Slow Living | Find Peace, Balance, and Calm in Hustle Society
Stephanie O'Dea
If you are a busy woman trying to do all the things for all the people all the time and feel like whatever you do isn’t enough, this is the podcast for you.
Maybe you have ADHD, maybe you don’t. Maybe you work full time and have kids, maybe you don’t. But whatever is happening in your life right now isn’t working and you aren’t sure what to do next.
Deep breath in, deep breath out. Help is here.
New York Times bestselling author and slow living expert Stephanie O’Dea is your friendly guide to creating a calm, peaceful, and purpose-filled life—without the burnout.
This isn’t a pushy productivity or goal-setting show. Instead, Stephanie shares gentle, practical ways to simplify your routines, find work-life balance, and bring more peace and tranquility into your days.
Through honest conversations and easy-to-follow tips, you’ll learn to slow down, realign your priorities, and create the space to truly enjoy your life.
Each episode covers topics like:
Creating simple, sustainable routines
Parenting with presence and patience
Mindful time management (without the hustle)
Organization and decluttering for a calm home
Finding peace in relationships and daily life
In a world that moves too fast and constantly demands more, this podcast is your weekly reminder that you are already enough. You don’t need to chase perfection—you just need to slow down and live intentionally.
Stephanie O’Dea is the New York Times bestselling author of Slow Living: Cultivating a Life of Purpose in a Hustle-Driven World and the creator of A Year of Slow Cooking, featured on Good Morning America, The Rachael Ray Show, and in major national publications.
With a background in child development, psychology, and early childhood education, Stephanie has helped millions of busy families simplify, reconnect, and rediscover what truly matters. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband of 25+ years, their three kids, and their beloved dog, Sheldon—where they practice what she preaches: slowing down, unplugging, and savoring a peaceful life.
Maybe you have ADHD, maybe you don’t. Maybe you work full time and have kids, maybe you don’t. But whatever is happening in your life right now isn’t working and you aren’t sure what to do next.
Deep breath in, deep breath out. Help is here.
New York Times bestselling author and slow living expert Stephanie O’Dea is your friendly guide to creating a calm, peaceful, and purpose-filled life—without the burnout.
This isn’t a pushy productivity or goal-setting show. Instead, Stephanie shares gentle, practical ways to simplify your routines, find work-life balance, and bring more peace and tranquility into your days.
Through honest conversations and easy-to-follow tips, you’ll learn to slow down, realign your priorities, and create the space to truly enjoy your life.
Each episode covers topics like:
Creating simple, sustainable routines
Parenting with presence and patience
Mindful time management (without the hustle)
Organization and decluttering for a calm home
Finding peace in relationships and daily life
In a world that moves too fast and constantly demands more, this podcast is your weekly reminder that you are already enough. You don’t need to chase perfection—you just need to slow down and live intentionally.
Stephanie O’Dea is the New York Times bestselling author of Slow Living: Cultivating a Life of Purpose in a Hustle-Driven World and the creator of A Year of Slow Cooking, featured on Good Morning America, The Rachael Ray Show, and in major national publications.
With a background in child development, psychology, and early childhood education, Stephanie has helped millions of busy families simplify, reconnect, and rediscover what truly matters. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband of 25+ years, their three kids, and their beloved dog, Sheldon—where they practice what she preaches: slowing down, unplugging, and savoring a peaceful life.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 10, 2025 • 37min
Your Life Story. Melessa Session 2 (Part 2)
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this heartfelt conversation, Melessa opens up about the creative and emotional journey of writing her first book—a story shaped by resilience, self-discovery, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. As she works to narrow down her book’s focus, Melessa reflects on the pressure of putting her life on paper, from surviving an abusive relationship in her teens to her experiences within—and beyond—the Mormon faith. Alongside Stephanie, she explores what it means to set healthy boundaries and honor her story with honesty and grace.Together, they discuss the bittersweet transition of leaving the family home where her children grew up and the idea of holding a “closing ceremony” to mark that new beginning. Stephanie also offers creative strategies to help Melessa shape her book—like using voice memos to brainstorm and crafting a theme that reads like a novel. This episode is an inspiring reminder that healing, growth, and storytelling often unfold side by side.Past Episodes You May Love: Episode 75: Ruth's Slow Living StoryEpisode 109: My Publishing Story(ies)Episode 34: Interview with Sandy Cooper; Balancing MotherhoodEpisode 112: Living Your Life Away from Social Media with Sandy CooperWant to know more about living a slowed down life?!Free Daily Journaling Worksheet: stephanieodea.com/dailySimple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Nov 3, 2025 • 33min
New Beginnings Melessa Session 2 (Part 1)
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this episode, Melessa and Stephanie catch up on her big move into a new home and the lessons that come with fresh beginnings. As she and her husband sort through what to keep and what to let go, Melessa reflects on how far they’ve come as a couple—learning to communicate better, compromise, and create a space that truly fits this new chapter of life.Stephanie gives Melessa her latest “homework”: to list what she’s proud of and what she hopes to be proud of next. From raising her kids and managing life during her husband’s deployment to finally landing her dream job in grant writing, Melessa shares how intention and purpose shape her journey. They also chat about Move Your Stuff, Change Your Life by Karen Rauch Carter, exploring how small shifts in your environment—and your mindset—can open the door to love, peace, and possibility.Past Episodes You May Love: Episode 146: Thoughts on being married for 25 yearsEpisode 189: Do It BadlyBook Link: Move Your Stuff, Change Your Life: How to Use Feng Shui to Get Love, Money, Respect, and Happiness Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Free Daily Journaling Worksheet: stephanieodea.com/dailySimple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/Book Link:
Oct 27, 2025 • 29min
Unpacking a Diagnosis. Meet Melessa. Real Coaching, Session 1 Part 2
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this heartfelt continuation of Melessa’s first coaching session, she opens up about a recent autism diagnosis and how it’s helping her understand her past while embracing the woman she’s becoming. Together with Stephanie, she explores the “why” behind her life choices—what’s working, what’s not, and how to create more peace and structure in her days.As the session unfolds, Melessa begins shaping a realistic morning and evening routine while envisioning her dream life 3–5 years from now. Stephanie challenges her to celebrate her wins, dream boldly about her next chapter, and design daily rhythms that align with her values. It’s an inspiring reminder that real growth starts with self-compassion, curiosity, and the courage to reimagine what’s possible.Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Oct 20, 2025 • 36min
Meet Melessa. Real Coaching, Session 1 Part 1 Navigating Midlife with Intention
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this first coaching session, we meet Melessa—an almost empty nester navigating a midlife transition. After raising five children, she’s now pursuing her dream of nonprofit grant writing, downsizing her home, and embracing the community she always hoped to live in. Diagnosed with ADHD at 50, she shares how cognitive behavioral therapy and tools like ChatGPT help her stay focused and manage life’s challenges.Stephanie and Melessa dive into midlife coaching topics like creating healthier routines, resisting the hustle, and embracing personal growth. From a travel bucket list challenge with her husband to honest conversations about ADHD support and empty nest adjustments, this episode offers encouragement and practical insight for anyone ready to rediscover themselves in a new season of life.Past Episodes You May Love: Episode 18: Sleep -- how to get the rest you and your body needsEpisode 151: Understanding CapacityEpisode 192: Perimenopause and Being Your Own ExpertWant to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Oct 13, 2025 • 36min
Slow Living and Feminism
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! http://stephanieodea.com/slowlivingbookIn this episode, Stephanie explores the connection between slow living and feminism, reminding us that true empowerment doesn’t mean doing it all—it means discovering who you really are. She shares why slowing down allows women to honor both ambition and biology, while also reflecting on lessons from the “girl boss” era and the importance of defining feminism on your own terms.Together, we’ll dive into topics like power dynamics in relationships, knowing your body and cycles, and making intentional choices for your future. Stephanie encourages listeners to embrace self-awareness, respect their intuition, and remember that you are already whole. This conversation is all about creating space for authenticity, balance, and living life on your own terms.Past Episodes You May Love: Episode 17: It's not You, it's your HormonesEpisode 86: work - life balanceEpisode 131: Women's HealthEpisode 132: Diet CultureEpisode 174: Happily Hormonal with Leisha DrewsEpisode 179: Jobs, Careers, and Identity Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
13 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 22min
Being Content is The Secret to Life
Explore the transformative power of contentment and how it can lead to true happiness. Learn how small mindset shifts can create significant changes in your life. The discussion highlights the pitfalls of the relentless pursuit of goals and the American Dream. Discover the importance of valuing simple, everyday moments over consumerism. Plus, find out why defining your identity by achievements can be limiting. Ultimately, embrace a lifestyle focused on peace, joy, and the meaningful connections that truly matter.
Sep 29, 2025 • 32min
Scheduling and Planning Proactively for Peace: Kelsea Session 6 (Part 2)
Kelsea and Stephanie dive into the art of proactive scheduling for a peaceful life. They tackle the challenges of managing time, routines, and chores while emphasizing the importance of gradual change. Kelsea shares her steps toward financial planning for retirement, celebrating small wins like reduced anxiety and improved family presence. With insights on meal planning, fitness, and holiday prep, they inspire listeners to embrace a balanced, stress-free lifestyle. The discussion wraps up with reflections on gratitude and growth as Kelsea looks ahead to new adventures.
Sep 22, 2025 • 42min
Thoughts on Putting Yourself First: Kelsea Session 6 (Part 1)
Kelsea dives into her journey of self-improvement, showcasing small yet impactful victories. She discusses her decision to prioritize personal time over rigid punctuality, shares fitness goals like starting Couch to 5K, and tackles challenges like staying hydrated. Kelsea candidly addresses nighttime binge eating, exploring alternative hobbies to combat it. Her newfound confidence shines through as she reflects on personal growth, illustrating the importance of sustainable habits in a busy life.
Sep 15, 2025 • 44min
Slip Ups and Being Human: Kelsea Session 5 (Part 2)
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this episode, Kelsea shares her struggles with confidence and self-care as Stephanie encourages her to take small steps—like booking a haircut, making a doctor’s appointment, and curating outfits that make her feel good. They also talk about building a “peace pyramid” around finances and business goals with Ryan, plus Kelsea’s bucket list dreams, including running a 5K.Kelsea reflects on her growing relationship with her mom, who listens to the podcast and supports her healthier choices. Together, she and Stephanie explore how confidence, wellness, and parenting all shape the next generation—and why true confidence comes from small, intentional steps.Past Episodes You May Love: Episode 71: Self-LoathingEpisode 92: Self-Sabotage Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Sep 8, 2025 • 34min
Navigating Hormones and And Land: Kelsea Session 5 (Part 1)
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this episode, Kelsea shares her love for 30-day challenges and what it would mean to start one at the beginning of her cycle. She and Stephanie dive into her non-negotiables—like morning routines and progress check-ins—and explore how true wellness is more than just “holding it all together.”Kelsea also reflects on building confidence through everyday moments, from connecting with other moms to joining a cookbook book club. With honesty about reducing old habits and learning self-accountability, she shows what it looks like to create balance, lean into vulnerability, and keep moving forward. Past Episodes You May Love: Episode 51: Adult FriendshipsEpisode 103: And LandEpisode 122: Zero Sum Thinking Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
