ORGANIZE WITH GRACE | Overwhelmed at Home | Decluttering Help | Burnout Recovery

111 | The First Step You’ve Been Missing: Why You Can’t Finish Decluttering Alone

There’s that one thing you keep meaning to deal with. The closet. The paperwork. The room you close the door on. You tell yourself you’ll get to it, but somehow you never do.

In this episode, I talk about why it’s not that you don’t know where to start. It’s that doing it alone feels like too much. I share the simple first step most women are missing, why decluttering stalls halfway through, and how support changes everything.

I also introduce Finish It With Grace, a side-by-side session for the woman who’s ready to stop circling the same project and finally get it done.

If you’ve been stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated with yourself, this episode is for you.

👉 Sign up for a session here: Finish It With Grace - Book Your Session

 

110 | Why We Buy on Impulse (Updated Listener Favorite)

This episode is one of the most downloaded on the show, and I’m bringing it back with a fresh intro and outro for the holiday season. If you’ve ever bought something on impulse and wondered why, especially when life already feels full, this gentle replay will give you clarity and awareness.

If the holidays feel heavy or fast, I created Calm Clarity for the Holidays to give you a quiet moment to slow down and find your next step with intention.

👉 Book your Calm Clarity Session By Clicking This Link

Inside this episode:
• A relatable impulse buying story
• Why we make emotional purchases
• How small items add to clutter
• A calm way to move through the season

I hope this episode brings you a soft pause and a little more clarity today.

109 | The Calm Before The Holidays Part 3 - Feeling Overwhelmed by the Holidays? Let's Slow Down Together

Thanksgiving and the holidays evoke a range of emotions, including old memories, pressure to make everything look perfect, and the buzz of the season that never seems to slow down.

 

In this episode, we’re taking a deep breath together and asking one simple question.

 

Get ready to slow down for a few minutes while we do an honest reflection about holiday expectations, and a simple way to create the feeling you want in your home instead of slipping into chaos.

 

NEED MORE CALM AND CLARITY IN YOUR LIFE?

I’m here to support you.

 

You can book a Calm Clarity Session, and we’ll walk through whatever feels heavy right now, in a way that feels peaceful, kind, and doable.

 

Your session link → Calm Clarity Session

🤍Grace

108 | The Calm Before The Holidays Part 2 - Decluttering The Season

In this episode, I talk with you about slowing down long enough to actually feel ready for the season...not rushed, not behind, just steady and clear. If life has been moving fast and you’ve been wanting a moment to breathe and reset, this will meet you right where you are.

And if you want to go a little deeper with me, you can join the 2-Day Calm Before the Holidays Reset. It’s something I created with you in mind.

👉 Register here: The Calm Before The Holidays Reset

You can also email me at grace@organizewithgrace.com with "PEACE" in the subject line, and I will send you the details and the link in an email.

Come take a pause with me, friend. Let’s reset before the season picks up.

107 | The Calm Before The Holidays Part 1

Hey friend, this little 3-part series is something I put together to help us slow down before the holidays start speeding up.

If you’ve been feeling that pressure to jump into all the things already, these short episodes will give you a moment to breathe and come back to yourself.

We’re just taking it one small step at a time, simple pauses, gentle reflection, and a chance to settle your nervous system so you can move into the season with more peace and a little more space inside.

And if you want some extra support, I’m hosting The Calm Before the Holidays Reset, a free 2-day time together on Zoom where we’ll walk through this gently.

You can save your spot here: The Calm Before The Holidays Reset

You can also email me to sign up, just type "PEACE" on the subject line at grace@organizewithgrace.com 

Can't wait to see you there. Let’s breathe our way into this season together.

106 | Why Smart Women Still Feel Stuck In Clutter

I used to think I just needed better bins or a new system. But what I’ve learned is that we often do everything around the clutter: labeling, sorting, reorganizing,  instead of facing the real decisions that bring peace and freedom.

In this episode, I share why clutter is a lot like moving credit card debt around instead of paying it off, and how slowing down can help you find calm before the holidays.

✨ Join me for The Calm Before the Holidays Reset: a 2-day guided experience to clear space, calm your mind, and enjoy a peaceful holiday season.

When is it?

Day 1: Monday, November 17th at 11 am PST / 2 pm EST

Day 2: Tuesday, November 18th at 11 am PST / 2 pm EST

 

Click here to reserve your spot👉Register Today

 

105 | Downsizing Explained: Why We Do It + How It Began

Have you ever wondered why downsizing has become such a big part of our lives? Join me as we explore the history of downsizing, from multi-generational homes to the rise of consumerism, to understand its impact on us today. 

Stay until the end so you can take the next forward step towards your downsizing journey.

If you’ve been thinking about downsizing, decluttering, or creating a simpler home, this episode will encourage you to start small and take your next step with confidence.

✨[📥 Download Your Free Reflection Worksheet] (What Is It All For Anyway)

If this link isn't working for you, email me at grace@organizewithgrace.com and type "REFLECTION" in the subject line, and I will send it to your inbox.

 

104 | You Don’t Need the Perfect Plan (or the Perfect Bins) to Start Downsizing

Are you waiting for the perfect bins or the perfect plan before you start decluttering?

In this episode, I share how perfectionism keeps us stuck, why clarity comes through action (not waiting), and how one small step today can create real momentum.

If you'd love my simple checklist to help you take the very first step, send me an email at grace@organizewithgrace.com and I'll get it right to you. No bins required, just write "checklist" in the subject line. 

Talk soon!

Grace

www.organizewithgrace.com 

The Calm Before The Clutter: Help Me Shape What's Next

What if the reason you haven’t decluttered that drawer, or made that move, or followed through on your goals isn’t because there is something wrong with you?

What if your nervous system is simply overwhelmed and doing its job to protect you?

In this “mini” episode, I talk about something happening behind the scenes: a new series that explores the deep connection between nervous system regulation and our ability to declutter, downsize, and make decisions — all without panic or pressure.

And here’s the best part: you are invited to help shape this series.

📩 Want to be a co-creator?

Fill out this quick 3-question form and let me know what’s resonating with you:
👉 Click here: Help Shape The Next Series

🧘🏽‍♀️ As a thank-you, you’ll get a Reflection Guide, a free calming tool to take one small, gentle step forward today.

 

As always, you can email me at hello@organizewitgrace.com even if it's to say "hi!". I look forward to hearing from you. - Grace

103 | Overwhelmed and Frozen By The Accumulation Of Stuff Over The Years? Here Is Why and How You Can Break Free

I’m opening up about a big shift in how I see decluttering and downsizing.

For years, I shared tips like “set a timer” or “start small”. But what happens when even those steps feel unreachable?

I am learning that it’s about our nervous system.

Together, we’ll talk about why clutter can leave us feeling stuck, what survival mode looks like in everyday life, and how finding calm and safety first can change everything.

If you’ve ever felt behind or ashamed that you “just can’t get it done,” this episode is for you.

 

I’m here to support you.

You can book a Calm Clarity Session, and we’ll walk through whatever feels heavy right now, in a way that feels peaceful, kind, and doable.

Your session link → Calm Clarity Session

102 | Feeling Behind? Why You're Actually Right on Time (and How to Reset Your Home & Life)

Feeling behind in your home or life? In this episode, we explore where that feeling comes from and why the truth might surprise you: you’re not behind.

Learn how to release the pressure, embrace progress over perfection, and give yourself permission to reset your mindset and your home while decluttering and organizing.

Ready to get started? Click HERE to answer a few quick questions, and let's smash those feelings of being behind together. No pressure, just you and me starting a conversation.

101 | From Overwhelmed to Effortless: Wardrobe Simplicity and Color Clarity with Shari Braendel

Is your closet overflowing, but you still feel like you have nothing to wear? 

Help is here!

Nationally known stylist and color expert Shari Braendel shares with us how the right colors and fewer clothes can help you feel more confident and less stressed.

If you’re ready to simplify, feel good in your clothes, and rediscover your style, this episode is for you.

 

Learn more about Shari: https://www.stylebycolor.com/

Join her Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stylebycolorstudio/

 

 

 

 

100 Episodes of Decluttering and Organizing Wisdom, Crisis Downsizing and What’s Next

In this special 100th episode of the Organize With Grace podcast, I’m reflecting on the top lessons I’ve learned through professional organizing and hosting a show focused on decluttering, downsizing, and navigating life transitions.

I’ll walk you through seven key truths I’ve seen again and again, from decision fatigue and the emotions that decluttering evokes to the fear of letting go and the power of starting small. Whether you’re in the middle of a move, facing a family crisis, or simply overwhelmed by stuff, these insights will encourage and ground you.

I also introduce the Crisis Clarity Session, my virtual organizing service designed to help overwhelmed families during urgent transitions like health changes, caregiving, and estate cleanouts.

🎉 Don’t miss the milestone and birthday celebration giveaway. Yes, it's my birthday today!

Enter and grab your free checklist here: 40-plus Declutter Checklist — Organize with Grace

If you’re looking for help with last-minute downsizing, emotional clutter, or decluttering for a life change, this episode is for you.

Let's connect! Email me at hello@organizewithgrace.com 

99 | The Key To Your Next Move: Insights From A Realtor Who Truly Gets It

In this episode, I sit down with Sheri Valdez, who has many hats: realtor, mom of five, and seasoned guide through the often-emotional journey of buying or selling a home during a life transition.

Whether you're considering downsizing, helping a loved one through a move, or preparing for your next chapter, Sheri shares invaluable insights into what really matters when making a home feel right for your current season.

Tune in to hear how she supports her clients with care, communication, and clarity throughout the entire process.

Connect with Sheri: 

• Facebook: Sheri Valdez - Realtor 
• Instagram: @sheri.valdez.realtor

98 | The Curator's Mindset: Breaking Free From The Accumulation Trap With Dr. Christine Koh, PhD

Are you tired of decluttering your home only to find it filled with stuff again months later?

In this enlightening conversation with Dr. Christine Koh, host of the Edit Your Life Show, we chat about the psychology behind our attachment to possessions and discover practical strategies to break the "re-cluttering" cycle for good.

Christine shares her transformative mantra that changed how she approaches consumption and reveals the surprisingly simple Sunday habit that keeps her home clutter-free.

Whether you're downsizing, organizing, or simply seeking to live more intentionally, this episode offers refreshing wisdom for creating a space that truly supports your life.

 

Click here to learn more about Dr. Christine Koh, Phd: www.christinekoh.com 

Click here to listen to her show: Edit Your Life

97 | Stop Letting Perfectionism Steal Your Joy: 3 Game-Changing Decluttering Secrets You Can Try Today

In this episode, I discuss why decluttering and downsizing need self-compassion and grace, not perfectionism. 

I also share three simple tips to make downsizing less stressful: celebrate small wins, accept your feelings about letting things go, and define what "enough" progress means for your situation.

Are you feeling stuck with your decluttering projects or planning a move? If so, this episode offers practical advice for making progress without the pressure.

Let's connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/organizewithgrace/

Or you can email me: grace@organizewithgrace.com 

96 | Finding God's Grace In Your Messy House: An Honest Conversation About What Jesus Truly Cares About

Do you find that your messy home feels like a reflection of your heart and self-worth? Join us for a refreshingly honest conversation with Dana K. White, the beloved creator of "A Slob Comes Clean."

In this episode, Dana opens up about her personal struggles with clutter and shares how her journey from chaos to clarity began with the creation of an anonymous blog. This blog started as an accountability project and has since transformed into a movement that has helped thousands break free from the cycle of mess and shame.

Dana offers practical and achievable strategies for tackling clutter—yes, even that pile you’ve been avoiding—while sharing a powerful message about God's grace and your true worth beyond the appearance of your home. 

Whether you’re overwhelmed by clutter or simply looking for freedom from the pressure of having a "perfect" looking house, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired, equipped, and, most importantly, understood.

Her new book, "Jesus Doesn't Care About Your Messy House - He Cares About Your Heart," is available for purchase on Amazon through this affiliate link (I will receive a small commission if you use the link below to buy the book).

Jesus Doesn't Care About Your Messy House - He Cares About Your Heart by Dana K. White

Need help clearing the clutter? Let's connect! Email me at grace@organizewithgrace.com, and we can set up a quick 15-minute chat to determine whether we are a good fit to work together. I'm ready when you are! 

Much love,

Grace

 

Where to find Dana:

More about her new book: https://www.aslobcomesclean.com/jesus/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ASlobComesClean/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/danakwhite

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aslobcomesclean

 

 

95 | Why January's "Quitter's Day" Is Actually Your Perfect Reset Button | Decluttering Tips For A Fresh Start

Hey! If you're beating yourself up about those New Year's resolutions already falling apart, you need to hear this episode.

I get super real about my own 4 AM dishwasher adventures (yes, really!) and why January feeling like a total blur is actually totally okay.

I share this "as real as it gets" situated about helping a family handle an emergency downsize that really puts things in perspective.

Plus, did you know there's actually a thing called "Quitter's Day"?

We talk about why ditching those resolutions doesn't make you a quitter, and how to hit that reset button whenever you need it.

If you're still in that post-holiday fog or feeling like everyone else has their life together except you - this one's for you. I also break down how we can work together on Zoom to tackle your organizing goals, one totally doable step at a time.

This is probably one of my most honest episodes yet, first recorded straight from my couch because sometimes that's just where the real talk happens!

94 | Emergency Ready Home: Why Organization Could Save What You Value Most

🏡 Emergency Ready Home: Why Organization Could Save What You Value Most

As wildfires impact Los Angeles communities, we're sharing a thoughtful reflection on home preparedness - not for those currently affected, but for those of us watching and wondering, "What if?"

Together, we explore the connection between an organized home and emergency readiness. Through sensitive discussion of current events, we'll consider how simple organization could become your family's shield during life's unexpected moments.

And you don't have to do it alone. Join us at the free Chaos to Calm Summit, where experts will guide you toward creating a home that's ready for whatever tomorrow brings.

Click here to sign up: Chaos To Calm Summit  (January 13th to January 17th, 2025)

Because preparation isn't about perfect organization - it's about protecting what matters most.

#PreparedHome #OrganizedLife #ChaosToCalmSummit

93 | The Sandwich Generation: How To Prepare While Parents Are Still Independent

Happy New Year!

Are you noticing subtle changes in your parents' lifestyle while raising your own kids? You might be approaching the "sandwich generation" - and you're not alone.

In this episode, we explore this unique season of life through the eyes of someone preparing for it, backed by professional experience helping families navigate this transition.

🎯 In this episode, you'll discover:

• What really defines the "sandwich generation" and why recognizing the signs early matters
• How decluttering can be a gentle gateway to deeper conversations about aging and care
• A practical way to prepare for this season of life before it becomes overwhelming

Ready to learn more?

Join me at the Chaos to Calm Summit (January 13-17, 2025), where I'll dive deeper into helping parents declutter with dignity.

Register now by clicking here: Chaos To Calm Summit

See you at the summit! - Grace

92 | 3 Powerful Reflections - Your Bridge From 2024 to 2025

3 Powerful Reflections - Your Bridge from 2024 to 2025

Ready to close this year with intention?

Join me for a close look at what it means to reflect, release, and renew.

From handling Facebook timeouts to finding deeper gratitude, I share with you what's on my list.

Plus, get a simple 3-step action plan to start your 2025 with purpose. Warning: This episode might just inspire you to grab a pen and start your own reflection journey—right in the middle of listening.

If the mood strikes you, share your list with me at grace@organizewithgrace.com

Happy New Year!

91 | Black Friday Flurry...Are You Participating? Surprise, I am! (Gasp!)

For my fellow American friends, I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving! 

The holidays are here and so is Black Friday.

On that note...

Have you heard of the color analysis that Your Color Guru does that will revolutionize the way you dress and boost your confidence at the same time?

Lean in, friends, wherever you are tuning in, because this may be the ONLY Black Friday sale I am promoting as a pro declutterer because I love it and I have a feeling you will love it too.

Here are the links I promised to help you transform your wardrobe:

You Color Guru Color Packages (10% off all packages until Dec. 3rd at midnight EST)

REMEMBER: Use my code GRACE10 to get an extra 10% on top of the current sale

And there's more! You get 1 year FREE membership to "Your Color Closet" with the purchase of any package. I am also a member, and I love being able to see curated clothes that are right for me! Have questions? Email me at hello@organizewithgrace.com 

Interview with Jeannie Stith, owner and founder of Your Color Guru: 

Episode 46 - Go From Blah To Beautiful And Confident With Everything You Wear AND Simplify Your Wardrobe Without Breaking The Bank

 

 

90 | Here is an audio version of "5 Tips To Organize Your Garage Before the Holidays"

What annoys you the most about your garage? Share it with me by email: grace@organizewithgrace.com

There weren't any takers for watching the video version, so I thought I'd make it easier for you by providing you with an audio version of the workshop I recently did to help you with your garage or storage decluttering and organization before the holidays arrive.

Want a complimentary strategy session with me to help you get started? Click this link, and we will get on Zoom for 15 minutes, and you will come away with an action plan on how to tackle that cluttered garage: 15-minute strategy session

Chat soon! - Grace

89 | 5 Tips to Organize Your Garage Before the Holidays

Have you been thinking about getting that garage in order before the holidays roll around? I've got something that might help you out.

You know how overwhelming these projects can seem, right? I've put together a little gift to help you get started. It's a 30-minute workshop video called "5 Tips to Organize Your Garage Before the Holidays."

In just half an hour, you'll learn practical tips to save time and headaches. We're talking about finally finding a home for those holiday decorations, making space for your car, and maybe even impressing family and friends when they come to visit.

Here's how to get a hold of the video:

Simply click here: GARAGE WORKSHOP

Happy Decluttering!

Grace

 

88 | Going From Overwhelm To Action Part 2

Ever feel like life is throwing everything at you all at once and you want to hide under a blanket, away from everyone?

In this episode, we're getting real about those times when it all feels like too much and what to do about it.

No fancy talk here - just a time to catch your breath when life won't slow down. 

Join me for some practical talk on getting through the tough spots, finding your footing again, and not having to feel alone.

 

Want to join me for a quick 15-minute strategy call?

Click here to schedule: Complimentary 15-minute strategy call

I hope to chat with you soon!

-Grace

 

87 | Going From Overwhelm To Action

In this episode, we will discuss the word "overwhelm" by discovering the difference between "being" and "feeling" overwhelmed.

Whether you're facing a garage full of memories or a closet bursting at the seams, this episode offers the encouragement and tools to move from paralysis to progress.

I've missed you! Let's connect by good ol' email: grace@organizewithgrace.com

If you've heard about my Facebook group in other episodes, please email me instead of joining, as I am currently restricted from FB.

Chat soon! - Grace

www.organizewithgrace.com 

 

86 | Moving and Downsizing Do's and Don'ts: Secrets to a Stress-Free Fresh Start

Let's face it: moving is stressful and challenging on many fronts - emotionally, physically, mentally, and financially. 

Yet, each year, tens of millions of people in the US relocate from their place of birth or current residence to another location within the same city, county, state, country, or abroad for many reasons.

(Read more at: https://www.mymovingreviews.com/move/how-often-and-why-americans-move/)

During these moves, we tend to accumulate belongings along the way, and the next thing we know, we have more stuff than we know what to do with.

In this episode, I chatted with Deanna Yates about this very topic and how minimalism has played a significant role in her life of relocating 16 times in the past 20 years.

She provided listeners with practical decluttering and downsizing advice for those who are ready to let go and who crave more space in their homes and lives.

I hope you enjoy and are helped by this conversation with Deanna.

Deanna Yates is the busy mama behind the top-ranking podcast, Wannabe Clutter Free, where she helps other busy families learn how to let go of the stuff holding them back so they can enjoy more time together, stop spending their weekends cleaning house, and wake up excited for the day ahead.

Deanna is mom to one daughter, wife to a startup entrepreneur, and is living her dream life in San Diego, CA. When she's not helping clients realize their dreams, you can find her on her Peloton, searching for the tastiest breakfast burrito, or balancing her love of a good Target run with living clutter-free in her own home.

 

Listen to these great episodes of Wannabe Clutter Free Podcast: 

• Deanna's journey as a minimalist: Ep 200: Reflecting on the Past Decade of Our Decluttering and Minimalism Living Journey
• Me as her guest: Ep 207: Clearing Clutter, Finding Clarity: Insights for a Tidier Home as We Age

Connect with Deanna:

Website: https://wannabeclutterfree.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wannabeclutterfree/ 

 

 

85 | Tame Your Photo Chaos: A 7-Step Solution To Organizing Memories Without Feeling Overwhelmed

Instead of a tangled, overwhelming hot mess of scattered analog and digital photos that leave you stressed, imagine having your most precious memories neatly organized and displayed.

You'd be able to enjoy those visual keepsakes while crafting the “best of the best” visual legacy that you and your children can easily access for years to come.

If this resonates with you, this episode could be the solution you needed yesterday.

I had the pleasure of chatting with Haleh Shoa, Founder and CEO of Picturli: a photo organization, curation, archiving, and design studio that helps families, individuals, and businesses transform their chaotic mess of photos into one clear and cohesive digital library. Haleh and her team meticulously organize their clients’ photo collections into a searchable, secure, and easily sharable photo archive. Haleh believes that family histories and personal memories are some of the most valuable treasures that exist and that preserving and sharing them is crucial for future generations.

She shared many great tips about photo organization from first steps to regularly cleaning up your camera roll for better-looking photos.

If you like taking notes while listening, here are the 7 steps to organize and archive your photos:

1. Decide on a goal

2. Gather your photos & other memories

3. Gather your tools

4. Sorting and Categorizing

5. Scan your photos

6. Proper storage solutions

7. Digital back-up 

 

Want more help from Haleh?

Get all the goods here: www.picturelifecurated.com 

Connect with her on IG: https://www.instagram.com/picturli/ 

 

84 | Beyond The Piles: A Helpful Guide To Equip You To Help Those Who Hoard

We've all seen at least one episode of the infamous hoarder show and likely had our own opinions about what may drive someone to hoard. But hoarding is a complex issue beyond what we see on TV.

Join me and my guest, Laurel Sagan of Laurel Buys Houses as we discuss the impact hoarding has on individuals and families, and most importantly, how we can offer support and understanding to those who hoard.

Whether you seek insight for yourself or a loved one, this episode aims to shed some light on this often misunderstood topic, offering hope and guidance, particularly regarding the homes of those who hoard.

 

About Laurel:

With more than 20 years of real estate experience, Laurel takes pride in helping seniors and their families navigate the difficult path of life transitions. She buys, renovates, and sells homes while helping others find solutions for their housing needs. In addition to being a frequent speaker at local real estate investment and Mastermind clubs, Laurel has presented at real estate conferences across the country and internationally.

Laurel's book "Hoarding: It's So Much More Than Clutter" is available free of charge. Obtain your copy by going to: https://www.laurelbuyshouses.com/laurels-free-book-2/ 

 

 

 

83 | How To Continually Fill Your Cup Even If You Are Full-Time Caregiver

In this episode with special guest Jenny Layton of The Happy Gal, we chat about practical tips, heartfelt advice, and empowering insights to help you prioritize your well-being without guilt as a caregiver. Tune in to learn how to nourish your mind, body, and soul, and find the balance you deserve.

 

Jenny Layton helps high-achieving women organize their homes, manage their time, and master their mindsets so they can achieve their goals without sacrificing what matters most. You can learn more about her signature systems and programs on the Life Organized podcast, or at www.thehappygal.com. Jenny lives in Utah with her husband and five kids, and spends her free time on the pickleball court, in the Utah mountains, and with friends and family.

 

Want to connect and work with Jenny? 

Check out the "Get Organized Bootcamp":

 https://thehappygal.com/get-organized-bootcamp/

(Coupon Code BC10 for $10 off)

 

The Life Organized Podcast: 

https://thehappygal.com/podcast/ or on podcast platforms (apple, spotify, etc.)

 

The Happy Gal website: https://thehappygal.com/

 

Facebook/Instagram: @jlthehappygal

 

 

P.S. (look below)

 

***HEY AMAZING LISTENERS***

 

Schedule a free 15-minute strategy session with me if you've always wanted to chat with a professional organizer but are not quite ready to hire one. 

 

Click here to schedule: COMPLIMENTARY 15-MINUTE STRATEGY CALL