores? How do you disinfect c...
Eco Minimalism and Kids with Stephanie Seferian - Ep. 002
April 21, 2021 04:00 - 34 minutes - 24 MBIn episode one, I talked all about what eco-minimalism was. But this podcast is all about raising eco-minimalists, so it would be a disservice to not include an entire episode on that topic as well. In this episode, I talk with sustainable minimalism guru Stephanie Seferian - author of the book Sustainable Minimalism, and podcast host of The Sustainable Minimalists - all about raising kids under the eco-minimalism umbrella. Stephanie and talk about: The definition of eco-minimalism/sust...
Nature for kids: building the connection with Jess Purcell - Ep. 005
April 21, 2021 04:00 - 31 minutes - 21.7 MBA common question is: "how can we get kids to care about nature/the earth?" It's a good questions, because after all, how can we, or how can we expect anyone to care about something they have no connection with? In this episode I'm talking with Jess Purcell, of Thoughtfully Sustainable. Jess talks about how we can get our kids interested in the pressing issues that face us today. Jess introduces us to the term: sustainability science, and talks about what it means. Additionally, we tal...
Raising eco-activist kids with Brittany Jefferson - Ep. 003
April 21, 2021 04:00 - 34 minutes - 23.8 MBWondering how to raise kids who care about the environment? Who want to take action towards the climate crisis, racial injustice, and social issues? Whether we like it or not, our kids are going to inherit many of the issues we are facing today, and it's important that we as parents/guardians help guide our kids as they navigate them. In this episode, I'm talking with Brittany Jefferson of Teacher Mom Chronicles. Brittany talks about: what it means to be an eco-advocate or activist how we...
What is eco-minimalism? Or, Eco-minimalism 101 - Ep. 001
April 21, 2021 04:00 - 23 minutes - 16.2 MBYou've probably heard of the term zero waste living, and minimalism, but what if you are drawn to both lifestyles, but don't feel like you fit into either one? Eco-minimalism might be a good fit for you. In this episode, you will learn the following: What is eco-minimalism? How does eco-minimalism differ from zero waste living and minimalism separately How eco-minimalism started How to balance eco-friendly living and minimalism How to apply eco-minimalism into your life What to do ...
Gardening with kids (and why it's important) - Ep. 004
April 21, 2021 04:00 - 17 minutes - 11.8 MBEver wonder how to get your kids involved with gardening without sacrificing your precious plants? Gardening is great for our physical and mental health, and the benefits don't stop there for our kids. Kids can learn a number of super important skills through gardening, and it also opens up the conversation for a number of big topics like food waste, food inequality, building community, soil health, pollinators, etc. In this episode, I share seven tips on how to garden with kids, the b...
What is Raising Eco Minimalists? Ep. 000
April 06, 2021 21:00 - 10 minutes - 6.98 MBWhat is raising eco minimalists podcast? In this intro episode, I share what this podcast is all about, who I am, and what you can expect in the future from the show. Let's connect! Email me: [email protected] Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew) Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog) Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group Become a podcast member (and help support the show!) Support the show Let's connect! Sign up and receive the eco-activity ...