The Minimalists

The Minimalists talk about leaving behind a legacy without leaving behind material possessions.

Discussed in this episode:

What are The Minimalists’ thoughts on leaving behind a legacy? (1:51)

If you were to die today, what would you leave behind? (14:36)

When is The Minimalists’ next live event? (27:25)

Listener tip: Seasonal decluttering of digital photos. (34:11)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Recorded at Earthing Studios.

The Minimalists talk about the clutter that appears every time we are unnecessarily reactive or defensive in our interactions with others.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I be less defensive when interacting with others? (2:10)

Of all the things that push your buttons, what’s one thing you have a hard time not reacting to? (37:57)

From whom did The Minimalists receive a grant? (51:00)

Listener tip: Buy nothing for a month! (55:54)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Recorded at Earthing Studios.

The Minimalists speak with Carl Lentz about the deep breach of trust that accompanies cheating in a romantic relationship.

Discussed in this episode:

How did Carl Lentz’s life come crashing down at the height of his fame? (2:47)

How did “lifestyle clutter” contribute to Lentz’s infidelity? (4:18)

What unexpected areas of Lentz’s life were affected by his extramarital affair? (7:19)

What steps are required to make amends after you’ve hurt someone you love? (16:39)

How do I avoid blaming others for the mistakes I’ve made? (24:47)

What role did apologizing and forgiveness play in Lentz’s healing? (27:47)

What self-defeating stories lead to adultery? (39:45)

What are the commonalities between most cases of unfaithfulness? (42:15)

What’s your definition of infidelity? (54:15)

Listener tip: Just say no to free things! (1:02:23)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: theminimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists talk about the need for rest in a restless world.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I get my kids to adhere to a more reasonable bedtime so I can go to bed earlier? (1:47)

What's one thing that’s stopping you from getting the rest you need? (23:51)

Listener tip: Realize what you want by getting rid of what you don’t need. (44:51)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: theminimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists talk about counting material possessions, decluttering other people’s possessions, and more.

Discussed in this episode:

What’s the best way to count my material possessions? (1:40)

What’s one thing you’d like to declutter from someone else’s life? (20:50)

Right Here, Right Now: Who is The Minimalists’ newest team member? (32:42)

Listener tip: What’s the best way to declutter the contacts on your phone? (35:06)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: theminimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists talk about what to do when you can’t let go.

Discussed in this episode:

What can I do if my family won’t allow me to let go of certain sentimental things? (2:04)

What’s one thing that other people won’t allow you to let go of? (19:23)

Listener tip: A response to Gratitude Clutter. (36:48)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: theminimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists talk about why people avoid peace and go searching for chaos instead.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I handle the chaos in my life that is caused by other people? (1:48)

In what ways do you make your own life more chaotic? (24:45)

When is the next 30-Day Minimalism Game? (40:20)

Listener tip: How do you throw a decluttering dinner party? (42:29)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists sit down with Colin Wright, author of How to Turn 39: Thoughts About Aging for People of All Ages, to talk about youth, aging, redefining accomplishments, and more.

Discussed in this episode:

What does it mean for young people to embrace the natural aging process? (2:22)

Would your 15-year-old self be impressed by you today? (26:19)

What gift does JFM want for his 43rd birthday? (43:24)

Listener tip: How can you downsize 100 items in one hour? (45:10)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists discuss minimalist trade-offs, non-objects, pleasures that can’t be purchased, and more.

Discussed in this episode:

How do you decide between two things when you have the money for only one? (1:48)

What is your favorite pleasure that money can’t buy? (20:06)

Listener tip: The Imagination Library. (38:16)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists discuss the clutter that is often caused by spirituality, religion, and different ideologies.

Discussed in this episode:

Should I declutter some of my accessories that might be cluttering my spiritual practice? (2:09)

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the term “spirituality”? (30:44)

What are the 10 free minimalist resources from The Minimalists? (50:51)

Listener tip: an app a day! (51:29)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists talk about the fear of being too grateful, imposter syndrome, the problem with the pursuit of happiness, turning burdens into blessings, and more.

Discussed in this episode:

Is it possible to be too grateful? (2:13)

What’s one thing that was once a burden that you are now grateful for? (29:19)

What new position are The Minimalists now hiring for? (43:22)

Listener tip: insights from a massive decluttering session. (48:45)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists sit down with the founder of Patreon, Jack Conte, to discuss the death of the follower, earning a living from creative work, why the joy of creating is often ruined by the demands of revenue, and more. 

Discussed in this episode:

What’s the minimalist-approved way to ethically promote my creative work? (1:57)

If you could earn a living doing anything in the world, what would it be? (21:56)

What two new segments are coming to The Minimalists Private Podcast? (43:50)

Listener insight: a poem about decluttering. (45:41)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists discuss space hoarding, reification, the key to freedom, generosity, and more.

Discussed in this episode:

Is my landlord a space hoarder if they won’t let me use their empty garage for storage? (1:55)

What’s one thing you’re unwilling to share? (21:55)

What are Thursday Konversations with T.K. Coleman? (40:09)

Listener insight: Using OCD as a superpower. (40:51)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists speak with Lisa Ann about the benefits of renting clothes, homes, cars, books, tools, and more. They also talk about when it’s best to own a thing instead of renting it.

Discussed in this episode:

What should I do with my wardrobe if my style preferences constantly change? (2:21)

What’s one thing you’d rather rent than own? And what’s one thing you’d rather own than rent? (21:37)

How does letting go of things help people let go of resentment? (46:55)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists talk about life after simplifying, decluttering slowly over time, processing loss after letting go, and more.

Discussed in this episode:

Should I get rid of everything while simplifying? (2:29)

What’s the most difficult thing you’ve ever let go of? (18:36)

When is the next Zoom call with The Minimalists? (37:54)

Listener tip about quitting social media. (38:44)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists discuss letting go of memories, creating an uncluttered home, three new series from The Minimalists, and more.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I let go of memories? (3:51)

How can I curate a beautiful, uncluttered home? (17:52)

What are the three new series coming soon from The Minimalists? (25:12)

What’s the best way to create a functional wardrobe with items that last? (24:35)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists talk about the benefits of restraint, the struggles of consumerism for new minimalists, the difficulties of letting go of social media, and more.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I declutter my online-shopping addiction? (1:56)

What factors contributed to The Minimalists leaving social media? (31:04)

Why was I still clinging to my living daughter’s suicide note? (45:04)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists discuss the art of streamlining one’s life, letting go of difficult things, how the need for approval keeps people tethered to a lifestyle they don’t want, and more. 

Discussed in this episode:

How can I get my husband to let go of just-in-case items? (3:52)

How does my need for approval influence my consumption decisions? (24:17)

What are “Thursday Konversations with T.K. Coleman”? (35:31)

Listener insight: “Sometimes I disagree with The Minimalists, but I still appreciate your perspective.” (38:27)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists talk about the three different kinds of letting go (graduation, divorce, death), several ways to detach from a former spouse, and how to move on when you feel like you can’t let go.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I detach from my former spouse while actively coparenting and sharing familial responsibilities? (1:58)

How do I move on if I can’t let go of a thing, career, or relationship that used to add value to my life? (14:25)

What graduations are The Minimalists celebrating? (21:11)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists talk about the process of simplifying for newbies and staying motivated when decluttering gets difficult. 

Discussed in this episode:

How can I maintain traction as a new minimalist? (01:25)

How can I keep going on my decluttering journey when I get overwhelmed? (15:45)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

The Minimalists speak with Cal Newport about the three principles of slow productivity and letting go of social media. Watch all 2 hours of episode 435 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What are the three principles of slow productivity? (02:10)

Should The Minimalists quit social media? (27:48)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with Dr. Nicole LePera about breaking cycles and healing relationships. Watch all 2 hours of episode 434 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I let go of the idea of what I thought a relationship should be? (02:23)

How can I cease self-loathing? (18:48)

Why don’t I feel like enough? (33:14)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about what to do when success feels like failure, how to let go of shoes, and taking breaks from technology. Watch all 2 hours of episode 433 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can we stop caring what society wants us to do? (01:46)

Why can’t I let go of shoes I never wear? (15:00)

How can we take breaks from technology when everything is digital these days? (28:30)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about throwing everything away after an infestation and the hypocrisy of minimalism. Watch all 2 hours of episode 432  on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

Should I throw away everything after my bed bug infestation? (01:48)

How is it minimalist to encourage people to download seven different wallpapers? (13:47)

How can I learn to let go of clutter when I grew up poor? (22:48)

How do I know whether I should let go of a relationship? (27:57)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with Dr. Ramani Durvasula about recognizing narcissists; whether the term “narcissist” is overused; the roles of self-righteousness, complaining, and comparison in narcissism; and how to walk away. Watch all 2 hours of episode 431  on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do you know someone is a narcissist, and is the term overused? (01:11)

How can I tell a narcissist that they’re the problem? (21:55)

How do you let go of your feelings if your emotions are tied to your ego? (37:02)

How can you mentally let go of an item you’re keeping just for when? (41:33)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists  talk about their minimalist kitchen essentials, the No Junk Rule, and letting go of embarrassment. Watch all 2 hours of episode 430 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What are The Minimalist’s kitchen essentials? (02:39)

How can we get better at asking for help? (15:40)

Why did I spend more money when I tried minimalism? (31:22)

How can I connect with others when I feel like they’re judging me? (43:35)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about the human desire to fill empty rooms, how they spend their downtime, the value of a quiet life, and why people desire fancy things. Watch all 2 hours of episode 429 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do minimalists spend their downtime? (01:56)

Why do I struggle with wanting nice things as a minimalists? (22:18)

How can we let go of the emotions tied to things? (30:30)

Can owning things deprive us of the joy of sharing them? (40:39)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

Learn more about Earthing products: earthing.com/simple

In this episode, The Minimalists speak with Ryan Blaser, founder of TestMyHome.com, about the best tests to uncover in-home toxins, including mold, EMFs, WiFi, Bluetooth, blue light, chemicals in water, and other invisible clutter in our homes. Watch all 3 hours of episode 428 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What are the most surprising sources of indoor toxins? (02:29)

Are cell phones toxic? (31:30)

What’s the best way to filter my water? (44:05)

Are claims about indoor toxins backed by science? (49:27)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about emotional clutter, the dangers of being a “helper,” and whether hoarding is a form of procrastination. Watch all 2 hours of episode 427 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

Did I accidentally steal a bicycle? (01:52)

Is hoarding just another form of procrastination? (15:59)

How can I teach my boyfriend to minimize? (25:09)

Where are The Minimalists touring in 2024? (32:22)

How can you maintain control of your space while moving an elderly parent or in-law into your home? (38:45)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with author George Kamel about letting go of past financial mistakes, frugality vs. minimalism, and how much money The Minimalists have. Watch all 2 hours of episode 426 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I let go of my past financial mistakes? (02:15)

What’s the relationship between frugality and minimalism? (15:25)

Are The Minimalists millionaires? (22:29)

How can I let go of my LEGO collection? (35:54)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with Marcus Collins, author of For the Culture, about the pernicious forces of corporate marketing. Watch all 2 hours of episode 425 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I reconcile being a minimalist with my corporate marketing job? (02:15)

Have we become superficial because everyone is trying to sell us something?  (30:09)

What do The Minimalists think about “buy nothing” challenges? (40:58)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about how to start decluttering and letting go of stories about things. Watch all 2 hours of episode 424 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What’s the best method to start decluttering? (02:00)

How do you get rid of things that are brand new? (12:36)

How can I live my life without constantly feeling disappointed by the world around me? (25:58)

How can I stop feeling defeated by my clutter? (37:40)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about decluttering seasonal decorations, opting out of the consumer culture of Los Angeles, and whether hoarding is a choice. Watch all 2 hours of episode 423 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

Should I declutter my seasonal decorations? (01:55)

Is it difficult to be a minimalist in Los Angeles? (12:49)

Is hoarding a choice? (26:29)

How are Joshua and T.K. so good at having conversations with differing opinions? (39:23)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with Michael Easter, author of The Comfort Crisis and Scarcity Brain, about embracing boredom and starting from scratch after losing everything. Watch all 2 hours of episode 422 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we start from scratch after losing everything? (02:29)

Why can’t humans embrace boredom? (22:30)

How can we achieve work-life balance with a constantly changing schedule? (35:20)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with Dr. Zach Bush and Alex Woodard about environmentally friendly products, issues caused by food companies, and more. Watch all 2 hours of episode 421 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I find affordable environmentally friendly products? (02:06)

How can we opt out of the madness of manufactured foods? (27:13)

Are we addicted to water? (49:45)

How can we develop an alternative to retail therapy that isn’t just another form of consumption? (01:08:39)

How can I maintain my home while in a season of healing? (01:16:20)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with Leo Babauta from Zen Habits about bringing meaning to our everyday lives and getting back on track with minimalism. Watch all 2 hours of episode 420 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I bring meaning to my everyday life? (02:33)

How do I get back on track after falling off the minimalism wagon? (16:03)

Are smartphones a minimalist tool or a maximalist device? (30:40)

Is being a minimalist just another form of identity clutter? (37:40)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with Rey Flemings, “concierge to the 1%,” about the problem with luxury goods, finding happiness in what we already have, and why people care too much about the size of their homes. Watch all 2 hours of episode 419 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I find happiness in what I already have? (02:20)

Why do we obsess over the square footage of our homes? (30:08)

Can luxury goods and high fashion be a form of artistic expression? (43:13)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with Erwin Raphael McManus about the upsides and downsides of changing your mind, finding the motivation to pursue your dreams, and more. Watch all 2 hours of episode 418 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

Why is it difficult for us to change our minds? (02:01)

How can I rekindle the motivation to pursue my dreams? (12:30)

How can I enjoy downtime without needing to be productive? (21:51)

How does this experiment demonstrate why The Minimalists don’t run ads on our podcast? (26:30)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about what makes a possession useless and why it’s not your responsibility to manage the material expectations of others. Watch all 2 hours of episode 417 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What can I do with my old school lesson plans? (01:49)

How can I manage my father’s expectations without causing conflict? (11:48)

Why do people pay to keep things in storage lockers? (23:51)

What do The Minimalists’ think about Feng Shui? (34:03)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about the frustrating effects of decluttering, and then they interview Adrienne Jezick from Morozko Forge about the benefits of ice baths. Watch all 2 hours of episode 416 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How does minimalism affect one’s daily routine? (02:50)

What can Morozko Forge founder Adrienne Jezick tell us about the benefits of cold exposure? (13:05)

How do we address the emotional loneliness that comes after indulging in retail therapy? (38:05)

How do we deal with the chaos of too much stuff when we’re our home’s primary caretaker? (47:15)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about saying no to free stuff. Watch all 3 hours of episode 415 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I say no to all the freebies my employer keeps trying to give me? (02:00)

How can I overcome my all-or-nothing mentality? (13:55)

What can I do to stay out of the stuff rat race? (26:55)

How can I stop holding on to just-in-case items? (44:00)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with Dr. Bradley Nelson about identifying and letting go of emotional baggage. Watch all 2 hours of episode 414 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I let go of the idealized mother figure I conceptualized to cope with my childhood trauma? (02:00)

How does The Body Code apply to physical pain? (14:30)

How can we let go of the things that evoke painful emotions for us? (34:18)

How can I eliminate the emotional clutter that stops me from minimizing? (42:13)

Why does our culture seem to discourage stillness as a valid state of being? (47:30)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about the balance between holding on and letting go. Watch all 2 hours of episode 413 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I let go of possessions my daughter doesn’t want me to let go of? (02:39)

Can digital music become clutter? (14:06)

Is each successive generation getting better at decluttering? (25:43)

How can we let go of the belief that we need to be perfect to do something? (32:24)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with psychologist Dr. John Delony about finding peace in difficult times. Watch all 2 hours of episode 412 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I learn to be at peace with myself? (02:27)

How can I get back custody of my children? (12:29)

Why do The Minimalists post to social media? (22:50)

What if peace isn’t our natural state? (29:30)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about getting rid of things even if you think they won’t add value to others. Watch all 2 hours of episode 411 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What can I do with my items that I think won’t add value to others? (03:18)

How can I opt-out of my workplace’s themed dress-up days? (16:14)

Why do The Minimalists put out so much content? (26:13)

Where can I learn more about minimalist meetup groups? (31:30)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists peak  talk about clutter as an anxiety crutch and letting go of coupons. Watch all 2 hours of episode 410 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

Can clutter be an anxiety crutch? (02:19)

How can I let go of all the coupons I’m clinging to? (11:54)

Do lower-income folks tend to spend more frivolously than higher-income folks on luxury goods? (26:31)

How can I keep my space minimal but still warm and inviting? (38:51)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists peak with YouTuber Destiny about a host of controversial topics, including extreme hoarding, opinions, objective morality, taxation, God, dating, and whether we should discuss controversial topics in the first place. Watch all 3 hours of episode 409 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can we set boundaries with the hoarders in our lives? (02:49)

What’s the point of having controversial debates? (13:34)

Is morality objective or relative? (21:25)

Is taxation theft? (28:58)

Does Destiny have any controversial dating advice? (47:30)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with Dr. Sean O’Mara about the connection between minimalism and weight loss. Watch all 2 hours of episode 408 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What is the connection between minimalism and weight loss? And how does clinging affect the body? (01:53)

How can I minimize the excess fat around my face and belly? (09:20)

How can I lose my last bit of fat? And how unhealthy would it be to not lose it? (34:50)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about cultivating an abundance mindset and letting go of the residue of the past. Watch all 2 hours of episode 407 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I let go of my scarcity mindset so I can enjoy the fruits of my years of hard work and saving? (02:02)

What should I do with my parents’ ashes? (17:18)

If luxury goods are a scam, what’s the point of making money? (30:22)

Where does the mean voice in my head come from? (41:58)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with author and traveler Light Watkins about traveling with less and letting go of distractions while traveling. Watch all 2 hours of episode 406 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I let go of my assumptions, prejudices, and expectations while traveling? (02:20)

How can I pack lightly with two young children? (20:03)

Should I give my kids the choice about what they do with their stuff? (33:09)

How do you manage anxiety that you have despite knowing worrying isn’t necessary? (41:59)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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 The Minimalists talk about the buy nothing movement and the dangers of binary thinking. Watch all 2 hours of episode 405 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What are The Minimalists’ thoughts on the “buy nothing” movement? (02:53)

How can I let go of the items my husband left behind after his death? (18:10)

Why do we feel resistant to making end-of-life plans? (30:22)

How can I help my adult daughter become independent? (37:53)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about avoiding souvenirs, resisting impulse, and minimizing tattoos. Watch all 2 hours of episode 404 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I control the fear of missing out when on vacation? (01:54)

How can I address the fear of the unknown as I contemplate removing my tattoos? (16:25)

How can we resist impulse purchases when presented with the attitude that “life is short, so why not just buy it?” (26:20)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about whether to sell, consign, or donate unwanted clothes, furniture, and art. Watch all 2 hours of episode 403 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What are my options for getting rid of unwanted clothes? (02:20)

Should I get rid of my smartphone? (21:08)

Is minimalism “all or nothing,” or are there areas in my life where I can allow space for more? (32:10)

What is the 30-Day Minimalism Game? (38:36)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about social media overwhelm. Watch all 2 hours of episode 402 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do The Minimalists maintain a healthy relationship with social media? (01:53)

How can I avoid the burden of inherited family heirlooms? (17:50)

How can I get more meaningful connections out of social media? (28:30)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about buying in bulk, avoiding clickbait, and letting go of family heirlooms. Watch all 2 hours of episode 401 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What are The Minimalists’ thoughts on buying items in bulk? (02:04)

Should we ignore click-bait headlines and hit pieces about Minimalism and other topics we enjoy? (11:54)

How do I tell my mom I don’t want her family heirlooms? (19:33)

Why isn’t The Minimalists’ second documentary, Less Is Now, on YouTube? (34:50)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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For this very special episode, The Minimalists talk about Ryan Nicodemus’s new chapter. Watch all 4 hours of episode 400 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How has Joshua and Ryan’s friendship evolved over the last 32 years? And how will it evolve going forward? (01:40)

What is Ryan most excited about with respect to moving back to Montana? (10:06)

What is Ryan going to miss about being a full-time LA resident? (13:45)

What was the hardest thing Ryan has had to do in the last 13 years? (16:20)

What is Ryan’s favorite thing The Minimalists have done in the last 13 years? (22:20)

What material possessions is Ryan letting go of during his move? (30:40)

What’s one thing Ryan has changed his mind about over the last 13 years? (39:00)

As The Minimalist’s work takes them in different directions, what upcoming projects is Ryan most excited for? (46:40)

What are The Minimalists’ thoughts on identity and transitioning through life’s phases? (57:59)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about hobby clutter and the diminishing returns of owning too much. Watch all 2 hours of episode 399 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

Should we make checklists of items we need to support our hobbies? (01:54) 

How do let go of things when you’re afraid of having to buy them again? (17:30) 

Is an unwillingness to go all-in on something a sign that it isn’t important to you? (16:54) 

How do we redirect negative thoughts that come up when we look at possessions that are holding us back? (22:40)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists speak with Dr. Zach Bush about his minimalist approach to gut health. Watch all 3 hours of episode 398 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What steps can I take to optimize my gut microbiome? (02:12)

What is Joshua’s personal gut-health protocol? (22:27)

Are there any foods I should avoid or prioritize for optimal hormone balance? (35:16)

What big news does Dr. Bush have to share with the podcast? (40:01)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about healing from shopping addiction, being used by family, getting bothered by others, and more. Watch all 2 hours of episode 397 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I heal from shopping addiction and emotional abuse?(02:47)

What are The Minimalists’ views on the ethics of using sharing-economy services like Uber and AirBnB? (16:49)

What makes a supportive partner? (35:47)

Now that Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things is available for free on YouTube, will the bonus content still be available for purchase? (49:08)

How does the death of a parent affect one’s identity? (51:09)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about identity clutter and what to do when your family won’t try minimalism. Watch all 2 hours of episode 396 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How can I decouple my identity from my career? (2:39)

How do you declutter emotional resentment? (19:06)

How can I get my family to try minimalism? (25:52)

How can we balance authenticity with "faking it until we make it"? (36:25)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about leaving a home that’s weighing you down and why no one can make you happy. Watch all 2 hours of episode 395 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do you let go of a home that's weighing you down? (01:50)

Why don’t you consider the plugging of your own private podcast advertising? (14:47)

How does the Maxim “No one can make you happy” help people who are already lonely? (27:41)

Why am I anxious despite having everything I need? (42:56)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about reducing digital clutter and whether “the cloud” is damaging the planet. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 394 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How detrimental to the planet is our use of “cloud” storage? (02:00)

What do you consider “adding value”? (07:36)

How do we create environmental awareness without “doom and gloom”? (11:25)

Why do we get so attached to things, and how can we stop? (16:18)

What can we do with old clothes that aren’t suitable for donation? (23:08)

Why do we participate in so many pursuits that don’t truly matter to us, and why do we feel compelled to do so? (35:30)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists speak with psychologist Dr. John Delony about psychological clutter, the anatomy of hope, and more. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 393 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What are your views regarding hope? (01:17)

What are the two kinds of hope? (03:54)

What do you consider the differences between wishing and hoping? (05:49)

How do you define “faith”? (09:07)

Isn’t compromise an integral part of a romantic relationship? (32:36)

What are the three C’s of compromise? (35:24)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists speak with author Julien Smith about perpetual dissatisfaction and the flinch that prevents us from freeing ourselves from the weight of possessions. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 392 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we appropriately reuse, repurpose, or recycle items to ensure they don’t simply become a problem for someone else? (02:06)

What are your perspectives regarding pride? (10:01)

How do we deal with our daily fears? (15:34)

What are the two types of fears? (18:00)

How do we ensure our focus on personal development doesn’t become an obsession? (24:23)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about abandoning impulse to get what you want. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 391 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I let go of my pet accouterments? (01:51)

Are there negative consequences to dark therapy? (16:40)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists speak with professional organizer Kristen Ziegler about adding style to one’s home without adding clutter. Watch all 2 hours of episode 390 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we decorate our homes without adding more? (01:51)

What do you consider “authentic style”? (03:00)

How do we appropriately enhance empty rooms? (04:57)

What can we do with cherished items that don’t fit our current design aesthetic? (09:09)

How do you determine a space’s design potential? (11:13)

What questions do you ask clients to discover their design needs and wants? (17:14)

How do you decide on the best containers for your storage needs? (19:50)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about feeling overwhelmed by clothing. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 389 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we ensure we have only the clothing we actually need? (01:45)

What are your takes on clothing styles? (13:43)

How do I appropriately appreciate the red dress my boyfriend bought me when I prefer all black clothing? (14:47)

When will I finally feel I’ve minimized all I can? (27:15)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists speak with financial expert Ramit Sethi about wealth, money clutter, and investing with a minimalist mindset. Listen to all 3 hours of episode 388 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

Why do minimalists invest if they already have what they need? (01:47)

How do we determine our rich life? (05:22)

If the opposite of love and hate is indifference, but I’m still mad, does that mean I’m still in love? (17:41)

Do we need whole life insurance as an investment because of our high net worth? (28:32)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about messy living, desirelessness, and attachments at their final Sunday Symposium. Listen to the Maximal edition of episode 387 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

Introduction (00:11)

What are the different kinds of desires? (23:23)

How do consumption and creativity differ? (24:18)

Why are we so confused regarding what we actually want? (27:30)

How does social media incentivize discontent? (38:41)

What are the differences between stated preference and revealed preference? (46:27)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about what minimalism has to do with normal, everyday subjects like friendship, pets, history, meteorology, and entertainment. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 386 on The Minimalists Private Podcast: patreon.com/theminimalists

Discussed in this episode:

How can minimalism apply to most everyday topics? (01:54)

Why do most people believe minimalism only applies to physical items? (05:41)

What is epistemology? (08:51)

How do we help loved ones move on from fruitless pursuits? (16:54)

What is the difference between helping and supporting? (22:42)

Why do you have an issue with those that can afford expensive things? (25:31)

What does tire rubber have to do with minimalism? (32:02)

How is brainstorming related to minimalism? (33:32)

How do we get comfortable with bad ideas? (34:16)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists speak with Aubrey Marcus about relationship structures, commitment, marriage, open relationships, and more! Watch all 3 hours of episode 385 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How is nonmonogamy related to minimalism? (02:12)

What challenges have people experienced in nonmonogamous relationships? (12:29)

How do people thrive in nonmonogamous relationships? (16:19)

How do we create a healthy balance between giving and receiving love? (19:31)

What is “compersion”? (21:34)

What is “kitchen-table polyamory”? (22:55)

How is suffering contagious? (28:11)

What is “tantric technology”? (31:57)

How do we open ourselves up more for love? (34:58)

Do definitions obscure more than they clarify? (40:01)

How do you broach the possibility of nonmonogamy with a long-term monogamous partner? (45:16)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists speak with Dr. Paul Saladino about foods to subtract from one’s diet—and foods to add—to live more healthfully. Listen to all 3 hours of episode 384 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What should we remove from our diet to improve our health? (02:18)

What are your perspectives regarding dairy and dairy alternatives? (12:02)

Are nuts and seeds healthy snacks? (19:37)

What should we add to our diet to improve our health? (22:39)

Should we limit our consumption of carbohydrates? (33:53)

Why isn’t the vegan diet sufficient for most humans? (45:58)

What one meal could you eat for the rest of your life? (47:10)

What’s wrong with tap water, and what kind of water do you drink? (49:43)

What ancestral practices should we adopt to improve our lives? (52:26)

What are the most common environmental toxins? (53:52)

Can a healthy diet include coffee, olive oil, and vinegar? (55:14)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk with Dr. Cortney Warren about heartbreak and letting go of your ex. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 383 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we break our emotional and physical attachments to our exes? (02:08)

What faulty beliefs do we harbor regarding our exes? (03:47)

Why do we undervalue what we bring to relationships? (07:32)

How do we ensure our own happiness instead of expecting it from our significant others? (16:47)

What are the three essentials of all relationships? (19:48)

What are the differences between standards and expectations? (22:53)

Is there an appropriate time to move on from a partner who is struggling with seemingly insurmountable challenges? (25:53)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk with Lewis Howes, author of The Greatness Mindset, about the fear of success, self-doubt, and how to let go of one’s fantasy self. Listen to all 3 hours of episode 382 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I encourage my loved ones to be more supportive? (01:50)

What does the TARA acronym represent? (08:08)

How do we effectively address our fears of failure, judgment, and success? (16:27)

Does ambition also create worry similar to the need for things? (23:27)

How do I overcome the nagging fear of failure in my business pursuits? (29:44)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk with psychotherapist Katherine Morgan Schafler about perfectionism, self-sabotage, and cohabiting with someone who isn’t a minimalist. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 381 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I overcome my perfectionist tendencies so I can get my work done? (01:40)

What are your perspectives regarding power? (03:42)

How do we address an unhealthy obsession with perfectionism? (12:16)

How do I live peacefully with a non-minimalist? (16:57)

What are the five types of perfectionists? (26:19)

How do The Minimalists make money without ad revenue? (31:09)

What is the difference between procrastination and resistance? (39:02)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists speak with an aspiring minimalist about reducing career clutter. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 380 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I determine the most ideal career path to pursue of my many passions? (02:00)

Is an obsession with letting go considered a mental illness? (20:37)

Why are we so preoccupied with mental illnesses? (20:48)

Is it cheating to play the Minimalism Game in February? (27:05)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists speak with therapist relationship expert Nedra Tewwab about letting go of expectations for family members. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 379 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we appropriately manage our expectations of loved ones, especially regarding help with parenting our children? (02:08)

How do we respectfully and tactfully discuss inheritance with family members? (18:53)

What is problematic regarding an obsession with political correctness? (21:57)

How do I appropriately support loved ones who don’t recognize their hypocrisy in their treatment of others? (28:59)

When are labels useful? (30:20)

What is the difference between boundaries and bluffs? (31:18)

How do we encourage our parents to be more active grandparents with our children? (32:11)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about why it’s so difficult to let go. Listen to all 2.5 hours of episode 378 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I push myself out of my long-term comfort zones? (02:08)

How do we learn to better trust our intuition? (16:37)

What is most concerning about the desire for nice things? (21:01)

How do we ensure we purchase items with weighted consideration for utility, durability, environmental cost, and fair trade manufacturing? (30:39)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists speak with therapist and author Lori Gottlieb about family members who don’t respect boundaries. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 377 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we create a detente with loved ones who are completely intractable? (02:04)

How do we bring meaningful change to our relationships? (05:01)

What is “the parentified child”? (11:28)

What do you consider the ‘cost of admission’ for relationships? (14:21)

What are your views regarding nonnegotiables? (14:38)

Why is it so difficult for many to discover alternative solutions to problems in their lives? (15:30)

Why are boundaries rarely respected? (17:41)

How do I tactfully tell others to mind their own business when they intrude on my personal affairs? (20:12)

How do I better manage my OCD so I can be more present as a parent? (24:58)

What is the difference between balance and contentment? (24:13)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists discuss the new “cluttercore” design trend. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 376 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we stay focused and motivated when we’re going through a lengthy process of decluttering? (01:50)

What is “cluttercore”? (05:02)

Is there any value in simply embracing clutter? (09:00)

What is “costly signaling”? (10:34)

How do we determine what to actually hold on to? (14:09)

Which of the objects mentioned in past “Added Value” segments have since become clutter? (21:41)

Where can I find a list of other podcasts you’ve been on? (28:52)

How can I refresh a space without adding more stuff? (29:34)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about why people cling to books they’ll never read, advice for aspiring writers, and more. Listen to all 2.5 hours of episode 375 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

Why do some people hold on to books they’ll likely never read again? (01:48)

What is the most effective process for getting a book published? (15:30)

What are your perspectives regarding self-promotion? (21:24)

What do you consider ideal writing habits? (26:07)

How do we intentionally let go of our books? (33:04)

What is “narrative urgency”? (35:16)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about holding on to boxes of sentimental items. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 374 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we find the strength to let go of significantly sentimental items or find the peace to keep them? (01:47)

Isn’t our reliance on the ‘rules’ of others simply a lack of our own discipline? (15:02)

What is your perspective regarding discipline? (18:10)

How do you record podcasts when much of your staff works and lives remotely? (20:16)

How do we convince loved ones that we truly don’t want physical gifts? (24:02)

How do we create effective boundaries that others actually recognize and respect? (26:42)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists speak with Kapil Gupta, MD, about prescriptions, discontent, fear, suffering, misery, lies, truth, and more. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 373 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What are your perspectives regarding conflict? (10:41)

Why are we so concerned with the opinions of others? (11:46)

Why is trying to convince others so problematic? (20:13)

What do you mean by “the ultimate possibility of a human being”? (34:48)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about letting go, dealing with regrets, New Year’s resolutions, broken family relationships, and the dangers of hope. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 372 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we let go of our shame regarding our shortcomings? (04:42)

How do we continuously refine our minimalist practices without becoming compulsive? (11:52)

What is the “No-Stories Policy”? (15:54)

How do we mend a broken relationship when the other person isn’t interested in fixing it? (18:59)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about the gift of a clean slate. Listen to all 3 hours of episode 371 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do you manage the debilitating anxiety associated with a potentially terminal illness? (01:54)

How is a clean slate the best gift? (03:00)

How do we still love family and friends that don’t support us? (16:25)

How do we let go of excess when circumstances put us in a survival mentality? (20:33)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with Dr. Nicole LePera about letting go of guilt. Listen to all 3 hours of episode 370 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we manage the guilt we feel when we’re dependent on loved ones? (01:52)

Why did Dr. LePera write How to Meet Your Self? (15:49)

How do we determine when it’s appropriate to help others? (17:31)

How do we explain to our loved ones when the negatives far outweigh the positives at our job? (27:37)

What does happiness mean to you? (29:36)

How do we establish effective boundaries with one another? (32:42)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists talk about traveling with less. Listen to all 2.5 hours of episode 369 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do you travel intentionally as a minimalist? (02:01)

What is the “Go-Without-It Rule”? (15:54)

How do I overcome the fear of possibly wasting time and effort on new experiences I might not enjoy? (19:10)

How do we budget appropriately for vacations? (24:42)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Join The Minimalists Private Podcast: minimalists.com/support

The Minimalists speak with Dr. Jerry Tennant about preventing and treating chronic illness. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 368 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

When will medicine shift its focus to prevention instead of just treating symptoms? (02:15)

Why did Dr. Tennant write Healing Is Voltage? (12:15)

How does low voltage contribute to illness? (17:29)

What paths of relief are available for those suffering with chronic illness? (22:38)

What did Dr. Tennant do to start his road to healing? (25:34)

How can nutrition help with chronic illness? (29:29)

How can minimalism help with the prevention and management of chronic illness? (33:44)

Why do some people suffer more from migraines than others? (39:24)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about the problems with in-home storage. Listen to all 2 hours of episode 367 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we reason with loved ones regarding their clutter intruding our shared spaces? (02:21)

How do we manage stress during moves? (17:22)

How much clothing should we keep on hand for weight fluctuations? (21:13)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about news addiction and the anxiety it produces. Listen to all 2.5 hours of episode 366 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we stay informed without becoming overwhelmed? (01:53)

What is the primary purpose of news outlets? (03:29)

Why are most ideas worthless? (08:44)

How do we become more psychologically flexible? (16:08)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about avoiding lifestyle inflation. Listen to all three hours of episode 365 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I better manage my impulses and my budget as my income increases? (01:46)

What is “lifestyle inflation”? (02:29)

What is the “casino technique”? (12:04)

How will refunding dissatisfied customers and allowing them to keep items affect consumerism? (19:36)

How do we determine what luxuries to let go of when we can comfortably afford them? (24:38)

What is the “scorched earth approach”? (24:56)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists speak with Wendy Smith, author of Both/And Thinking, about shortening cycles of inner conflict. Listen to all two hours of episode 364 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we better analyze and accept our shortcomings and failures? (01:57)

What is “emotional ambivalence”? (10:38)

How do we tactfully manage rocky relationships with family and friends? (15:13)

How do we commit to leaving an unfulfilling job? (19:12)

What are “competence traps”? (21:35)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists talk about how to decide what to get rid of. Listen to all two hours of episode 363 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we determine what to let go of when we’re attached to everything we have? (01:38)

What is “one-day-itis”? (07:17)

How do I best manage my anxiety regarding decluttering? (11:14)

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The Minimalists speak with hospice physician Zach Bush, MD, about accepting death. Listen to all three hours of episode 362 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How does it seem that we effortlessly let go of everything when we die? (01:48)

How do we detox the memory bank of the human body? (11:13)

Since palliative care is generally only available to those who are terminally ill, is there another legal and ethical option for me when I’m ready to pass on? (18:54)

Do people who believe in life after death grieve differently for their loved ones? (23:49)

How do I emotionally prepare for my father’s death when we finally have a mutually enriching relationship again? (24:58)

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The Minimalists talk about managing guilt and disappointment when saying “no.” Listen to all two hours of episode 361 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I manage the guilt I feel when I must refuse the requests of others for my assistance? (01:46)

Why is it so difficult to say “no” in the moment? (05:08)

Is it selfish to expect adequate compensation for my time and expertise? (11:32)

How do I appropriately manage the anger I feel toward the transgressions of others? (14:05)

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The Minimalists speak with sleep expert Jack Dell’Accio about best practices for sleep. Listen to all two hours of episode 360 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do couples tactfully address their sleep issues that affect one another? (01:43)

Is it more beneficial for couples to sleep together or to sleep apart? (04:56)

What approaches have you found effective as a couple in improving your sleep? (07:06)

How do I effectively communicate my sleep wants and needs with my partner? (13:35)

How important is it to use your bed solely for sleep? (14:28)

How much deep sleep is considered ideal? (16:08)

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The Minimalists talk about getting rid of excess “friends” on social media. Listen to all two hours of episode 359 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we appropriately curate our ‘friends’ lists in our social media accounts? (01:40)

Why do we act on social media in ways we would never act in real life? (06:48)

How do we tactfully encourage our partners to embrace minimalist practices? (14:05)

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The Minimalists are joined by licensed therapists Vanessa Bennett and John Kim to discuss relationship clutter. Listen to all two hours of episode 358 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I search intentionally for a life partner without becoming consumed by that pursuit? (01:45)

Does a need for relationships inevitably cause relationship clutter? (03:31)

What is the danger in prioritizing my partner’s needs? (5:27)

What is your perspective regarding codependency? (06:19)

How do you maintain your joy without making others that are suffering feel that you’re not compassionate? (07:15)

Is it a matter of personal responsibility to always accept blame? (08:55)

What are the pros and cons of legal marriage? (15:46)

What did you learn from your first Sunday Symposium event? (24:14)

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Ryan Nicodemus returns and the trio talks about what makes them angry. Listen to all three hours of episode 357 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

Is anger most commonly triggered by fear and sadness? (01:30)

What is your perspective regarding acceptance? (04:46)

How do I tactfully address a significant difference in our decor preferences with my partner? (15:41)

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The Minimalists are joined by musician and YouTuber Ruslan to talk about judgment as emotional clutter. Watch all three hours of episode 356 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do we help our children control their emotions? (01:51)   How do we best manage the judgment of loved ones? (16:23)   Where do Ruslan and The Minimalists disagree on judgment? (17:39)   What is the difference between description and prescription? (19:01)

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The Minimalists are joined by Joshua’s wife, Becca Shern, host of How to Love, to talk about unconventional relationships and parenting. Listen to all three hours of episode 355 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

How do I discuss creating appropriate boundaries with our children with my spouse and grandparents? (01:40)

How do we incorporate specificity to better manage difficult conversations? (09:15)

How do we treat children equitably within a family? (10:28)

What is the best method for creating solutions? (15:19)

How do we help children realize the benefits of minimalism? (17:53)

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The Minimalists are joined by philosopher Peter Rollins to talk about misery, trauma, and letting go of souvenirs. Listen to all three hours of episode 354 on The Minimalists Private Podcast.

Discussed in this episode:

What drives The Minimalists to help others? (01:41)

What inspires Peter Rollins to create? (05:57)

Why is work meaningful to us? (07:14)

How do we let go of the guilt of a poorly chosen present? (10:33)

What is your perspective regarding gifts? (13:40)

What do you consider magical about live events? (25:13)

What is a temporary autonomous zone? (27:58)

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The Minimalists are joined by comedian Jamie Kilstein to talk about quitting minimalism, saying “no” to birthday gifts, and more. Listen to all three hours of episode 353 on The Minimalists Private Podcast: patreon.com/theminimalists

Discussed in this episode:

What is your perspective regarding people quitting minimalism? (01:50)

Why do we often blame our problems on everything but ourselves? (05:53)

What is “new-convert syndrome”? (10:31)

How do we tactfully refuse gifts? (12:33)

What are T.K.’s three options regarding gifts? (16:02)

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The Minimalists are joined by musician Matt Nathanson to talk about the problem with expectations and assumptions. Watch all three hours of episode 352 on The Minimalists Private Podcast: patreon.com/theminimalists

Discussed in this episode:

How do I lower or eliminate expectations? (01:44)

What is the distinction between an expectation and an assumption? (10:26)

What do you consider your most meaningful accomplishment? (12:22)

What can attendees of the Sunday Symposium event expect? (24:46)

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The Minimalists are joined by their new cohost, T.K. Coleman, to talk about dead things, dead relationships, and more. Listen to all three hours of episode 351 on The Minimalists Private Podcast: patreon.com/theminimalists

Discussed in this episode:

Why did T.K. Coleman join The Minimalists Podcast as the new cohost? (00:19)

Are we obligated to always attend the funerals of loved ones? (03:43)

How do I accept my mother dating after the death of my father? (15:46)

What is “chronological snobbery”? (24:06)

Why did you create the Sunday Symposium event? (30:54)

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The Minimalists discuss organizing, hoarding, and decluttering with professional organizer Dr. Julia Raz, and they answer the following questions:

When should you hire a professional organizer, and what should you look for in one? (01:36)

What is a professional organizer? (02:13)

How do I create a new space with a minimalist aesthetic when I move? (10:27)

What is the crux of most couples’ disagreements? (19:09)

How do I find the system of organization that works for me? (21:47)

What questions help us get to the ‘why’ of decluttering? (26:43)

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The Minimalists discuss outgrowing possessions, careers, cities, routines, habits, traditions, and relationships, they release a major announcement, and they answer the following questions:

How can you tell you’ve outgrown something? (01:48) 

What is the common denominator of outgrown things? (04:39)

How do I move on from my past traumas so they have the least negative impact on my present self? (10:35)

What is your perspective regarding trauma? (16:58)

How do I move on from something without feeling I’m losing part of my identity? (21:12)

Who is the new cohost of The Minimalists Podcast? (37:21)

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The Minimalists discuss emotional clutter with psychologist Dr. Susan David, and they answer the following questions:

What is optimum emotional health, and how do we achieve it? (01:39)

How does acceptance help us manage our emotional state? (04:31)

Can anger be productive? (05:59)

How are emotions actually data? (07:04)

How do emotions and values work together? (07:25)

What is the ideal relationship between stimulus and response? (10:29)

What is “fusion”? (11:18)

What is the “readiness potential”? (13:54)

How do we address overidentification with an emotion? (14:10)

How do I silence the naysayers in my head? (19:30)

What is the “amplification effect”? (20:08)

What is the importance of self-compassion? (21:09)

What is the difference between a “have-to” goal and a “want-to” goal? (23:10)

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The Minimalists discuss ten ideal ways to simplify our lives, and they answer the following questions:

Where do we best start our decluttering odyssey? (02:01)

What is “setting the stage”? (13:23)

What is the “true cost” of an item? (21:06)

What two ways do you recommend to save money on every purchase? (24:53)

What platforms have you found reliable for selling unwanted items? (33:58)

How do we effect positive change in our city’s policies regarding architectural aesthetics? (42:33)

What is “wabi-sabi”? (42:58)

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The Minimalists talk about earning a living from creative pursuits with writer Jeff Goins, and they answer the following questions:

Why do even the most talented artists often struggle financially? (02:43)

What is the premise of Jeff’s book? (03:35)

How does stubbornness help artists? (04:31)

How does a hyper focus on details harm artists? (07:43)

What is the importance of patrons for artists? (12:55)

How do artists best actualize their dreams? (24:22)

What is the best use of our creations that no longer hold any meaning for us—save for posterity, recycle, repurpose, trash? (25:30)

How do I best manage my PR on social media so I have adequate time to produce my art? (38:18)

What is the Sunday Symposium? (45:10)

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The Minimalists discuss the pros and cons of owning versus renting homes from a minimalist perspective, and they answer the following questions:

What are your respective opinions regarding owning versus renting homes? (01:48)

Is there an age deadline for homeownership? (10:57)

How do we determine which is more financially feasible for us between renting and buying? (14:44)

What are “Zoomtowns”? (25:07)

Do you consider tiny homes a viable homeownership option, particularly regarding resale value? (32:54)

What should we look for in a community when we’re ready to plant roots? (38:08)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists speak with Vanessa Van Edwards about communication problems and the signals we send to others through our body language, facial expressions, word choices, and vocal inflections, and they answer the following questions:

How do I overcome the feeling of being chronically misunderstood? (02:38)

What are the four channels for cues? (03:18)

What is the importance of congruence in our communication? (04:10)

How are we most commonly misunderstood? (07:09)

What are warm and confident words? (07:50)

How do we organically incorporate mirroring into our communication? (12:45)

How can you tell if someone is actively listening to you? (15:04)

What are the two misconceptions about eye contact? (16:57)

What is “Resting Bothered Face”? (20:15)

What is “phubbing”? (24:14)

What are “invitation cues”? (27:23)

As a teenager living under my parents’ roof how do I tactfully address the conflict arising between their values and beliefs and my own that are continuously evolving at my age? (30:10)

What is “openness”? (32:24)

What is the “Platinum Rule”? (36:25)

Why is nonverbal communication so powerful? (38:00)

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The Minimalists talk about practical, reliable, and durable goods and the social, moral, and environmental responsibilities of the companies that produce them, and they answer the following questions:

Where did you get the idea for the title, “The Good Goods”? (01:50)

Is there a curated list somewhere on the Internet of companies that sell high-quality, durable goods that also take responsibility for their social and environmental impact? (05:23)

What is “impact anxiety”? (16:45)

What is “corporate social responsibility”? (22:55)

Do dollar stores sell any high-quality items? (25:23)

How has planned obsolescence changed our shopping habits? (36:31)

What are the benefits of buying locally? (42:08)

How do we find items that are high-quality and appropriately priced? (48:30)

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The Minimalists discuss the benefits of near-death experiences with their friend T.K. Coleman a month after his brush with death, and they answer the following questions:

How has having your film nominated for an Emmy affected you? (02:06)

How many times has T.K. appeared on the podcast? (03:39)

What near-death experience did T.K. experience recently, and what lessons did he take from it? (05:52)

What mattered the most to you in your moment of crisis? (11:43)

What effect did T.K.’s near-death experience have on his relationships? (18:13)

What insights or enlightenment do near-death experiences yield? (24:41)

Did T.K.’s near-death experience alter his views regarding minimalism? (35:41)

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The Minimalists discuss our shared clean-slate fantasy of renting a giant dumpster and tossing everything in it, as well as more prudent and responsible decluttering methods, including selling, donating, and recycling, and they answer the following questions:

Why did you renovate The Minimalists podcast studio after its first year? (03:51)

How do we tactfully approach a loved one regarding their maximalist lifestyle encroaching on our shared minimalist space? (07:05)

What are the three reasons that we cling? (09:11)

Why is striving for perfection such a fruitless pursuit? (17:21)

How do we appropriately pass on personalized items? (19:11)

How do I help loved ones let go of their attachment to things? (29:04)

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Learn more about Earthing products: earthing.com/simple

In this episode, The Minimalists are joined by earthing expert Clint Ober to discuss pain reduction, the science behind grounding, and “the most important health discovery ever,” and they answer the following questions:

What is the science behind grounding, and how do I explain it to loved ones who perceive it as metaphysical woo-woo? (03:19)

How can grounding relieve much of our discomfort? (09:16)

What are the most significant benefits of grounding, and what individuals would realize the most benefit from it? (13:26)

What grounding tips do you have for individuals that use wheelchairs? (16:56)

How did Clint come to recognize the personal benefits of grounding? (20:40)

What are the best methods for grounding? (24:13)

What is your perception regarding inflammation? (29:54)

If grounding is so healthy, why does the professional medical community largely ignore it? (33:23)

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The Minimalists talk about the many shapes and sizes of excess, including stuff, debt, screen time, commitments, and emotional clutter, and they answer the following questions:

When is something considered excessive? (03:32)

What are the three ways to gain acceptance? (11:52)

How do we encourage others to break away from the excessive pursuits that are causing them to feel perpetually overwhelmed? (14:40)

What is “POMO”? (15:07)

How do I ensure my daily schedule doesn’t become excessive, and how do I best organize my time management tools to achieve that goal? (18:46)

How do I stay focused on my obligations and responsibilities when my emotional clutter is constantly distracting me? (25:01)

What is your perspective regarding personality? (32:22)

How do I cut down on excessive screen time? (47:28)

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The Minimalists speak with Dr. John Delony, author of Own Your Past, Change Your Future, about loneliness, friendship, love, lust, and jobs that make people miserable, and they answer the following questions:

How do I ensure I don’t fall back into crippling codependency as I explore building relationships again? (01:42)

How do we intentionally practice solitude? (05:33)

What is the difference between solitude and hiding? (06:43)

How do we make friends as adults? (06:51)

Is there any issue in striving to associate with like-minded individuals over open-minded individuals? (13:07)

Where is the best place to find a long-term partner or spouse? (14:46)

What are the differences between love, like, and lust? (19:51)

How do I determine whether to keep a job I detest that makes me miserable, yet provides well for myself and my daughter? (24:09)

How do we transition from an overabundance of acquaintances to fewer, more meaningful relationships? (30:40)

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The Minimalists discuss what to do with family heirlooms and “generational junk,” and they answer the following questions:

How do we tactfully tell our relatives we don’t want their “generational junk”? (09:17)

How do I help my parents minimize their hoard to live more simply when they’re resistant to do so? (14:10)

How do we support our family members without accepting their donations of their possessions? (26:35)

How do I appropriately rehome a family heirloom that is a historical artifact? (31:44)

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The Minimalists speak with Joshua Becker about Things That Matter, becoming minimalist, and finding purpose, and they answer the following questions:

How do I discover what truly matters when I’m already struggling to find meaning in my daily life? (02:11)

How do we discover our purposes? (02:34)

Would you change your minimalist journeys based on what you know now? (08:07)

How do we recoup and regroup from the past purchase of a luxury item, especially when we’re trying to recover from the financial repercussions of the purchase, such as a considerable car loan? (12:47)

What does Joshua Becker recommend regarding vehicle purchases? (15:33)

How do I reframe minimalism as merely a tool rather than a goal? (21:39)

How do I ensure my needs are met along with those for which I’m a caregiver? (29:53)

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The Minimalists talk about purchases that lead to buyer’s remorse, and they answer the following questions:

Does regret serve us in any way? (01:57)

How do we overcome the loss and regret we feel after donating items so we don’t end up simply replacing them and repeating the cycle? (06:03)

How do we recognize when we’re senselessly justifying a purchase that holds little to no actual benefit for us? (16:08)

Do your children have any regrets? (23:45)

What do we do when we experience buyer’s remorse with every purchase? (27:52)

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The Minimalists talk about the clutter that invades our counters, cabinets, and refrigerators with Max Lugavere, author of Genius Kitchen, and they answer the following questions:

What is essential to prepare healthy meals? (02:39)

What is a Thermapen? (04:31)

Why are glass containers better for storage than plastic containers? (04:56)

What is the value of the cast-iron skillet in the kitchen? (06:17)

What are the pros and cons of the microwave? (11:08)

What are the benefits of sous vide? (13:11)

What are the dangers of using kitchen items with nonstick coatings? (13:51)

What kitchen cleaning products and methods have you found safe, effective, and minimal that prevent foodborne illnesses and keep everything spotless when not in use? (20:40)

How do we ensure we keep the appropriate amount of food on hand for our household? (27:16)

How do we efficiently and effectively cook in tiny kitchens? (33:22)

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The Minimalists talk about functional movement with Aaron Alexander, author of The Align Method, and they answer the following questions:

What daily exercises will help us move with the most freedom and the least pain? (02:18)

How do our postural patterns affect our overall health? (06:33)

What is the “55-38-7 Principle”? (07:47)

Is sitting for long periods unhealthy? (09:52) 

What movements during daily office work are beneficial? (17:03)

What is the most ideal sitting position? (20:13)

What is the value of stillness? (26:22)

What are the most appropriate workspace ergonomics for those that spend long hours at desks? (31:15)

How do we best relax? (33:17)

How important is appropriate breathing? (37:25)

What is “learned helplessness”? (45:07)

How do we reevaluate our movements? (46:45)

What is “piezoelectricity”? (48:26)

What is “parasitic tension”? (51:07)

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The Minimalists discuss why far too many of us spend far too much on storage containers, “clutter coffins,” of all sizes, yet the best way to organize our stuff isn’t to store it in a basement mausoleum—the best way to organize is to get rid of the excess stuff—and they answer the following questions:

What has contributed to the rise of the storage business? (01:40)

What do you consider “clutter coffins”? (05:19)

When are storage units useful? (07:22)

What is the average profit margin of the storage industry? (14:26)

What does the phrase “Be present” mean to you? (16:27)

How do I reconcile my love of scrapbooking and its requisite accoutrements with my striving to live a minimalist lifestyle? (17:35)

What is “legalism”? (20:03)

What is your perspective regarding the zero-waste movement? (22:20)

What are the origins of spring cleaning? (26:26)

How do my partner and I determine how much stuff we should actually save for our future child? (26:56)

How do you determine what is worth storing? (32:03)

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The Minimalists talk about sustainable living with environmentalist Claire Potter, and they answer the following questions:

What impact did the pandemic have on our environment with all of the disposable items designed to protect us from infection, and how can we move forward safely with less waste? (01:39)

How biodegradable are biodegradable plastics? (06:25)

What are the pros and cons of plastic? (07:29)

How do we stay motivated and inspire others to live a sustainable, minimalist lifestyle when those around us do not; that is, if we live sustainably but more people live unsustainably, aren’t all of our efforts meaningless? (09:25)

What is your perspective regarding sustainability? (11:20)

What is the “circular economy”? (12:28)

How much does farming crops damage the environment compared to farming meat? (20:22)

How do we frame sustainable living to interest non-environmentalists? (28:32)

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The Minimalists talk about how much stuff is enough stuff, and how much stuff is too much stuff, and they answer the following questions:

How do we avoid apathy when we’re sorting generations of stuff? (02:25)

What does “letting go” mean to you? (04:51)

When you have too much stuff, how do you determine what to let go and where to send it—yard sale, online consignment, donation center, or, very worst-case scenario, landfill? (08:54)

What is The Minimalists’ process for letting go? (10:17)

How do we appropriately address a loved one’s consumerism that causes us discomfort? (16:45)

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The Minimalists talk about simple pets with Dr. Karen Shaw Becker and Rodney Habib, authors of The Forever Dog, and they answer the following questions: Do humans actually need pets? (02:30) What does the acronym “DOGS” represent? (10:37)

How many pets are too many? (13:03)

What is a puppy scam? (16:32)

What is genetic deletion? (18:02)

What is a healthy diet for pets? (20:39)

How do we ensure a superlative longevity for our pets’ lives? (26:30)

How do I address my spouse’s frustrations with a pet when I get value from the companionship and care of the pet but they do not? (28:32)

How much exercise does my pet need? (30:28)

How do we ensure we don’t become totally consumed by our pet guardian identities? (33:50)

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Why do sales seem particularly pernicious now? (04:06)

What are the two kinds of surprise purchases? (07:44)

Do manufacturers bear any burden for creating superfluous products that exist as little more than items to be purchased as surprise gifts for others based on their novelty rather than their practicality? (11:33)

Are we being too dismissive of new technology that seems to promote sedentary lifestyles but could be incredibly helpful to the physically challenged? (19:34)

How do we get our partners to include us in the purchasing processes of significant items? (25:20)

How do you define “compassion”? (29:32)

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The Minimalists question the beliefs, opinions, and worldviews that have shaped all of us with Michael Gungor, author of THIS, and they answer the following questions:

Why did Michael write THIS? (03:30)

Why does getting everything we want often bring misery instead of joy? (06:07)

How do we determine if a belief no longer serves us? (11:48)

What does “belief” mean to you? (13:26)

How do our beliefs form? (15:47)

How do you break the constant collective mindset of depression and anxiety when you grew up in a family that believed it was simply an ever-present state of being? (21:26)

How do you define “anxiety”? (23:25)

Did Michael discover a deeper truth through his experience with different religions? (32:51)

What is your perspective regarding truth? (33:50)

What does it mean to “add value”? (36:23)

​If I’ve given everything I can to please those I must please in my profession, what more can I do to show my commitment to the cause? (39:06)

What does “need” mean to you? (42:54)

How do we determine when a struggle has become futile and move on? (45:07)

What are your thoughts regarding the ego? (46:04)

What does “heaven” and “hell” mean to you? (50:37)

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What causes panic buying? (01:46)

What are the causes of supply-chain shortages? (08:09)

What have you seen purchased in recent panic-buying frenzies? (12:42)

When might it be appropriate to panic? (14:26)

Is it ever advisable to simply save money for medical emergencies rather than spending that money monthly on health insurance? (15:13)

Can everything be negotiated? (22:18)

Do other countries respond to crises with panic buying similar to the United States? (25:08)

Where is the line between preparation and hoarding? (28:13)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists discuss the physical clutter that is created by mental clutter with Dr. Amishi Jha, and they answer the following questions:

What are the ideal steps to reduce mental clutter? (01:46)

How do we refine our attention? (07:40)

What is the “Find Your Flashlight Practice”? (12:51)

How do we let go of sentimental stuff that has continuously piled up for decades and is physically and mentally holding us back? (13:49)

How do we wind up emotionally attached to stuff? (17:41)

How do we appropriately develop new habits? (21:22)

What is “contingent reality”? (21:33)

How do you maintain mindfulness in the corporate world amid the constant bombardment of demands from obligations and responsibilities? (23:42)

What is “task switching”? (27:09)

How do we enjoy wholly disconnecting in our free time without feeling like we’ve wasted time? (29:22)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Should I hold on to collectibles so I can pass them on to my children if they become valuable? (01:40)

How do I address a hoard of just-in-case items I’ve stashed for use at work? (10:22)

How can boundaries help with just-in-case items? (14:28)

How do you address the ‘I-told-you-so’ crowd regarding just-in-case items you purged that you must purchase again? (27:31)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists are joined by philosopher Peter Rollins to discuss nihilism, despair, anger, and depression, and they answer the following questions:

How are nihilism and minimalism related? (02:57)

Is Fight Club’s Tyler Durden an example of nihilism? (05:33)

What did Nietzsche mean by the “death of God”? (07:11)

What started the recent rise in nihilism? (10:58)

Is anger merely unrealized expectations? (12:21)

What is the “belief through the other”? (17:22)

How do you define “fundamentalism”? (18:32)

Are nihilism and pessimism the same perspective? (19:03)

How do we overcome pessimism? (20:24)

What would cause someone to become a nihilist? (21:38)

Why did Nietzsche believe we must all experience the death of God? (23:25)

What is “dialectics”? (24:15)

How do I help myself and my children adequately recover and move on after the death of their father ‬and the disintegration of my second marriage? (26:36)

What are “beta-elements”? (29:27)

What is an “alpha function”? (29:45)

What is your perspective regarding “symptoms”? (30:47)

What is the value of a psychotherapist for those of us struggling with issues? (31:04)

How do you find new meaning in life when the meaning you wanted is no longer an option? (33:21)

How do you define “depression”? (34:11)

What is the “object cause of desire”? (33:54)

How do you define “love”? (36:59)

How do you address a void? (40:24)

Why do you consider Los Angeles the most religious place in the world? (43:12)

What is “leveling”? (49:33)

What is the difference between a problem and a mystery? (53:34)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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What documents are essential to keep? (02:11)

What companies do you recommend for scanning physical photos and storing them in the cloud? (06:45)

What are the most effective methods for organizing important paper documents in the office? (18:22)

What resources do you use to keep paper clutter from ever entering your homes? (22:02)

Where do I begin tackling a monster of paper clutter that threatens to eat up an inordinate amount of time? (25:19)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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The Minimalists are joined by T.K. Coleman in Atlanta to discuss minimalism with purpose, resolving conflict, and creating a “social budget,” and they answer the following questions:

When have you found telling the truth problematic? (03:04)

Is minimalism a Western solution for overconsumption? (07:20)

Why are so many so consumed with consumption? (08:54)

What is the “American Dream”? (10:03)

What makes us singularly human? (11:51)

What is minimalism to you? (13:15)

How do you appropriately resolve conflict with loved ones in a family business? (18:11)

How do you define “love”? (27:40)

What is your perspective regarding power? (29:15)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan are joined by counselor, podcaster, and author Ian Morgan Cron to discuss identity clutter and the outdated stories people tell themselves, and they answer the following questions:

How do you start rewriting your story when you feel overwhelmed and insecure about who you are and who you want to be? (02:23)

What does the acronym “SOAR” represent? (06:27)

What is “act as-if”? (07:38)

How do you discover your true identity after traumatically losing your societal identities? (10:20)

What is the difference between a role and an identity? (11:41)

How can the Enneagram help us discover ourselves? (13:41)

How do you define “personality”? (14:31)

What is the role of self-awareness in personality and in identity? (16:29)

How do beliefs become problematic? (23:46)

How do I find peace with who I am? (28:51)

How do you define “shame”? (30:10)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan discuss the pros and cons of hustle culture, and they answer the following questions:

Do some people claim they’re busy to be envied for being in demand? (01:01)

What is the difference between “hurry” and “hustle”? (05:46)

How do you define “productive”? (06:45)

What is the fatal flaw of hustle culture? (08:51)

How can we break free of hustle culture? (13:31)

How do you appropriately address burnout with yourself or an employer before it reaches the point of no return? (17:07)

How do I set appropriate boundaries in my profession? (19:45)

After leaving an extraordinarily stressful career, how do I resist the temptation to take on another one for “success” and wealth? (25:53)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan talk about what they’ve learned, how they’ve grown, and in what ways they’ve subtracted since they started The Minimalists eleven years ago, and they answer the following questions:

How has your understanding of, and approach toward, minimalism developed over the last eleven years? (00:00)

Why does minimalism seem radical? (05:34)

How do we address our issue with clinging? (06:44)

What is the most important lesson you’ve learned about consumerism? (10:13)

What is the “god-shaped hole”? (12:04)

Based on your eleven years of experience in minimalism, what advice do you have for those of us starting on our minimalism journey at an older age? (16:38)

Is deprivation helpful? (24:03)

If you had the power to make everyone a minimalist, would you do it? (28:53)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan speak with Amanda Montell, author of Cultish, about what makes a cult a cult, and they answer the following questions:

Who decides whether a cult is a cult? (00:00)

Are cults strictly negative? (02:08)

Is CrossFit a cult? (04:33)

How do otherwise reasonable people fall susceptible to cults? (11:58)

What are the characteristics of a cult? (13:55)

What is the “thought-terminating cliche”? (15:47)

What are the “exit costs” of cults? (21:29)

What are some red flags to look for regarding cults? (22:25)

Can you explain the US-centric terms being used regarding cults? (32:08)

Why does it seem the US is replete with cults? (32:35)

How do cults start? (34:30)

What is the “cult of consumerism”? (36:43)

How do cult members not see how it’s hurting them when it’s so obvious to everyone else? (39:37)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan talk about giving gifts, getting gifts, and sometimes refusing gifts as a minimalist during Christmastime, and they answer the following questions:

How do I address the guilt I feel when I don’t get a Christmas gift for someone that expected one? (01:13)

Can gift-giving be a love language? (21:49)

What are some clutter-free gift ideas? (25:46)

What are the three types of fun? (28:02)

What is the minimalist approach to Christmas stockings? (32:51)

What are some good charities for children? (36:50)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan talk about expired food, expired medications, expired possessions, and expired daily habits, and they answer the following questions:

How can we appropriately manage the expiration dates of everything in our lives? (00:00)

Is the expiration date listed on food the last day it can be used? (06:57)

How do I appropriately let go of perishable items that no longer serve me, especially when there was a degree of expense involved? (13:45)

What do you consider clutter? (15:21)

What can we do about expired sources of content, such as a blog with dated viewpoints, narratives, and opinions? (17:42)

How do we determine when we’ve entered a new season in life and it’s time to let go of hobbies, friendships, and dreams of past seasons? (21:41)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan talk about so-called luxury items—desiring them, purchasing them, clinging to them, understanding them, and letting go of them—and they answer the following questions:

How do you define “luxury item”? (01:10)

How do we differentiate between luxury, elegance, and trendy? (06:04)

As my fiance and I are creating our wedding registry, how do we ensure we don’t fall into the trap of exploiting the kindness of others for luxury items that will just fill the areas we just decluttered? (11:09)

What is “expensive pain”? (13:23)

What is an “alternative registry”? (15:44)

Is crowdsourcing a reasonable way to fund a honeymoon? (17:07)

Why do some pursue luxury instead of living within their means? (20:29)

What is “low-grade misery”? (36:02)

What is the ultimate luxury? (36:49)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan talk about earning a living doing work that matters with career expert, author, and Ramsey personality Ken Coleman, and they answer the following questions:

Does one have to have a “purpose” at work? (02:16)

What three elements make up one’s purpose? (03:13)

Must a purpose be a lofty pursuit? (09:33)

What do you recommend as the best options for making money on the road for those of us that want to travel and see the world? (16:00)

How do I balance pursuing a purpose with the responsibilities and obligations of being a parent and a spouse? (24:01)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan discuss The Minimalists’ Spontaneous Combustion Rule as it applies to material possessions, relationships, and homes, and they answer the following questions:

What is the Spontaneous Combustion Rule? (01:00) How do we determine when it’s appropriate to let go of friendships, and how do we address the aftermath of loneliness when there are no new friendships to fill the void? (04:12) What are the three types of relationships? (07:39) How do we address the overwhelm we feel from others’ stuff when we’re living in an environment that’s not our own? (13:42) How do we know if the desire to move to a new place that may “fit us better” is a genuine feeling and not just escapism? (24:30)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan are joined by Ryan’s wife, Mariah, on the occasion of his 40th birthday, and they talk about the wisdom that accompanies midlife maturity, as well as answer the following questions:

When do maturity, wisdom, and knowledge best align? (00:00) What is Ryan’s favorite dinner? (11:50) How have your needs in a romantic partnership changed as you move toward your 40s? (13:05) What is “whataboutism”? (17:15) How has responding instead of reacting helped your relationship? (18:21) Are Ryan and Mariah always in agreement regarding their minimalist practices; and, if not, how do they find compromise with one another? (22:58) How do you find equilibrium in your relationship when an individual is on their minimalist journey but their partner is not? (32:13) What is the “hedonic treadmill”? (46:13) What guests have you had at your tour stops? (47:41)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan talk about inner conflict, self-doubt, and self-hatred with author, speaker, and attorney Mel Robbins, and they answer the following questions:

How do I rebuild my relationship with myself? (02:06)

What is the most important relationship in our life? (02:59)

What moment led to the High Five Habit? (08:42)

Why do most mantras not work? (15:22)

How did you keep from blaming yourselves and beating yourselves up for the failure of your marriages, and how did you restore your confidence in starting new relationships afterward? (16:54)

What does a high five represent? (19:39)

Can thinking about yourself negatively actually benefit you positively? (26:06)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about finding something more compelling than material possessions, and they answer the following questions:

Why is Salt Lake City one of Joshua’s favorite cities? (00:00)

How do I explain to my children the importance of curating their toys in terms they’ll understand? (03:14)

How do I let go of a relationship I didn’t end? (09:59)

Why am I relentlessly searching for the next thing that will improve my life, and how do I better channel that energy? (17:56)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan talk about trading in our materialistic clinging for transcendent freedom with author, podcaster, and comedian Lisa Lampanelli, and they answer the following questions:

How do you define “humor”? (00:00)

What is the “United States of Avoidance”? (08:26)

When life changes your path, how do you stop clinging to the hope you once had? (14:20)

How do we accept the death of a dream? (15:33)

What do you mean by “daring to suck”? (17:45)

Is it helpful to simply treat our passions as hobbies until they pay the bills? (18:25)

How did Lisa get her start in comedy? (20:18)

When a loved one has passed, how do I honor their final wishes as executor and appropriately distribute the possessions they clung to when they did not leave specific instructions for doing so? (22:46)

How do you stop clinging to the security of a job simply because it pays well? (29:56)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan talk about calm, serenity, and the sound of simplicity with musician Andrew Belle, and they answer the following questions:

How do we find serenity in the echoes of our decluttered spaces? (00:00)

If you’re living a life that aligns with your values, why would it be necessary to take a vacation from it to find solace and silence? (13:39)

Is there any evidence that overconsumption of podcasts or other informative audio is linked to anxiety? (21:08)

How do we move closer to access and further from excess? (24:18)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan talk about resisting the incessant tug of consumerism while striving to simplify, and they answer the following questions:

How do we overcome our shopping addiction? (00:00)

What are the three prime indicators of compulsive buying? (04:00)

What is consumerism? (06:45)

When does something become an addiction? (09:39)

Why do people have shopping addictions? (19:17)

When creating a capsule wardrobe and running up against challenges regarding durability, should we buy more clothes at once or purchase clothes more often? (19:35)

What is Project 333? (21:33)

How do I adjust my shopping habits so they better align with my minimalist practices? (26:01)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan talk about removing the excess to expose the everyday beauty that’s all around us with author, podcaster, and pastor Erwin Raphael McManus, and they answer the following questions:

What exactly is “beauty”? (00:00)

Can beauty help us find peace? (05:01)

How do we discover and incorporate singular beautiful accents and items throughout our homes while maintaining a simple, minimalist style? (11:55)

What is the value of negative space? (14:21)

How do we find the beauty inside ourselves, and then be content with it? (18:42)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about the folly of the self-help industry’s focus on exhausting positivity—on trying to convince us that we can out-eat, out-learn, and out-perform our humanness—with author, podcaster, and professor Kate Bowler, and they answer the following questions:

What is the “gospel of hustle”? (00:00)

What are the signs that positivity has become toxic for us as individuals, and what are the signs that our well-intentioned positive vibes are becoming toxic to others? (06:58)

Where did the ‘good vibes only’ orthodoxy originate? (07:21)

Why does complaining seem to encourage camaraderie? (10:03)

What is the problem with the language of positivity? (10:43)

What is “horizon work”? (12:23)

What is “choice poor”? (12:38)

How do we address those that weaponize perspectives, such as toxic positivity, to bully us into accepting and adopting their way of thinking as our own; for example, when people that disapprove of minimalism call minimalists “privileged”? (17:11)

How do you define “elitism”? (21:45)

What is “prudential wisdom”? (23:39)

Where did the notion come from that being positive is the cure for everything, the path for everyone, the solution to whatever life throws at you—what is wrong with embracing sadness, contemplation, grief, anxiety? (31:35)

What is “limited agency”? (33:13)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan talk about how to avoid recluttering our lives with new possessions, burdens, and obligations once we’ve excised our excess, and they answer the following questions:

What is “recluttering”? (00:00)

How do we address recluttering with loved ones and roommates who seem to see our clean spaces as places to dump their stuff that doesn’t have a home? (07:55)

How do we ensure the items we bring back into our homes after decluttering don’t become recluttering? (18:11)

How do I figure out my ‘why’ for recluttering? (32:15)

What’s problematic about having options? (35:02)

How do you define “consumerism”? (35:39)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan discuss our escalating advice epidemic as our society swells with scores of well-meaning people advising other people on what they are supposed to do, and they answer the following questions:

What are ‘shoulds’? (00:00)

What possesses some people to insist on giving others unsolicited advice? (03:13)

How can we provide appropriate advice and/or guidance to loved ones to alter behaviors that are impacting us negatively? (17:46)

How do our expectations complicate things? (21:14)

How do we critically evaluate all the ‘shoulds’ out there and take what works for each of us? (23:34)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about all the digital clutter on our computers, phones, tablets, and other devices taking up space on our hard drives and in our minds, and they answer the following questions:

What are the benefits of not having digital clutter taking up space in your mind? (00:00)

What is the Diderot effect? (04:48)

What do you define as ‘digital clutter’? (10:41)

Where do we start in addressing digital clutter to ensure we stay focused and motivated and not get overwhelmed with all of it? (13:31)

As an avid gamer, how do I ensure I don’t let my enthusiasm and passion for gaming turn into clutter with all of the games and consoles available, and how do I ensure it doesn’t consume me to the detriment of my relationships? (21:00)

How about a basic overview of how to manage it all: emails, documents, photos? (30:18)

How can overwhelm actually help us? (33:17)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about the perniciousness of compulsive decluttering (aka obsessive-compulsive spartanism) on the occasion of their 300th episode, and they answer the following questions:

What is spartanism? (00:00)

Hoarding, spartanism, ad nauseum—must we diagnose everything? (06:06)

How do we recognize and respect the challenges of others? (06:59)

How could letting go of everything be a bad thing? (11:16)

How do we ensure our decluttering doesn’t trigger other compulsive behaviors; for instance, the compulsion to constantly check our phones for notifications when we’re trying to sell what we decluttered? (11:46)

What is the “art of noticing”? (17:38)

When does minimalism turn into compulsive decluttering or obsessive-compulsive spartanism—what signs do we look for? (19:40)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan talk about “summer simplifying,” and they answer the following questions:

Which moniker won in your audience poll—“simpletons” or “minimizers”? (00:00)

Where do you start when your entire home needs decluttering? (06:04)

What is the most important thing to do to get started? (10:04)

How do we get our children to participate in decluttering? (13:27)

How do I break my emotional and sentimental attachment to my collection of books, and how do I appropriately curate my collection and recycle the books I don’t keep? (14:07)

What is the Enneagram? (22:19)

What do we do with items that have a sentimental attachment? (25:51)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about the best options for therapy when you’re feeling sad, grieving, depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed with author, podcaster, and psychotherapist Lori Gottlieb, and they answer the following questions:

When is the appropriate time to talk to a therapist? (00:00)

What is “idiot compassion” compared to “wise compassion”? (02:53)

What is self-sabotage, and how can we identify and address its manifestation in us? (04:03)

What is the most important phase of change? (05:45)

What is the most challenging part of change? (07:09)

Why should someone schedule a session with a therapist? (08:48)

What key power can therapy give us? (09:49)

What do we do when cost is an impediment to mental healthcare? (11:26)

What are the downsides of trying to help others change? (14:42)

What mantras, self-talk, meditations, et cetera, have helped keep you focused, centered, and positive when addressing significant life challenges? (18:15)

In their lives, to whom do most people talk the most? (19:17)

How do we give ourselves self-compassion? (22:06)

How do we get past childhood traumas and disappointments? (23:42)

What is “forced forgiveness”? (25:24)

Must we forgive to move on? (26:15)

How do we handle pride appropriately? (27:13)

Why does there seem to be a stigma against mental health in older generations, and, more specifically, how can we get our parents to talk about their feelings and vulnerabilities? (29:35)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about the minimalism rules that have helped simplify their lives, and they answer the following questions:

How valuable are rules? (00:00)

How important are boundaries? (04:56)

Once I only have my essential items, how do I keep them from wearing out quickly? (18:48)

How is minimalism not a destination? (19:47)

What is our language problem? (20:19)

How effective is it to reverse clothes hangers to minimize a wardrobe? (27:17)

Is it helpful to restrict the amount of clothes hangers to create an appropriate wardrobe? (28:20)

How do you develop and maintain the discipline needed to stick to your minimalism rules or other habits you're trying to establish? (30:26)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about healing our relationships with stuff, truth, self, values, money, creativity, and people with podcaster and Director of Entrepreneurial Education for FEE, T.K. Coleman, and they answer the following questions:

What gave you the inspiration for Love People, Use Things? (00:00)

Do we learn more from those that have been redeemed, or from those that have led “perfect” lives? (08:51)

How did the line blur so much between private lives and public lives? (10:31)

How do I reconcile with my minimalist values when I must trash items I no longer use that can’t be donated, recycled, or upcycled? (13:48)

What is the true cost of things?  (14:43)

How do I justify to my minimalist self that it’s okay to have numerous accoutrements for several hobbies that bring me joy? (21:00)

What separates minimalism from dogmatism? (23:57)

How do I rejuvenate my creativity when I’m overwhelmed by burnout? (36:04)

How do we avoid falling into maintenance mode as creatives? (40:31)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan discuss the perils of pursuing fame, clout, and attention in today's insta-world with director Nick Bilton and artist Chris Bailey of HBO’s Fake Famous, and they answer the following questions:

Why did Nick make a film about fake fame? (00:00)

What constitutes actual fame? (07:01)

What impact is social media having on our children? (09:24)

How has Chris’s life changed since the film? (13:04)

Why do the people who just post photos of themselves in skimpy outfits and pouts get five million followers, yet the people who actually have something meaningful to say get only a handful of followers? (21:27)

What is the number one photo opportunity in L.A. for influencers? (26:49)

What is an “Instagram vacation”? (27:55)

If maintaining social media accounts is part of our daily work, how do we incorporate minimalism to ensure our use is intentional, appropriate, and valuable? (28:38)

What value have you gotten from social media? (32:19)

Has the experience of the global pandemic actually helped us get away from our glowing screens? (32:57)

What is the prime purpose of social media? (35:52)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about gift-getting, gift-giving, and birthday celebrations for adults and kids alike with podcaster and Registered Dietitian Rebecca Shern, and they answer the following questions:

What does Joshua want for his birthday? (00:00)

Why do we never seem to know what we truly want? (04:06)

Instead of spending lots of money and giving expensive gifts, what are some meaningful ways to celebrate birthdays? (06:22)

How do you celebrate your child’s birthday? (07:27)

What if gift-giving is one of my love languages? (11:14)

How do you celebrate your birthday? (14:57)

Is gift-giving just a matter of simply asking others what they want? (17:31)

How do we appropriately address a loved one who insists on giving us gifts when we’ve asked them countless times not to, and do we tell them that we’ve actually given away most of the gifts they’ve given us? (18:20)

How do my spouse and I address the societal expectations of others regarding our choice of participation in traditional gift-giving events, such as birthdays and Christmas? (31:04)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about how minimalism, in more ways than one, is about starting over with less, and they answer the following questions:

How do we start over? (00:00)

As I’m letting everything go and starting over, how do I explain it to my friends and family who think I am crazy or terminally ill? (05:25)

What advice do you have for those of us dealing with the stress and anxiety of being forced to start over professionally after being let go from our jobs? (09:06) 

What is absolutely essential? (11:51)

What two questions should we ask ourselves when we’re considering a fresh start? (14:43)

How important is an emergency fund when you’re starting over? (15:46)

Is starting over simply a matter of considering a new direction? (16:23)

When you’re starting over from scratch and you realize you can’t do it alone, how do you get over your pride and ask others for help? (17:46)

What is the difference between enhancement and dependency? (19:38)

Why should we give money rather than loan money? (21:56)

When you’re starting over with nothing, how do you live without sentimental stuff in your life? (25:53)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about what we must refine to ensure our spiritual and material lives align with author, podcaster, and fitness expert Ben Greenfield and podcaster and Registered Dietitian Rebecca Shern, and they answer the following questions:

What is a “fit soul”? (00:00)

What are the dangers of transactional relationships? (08:47)

What are the four pillars of the spiritual journey? (13:35)

What is the practice of self-examination? (18:02)

How do we determine our purpose? (21:38)

Is there a link between sex and spirituality? (26:44)

How do you explain sex to your children? (29:21)

What is “eye gazing”? (33:58)

How do you punish and reward your children? (36:12)

What is the “God-shaped hole”? (39:59)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan talk about how we all seem to find ourselves having the things we don’t need, and needing the things we don’t have—and how we’re so disconnected from our communities that bartering for those things is nearly impossible—with the founder of HaveNeed, Josh Kline, and they answer the following questions:

What is HaveNeed? (00:00)

How has the pandemic affected bartering? (04:01)

What is your distinction between items that are essential, nonessential, and junk? (06:16)

What would the world look like if there was no such thing as money, which has a vice-like grip on the material world; that is, what would the world look like if it ran strictly on barter? (07:02)

What is the history of bartering? (07:26)

What is the “mutual coincidence of wants”? (08:11)

What is “Object A”? (13:44)

Bartering has been around forever, but seems to have fallen out of favor in recent times—why? (26:51)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about our want for things, why we want what we want, and how we can free ourselves from chasing unfulfilling desires with author and professor Luke Burgis, and they answer the following questions:

What is mimetic desire? (00:00)

Does it help to identify the origins of our desires? (05:05)

Should we strive to be immune from desires? (06:54)

What is negative imitation? (08:22)

How do we find fulfilling desires? (08:48)

Can a relentless desire to be debt-free actually cause adverse unintended consequences? (12:39)

What are “borrowed desires”? (16:17)

What costs should we consider in the pursuit of our desires? (18:13)

What is a “misery tax”? (19:42)

How do we recognize and address the influences, especially those online, that promote mindless consumption? (24:08)

How is social media addictive? (24:39)

What is “hate watching”? (26:33)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about how to take back control of our income and our creative outcomes by making a living on our own as an aspiring creator, small business owner, artist, or entrepreneur with the CEO of Patreon, Jack Conte, and they answer the following questions:

Why did Jack start Patreon? (04:40)

Where do you find the most practical feedback from your audience? (13:25)

How do I best prepare myself to make the jump from working full-time for others to working full-time as a small business owner with as much tranquility as possible? (15:46)

What should be my primary focus as a budding entrepreneur? (18:20)

How did Jack benefit from his “not be prudent” approach to his professional pursuits? (22:23)

When do you know it’s time to turn your side hustle into your full-time business? (26:00)

What is the first step I should take to become an online creator? (27:32)

What do you mean by “add value”? (28:55)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about our desire for friendship that leads us to accumulate scores of friends, acquaintances, coworkers, partners, lovers, companions, contacts, colleagues, and associates; our realization that relationship clutter is getting in the way of loving, meaningful connections; and they answer the following questions:

Is it loving to let go? (00:00)

How can I stop feeling pressured to keep up with so many connections? (03:57)

I’ve never struggled to declutter my “friends” on social media when they no longer have a meaningful place in my life, but how do I explain their removal when they ask me about it without hurting their feelings? (13:53)

What does a truly healthy friendship look like? (20:56)

How do we ensure mutual respect in a relationship? (28:46)

How do we appropriately apply attention in a relationship? (29:43)

How do you define “toxic relationship”? (34:49)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about that empty feeling we all experience from time to time—and the things we do when we attempt to fill the void—with podcaster, writer, and director Jennette McCurdy, and they answer the following questions:

Why did Jennette start her podcast? (00:00)

What is the disconnect between our higher quality of life in this modern age and our happiness? (04:26)

How does society and culture influence disorders? (06:21)

Why do others often insist we not give up our “successful” careers? (10:59)

What are the three different types of relationships? (14:06)

How do we appropriately manage expectations in relationships? (16:09)

I think minimalism can help many of my loved ones find meaning in their lives and avoid the void, but I find it difficult to communicate it to them effectively so they see and understand the benefits and find it more attractive than the rat race they’re in—any tips? (20:01)

What is the elevator pitch for minimalism? (20:35)

How do you address the shame that sometimes accompanies minimalism? (23:50)

How is power the opposite of freedom? (24:26)

Was Jennette shamed for walking away from her acting career? (25:40)

Does confidence come from consistency? (26:58)

Filling our voids with stuff isn’t good, but what is good—what should we replace that consumption urge with that is meaningful? (28:37)

What is the “suckhole”? (33:33)

Why is Jennette’s podcast titled Empty Inside? (36:28)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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Joshua and Ryan discuss identifying how much is enough so we can subtract the excess to get there, and they answer the following questions:

What is “enoughism”? (00:00)

How is enoughism different from minimalism? (03:04)

Given that the key to transformation is understanding our ‘whys,’ why does anyone truly want more, and, conversely, why does anyone truly want less? (12:20)

When it comes to a small business, how much record-keeping is enough and what is the ideal way to store it? (24:57)

How does renouncing something create an attachment to it? (30:09)

How do we learn to recognize the difference between enough and a false sense of security and comfort from unnecessary consumerism? (39:35)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about our constant search for meaning, purpose, and significance; they discuss ways we can rethink spirituality, sex, and death with author Jamie Wheal; and they answer the following questions:

What is “meaning”? (01:04)

Why do we always seem to look for shortcuts? (03:57)

What are heuristics? (05:30)

What constitutes a true nihilist? (13:39)

Is awareness a curse? (16:55)

Once we find meaning in life, do we have a duty to help others find meaning as well? (18:25)

What is the difference between being selfish and being self-centered? (20:01)

What is the Hedonic treadmill? (25:19)

What is the difference between narcissism and nihilism? (27:29)

What is rapture ideology? (35:35)

How does one find meaning after a close loved one has passed and they are struggling to deal with the passing? (40:43)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan discuss how we’re too often led astray by the status quo and how we can benefit from doing the opposite, and they answer the following questions:

What does it mean to be authentic? (00:00)

What is so problematic about trends? (04:58)

Can we find meaning in suffering? (10:56)

Why are opinions so inconsequential? (20:48)

When have you benefited from thinking the opposite? (22:21)

I’m being advised by my ethics class in college that retirement is detrimental to our growth and development as human beings—do you think that is true? (29:20)

What is the best kind of growth? (34:31)

Some of the worst advice I’ve received is, “Fake it until you make it”—what is wrong with being a work in progress? (44:30)

How is all advice flawed advice? (44:59)

Do we improve our lives more by addition or subtraction? (52:00)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan discuss minimizing and letting go of sentimental stuff, and they answer the following questions:

How do we tactfully and appropriately address loved ones regarding stuff they’ve given us that we’re giving away—especially those things they consider of significant sentimental value? (08:37)

How do we avoid arguments with loved ones regarding possessions? (14:40) 

Why does our brain try so hard to hold us back from releasing sentimental possessions? (18:03)

What do we do with all of the things associated with a loved one when we’ve lost them in a particularly tragic, traumatic way? (21:01)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan discuss trauma, the ego, and setting boundaries with holistic psychologist Dr. Nicole LePera, and they answer the following questions:

Why did Dr. LePera write her latest book? (02:31)

How do you start on a path to healing and commit to it when your motivation is almost nil? (04:34)

Why is it so difficult to break our patterns? (05:04)

How do we reframe failure? (07:38)

How important is the caloric intake of the brain? (08:35)

How do we recognize if a goal is empowering or disempowering? (13:09)

How do I work with loved ones to adjust our lifestyle preferences so I can attain and maintain mental peace? (13:36)

How do you forgive others and yourself and move forward when a loved one passes suddenly and you feel you haven’t had a chance to tell them everything you needed to, and how do you forgive others that you feel treated that person terribly in life and let go of the anger toward them? (18:30)

How are forgiveness and acceptance associated? (19:31)

How do we let go of anger? (25:37)

Are there types of bodywork that address the mind-body connection together, or are there types of psychotherapy that address the mind-body connection in tandem? (30:28)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan discuss emergency items, preparing for emergencies, and when it’s appropriate to hold on to certain just-in-case items, and they answer the following questions:

How do we prepare for chaos? (04:33)

What are the three types of emergencies? (05:49)

What do you keep in your car? (08:02)

How do we reconcile what we actually need with what we want? (12:12)

What is the most important thing in an emergency? (14:36)

What essentials should we keep in a first aid kit for both home and travel? (19:18)

What is the difference between an emergency item and a just-in-case item? (25:50)

How do you differentiate between just-in-case items and just-for-when items? (31:42)

What are “b.s. emergency items”? (36:36)

What books, websites, podcasts would you recommend as resources for information regarding emergency preparedness? (43:27)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan discuss the relationship between minimalism and environmentalism with author and environmental lawyer Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and they answer the following questions:

What is our biggest environmental problem, and is it too late to fix it? (01:38)

Since environmentalism is an idea that I cannot back down from, compromise on, or see from both sides, at what point is it dangerous to keep saying there are no ‘shoulds’? (04:33)

Why are landfills more prominent in the United States compared to Europe? (09:28)

How can we make individuals and companies more environmentally conscious? (11:47)

What is your opinion regarding the policy of the United States to ‘leap-first, look-later’ regarding environmental chemicals? (23:29)

What is the Toxic Substance Control Act? (27:36)

What are PFAs? (29:46)

Why have we seen such an increase in chronic diseases among children? (30:53)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about the problem of busyness and how we can better manage our time, and they answer the following questions:

Why can’t we ever seem to get ahead of our to-do lists? (01:43)

What lists do you find helpful? (02:13)

What is “busyness”? (06:42)

How do we gain more discretionary time despite the onslaught of modern obligations and responsibilities? (11:25)

Is striving for work-life balance a fruitless endeavor? (13:58)

Are there any tools that can help with our overwhelm? (16:06)

What is the fear related to busyness? (17:24)

What can someone do if they feel they’re too busy to figure out how to become less busy? (25:30)

Would you be doing what you’re doing today if you only had six months left to live? (28:28)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about hoarding—the clinical definition, the statistics, the causes, the symptoms, the common types, the risks, the recovery—and they answer the following questions:

What is the clinical definition of “hoarding”? (03:00)

What is “spartanism”? (03:35)

What are the common types of hoarding? (05:43)

What is the difference between hoarding and collecting? (09:30)

What is the “sunk-cost fallacy”? (11:02)

What are the symptoms of hoarding? (21:56)

What are the causes of hoarding? (23:30)

How is hoarding diagnosed? (27:51)

Do children hoard? (29:41)

When do obsessions become unhealthy? (31:38)

What are the five levels of hoarding? (32:04)

Are there affluent hoarders? (43:17)

How does one become a hoarder? (45:16)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about alternative living options—communal living, throuples, combined families, long-term singlehood, nomadic living—with the CEO and cofounder of Nourish Balance Thrive, Christopher Kelly, and they answer the following questions:

What is ancestral health? (03:20)

What has likely caused our overall decline in health? (05:08) 

Is our current status quo of living arrangements in detrimental conflict with the natural order? (07:28)

How do people continue to help the paradigm of the nuclear family work? (10:40)

How do we set appropriate boundaries with roommates and ensure those boundaries are not crossed to prevent theft, property damage, and tense co-living environments? (11:59)

What is Christopher’s communal living arrangement? (12:38)

Why did Christopher adopt his communal living arrangement? (13:53)

How does Christopher manage living with several different families? (15:34)

What is ‘helicopter parenting’? (20:53)

What is your definition of “commune”? (22:59)

What are the pros and cons of unusual living arrangements in cultures that wholly embrace them? (28:36)

What does the “WEIRD” acronym represent? (30:56)

How do you define “solitude”? (32:40)

What is Joshua’s living arrangement? (33:51)

What is the ‘sweet spot’ regarding how many people you can live with? (35:25)

Who created the monogamous nuclear family? (38:40)

At what point does a group become a cult? (48:50)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about unsubscribing and unfollowing anything that doesn’t bring tranquility or increase well-being, and they answer the following questions:

How has unsubscribing and unfollowing helped your tranquility? (08:36)

Should we attempt to explain ourselves to others when they question our minimalist lifestyle, or simply invite them to ‘unfollow’ us? (12:37)

Can minimalism help us bring order back to our chaotic lives? (14:44)

How do we determine the appropriate ‘path’? (18:50)

We can’t impose tranquility on the world around us, so how do we adjust our internal settings to maintain inner tranquility? (23:10)

Why do insults irritate us so intensely? (29:09)

How do we adjust relationships that are predicated on conflict? (31:20)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about letting go—letting go of sentimental items, letting go of junk, letting go of anxiety and stress—letting go of anything that harms our well-being or interrupts our peace, and they answer the following questions:

How do our things own us? (02:53)

Given that I’m under a deadline to move, how can I increase my decluttering pace without becoming overwhelmed and stressed? (08:44)

Are there circumstances where a storage unit makes sense? (11:04)

When the amount of your belongings is completely overwhelming, how—and where—do you even start? (18:06)

Why are we so obsessed with prescriptiveness? (18:54)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about raising organized children with behavioral and developmental pediatrician Dr. Damon Korb, and they answer the following questions:

What are executive functions? (01:34)

What is behavioral pediatrics? (02:18)

What do you mean by “organized children”? (02:47)

How has the pandemic affected children’s health? (03:24)

How do we set appropriate boundaries with our children? (04:58)

How do we help our children adopt minimalist practices that stick at an early age so they don’t lose them and suffer the consequences in adulthood? (05:38)

How can we be minimalist parents? (06:50)

How can we teach our children to be problem-solvers? (09:51)

How can we help our children deal with boredom? (10:35)

What advice do you have for first-time parents? (14:43)

How do you balance setting boundaries with a child while still allowing them room to explore and learn about who they are? (19:16)

How do we appropriately handle our expectations regarding our children? (21:54)

What are the “5 H’s” regarding kids? (27:30)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about success, failure, fulfillment, and satisfaction—and how incessantly chasing those things can lead to foolness rather than fullness—and they answer the following questions:

What does success mean to you? (03:06)

What are your beliefs regarding spirituality? (07:38)

How do value judgments affect success? (13:08)

What is nihilism? (14:39)

How do I overcome my addiction to procrastination so I can focus on doing meaningful work? (17:00)

What are the two kinds of ‘haves’? (19:53)

What is the “thing you can’t not do”? (20:21) 

What is the best way to address distractions? (29:25)

What do you mean by “the costs we must pay”? (32:08)

How do you rebuild yourself and restructure your idea of success after a failure? (36:09) 

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about the mental, emotional, digital, and other clutter that reveals itself after we minimize our stuff, and they answer the following questions:

When are how-to’s helpful? (02:23)

How do we appropriately curate scanned photos so we’re not trading physical clutter for digital clutter? (13:57)

What advice do you have for young people who are embarking on their minimalist journeys so they have solid practices in place to prevent clutter? (25:43)

What one piece of advice would you give your younger self? (26:28)

How do we appropriately curate our many digital subscriptions and still satisfy ourselves since each service has programs exclusive to its platform? (31:56)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about love, relationships, sex, and parenting with blogger, podcaster, and Registered Dietitian Becca Shern, and they answer the following questions:

What is our language problem? (02:11)

What is the difference between loving someone and being in love with someone? (03:45)

What does commitment mean to you? (05:30)

What is your definition of “love”? (09:55)

How do you view unconditional love? (13:25)

How do you recognize when it’s time to end a relationship? (16:11)

What are the three components of a relationship? (24:16)

Why is compatibility the most difficult component of most relationships? (26:38)

Do you ever passionately disagree about important decisions that affect the entire family, and, if so, how do you handle compromise and conflict resolution? (31:44)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about reducing—or maybe even eliminating—obligations, and they answer the following questions:

What is your ‘context’? (02:23)

When is an obligation an actual obligation and not a perceived obligation? (04:31)

Is there a difference between commitment and obligation? (05:28)

What is the difference between want and desire? (07:04)

Do we truly want to be happy? (12:27)

What do you mean by ‘commitment’? (13:46)

How do I appropriately address societal obligations, such as charitable giving, when I don’t have the means to meet those obligations? (17:36)

What does ‘virtue’ mean? (25:47)

What is the difference between a community and a tribe? (26:38)

How do I prioritize financial obligations, such as debt? (29:24)

How do I step back from obligations I’ve accepted in the past? (41:47)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about starting over and kicking off the New Year with some friendly decluttering, and they answer the following questions:

How do I start decluttering? (04:02)

What is the difference between decluttering and organizing? (07:05)

How do I conduct an effective Packing Party? (07:38)

How do I get my kids involved in decluttering? (13:01)

How do I determine whether or not to keep a car that’s functional, but not ideal? (14:49)

Once you declutter, how do you keep the clutter from coming back? (21:52)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about habit change, letting go of stuff, and the creative process that went into making their new film, Less Is Now, with filmmaker Matt D’Avella, and they answer the following questions:

How long have you been working on Less Is Now? (01:50)

How did the Less Is Now project start? (05:51)

How did the Less Is Now project evolve? (07:49)

How did you settle on a budget for Less Is Now? (10:16)

How do you curate the absolute essential tools for your work when it seems to require an overwhelming amount of items? (12:29)

How can constraints help creativity? (22:09)

Will a college degree provide a significant advantage for me in the entertainment industry? (23:36)

Is it dangerous to try too many things? (33:27)

How is there creation in destruction? (35:30)

What advice do you have for someone that’s just starting out that wants to have a successful film career like you? (38:05)

What is the Slow Growth Academy? (53:36)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan discuss finding peace within and without with writer Leo Babauta, and they answer the following questions:

How can you be a minimalist with a large family? (03:34)

How did you start on your minimalist journey? (05:39)

Who inspired you to adopt minimalism? (09:06)

How do you convert other family members to minimalism to ensure peace when you’re living in close quarters? (11:32)

How important is it to recognize what you’ve accomplished? (12:46)

Is leading by example the best approach to helping others adopt minimalist practices? (15:50)

How do you recognize when you’re taking decluttering too far? (20:00)

Is there a danger in living to minimize? (22:05)

What does it mean to “question the ‘must’”? (28:52)

What is spartanism? (29:40)

What is Metta meditation? (32:00)

How do we shift between decluttering and simplifying to live a life of purpose? (35:04)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua treats The Minimalists’ audience to three exclusive conversations with Glennon Doyle (04:48), Dave Ramsey (18:13), and Derek Sivers (33:09) in celebration of the ten-year anniversary of The Minimalists, and they answer the following questions:

Has quarantining been a blessing in disguise for some people? (04:48)

Why do we have so much difficulty addressing our discontent? (07:46)

What is our ‘braver, bolder self’? (09:27)

How crucial is the ‘why’? (12:22)

Do we compound our problems by focusing on solutions? (14:19)

Has your financial advice changed in light of the pandemic? (19:03)

How crucial is a budget during a pandemic? (20:06)

Why do we have problems determining what is essential and what is nonessential? (22:14)

How is the pandemic likely to affect the housing market? (24:16)

How much more dangerous a practice is debt during a pandemic? (25:22)

What message of hope do you have regarding the pandemic? (27:28)

Is much of our brokenness attributable to the misalignment between our values and our actions? (30:28)

How did you develop your beliefs independent of the influence of others’ beliefs? (33:51)

How do you recognize when it’s time to let go? (37:23)

How has your relationship with material possessions changed over the years? (39:01)

Is it true that you even minimized your middle name? (41:59)

How do you decide when it’s time to move to a new place? (44:52)

How have your views on social media changed over the years? (53:27)

How much is enough? (57:43)

What are your views on ads? (60:15)

What is meta-inconsiderate? (1:07:10)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan discuss their evolution as The Minimalists over the last decade, and they answer the following questions:

Does it feel like ten years since you started The Minimalists? (03:44)

What did you believe about minimalism that you no longer do? (04:52)

How have we been lied to as a society? (07:41)

How is the word ‘hope’ problematic? (09:03)

Is there an issue with forming habits? (10:21)

What is the difference between the ‘how’ and the ‘why’? (12:33)

How might ‘help’ be a bad thing? (15:41)

How could balance be equated with mediocrity? (16:20)

How are solutions an issue? (18:21)

How have you adjusted your lifestyle as your popularity grows? (27:36)

How has your perspective of popularity changed? (27:36)

What’s one thing that is still challenging? (27:36)

Of what projects are you most proud? (30:18)

How can advice and truth be in conflict? (34:49)

What’s the biggest difference between you both now and ten years ago? (38:02)

What’s the problem with comparison? (39:13)

How are attachment and love incompatible? (40:39)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Rebecca Shern talk about what it really means to eat in a balanced way, how to improve our immune systems, and why our overall health is related to our gut health with author and VEEP Nutrition CEO Joel Greene, and they answer the following questions:

Why are the most common-sense health practices not obvious? (01:35)

What is the immune system, and why is it so important? (02:57) (03:25)

What is making us more susceptible to COVID-19? (05:10)

How crucial is it to control inflammation? (08:43)

How important is gut biome diversity? (10:30)

What is the apple-peel protocol? (13:01)

What is HMO? (13:52)

How does immunity begin in the gut? (14:58)

What is the order of operation to rebuild a healthy gut? (16:54)

Can meat heal a compromised gut? (23:23)

Can fasting help improve gut health? (26:23)

How important is a balanced diet? (28:13)

What are the best foods for ideal gut health? (28:44)

What is Joel Greene’s Chipotle hack? (30:10)

What is ‘eating in threes’? (31:55)

What is a pre-load meal? (33:49)

Do vitamins and supplements actually improve our immune system? (34:36)

Are probiotics supplements helpful? (35:08)

What is SIBO? (35:40)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about celebrating the holiday season with purpose and intention with author Meg Nordmann, and they answer the following questions:

Why is gift-giving problematic? (01:59)

What do you think of when you think of the holiday season? (03:35)

What is the most common question you get about the holiday season? (04:27)

How do you handle someone who insists on giving gifts? (04:45)

How do I mentally manage the holiday season when I work in an industry dependent on consumerism? (10:25)

How do I make the holiday season wholly enjoyable and thrilling for my children without succumbing to the typical holiday trappings? (18:48)

What is the ‘Four Gift Rule’? (21:45)

How do we tactfully ask loved ones not to give us gifts, especially those who grew up with gift-giving as a practice to show appreciation for others? (28:22)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about the high price of materialism, and they answer the following questions:

What is a ‘curative’? (02:43)

Why is it important to recognize our discontent? (06:52)

Is money entirely problematic? (07:38)

Why does it seem most of us continue to make terrible financial decisions when we’re poor? (16:18)

Do celebrities influence society with their bad habits? (17:22)

How do I strengthen my focus on minimalism to avoid materialism? (19:18)

How do I get my family’s buy-in regarding minimalism? (22:55)

Is it reasonable to be expected to pay to avoid materialistic ads? (26:03)

What should I do with stuff I love when I don’t have space available for it? (29:57)

What is our language problem? (30:12)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about mental health, the psychology of healing, and consciously creating a healthy relationship with yourself and others with author and holistic psychologist Dr. Nicole LePera, and they answer the following questions:

What is a ‘holistic psychologist’? (01:05)

What do you focus on in your new book? (03:02)

How do you define ‘trauma’? (05:06)

How do I stay positive and focused on the days when maintaining my mental balance is particularly challenging? (08:22)

What is ‘bypassing’? (15:24)

How do I tactfully address my extended family placing undue hospitality obligations and stress on me regarding hosting them in my home? (17:16)

How do we let go of others’ expectations? (24:08)

How do we communicate appropriate boundaries? (25:48)

What can you do to promote healing in someone other than yourself? (30:05)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about how to find redemption within ourselves and with others with author and former con artist Matthew Cox, and they answer the following questions:

When did your journey as a con artist start? (04:52)

What incident stands out above all others in your journey as a con artist? (11:42)

What are ‘enhancements’? (12:39)

How did you create fake individuals? (14:15)

When did your scams start falling apart? (18:14)

Did you ever squeeze out of a scam? (22:32)

How do you define ‘redemption’? (37:45)

How have the events of your journey changed you? (40:37)

When did you recognize that what you were doing was wrong? (42:23)

How do you stay out of prison? (49:26)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about the 2020 election, our current political divide, and how we can find unity even when we disagree with returning guests T.K. Coleman, Kim Iversen, and Jamie Kilstein, and they answer the following questions:

If your values aren’t aligned with either of the major party candidates, is voting for a third-party candidate really a wasted vote? (06:36)

How do we incentivize the system to improve? (11:33)

Is it okay to minimize politics in my life and ignore the social media posts, the news, and the debates that feel very toxic, or is it my responsibility as a citizen to be well-informed and confident in my political opinions? (16:22)

Is it our duty to vote? (21:42)

Is moralizing politics the crux of the problem? (24:42)

Are these candidates really the best we have to offer? (28:42)

What is Unity2020? (30:26)

Should I vote even if I don’t fully understand the issues? (35:14)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about sex and porn addiction—how to recognize it, how to break it—and, conversely, even the possible positive attributes of porn with director, media personality, and adult film star Lisa Ann, and they answer the following questions:

Is porn addiction a recognized addiction? (03:40)

How do we better restrict our children’s access to porn? (06:40)

Do we overmoralize porn? (09:20)

Is porn addiction just a matter of self control? (11:00)

Why is Gen Z statistically having the least sex of any generation? (11:40)

What are the pros and cons of porn? (13:49)

Are there age limits for adult film stars? (20:20)

Can a minimalist approach to viewing porn enhance a relationship? (21:15)

How does libido play into relationships? (21:50)

How important is communication in a sexual relationship? (25:39)

What are your thoughts on the difference between guilt and shame being a primary trigger to lead someone to become addicted to porn? (30:01)

How does age affect porn addiction? (43:48)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua discusses our constant craving for spirituality with author, podcaster, and pastor Erwin McManus and his son, film producer Aaron McManus, and they answer the following questions:

How do I responsibly let go of expensive items that can't be reused by others? (06:17)

Is anything actually ‘free’? (08:14)

How compatible are minimalist and Buddhist practices? (12:25)

I recently let go of religion, but I don’t know what to cling to next. (24:16)

What is the difference between religion and faith? (25:42)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about how The Minimalists apply minimalism to social media, how they’ve changed their opinion about social media over the years, and they review the new Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma with social media specialist Jess Williams, and they answer the following questions:

Is social media the original social distancing? (02:06)

How do we do a better job of using social media as a tool? (07:17)

What are the problems with social media? (16:16)

Has the smartphone become more of a distraction than the TV? (20:57)

Do we unfairly judge others in assuming that they’re simply wasting time on their smartphones rather than being productive? (21:46)

Has the ubiquitousness of social media contributed to creating an overly judgmental society? (26:48)

How do we set appropriate boundaries for social media? (28:06)

How do I address the desire to explain my behavior to others? (30:20)

Why do disagreements escalate so quickly on social media? (31:50)

How do I balance staying informed with being in the moment? (38:29)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan talk about repairing and strengthening relationships during difficult times with comedian Josh Wolf, and they answer the following questions:

Is it possible that the global pandemic actually helped save some relationships? (01:20)

What are some good habits to adopt to save a relationship? (06:36)

What is ‘Object A’? (09:59)

How much is enough? (10:37)

What does it feel like to be satisfied? (13:13)

What is the difference between pleasure and joy? (15:32)

What is the ‘price of admission’? (19:50)

Has social media given us a false sense of self-importance? (22:35)

What is the difference between a recipe and a template? (24:05)

Is restricting a partner’s choices a reasonable solution to their staunch resistance to change? (24:45)

What is the value of stretching our comfort zone? (34:00)

How will I know when I’ve found ‘the one’? (36:02)

Do we set unrealistic expectations regarding relationships? (39:52)

Why do we often start relationships in an attempt to fix ourselves? (45:01)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua discusses books and how to best ensure they enhance our lives, and he answers the following questions:

What is the true value of books? (04:42)

How do I determine whether to keep or purge books I own that I haven’t yet read? (06:10)

What do I do with books to which I’m attached but my partner insists I let go? (12:33)

Why do writers choose that profession? (16:10)

How do I let go of books I inherited from a loved one that have sentimental value? (21:03)

How do I start trimming my book collection? (23:22)

Why do some items have sentimental value? (24:12)

How do I break my sentimental attachments to my books? (27:46)

What is the ‘why’ behind the ‘what’? (30:21)

What is the perfect amount of books? (30:48)

What makes one book format better than the others? (34:53)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua talks about waste and all the ways in which we are wasteful with Sheila Morovati, Founder and President of Crayon Collection and Habits of Waste, and they answer the following questions:

Why do we rarely consider how we’re being wasteful? (03:44)

How can I reasonably ensure my donated items don’t become a burden to anyone else? (04:57)

How do I ensure I don’t receive unwanted correspondence? (11:47)

How do I responsibly repurpose or recycle outdated technology at work? (17:06)

What are my recycling options if I live in a city without a robust recycling program? (22:34)

What are some alternatives to plastic storage? (27:47)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

Joshua and Ryan discuss spirituality, evolving beliefs, and the impermanence of everything with author, podcaster, and theologian Rob Bell, and they answer the following questions:

What does it mean to ‘own your story’? (02:10)

How has Rob’s faith evolved? (04:40)

What is the origin of the book title, Everything Is Spiritual? (07:09)

What is the ‘wordlessness of grace’? (09:02)

What does it mean to ‘hold a place for God’? (10:31)

Do you believe in a higher power that can provide comfort and guidance? (14:25)

What causes a negative reaction to practices considered fringe? (14:45)

What is our language problem? (19:00)