A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life

Amelia Pleasant Kennedy

Our home is a reflection of our internal experience. When we’re feeling frazzled, busy, and overworked, it shows up all around us as cluttered spaces, overcommitted schedules, and judgment that we’re never doing enough. This podcast aims to tidy up all the clutter that has you spinning in circles. If you’re a woman with a to-do list, running one household (or more!), or caring for others, this podcast is for you. We will go beyond the basics of home organization to talk about why a clutter-free mindset is essential to an aligned and sustainable lifestyle. I’ll invite you to get curious about the standards and expectations women feel pressured to uphold, and together we’ll ditch the idealized destination of domestic perfection for a more comfortable, realistic, and restorative way of living. Learn more at https://www.apleasantsolution.com/. read less
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Episodes

69 |  It's Garage Season!
4d ago
69 | It's Garage Season!
Send us a Text Message.It's garage season, y'all! Ready for a full garage declutter or upgrade? In this episode, I share the essential steps to transform your garage from a chaotic catch-all into a functional, organized space. I'll guide you through setting a clear purpose for your garage, decluttering with intention, and choosing the right storage solutions that make sense for your life. I'll also dive into how to properly and responsibly dispose of items, like hazardous chemicals and old electronics. Plus, I'll share tips on how to capitalize on every inch of space, including those often-forgotten walls and ceilings.Tune in to learn how to optimize every inch of your garage and make it a true asset to your home.And join me as I extend an open invitation to you—to be part of the "100 Hours of Listening" initiative. Whether you're a friend, past client, silent listener, or a fellow professional, your voice matters. This isn't a sales pitch or a consultation; it's an opportunity for you to be heard, without cost or obligation, in a non-judgmental space.Book a session here, come as you are.MENTIONED:Ready to declutter but not sure where to take items?Download my Decluttering Resources Quick Guide + join my email community.FEATURED ON THE SHOW:Come say hello on Instagram Follow me on Facebook See what I’m up to on LinkedIn Join my community at https://www.apleasantsolution.com/ LIKE THIS EPISODE?I invite you to share, rate, review, and follow my show. Also, join the conversation by connecting with me on Instagram @apleasantsolution.
68 | A Woman's Work is Never Done with Dr. Regina Lark
May 15 2024
68 | A Woman's Work is Never Done with Dr. Regina Lark
Send us a Text Message.Have you ever felt like your work is never truly done? That after a long day, you come home only to face a second shift of chores and emotional labor that no one seems to acknowledge? You're not alone, and it’s up to us to shift the narrative.Dive into this eye-opening episode where Dr. Regina Lark, a TEDx speaker, author, and founder of a seven-figure organizing company, joins me to dissect the cultural narrative that perpetuates the endless cycle of emotional labor and burnout for women.With a PhD in women's history, Dr. Lark expertly intertwines her academic background with practical wisdom, offering strategies to identify, mitigate, and redistribute the unseen, unnoticed, and unwaged work that women shoulder at home. We discuss the importance of acknowledging the value of this labor and how to unleash women's full potential in the paid workforce. Don't miss these invaluable insights that could change the way you perceive and handle your daily tasks.And join me as I extend an open invitation to you—to be part of the "100 Hours of Listening" initiative. Whether you're a friend, past client, silent listener, or a fellow professional, your voice matters. This isn't a sales pitch or a consultation; it's an opportunity for you to be heard, without cost or obligation, in a non-judgmental space.Book a session here, come as you are.GUEST INFO:Dr. Regina Lark, TEDx speaker, author, and founder of A Clear Path | Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter:@aclearpath | Email | Book: Emotional Labor: Why a Woman's Work Is Never Done and What to Do About ItMENTIONED:Ready to lighten your mental + emotional load?Download your Fair Play Cards + Activity Guide + join my email community.FEATURED ON THE SHOW:Come say hello on Instagram Follow me on Facebook See what I’m up to on LinkedIn Join my community at https://www.apleasantsolution.com/ LIKE THIS EPISODE?I invite you to share, rate, review, and follow my show. Also, join the conversation by connecting with me on Instagram @apleasantsolution.
67 | Return to Your Table with Caterina De Falco
May 8 2024
67 | Return to Your Table with Caterina De Falco
Send us a Text Message.In this latest podcast episode, I sit down with Caterina De Falco, an expert on the relationship between food, health, and most importantly, family.. Caterina's insights on creating meaningful mealtimes and making meal preparation convenient are not just about food; they're about crafting a life that's rich in connection and simplicity.Learn how to simplify your meal prep, engage your family, and create a routine that turns dinner into the most anticipated part of your day. Caterina's unique blend of childhood memories, scientific research, and practical tips will leave you inspired and ready to 'Return to the Table' making mealtime a cherished, stress-free experience.If you're ready to reclaim the dinner table and foster an environment of connection and relaxation, this episode is a must-listen. Topics Discussed:How to make your kitchen more functionalHow to simplify your weekly mealtime routine The importance of sitting together at the table Where to buy quality food beyond the grocery store, saving time and money And join me as I extend an open invitation to you—to be part of the "100 Hours of Listening" initiative. Whether you're a friend, past client, silent listener, or a fellow professional, your voice matters. This isn't a sales pitch or a consultation; it's an opportunity for you to be heard, without cost or obligation, in a non-judgmental space.Book a session here, come as you are.GUEST INFO:Caterina DeFalco, Writer and Researcher | Website | Instagram MENTIONED:Blue Zones | Dan BuettnerReady to feel less frazzled and more calm each day?Download these Clutter-Free Scheduling Tips + join my email community.FEATURED ON THE SHOW:Come say hello on Instagram Follow me on Facebook See what I’m up to on LinkedIn Join my community at https://www.apleasantsolution.com/ LIKE THIS EPISODE?I invite you to share, rate, review, and follow my show. Also, join the conversation by connecting with me on Instagram @apleasantsolution.
66 | Defining Your Minimum Standard
May 1 2024
66 | Defining Your Minimum Standard
Send us a Text Message.Do you find yourself re-washing dishes or re-doing laundry because it wasn't done 'your way?’ It's time to redefine your home life. In this episode, we’ll explore the concept of a 'minimum standard of care'. It's something that many of us live by without even realizing it—a baseline set of expectations for how our living spaces should look, feel, and function. I'll guide you through understanding your own standards, how to communicate them, and how to negotiate with your loved ones. No more silent battles over unfolded laundry or the 'right' way to load the dishwasher. Tune in to learn how to create a shared vision of a tidy, functional home.And join me as I extend an open invitation to you—to be part of the "100 Hours of Listening" initiative. Whether you're a friend, past client, silent listener, or a fellow professional, your voice matters. This isn't a sales pitch or a consultation; it's an opportunity for you to be heard, without cost or obligation, in a non-judgmental space.Book a session here, come as you are.MENTIONED:Ready to lighten your mental + emotional load?Download your Fair Play Cards + Activity Guide + join my email community.FEATURED ON THE SHOW:Come say hello on Instagram Follow me on Facebook See what I’m up to on LinkedIn Join my community at https://www.apleasantsolution.com/ LIKE THIS EPISODE?I invite you to share, rate, review, and follow my show. Also, join the conversation by connecting with me on Instagram @apleasantsolution.
63 | Jewelry You'll Use and Wear
Apr 10 2024
63 | Jewelry You'll Use and Wear
Send us a Text Message.An ​item ​can ​be ​clutter ​even ​if ​it's ​worth ​thousands. Handbags, ​shoes, ​​high ​quality dresses, ​​jewelry, these ​items ​can ​still ​be ​clutter ​if ​you ​are ​not ​using ​them, ​wearing ​them, ​​or ​have ​a ​plan ​for ​when ​you ​will. ​I ​know ​this ​first hand ​because ​I've ​inherited ​jewelry ​from ​my ​mother, ​grandmother, ​and ​aunt. Transforming these precious items from mere keepsakes tucked away in drawers into cherished pieces that enhance my daily life was a meaningful process.Join me as I share my personal journey through an abundance of family jewelry, offering insights into how to distinguish between what's meaningful and what may be clutter in disguise. I'll encourage you to sort, categorize, and perhaps repurpose or part with jewelry, aiming for a lighter, clutter-free collection that brings joy and meaning. If you're ready to honor the legacy of your loved ones while embracing an organized life free of mental clutter, press play and let's start the journey together.MENTIONED:24 | Antique Jewels and Appraisals with Hana ThomsonHana Thomson, Appraiser and ConsultantRESOURCE:Think there’s a hidden layer beneath the clutter in your life? Download my Clutter Coaching Guide + join my email community.FEATURED ON THE SHOW:Come say hello on Instagram Follow me on Facebook See what I’m up to on LinkedIn Join my community at https://www.apleasantsolution.com/ LIKE THIS EPISODE?I invite you to share, rate, review, and follow my show. Also, join the conversation by connecting with me on Instagram @apleasantsolution.
60 | Alignment
Mar 20 2024
60 | Alignment
Send us a Text Message.Step into the light of spring as we explore the essence of alignment and how it shapes a clutter-free, sustainable lifestyle. As the days grow longer and the sun's warmth begins to thaw the winter's chill, I reflect on the profound impact of seasonal shifts on our inner well-being—especially for those of us, like myself, whose spirits soar with the sun's embrace.In this episode, we'll unpack the concept of alignment, both in its tangible, physical form and as an inner state that guides our decisions and lifestyle choices. It's about tuning into the subtle shifts within us that signal whether we're living in harmony with our true selves. I'll share personal insights and invite you to consider how the changing seasons affect your mood and energy. These are clues to your own alignment.Also, we'll delve into the signals of misalignment—those moments when you're feeling frazzled, overcommitted, and out of sync with your inner compass. By recognizing these signs, you can better understand your needs and the lifestyle you desire.Join me as we navigate the interplay between logic, intuition, and the internal nudges that guide us toward a life that feels organized, intentional, and true to who we are. RESOURCE:Think there’s a hidden layer beneath the clutter in your life?Download my Clutter Coaching Guide + join my email community.FEATURED ON THE SHOW:Come say hello on Instagram Follow me on Facebook See what I’m up to on LinkedIn Join my community at https://www.apleasantsolution.com/ LIKE THIS EPISODE?I invite you to share, rate, review, and follow my show. Also, join the conversation by connecting with me on Instagram @apleasantsolution.
59 | Inner Independence with Catherine Collins
Mar 13 2024
59 | Inner Independence with Catherine Collins
Send us a Text Message.In this episode, we delve into the need for inner independence with Catherine Collins, a beacon of entrepreneurial spirit and the author of Mom's Got Money: A Millennial Mom's Guide to Managing Money Like a Boss. With her work featured on prestigious platforms such as Good Morning America, Forbes, and Business Insider, Catherine has co-founded a personal development company, Five Year You, aiming to help a million people become their best selves within five years. Join us as we explore the transformative journey of short-term discomfort to long-term gains, and how embracing personal growth can redefine our relationship with money, parenting, and self-care. Catherine shares her story of being a now single mom to twins, her evolution from a blogger to a multifaceted businesswoman, and her mission to instill financial independence and self-reliance in her children. HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS CONVERSATION:The significance of personal development and deep inner growth in living a fulfilled life.How moms are especially poised to understand and control their personal financesCatherine's insights on overcoming shame and the societal pressures that come with it.The power of teaching independence to children and its impact on their future.The simplicity and effectiveness of organizing meal plans to alleviate daily stress.GUEST INFO:Catherine Collins - Entrepreneur + Author  Website | Five Year You Instagram | Five Year You Podcast | Episode: How to Love Yourself | Cat Collins Instagram Email: hello@fiveyearyou.comStruggling with meal planning or personal finance? Download Catherine's Easy Meal Planning Guide and Budgeting Basics: Micro Morning Magic.RESOURCE:Ready to feel less frazzled and more calm each day?Download these Clutter-Free Scheduling Tips + join my email community.FEATURED ON THE SHOW:Come say hello on Instagram Follow me on Facebook See what I’m up to on LinkedIn Join my community at https://www.apleasantsolution.com/ LIKE THIS EPISODE?I invite you to share, rate, review, and follow my show. Also, join the conversation by connecting with me on Instagram @apleasantsolution.
58 | The Work and Heart of Our Homes with Lori Sugarman-Li
Mar 6 2024
58 | The Work and Heart of Our Homes with Lori Sugarman-Li
Send us a Text Message.It’s my pleasure to introduce to you Lori Sugarman-Li, and her new children’s book, Our Home: The Love, Work, and Heart of Family.  Lori believes deeply in the power of families and is a passionate voice in the cultural shift aiming to articulate the value and visibility of unpaid work. She is dedicated to fostering meaningful conversations within families, encouraging them to contemplate how they care for one another and their shared space. Lori, her husband, and two sons are Canadian-born and live steps from Lake Michigan in Chicago.Join us for a delightful conversation on building connections through care, gratitude, and pride for our homes..HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS CONVERSATION:The importance of involving children in conversations about values and responsibilities at home.The transformative impact of connecting children to the work of the home in a safe and age-appropriate manner.Finding balance between supervision and independence and the pride and confidence kids gain from preparing their own meals.The value of connecting tasks to children's strengths, fostering confidence, and building essential life skills for the future.How “chores” can be reframed as meaningful contributions, which in turn creates positive connections within the family.GUEST INFO:Lori Sugarman-Li, Coach, Speaker, and Children's Book AuthorWebsite | Instagram | LinkedIn | Children's Book RESOURCE:Ready to lighten your mental + emotional load?Download your Fair Play Cards + Activity Guide + join my email community.FEATURED ON THE SHOW:Come say hello on Instagram Follow me on Facebook See what I’m up to on LinkedIn Join my community at https://www.apleasantsolution.com/ LIKE THIS EPISODE?I invite you to share, rate, review, and follow my show. Also, join the conversation by connecting with me on Instagram @apleasantsolution.
56 | Simplifying Your Paperwork Process
Feb 21 2024
56 | Simplifying Your Paperwork Process
Send us a Text Message.In this episode, we dive into simplifying your paperwork process. I get it, paperwork is a daunting task, but once you incorporate the correct procedures, it can become second nature. Join me as I outline the process in three straightforward steps, drawing comparisons to the weekly chore of doing laundry. From recognizing your designated area to creating a processing routine and implementing a filing system, I've got you covered. So, pause, relax, and let's gradually streamline that paperwork process. Remember, you're more organized than you think. Tune in now to learn more!A PLEASANT SOLUTION® IS GIVING AWAY:Five (5) $50 Amazon gift cards and Three (3) 45 min. Clutter Coaching Sessions. Here’s how to enter:Listen to at least one episode of A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life.Click 5 🌟 Stars and Leave a Review with your name/handle.DM me a screenshot of your review.Tag @‌apleasantsolution + share on your stories for bonus entries.Giveaway ends on 02/28/24 at 11:59pm ET. Giveaway limited to residents of the USA. Void where prohibited. No purchase necessary. Not sponsored by or affiliated with Meta, Instagram, or Amazon.Giveaway drawing will be 03/01/24 at 12pm ET.RESOURCE:Ready to declutter but not sure where to take items?Download my Decluttering Resources Quick Guide + join my email community.FEATURED ON THE SHOW:Come say hello on Instagram Follow me on Facebook See what I’m up to on LinkedIn Join my community at https://www.apleasantsolution.com/ LIKE THIS EPISODE?I invite you to share, rate, review, and follow my show. Also, join the conversation by connecting with me on Instagram @apleasantsolution.
55 | Learning to Celebrate Yourself
Feb 14 2024
55 | Learning to Celebrate Yourself
Send us a Text Message.It's time to celebrate, y'all! This episode marks the one-year anniversary of A Pleasant Solution: Embracing An Organized Life podcast! Join me in reflecting on the excitement, nerves, and unique perspectives that have influenced this journey. In this milestone episode, I'm diving into two things: first, a heartfelt thank you to all of you incredible listeners who've listened and shared, and second, I’m talking about learning to celebrate yourself. Honestly, as an adult, it’s not easy. So, let’s talk about honoring wins of all sizes, learning to allow others to celebrate you, and actively encouraging others to celebrate themselves.Plus, as a token of gratitude, I’m giving away prizes all February 2024 – details are listed below under mentioned.Thank you for a phenomenal year. I’m grateful for each one of you, and here's to celebrating the collective greatness of this community.MENTIONED:A Pleasant Solution® is giving away:Five (5) $50 Amazon gift cards and Three (3) 45 min. Clutter Coaching Sessions. Here’s how to enter:Listen to at least one episode of A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life.Click 5 🌟 Stars and Leave a Review with your name/handle.DM me a screenshot of your review.Tag @‌apleasantsolution + share on your stories for bonus entries.Giveaway ends on 02/28/24 at 11:59pm ET. Void where prohibited. No purchase necessary. Not sponsored by or affiliated with Meta, Instagram, or Amazon.Giveaway drawing will be 03/01/24 at 12pm ET.RESOURCE:Interested in self-coaching? Self-coaching is simply self-reflection.Download 25 Great Self-Coaching Questions + join my email community.FEATURED ON THE SHOW:Come say hello on Instagram Follow me on Facebook See what I’m up to on LinkedIn Join my community at https://www.apleasantsolution.com/ LIKE THIS EPISODE?I invite you to share, rate, review, and follow my show. Also, join the conversation by connecting with me on Instagram @apleasantsolution.
54 | Getting Started is as Simple as Rolling the Dice - DeclutterGo!® with Lynne Poulton
Feb 7 2024
54 | Getting Started is as Simple as Rolling the Dice - DeclutterGo!® with Lynne Poulton
Send us a Text Message.I'm thrilled to introduce you to Lynne Poulton, a Board Certified Professional Organizer and the creator of Declutter Go!® In this episode, we explore Lynne's journey from social work to professional organizing and how her personal experiences have shaped her approach to working with clients.Join us for a heartfelt conversation about navigating grief, the power of not waiting for motivation to strike, and the importance of asking yourself, "What do I want?" Plus, learn how you can inject some playfulness into your decluttering routine with Declutter Go!® – the game that turns the often overwhelming task of decluttering into a fun and engaging experience.Whether you're well into your organizing journey or just getting starting, Lynne's insights and the Declutter Go!® game are sure to spark joy in your tidying journey. Explore more at decluttergo.com, and let the adventure of letting go begin!HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS CONVERSATION:How Declutter Go!® originatedHow gamification can be the key to kickstarting your decluttering journeyHow emotions can impact decluttering Why you should pace yourself when navigating sensitive life momentsWhy you should break free from societal expectations How to celebrate the smallest victories and explore what works best for your home + lifeGUEST INFO:Lynne Poulton, Board Certified Professional Organizer and Owner of Wholly Organized!® LLC. Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | DeclutterGo! | DeclutterGo! Facebook | DeclutterGo! InstagramRESOURCE:Ready to declutter but not sure where to take items?Download my Decluttering Resources Quick Guide + join my email community.FEATURED ON THE SHOW:Come say hello on Instagram Follow me on Facebook See what I’m up to on LinkedIn Join my community at https://www.apleasantsolution.com/ LIKE THIS EPISODE?I invite you to share, rate, review, and follow my show. Also, join the conversation by connecting with me on Instagram @apleasantsolution.
52 | The Courage to Heal
Jan 24 2024
52 | The Courage to Heal
Send us a Text Message.In this episode, Amelia delves into the first core value of A Pleasant Solution – 'the courage to heal.' Whether you're grappling with the emotional weight of sentimentality or feeling burdened by household duties, A Pleasant Solution recognizes and honors what you’re going through.The ‘courage to heal’ is a different length journey for each of my clients, and it has two distinct parts. The first is the inner work you do gathering the strength to identify potential solutions and reach out. The second is the inner work you do while we work together. From navigating grief to rediscovering forgotten parts of yourself, this episode offers insight into one reason clients find alignment with A Pleasant Solution’s clutter coaching approach. The external objects and overfull schedule are simply one representation of your internal emotional experience. Join us as we embark on a journey of courage, strength, and self-discovery. If you're ready to transform your space and your life, this episode is a must-listen.RESOURCE:Interested in self-coaching? Self-coaching is simply self-reflection.Download 25 Great Self-Coaching Questions + join my email community.FEATURED ON THE SHOW:Come say hello on Instagram Follow me on Facebook See what I’m up to on LinkedIn Join my community at https://www.apleasantsolution.com/ LIKE THIS EPISODE?I invite you to share, rate, review, and follow my show. Also, join the conversation by connecting with me on Instagram @apleasantsolution.
50 | Conscious and Confident Co-Parenting with Mikki Gardner
Jan 10 2024
50 | Conscious and Confident Co-Parenting with Mikki Gardner
Send us a Text Message.In this milestone 50th episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Mikki Gardner, a conscious parenting coach, bestselling author, and host of the Co-Parenting with Confidence podcast. Mikki's journey from navigating a challenging divorce to becoming a beacon of guidance for moms seeking a new approach to co-parenting is truly inspiring.Mikki unveils her powerful three-step framework – Awareness, Agency, and Aligned Action – offering practical tools to transition from chaotic reactions to calm, grounded, and conscious choices. Through relatable examples, Mikki emphasizes the significance of pausing, gaining agency over our decisions, and taking actions aligned with our vision for peaceful co-parenting. Her new book is a guide filled with wisdom, resonating with anyone seeking emotional freedom and a more harmonious co-parenting experience.Join the conversation as we discuss:Creating intentional, joyful, and ease-filled lives after divorce.Addressing anger in co-parenting through authenticity and self-care.Breaking free from the cycle of people-pleasing and creating positive changes within oneself.Building confidence and resilience in the co-parenting journey.Mikki’s three-step framework for peaceful parentingGUEST INFO:Mikki Gardner, Conscious Parenting Coach, the host of Co-Parenting With Confidence Podcast, and Bestselling AuthorWebsite | Instagram | Facebook | Mikki’s Podcast “Co-Parenting With Confidence” | People Pleasers Guide to Co-Parenting WellRESOURCE:Think there’s a hidden layer beneath the clutter in your life?Download my Clutter Coaching Guide + join my email community.FEATURED ON THE SHOW:Come say hello on Instagram Follow me on Facebook See what I’m up to on LinkedIn Join my community at https://www.apleasantsolution.com/ LIKE THIS EPISODE?I invite you to share, rate, review, and follow my show. Also, join the conversation by connecting with me on Instagram @apleasantsolution.