Raising Eco Minimalists: Recent Episodes
Laura Durenberger
A community for those raising kids who care about the wellbeing of their mind, body, community, & the earth. Living a low waste and minimalist lifestyle can often feel like going against the grain of society. And when you throw kids into the mix? Finding a community of like-minded individuals to learn from, support, find encouragement, and overall who share the same values - at a similar level - can be challenging. This podcast is that community. Join me, your host, a self-described anxious eco-minimalist, every other week as I dive deep into issues and topics related to living an eco-friendly and minimalist lifestyle with kids. But above all, form a community that raises kids who care about the wellbeing of their own minds, bodies, and our earth (and everything that calls it home.) Be sure to subscribe to ensure you never miss an episode.
In this episode, I'm talking with Jessie Stokes, owner of the Tiny Yellow Bungalow zero waste shop and blog. Jessie is also the author and creator of the Zero Waste Vegan Cookbook.
Together, Jessie and I have an honest conversation about what happens when your values have to shift, how to navigate the guilt, and also wondering if our small efforts really make a difference.
Transcript coming soon.
You can learn more about Jessie here: https://www.tinyyellowbungalow.com/
Support the showLet's connect!Sign up and receive the eco-activity book with over 15 activities for kids.
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
- Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
- Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
- Support the Show
Leave a review on Apple and/or Spotify
Secondhand shopping with tweens can be a whole different experience. You may start receiving pushback or asks for particular brands or character-type clothing.
In this episode, I'm sharing 10 tips for navigating shopping for tweens who are more opinionated about their clothing - and may be against secondhand items.
Resources:
- Episode 6: Thrifting Tips for Kids Clothes and Gear with Addie Fisher
- Episode 8: Capsule Wardrobes for Kids (Sustainable/Ethical) with Erin of My Green Closet
- ThredUP referral link (use this link and receive $10 off your first order)
- Poshmark referral link (use this link and receive $10 off your first order)
- Mercari referral link (use this link and receive $10 off your first order)
Support the showLet's connect!Sign up and receive the eco-activity book with over 15 activities for kids.
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
- Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
- Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
- Support the Show
Leave a review on Apple and/or Spotify
In today's episode, I'm reviewing the book Spit That Out! The Overly Informed Parent's Guide to Raising Healthy Kids in the Age of Environmental Guilt by Paige Wolf.
I shared what I like and dislike about the book to help you determine whether it's one you want to read or not.
You can find the full transcript here.
Support the showLet's connect!Sign up and receive the eco-activity book with over 15 activities for kids.
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
- Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
- Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
- Support the Show
Leave a review on Apple and/or Spotify
In part two of my story of how we downsized by half and moved five hours away to a small town where we knew no one, I'm sharing about how we are working to establish new roots.
I'm sharing how we're working to build our community in many different ways, things we've learned, and some of the challenges we've faced.
If you haven't had a chance to listen to part one (episode 30), listen to that episode first as it will provide some good context to what I'm sharing in this episode.
Find the full transcript here.
Support the showLet's connect!Sign up and receive the eco-activity book with over 15 activities for kids.
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
- Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
- Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
- Support the Show
Leave a review on Apple and/or Spotify
We're back! It's season 3, and we're approaching the third anniversary of the pod.
In this episode, I'm sharing my family's story of why we uprooted our lives, downsized our belongings by half, and moved five hours away to a small town where we knew no one.
It's the story of how I got to where I am right now, early 2023. This story starts in fall of 2021.
Link to transcript
Support the showLet's connect!Sign up and receive the eco-activity book with over 15 activities for kids.
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
- Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
- Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
- Support the Show
Leave a review on Apple and/or Spotify
TW: Suicide, mental health crisisFull transcriptHave you heard of 988? It's a new mental health, substance abuse, emotional crisis, and suicide helpline launching July 16, 2022. In this episode, I talk about what the new helpline is, who it's for, share key points about it, and also some challenges that have come up (and what you can do to help).
If you or anyone you know is feeling suicidal or in a mental, emotional, or substance abuse crisis, please call 1-800-273-8255 or visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline's chat option.
Resources
- SAMSHA - 988 FAQs
- Some states are struggling to prepare for calls to the 988 mental health crisis line
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
- Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
- Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
- Support the Show
Leave a review on Apple and/or Spotify
Support the show
In today's episode, I'm talking all about the fallout of SCOTUS overturning Roe vs. Wade. I'm sharing how access to reproductive rights and choice is directly linked to how we approach the climate crisis, as well as many tips on how to raise kids who are feminists, or, who value equality.
I share
-my definition of feminism, and why it goes beyond burning bras
-how women's rights are also climate action
-how we can encourage our kids to value equality
-why we can't all be equal, unless we're all equal
-how we can process the heavy news with kids
Find the full transcript here.
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
- Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
- Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
- Support the Show
- Leave a review on Apple and/or Spotify
Support the show
Full episode transcript
What's your sustainability personality quiz
See all episodes mentioned in this episode here.
General tips
-Use what you have
-Wait
-Buy Nothing Group
-Buy secondhand
-Toy swap/Clothes swap
-Book library
-Toy library
-Reduce commitments
-Prioritize time outside (picnics, parks, music events, etc)
-Walk/bike/skate to places
-Upcycle clothing (pants/shorts, long sleeves to tanks)
-Reduce convenience items
-Start a garden
Specific swaps
Eat me now fridge section
Hand soap
Unpaper towels, napkins, tissues
Aloe vera plant
Reusable straws
Reusable popsicle molds
Reusable water bottle
DIY cleaner
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
- Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
- Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
- Support the Show
Leave a review on Apple and/or Spotify
Support the show
Jess Purcell of Thoughtfully Sustainable (episode 5) and Jen Panaro of Honestly Modern (episode 11) are back to talk about two new projects they've been working on.
Find the full written episode transcript here.
The first is a new book for everyone raising an eco-minimalist called "How to Raise a Global Citizen: For the parents of children who will save the world", which is a multi-author compilation of resources, amazing content, and tips from parent bloggers around the world.
Their second joint venture is their website Raising Global Kidizens which acts as a resource for those raising responsible global citizens.
Raising Global Kidizens provides content that aligns with the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which aims to create an equitable world for all.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Coloring poster
Where to find Jen and Jess:
- Jen: Honestly Modern & WasteWell
- Jess: Thoughtfully Sustainable
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
- Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
- Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
- Support the Show
Leave a review on Apple and/or Spotify
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
Looking for ways to enjoy a more eco-friendly Easter with kids? In this episode, I dive into all types of eco-swaps and resources to help you do just that. A zero-waste Easter? Here you come.
Find the full episode transcript here.
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
Wooden eggs on Etsy
Paper eggs on EarthHero (get 10% off using code 'LauraD10' at checkout)
ThredUP (use the link to get $10 off your first purchase!)
Related podcast episodes:
The nature connection & kids
Science at home with kids
Thrifting kids clothes and gear
Capsule wardrobe with kids
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
- Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
- Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
- Support the Show
- Leave a review on Apple and/or Spotify
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
Today I'm speaking with the incredibly Dr. Artika Tyner - the founder of the Minnesota-based organization 'Planting People, Growing Justice'. Its mission is to raise awareness about illiteracy in kids and how that contributes to the cradle to prison pipeline. They also work to increase representation in books and toys.
Full episode transcript
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
In today's episode, I'm talking with fellow eco-minimalist parent Linda Yin. She's an enthusiastic minimalist (her words), and has found her sustainability land in the form of safe lawn advocacy for all kids and living beings.
In this episode, we have a fantastic conversation about what it means to be a minimalist as a parent, how it changes after having kids, how it looks different for everyone, and more.
Then, we jump into Linda's sustainability lane: safe lawns, where we talk about the work she's doing to bring awareness to pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers that companies like TruGreen put on lawns. Linda shares the harmful effects these chemicals can have on us, and ways to make change through conversation with others.
This is a jam-packed episode, but Linda is so relatable, and I absolutely enjoyed our conversation together.
Where you can find Linda:
- Petition
- Website
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
- Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
- Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
- Support the Show
Leave a review on Apple and/or Spotify
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
Got food waste? Over 30-40% of all food is wasted. Yet, we have people in our own communities and elsewhere that are going hungry.
We know composting is important, but reducing food waste first is the goal.
However, when we throw kids into the mix, it can feel completely out of our control and overwhelming.
In this episode, I'm talking with Alison Mountford of ends & stems - a professional chef who has a focus on helping busy families get food on the table without the stress, drama, and overwhelm, with the added bonus of reducing food waste. Yes, even if you have CHOOSEY eaters!
Complete episode transcript.
Here are the questions we answer and topics covered:
- Issue with food waste
- How to tackle home-packed school lunches
- Ways we can talk to kids about food waste
- How to incorporate reducing food waste into your family values
- How to address food waste at home with choosy eaters
- How to avoid making separate meals for kids who don’t like what’s being served
- How to get dinner on the table for your family with less stress and less drama and less food waste
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
- Bento Box
- Episode 11 - How to compost at home with kids
- Family values episodes (Ep 17 with Lindsay & Episode 2 with Stephanie)
- Gardening with kids ep. 4
Where to find Alison & ends & stems:
- ends & stems
- recipe finder
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
- Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
- Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
- Support the Show
Leave a review on Apple and/or Spotify
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
Valentine's Day with kids can be hard to navigate, because on one hand, we want our kids to be able to participate in the card exchange and other activities at school or daycare. But, the traditional activities can cause a lot of waste. So what do we do?
This quick episode focuses mainly on the card exchanges that happen at schools, between friends, and at daycares. I share tips on how to rethink your Valentine's Day activities, as well as give specific, eco-friendly exchange options.
Complete episode transcript.
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
- Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
- Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
- Support the Show
Leave a review on Apple and/or Spotify
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
The pod is back for another season, and this episode is a quick recap of where we started and where we are going. It's also a mushy two minutes of gratitude and appreciation and excitement for you being here.
Subscribe to ensure you never miss and episode!
NEW for season two....TRANSCRIPTS!
Click here for the transcript for this episode.
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
- Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
- Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
- Support the Show
- Leave a review on Apple and/or Spotify
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
In this bonus episode - I review the top five episodes of 2021 (season one), and share four things you can do in 2022 to help you and your kids manage your mind, body, community, and planet.
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
In this episode, I'm talking about a topic that everyone is talking about (just not to each other). And that topic is how to tell someone: "no gifts, please".
As we move into the holiday season, many people are wondering how they can broach the topic of not exchanging gifts without offending their friends/family.
The good news is that it can be easier than you think.
In this episode, I talk about:
- Why some people may be insistent on gifts
- Why you may not want to exchange gifts
- 10 tips for how to say "no gifts, please" (or at least offer a compromise)
Resources:
- 10 ways to graciously tell someone: ‘no gifts, please’ (with actual examples)
- A Minimalist and Zero Waste Advent Calendar (with 58 Kindness, Traditions, and Activity-Based, Non-Candy Ideas)
- What is a fiver party and how to throw one (includes a party invitation wording guide)
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
Americans spend BILLIONs of dollars a year on Halloween celebrations. The amount of waste that goes into the items we buy is a lot. Not to mention, expensive! I even give lots of ideas to the common question: what do I hand out to trick or treaters that's eco-friendly and low waste?
This episode talks about how to have an eco-friendly Halloween with kids.
Here are the questions I answer and topics covered:
- -frightening Halloween statistics
- -what to give trick-or-treaters (non-candy and candy ideas)
- -the Teal Pumpkin Project
- -what to do with all those candy wrappers
- -what to do with leftover Halloween candy
- -eco friendly Halloween costumes
- -where to rent Halloween costumes
- -how to keep pumpkin carving eco-friendly
- -what to do with your pumpkin after Halloween
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
- -teal pumpkin map
- -terra cycle candy wrapper recycling box
- -Kidizen App
- -ToyCycle
- -Rent-a-Romper
- -HalloweenCostumes.com
- -Episode Six with Addie on Thrifting Kids Items
- -Episode 11 with Jen on Composting with Kids
- -ShareWaste
- Buy Nothing Project Group
- Freecycle.org
- Nextdoor
- Facebook Marketplace
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
In this episode, I'm talking with Lindsay Short of Simply Sustainable Parenting. Lindsay and I cover a variety of topics, but the meat of the episode is focused on something I think many of us struggle with - setting boundaries.
Here are the questions we answer and topics covered:
- Lindsay’s definition of sustainability (and how it’s different than the traditional meaning)
- How mindfulness and mental health play into the sustainability movement
- How we can incorporate mindfulness, mental health, and sustainability into our family
- How to create a family mission statement (and what it is)
- How we can set boundaries for ourselves
- How we can set boundaries for our kids
- How we can teach our kids to set boundaries for themselves
- How to address pushback from others in regards to boundaries
- What a simple playroom is and how to maintain it
- Some benefits of having fewer toys for kids
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
- Mission statement worksheet
- Episode 2 with Stephanie Sefarian
- Boundary setting around gift giving workshop
- Conscious parenting book club
Where to find Lindsay:
- Blog
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
Become a podcast member (and help support the show!)
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
Research shows that kids who are overscheduled don't eat as well, sleep as well, or make friends as well as kids who aren't overscheduled. Additionally, overscheduling kids when they're younger can lead to things like anxiety, depression, and hamper their ability to solve problems and make good decisions.
As parents/guardians, we are probably well-intentioned by signing our kids up for all the things. But it can not only be detrimental to their wellbeing, but ours too.
Here are the questions we answer and topics covered:
- How overscheduling can be a detriment to our kids (and us)
- What research shows about this topic
- Why we may overschedule
- Five ways to stop overscheduling
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
- Free workshop: Seeds for change
- Episode 2: Eco Minimalism and Kids with Stephanie Sefarian
- The Overscheduled Child by Alvin Rosenfeld, MD
- The Hurried Child by David Elkind
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
Become a podcast member (and help support the show!)
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
The future of our planet can sometimes feel very bleak - especially for those of us who have kids. Oftentimes we find ourselves asking what their future will look like, how much weight will they have to carry, and what will become of our society.
My guest today is Stacy C. Bauer - mom, teacher, and author. Stacy had the idea in 2020 to write a book about inspiring kids making change today. She set out to find 20 kids for one book and ended up with 84 kids and seven books.
I talk with Stacy about these inspiring kids which left me filled with hope for not only our future but for my son as well.
Here are the questions we answer and topics we cover:
- What is a young changemaker
- Why representation is important in children’s books
- Characteristics that are common amongst young changemakers
- Kids' concerns about the future
- Why kids are great at making change
- How can we support kids who want to be young changemakers
- How can we encourage and empower kids to be young changemakers
- Tips for decluttering with kids
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
- Young Changemakers Kickstarter Campaign
- Cami and Wyatt Books
- Young Changemakers Facebook group
- #kidsinspiringothers
#inspiringkids
#kidshelpingpeople
Where to find Stacy:
- Website
- Young Changemakers Facebook page
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
Become a podcast member (and help support the show!)
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
You know science is important, but do you really know why? How does incorporating science for kids at home help with living sustainably? And what about kids who don't have access to good science learning?
In this episode, I'm talking with Medinah Eatman, or, Science Teacher Mom. We answer the questions above, and lots, lots more.
Here are the questions we answer and topics we cover:
- Medinah's experience being on the show ‘George in the Jungle’ on NBC
- What STEM is, and why is it important for our kids?
- Why are STEM/STEAM topics so important when it comes to sustainable living?
- Science for kids at home - how to get them involved
- How to make science fun and engaging
- Barriers to learning science and how it affects kids
- How can we help remove some of those barriers?
- The importance of representation in science
- Community reading events - what are they, and how to host one
- Great additional resources for bringing science to kids
Even if you think you're not "good" at science, or science-literate, you'll find yourself motivated to start talking about and incorporating science every day - because, surprise! We already use it every day.
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
- George in the Jungle episode on NBC
- Subscription Box link
- Donate Choose
- Club Lab Rascals
- Brain Pop
Where to find Medinah:
- Website
- Subscription boxes
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
Become a podcast member (and help support the show!)
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
Artificial light pollution at night - what is it? Why is it a problem - especially for us and our kids? In this week's episode, I'm talking with Caitlin Johnson, founder of the Twin Cities (Minnesota) chapter of the International Dark Sky Organization.
Here are the questions we answer and topics we cover:
- What is light pollution (specifically artificial light pollution at night)?
- Why is artificial light pollution at night bad?
- How does light pollution affect humans? What about pollinators, birds, bats, and other creatures?
- What can we do to reduce artificial light pollution at night?
- Resources for reducing artificial light pollution at night
- Lights at night and safety: how can we find a balance?
- How can our kids get involved?
I LOVE this episode, because the resources and action items are super easy, absolutely do-able, and for some of them, include things you're already doing (like buying lightbulbs).
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
- Darksky.org
- Project Drawdown
- Episode 5 with Jess Purcell
- National Geographic
- Bell Museum of Natural History
- Dark Sky Sanctuary
- Dark sky approved light fixtures
- Take back the night
- Nextdoor
- American Natural History Museum
- Audubon Society
- Bee Lab
- Pollinator Friendly Yards
- Find a chapter (for Dark Sky International)
Where to find Caitlin:
- Instagram (personal, sewing, and low waste)
- Twin Cities Dark Sky Association Chapter
- Instagram (Twin Cities Dark Sky Chapter)
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
Become a podcast member (and help support the show!)
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
Single-use plastic and kids. They seem to go hand and hand, right? During the month of July, millions around the world partake in a challenge called 'Plastic Free July'. But reducing plastic can be daunting and overwhelming. And what if I told you it may not all be bad?
This episode covers:
- What is plastic free July?
- Is all plastic bad?
- What’s the problem with straw bans and plastic bag bans?
- Tips for reducing single use plastic
- Some of my favorite places to shop plastic free (and find sustainable and ethical businesses)
- Ways to reduce single-use plastic with kids
- My favorite plastic-free swaps for kids
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
- Episode 10 with Jen Gale
- Plastic Free July .org
- Plastic is not the enemy, our mindset is
- NPR interview
- What is eco-minimalism ep 1
- Making sustainability sustainable class
- Tiny Yellow Bungalow
- Tare Market
- Bestowed Essentials
- Hippie Haven Shop
- Ethical and Sustainable places to shop
- Akua Resource guide
- Sarah Robertson Barnes
- Science Teacher Mom
- Thoughtfully Sustainable (episode 5)
- Dental Lace
- Buy Nothing Project Group
- Freecycle.org
- Nextdoor
- Facebook Marketplace
- Old World New Ep - 6
- Olio app
- Gus Dean Coffee
- Episode 4 - gardening with kids
- Beego Handmade
- Little Free Library
- Toy Library Association
- Five Party Episode - ep 9
- TAP app
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
Have you ever wondered how to compost at home? Or maybe you've thought about it but feel overwhelmed.
Maybe you're already a composter but interested in learning about other methods, or how to get kids involved.
In this episode, I'm talking with Jen Panaro of Honestly Modern, who I refer to as the composting guru. Jen walks us through anything and everything composting - making it a perfect episode if you're brand new or a seasoned composter. The resources she provides are extensive, and I'm confident no matter where you are in your journey, you'll walk away with some new knowledge.
Here are the questions we answer and topics we cover:
- What composting is
- How to start composting & how to do it at home
- How it works (in easy to understand ways)
- Why it’s important not to send food to the landfill
- Different type of composting systems (plus pros and cons of each)
- What about pests? Are they bad?
- What’s the best option for composting in an apartment?
- How to compost with kids
- How to get kids involved with the process (including activities and resources)
- Life lessons kids can learn from composting
- What to do if you feel overwhelmed
- How to start your own compost pickup business in your area
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
- FoodCycler
- Lomi
- ShareWaste
- Subpod
- Episode four - how to garden with kids
- Jess Purcell - Thoughtfully Sustainable - Episode 5
- Thoughtfully Sustainable compost sorting activity
- Bring your Trash to Life series
- Facebook gardening groups
- NextDoor
- Buy Nothing
- Life Lessons Kids Can Learn from Composting
- Family values - Episode 2 with Stephanie Seferian
- Compost Stew (the book)
- Compost Stew Facebook
- Composting FAQ on Honestly Modern
- More composting resources
You can find Jen in these places of the web:
- Honestly Modern Blog
- Honestly Modern Facebook
- Honestly Modern Instagram
- Wastewell
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
You may know the name Jen Gale, or recognize the 'Sustainable(ish) name. Well, this episode I'm excited to share my interview with Jen where we talk about all things eco-parenting!
Jen's book The Sustainable(ish) Guide to Green Parenting came out in May of 2021, and after I read it, I knew it was a fantastic resource for anyone who wants to have kids, who has kids, or who has kids in their lives. There are great tips not only for green parenting, but that are applicable even if you don't have kids.
Here's what we talk about:
- What a buy nothing year is, and how to do one
- The the concept of "having less children is the most eco-friendly", and our thoughts on that
- An eco committee and what it is
- How to introduce big topics like the climate crisis to kids
- How to address a reluctant family/partner/roommate
- A ta-da list, and how it can help us on our sustainable living journey
- What a reusable party pack for kids birthday party is, and how to create one
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
- Octonauts
- Related: 30 Shows, Movies, and Documentaries for Young Kids about Earth
- Related: Plogging: What it is and how it can help the earth and your anxiety
- How bad are bananas book
- Wild Tribe Hero books
- Episode 5 with Jess Purcell
- Sustainab(lish) episode on party packs
- Party kit network
Where to find Jen Gale:
-The Sustainable(ish) guide
-The Sustainable(ish) guide to Green Parenting
-Sustainable(ish) podcast
-Sustainable(ish) website
-Knackered Moms Eco Club
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
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Have you ever heard of a fiver party? What is it? How do you throw a fiver party?
It may surprise you that this up and coming trend is somewhat controversial!
In this episode, I cover:
- What is a fiver party
- How are fiver parties different than regular parties
- How to explain a fiver party
- Is a fiver party right for me / my kids birthday?
- Are fiver parties tacky?
- What to do if you're worried your kid will be disappointed
- Fiver party invite wording
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
- Fiver party guide
- Episode Two: Eco minimalism and kids
- Etsy - Fiver Party invite templates
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
Become a podcast member (and help support the show!)
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
In this episode, I'm talking with Erin of My Green Closet all about kids capsule wardrobes.
We discuss and answer questions such as:
- What is a capsule wardrobe?
- How many items are in a kids capsule wardrobe?
- What items do I need?
- How can I reduce my children's wardrobe
- Benefits of a capsule wardrobe for kids
- The difference between an adult and kids capsule wardrobe
- Do you need a capsule wardrobe for each season?
- What NOT to include in an capsule wardrobe
- How to spot greenwashing in kids clothing brands
It's an episode that's jam-packed with info and resources, and one you won't want to miss!
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
- Episode 006 with Addie of Old World New
- Buy Nothing Project Group
- Freecycle.org
- Parade Organics
- mini mioche
- pact
- beya made
- jackalo
- rent a romper
Where to find Erin:
- My Green Closet website
- My Green Closet YouTube
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
Become a podcast member (and help support the show!)
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
In this episode, I'm sharing 14 ways my husband and I work to help my son manage anxiety. These tips can be used for kids and many are applicable to adults too.
These tips are ones we personally use in our home. I am not a medical professional, nor should this be taken as medical advice. This episode should also not be used to diagnose any type of mental illness. If you have questions or concerns about this, please check with your primary doctor (or your child's).
These are just tips that have helped our child with his anxiety that we wanted to share in case they can help you too.
If you or a child you know are in a crisis, please contact the free, 24/7 Crisis Text Line by texting 'HOME' to 741741.
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
Books:
-The What if Monster
-A little spot of anxiety
-Anxious Ninja
-Calm Ninja
Meditations on Insight Timer:
-Sleep Friend Meditation for Children
-Anxiety Relief for Kids
-A Kid Shaped Pool: Bedtime Practice
Shows:
-Daniel Tiger
Tools:
-Stuff to chew on (dino toy and Taggies blankets)
-Weighted blanket (LUNA)
-Journal, coloring, or a puzzle
-54321 grounding exercise (name 5 things you see, 4 things you hear, 3 things you feel, 2 things you smell, 1 thing you taste)
Deep breathing (check Insight Timer for guided breathing exercises, or pretend you are blowing up a balloon in your belly)
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram @raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group Become a podcast member and help support the show!
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
In this episode, I'm talking with thrifting queen Addie Fisher of Old World New. Addie and I are talking about all things thrifting and kids, including:
- Why thrift?
- How thrifting is not a new concept
- The rise in popularity of thrifting
- How thrifting can help support your local community
- Thrifting tips and resources for kids items
Answer questions such as:
- What should I look for in thrift shopping kids clothes and gear?
- What should you not buy at thrift stores?
- How do you disinfect clothes/gear from a thrift store?
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode (some links may contain affiliate links, which helps support our amazing guests and this podcast):
- Buy Nothing Project
- Blog post/video: How I thrifted 90% of my wardrobe
- Beya Made
- Counter Culture cleaner
- ThredUP
- ToyCycle (get 20% off a regular priced item using code 'ReduceRenew' at checkout)
- Poshmark
- Mercari
- Facebook Marketplace
- Blog post: 10 ways to graciously tell someone: 'no gifts, please' (with actual examples)
Hashtags:
-
sustainablelivingtips
-
secondhandfirst
-
thriftstorefinds
Where to find Addie:
- Website
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram @raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group Become a podcast member and help support the show!
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
Ever wonder how to get your kids involved with gardening without sacrificing your precious plants?
Gardening is great for our physical and mental health, and the benefits don't stop there for our kids.
Kids can learn a number of super important skills through gardening, and it also opens up the conversation for a number of big topics like food waste, food inequality, building community, soil health, pollinators, etc.
In this episode, I share seven tips on how to garden with kids, the benefits of gardening for kids, and how to keep your sanity (and your plants) while you're at it.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- iNaturalist app
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
Become a podcast member (and help support the show!)
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
Wondering how to raise kids who care about the environment? Who want to take action towards the climate crisis, racial injustice, and social issues? Whether we like it or not, our kids are going to inherit many of the issues we are facing today, and it's important that we as parents/guardians help guide our kids as they navigate them. In this episode, I'm talking with Brittany Jefferson of Teacher Mom Chronicles. Brittany talks about:
- what it means to be an eco-advocate or activist
- how we can raise awareness for our kids in an age-appropriate way
- how we can encourage kids to become their own version of a climate activist/advocate based on their interests
- how we can talk to our kids about big issues such as the climate crisis, racial injustice, and social issues
- amazing resources she uses to talk to her own kids (and the kids she teaches)
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Book: Talking to kids about climate change
- Link to industrial revolution instagram post
- Book: all we can save
- Book: braiding sweetgrass
- Book: The Green Collar Economy
- Book: We are the water protectors
- Book: Greta and the Giants
- Book: The Power Book
- Book series: The ______ History of the United States (ex: Latinx)
Where to find out more about Brittany, and Teacher Mom Chronicles:
- Become a Teacher Mom Chronicle Patreon member and get amazing resources that expand on what we discussed in this episode
- Blog: Teacher Mom Chronicles
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
Become a podcast member (and help support the show!)
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
You've probably heard of the term zero waste living, and minimalism, but what if you are drawn to both lifestyles, but don't feel like you fit into either one?
Eco-minimalism might be a good fit for you.
In this episode, you will learn the following:
- What is eco-minimalism?
- How does eco-minimalism differ from zero waste living and minimalism separately
- How eco-minimalism started
- How to balance eco-friendly living and minimalism
- How to apply eco-minimalism into your life
- What to do if you have a partner/roommate/spouse that's not on board
- Eco-minimalism resources
Resources mentioned:
- The Sustainable Minimalist Podcast and book 'Sustainable Minimalism'
- Howard Lidell 'Eco-Minimalism book
- Reduce, Reuse, Renew
- Decluttering archives
- Decluttering course
- Decluttering ebook
- Toss app
- Buy Nothing Project Group
- Freecycle.org
- Nextdoor
- Facebook Marketplace
- Eco friendly magic of tidying up (a guide to responsibly get rid of almost everything)
-
ecominimalism
-
ecominimalist
-
sustainableminimalism
-
sustainableminimalist
- Eco Minimalist YouTube Channel
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
Become a podcast member (and help support the show!)
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
A common question is: "how can we get kids to care about nature/the earth?"
It's a good questions, because after all, how can we, or how can we expect anyone to care about something they have no connection with?
In this episode I'm talking with Jess Purcell, of Thoughtfully Sustainable. Jess talks about how we can get our kids interested in the pressing issues that face us today.
Jess introduces us to the term: sustainability science, and talks about what it means.
Additionally, we talk about the glaring fact that not everyone, or every kid, has the same access to nature and science teachings - and Jess shares some ways we can work to make these places and learnings more accessible for all.
Resources mentioned:
- Medinah of Science Teacher Mom
- Backyard Basecamp
- 2021 Virtual Earth Day Summit
- Jen from Honestly Modern
- Sarah of Sarah.Robertson.Barnes
- Lindsay of Simply Sustainable Parenting
Where you can find Jess Purcell/Thoughtfully Sustainable
- Blog
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
Become a podcast member (and help support the show!)
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
In episode one, I talked all about what eco-minimalism was. But this podcast is all about raising eco-minimalists, so it would be a disservice to not include an entire episode on that topic as well.
In this episode, I talk with sustainable minimalism guru Stephanie Seferian - author of the book Sustainable Minimalism, and podcast host of The Sustainable Minimalists - all about raising kids under the eco-minimalism umbrella.
Stephanie and talk about:
- The definition of eco-minimalism/sustainable minimalism
- The importance of having a family vision
- How to handle gifts
- Toy decluttering
- and more!
Resources mentioned:
-
sustainableminimalism
-
sustainableminimalsts
-
ecominimalism
-
ecominimalists
You can find Stephanie in these places of the web:
- Blog
- Podcast
- Book
- Facebook Group
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
Become a podcast member (and help support the show!)
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)
What is raising eco minimalists podcast? In this intro episode, I share what this podcast is all about, who I am, and what you can expect in the future from the show.
Let's connect!
Email me: Laura@raisingecominimalists.com
Blog (Reduce, Reuse, Renew)
Instagram (@raisingecominimalistspodcast or @reducereuserenewblog)
Facebook Raising Eco Minimalist Community Group
Become a podcast member (and help support the show!)
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gPwH8QEUo)