Slow Living | Living Fully Without Hustle or Hype
If life feels a little too fast, a little too loud, or just more complicated than it needs to be—you’re in the right place. I’m Stephanie O’Dea, a New York Times bestselling author and longtime advocate for slow living. Each week, I share simple, practical ways to create a calmer, more intentional life—without chasing productivity, perfection, or someone else’s version of success. This podcast isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing what matters, at a pace that actually feels good. We talk about real life—routines, relationships, time, health, home, and the quiet decisions th...
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Meet the Whole Wellness Mama
<p>BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! </p><p>Discover how intentional parenting and a slower-paced lifestyle can transform your family dynamic in this inspiring episode of Meet the Whole Wellness Mama. Host Stephanie sits down with Amy Nesbitt, the voice behind the “Whole Wellness Mama” podcast, to explore her recent move from the Bay Area to Southern California and how it’s reshaped life for her and her two sons. Amy shares how encouraging independence and real-life skills—like monthly DIY projects at Home Depot—has empowered her boys to thrive. If you're searching for ways to raise confident kids while...
Shelly Session 6 (Part 2): Living in Peace for Now and Forever
<p> BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! </p><p>In this heartfelt final session, Shelly reflects on her journey toward inner calm and what it truly means to be living in peace. From envisioning peaceful mornings without alarms to recognizing the importance of self-care and healthy boundaries, this episode captures a powerful transformation. If you’ve been searching for ways to reduce stress, find balance, and create a more peaceful daily life, Shelly’s story will resonate deeply and leave you inspired.</p><p>As Stephanie and Shelly wrap up their last session together, they explore what the future could hold—...
Shelly session 6 (Part 1): Affirmations, Being Woo, and Sticking to the Plan
<p>BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! </p><p>Stephanie and Shelly kick off this episode with a real-life check-in that many listeners will relate to. Shelly shares how her week began with a freshly cleaned house and a shift at work as she prepares to move from part-time back to full-time hours. At the same time, she opens up about the ongoing challenge of supporting her biological father through frequent medical appointments while also trying to stay on top of her own health. Stephanie checks in on the challenge she gave Shelly in the previous episode—scheduling her own do...
Shelly Session 5 (Part 2): Creating Your Perfect Hallmark Christmas
<p>BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! </p><p>Get ready to step into a cozy, joy-filled episode as Shelly shares her vision for the ultimate “Hallmark Christmas” and how she’s planning to make December truly magical. From finishing her Christmas shopping before Thanksgiving to putting up her tree right after and even planning a festive holiday dog photoshoot, she’s fully embracing Christmas preparation. If you love holiday planning, Christmas traditions, and getting ahead on your seasonal to-do list, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired.</p><p>Shelly and Stephanie also talk about how Christmas can still feel mag...
Shelly Session 5 (Part 1): Celebrating Your Wins and Traditional Gender Divide with Housework
<p>BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! </p><p>In this episode, Stephanie and Shelly kick things off by celebrating a major personal growth win—Shelly is learning to say no and step out of the caretaker role with her dad so she can simply be his daughter. They talk about setting healthy boundaries in family relationships, shifting long-standing dynamics, and still showing love in practical ways (hello, Walmart runs!). Shelly also shares how organizing her closet has transformed her morning routine, proving that small habits and simple systems can create big mindset shifts.</p><p>The conversation flows into ca...
Shelly Session 4 (Part 2): Working and Living Your Best Life
<p> BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! </p><p>In this episode, Shelly and Stephanie dive into the realities of balancing a demanding new job with personal well-being. As Shelly considers moving from part-time to full-time work, the conversation explores what it really means to unwind after a stressful day—whether that’s floating in the pool, carving out quiet time, or simply giving herself permission to rest. They also unpack the pressure of being the person everyone relies on, and how easy it is to put your own goals on hold while supporting others.</p><p>This episode is a hea...
Shelly session 4 (Part 1): Rest is Not Something to Earn
<p>BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! </p><p>In this uplifting episode, Shelly shares how she’s getting back into a healthy routine—walking consistently, scheduling labs and her annual mammogram, and taking proactive steps toward the vision she has for herself in her 70s. She also opens up about her daily check-ins with her dad and the realization that she doesn’t have to be his only medical support, exploring healthier caregiver boundaries and new ways to shift their relationship.</p><p>From decluttering closets and clearing out the garage to rediscovering her love of crafting, Shelly is creati...
Shelly Session 3 (Part 2): Navigating Elderly Parents and Saying No
<p>BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! </p><p>In this episode, Shelly shares her fears around cancer returning and why prioritizing her health feels more important than ever. From committing to annual mammograms and finding a new primary care physician to moving her body more and getting outside, this episode focuses on setting boundaries now to create a healthier, more fulfilling future.</p><p>Stephanie challenges Shelly to take action—choosing healthier foods, cutting back on sugar, and following through on goals instead of just thinking about them. The conversation also takes an intriguing turn as they explore whether AD...
Shelly session 3 (Part 1): Taking Care of Adult Parents
<p>BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! </p><p>In this episode, Stephanie and Shelly share real-life updates from a hectic season at work to a sweet ice cream outing with Shelly’s dad. Shelly talks about shifting their relationship from caregiver to simply being his daughter. The conversation turns to end-of-life planning and why those uncomfortable talks still matter. Shelly also opens up about feeling overwhelmed by clutter, especially clothes and sentimental items from loved ones who have passed.</p><p>Shelly shares her goal of finishing holiday shopping before Thanksgiving and how decluttering her home and garage ties in...
Shelly Session 2 (Part 2): Working on the next Best Step | From Survival Mode to Strength
<p>BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! </p><p>In this episode, Stephanie and Shelly dive into a powerful self-reflection exercise, exploring the adjectives Shelly uses to describe herself and her current season of life. The conversation opens up into an honest discussion about health, menopause, and how ongoing struggles with doctors and health insurance have shaped Shelly’s mindset. With vulnerability and compassion, they talk about how discouragement can impact not just the body, but self-image and confidence too.</p><p>Shelly describes her life as being in “survival mode,” which leads to a meaningful conversation about her journey throug...
