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A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life

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/.
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A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life - 18 | Understanding Emotions and Clutter

18 | Understanding Emotions and Clutter

A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life

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05/31/23 • 28 min

The external clutter in your life starts within your internal mindset. Today, I show how the intersection of emotions and decisions form the foundational elements of a clutter-free life.
Most of the media you encounter spotlights systems, routines, and processes as the solution, yet I’ve seen something different. When you learn the skill of emotional awareness and emotional resilience, clutter doesn’t stand a chance. Systems, routines, and processes become much easier to implement and maintain once you understand the impact of emotions.
Every thought or sentence that runs through your mind on any given day produces emotion in your body. Unfortunately, most folks develop a dislike for stronger feelings because they’re either socialized or taught that it’s not okay to show emotions to others unless the situation is deemed appropriate. This is one reason we hold onto things longer than needed, overwork, and avoid hard conversations.
Identifying and understanding your emotions will be positive fuel for every area of your life. Building emotional resilience through sitting with and processing your feelings is the most direct path to a clutter-free life. You’ll begin to address the mental clutter and the overwork. This will make you free to make decisions and manage physical clutter, bringing you one step closer to living an organized life.
RESOURCE:

Curious to learn how Clutter Coaching is different than in-home organizing?
Download my Clarity 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.

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A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life - 26 | Digital Estate Organizing with Kate Hufnagel

26 | Digital Estate Organizing with Kate Hufnagel

A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life

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07/26/23 • 38 min

Today’s episode is about digital estate organizing. I welcome Kate Hufnagel, also known as the “Digital Wrangler,” to discuss how to make it fun and hip to talk about getting your affairs in order. Kate specializes in educating individuals and families on modern-day estate planning, and how technology can make it a more complex process.
Tune in as Kate shares her high-tech know-how and passion for financial literacy. You will hear valuable tips to help you and your loved ones navigate the difficult conversation of planning for the unthinkable.
Key points Kate and I address in this episode include:

  • Kate’s experience and education in financial literacy & estate planning
  • Why Kate is passionate about helping people navigate legacy planning
  • How online accounts & technology make things more difficult
  • Small actions to take to ensure life goes smoothly for your family
  • The importance of creating legacy contacts online
  • Transparent budgeting and bill paying
  • How to approach a digital hygiene conversation with family
  • Leading by example - creating your plan

I know this is a difficult topic and one most people would prefer to avoid. However, planning for the future is essential to living an organized life. Not only will Kate’s tips make your life easier, but they will also take an immense burden off your family during a challenging time.

GUEST INFO:

Kate Hufnagel, Digital Estate Organizer

Website - Kate Hufnagel | The Digital Wrangler

Facebook: The Digital Wrangler

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-hufnagel/

YouTube: The Digital Wrangler

Instagram: @thedigitalwrangler

MENTIONED:

Episode 21: Start Talking With Your Aging Parents Now

RESOURCE:

Becoming a Caregiver or Thinking Ahead?
Download my Open Ended Questions for Loved Ones and Care Communities + 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.

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A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life - 36 | Organized Living + Practical Minimalism with Shira Gill

36 | Organized Living + Practical Minimalism with Shira Gill

A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life

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10/04/23 • 36 min

In today's episode, I’m excited to welcome someone who has been an inspiration to me in my journey as a Clutter Coach.
Shira Gill is a globally recognized home-organizing expert, bestselling author, and speaker. Her process and tool kit applies to everyone regardless of budget and lifestyle. It has been spotlighted in numerous publications, including Vogue, Better Homes & Gardens, HGTV, Harper's Bazaar, and more!
Are you ready to get inspired by Shira’s unique and inclusive organizing techniques? Then definitely check out Shira's bestselling book Minimalista, and her newest, Organized Living.
Tune in for these key topics Shira and I cover during this episode such as:

  • Organization as a form of self-care
  • Shame and internalizing feelings of wrong-doing associated with clutter
  • Her signature 15-minute win
  • Shira's five-step process outlined in Minimalista
  • Shira's takeaways from her new book Organized Living
  • How Shira sees organization as a tool, not a means of perfection

GUEST INFO:
Shira Gill, Globally Recognized Home Organizing Expert, Bestselling Author, and Speaker
Website: Shira Gill Home
Instagram: @shiragill
Substack: The Minimalista Edit with Shira Gill
Book: Organized Living by Shira Gill
Book: Minimalista by Shira Gill
MENTIONED:
Dalys Macon of @blackgirlswhoorganize and @divineorder4u
Ashley Jones of @ashleyjoneshatcher
Xiomara Romero of @Lillys_organizing
Jennifer Du Bois of @organizedbyjend
RESOURCE:
Curious to learn how Clutter Coaching is different than in-home organizing?
Download my Clarity 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.

bookmark
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A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life - 56 | Simplifying Your Paperwork Process

56 | Simplifying Your Paperwork Process

A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life

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02/21/24 • 30 min

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:

  1. Listen to at least one episode of A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life.
  2. Click 5 🌟 Stars and Leave a Review with your name/handle.
  3. DM me a screenshot of your review.
  4. 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.

bookmark
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A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life - 58 | The Work and Heart of Our Homes with Lori Sugarman-Li

58 | The Work and Heart of Our Homes with Lori Sugarman-Li

A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life

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03/06/24 • 40 min

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 Author
Website | 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.

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A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life - 67 | Return to Your Table with Caterina De Falco

67 | Return to Your Table with Caterina De Falco

A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life

play

05/08/24 • 46 min

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 functional
  • How 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 De Falco, Writer and Researcher | Website | Instagram

MENTIONED:

Blue Zones | Dan Buettner

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.

bookmark
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A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life - 49 | Purpose, Passion, and Entrepreneurship with Amber Guyton of Blessed Little Bungalow
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01/03/24 • 46 min

In this captivating episode, I had the pleasure of chatting about purpose, passion, and entrepreneurship with Amber Guyton, owner of Blessed Little Bungalow.

Amber takes us through her journey, highlighting the need to put personal well-being first in a world where business usually takes the lead. We dug into the challenges of self-reflection, the art of setting boundaries, and the continuous dance of navigating change. Plus, we tackled the realness of maintaining work-life balance in the ever-changing world of entrepreneurship.
Amber's openness about the struggles of being her own boss struck a chord, underscoring the significance of self-care and the guts it takes to pivot when needed. Her story is a compelling nudge to prioritize yourself in the pursuit of both personal and professional fulfillment.
Tune in to join the conversation as we discuss:

  • Amber's background and creative roots.
  • How she navigated the shift from a structured career in financial marketing to interior design.
  • Her advice for how to get started with a design project at home
  • How she’s built a strong client base, large social media presence, and her work is featured often in media outlets
  • Finding balance and strategies for prioritizing self-care amidst a busy entrepreneurial life.
  • The challenges of setting boundaries and the importance of self-care, even in the midst of a hectic schedule.

MENTIONED:
Iconic Home: Interiors, Advice, and Stories from 50 Amazing Black Designers
Wallpaper line with Mitchell Black
GUEST INFO:
Amber Guyton, owner of Blessed Little Bungalow
Website | All Social Platforms @blessedlittlebungalow

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.

bookmark
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share episode
A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life - 37 | Twenty Years of ADHD Student + Parent Coaching with Leslie Josel

37 | Twenty Years of ADHD Student + Parent Coaching with Leslie Josel

A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life

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10/11/23 • 36 min

Today I’m joined by Leslie Josel, an award-winning ADHD student and parenting coach. Leslie is an author of three books, creator of the award-winning "Academic Planner: A Tool For Time Management," and an internationally acclaimed speaker. Global Gurus has recognized Leslie as one of the top time management experts in the world for seven years running!
In 2004, Leslie founded her company, Order Out of Chaos®, after her son was diagnosed with ADHD. Order Out of Chaos' mission is to help parents guide their students to success in learning and life. I met Leslie through the National Association of Organizing and Productivity Professionals and regard her work highly.
Tune in to hear our conversation about these key topics:

  • Leslie's journey to becoming a top time management expert and renowned parenting coach
  • The importance of rational & reasonable goals
  • How planning doesn't come naturally to everyone
  • Out-of-the-box solutions that lead to “organized enough”
  • Barriers to entry & protecting your time
  • The role mood plays in procrastination
  • Leslie's "batch and focus" method to stay organized, fight procrastination, and manage feelings of overwhelm

If you would like to learn more about Order Out of Chaos and the other award-winning resources Leslie offers, visit her website or find her on Instagram.
GUEST INFO:
Leslie Josel, Award-winning ADHD-student, Parenting Coach, and Founder of Order Out Of Chaos®
Websites: Order Out of Chaos
Facebook Group: ADHD Student & Parent Support Group
Instagram: @order.out.of.chaos
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-josel-adhd-student-parent-coach/
MENTIONED:
Episode 33: Procrastination is a Tool
RESOURCE:
Curious to learn how Clutter Coaching is different than in-home organizing?
Download my Clarity 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.

bookmark
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share episode
A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life - 61 | Getting Organized is About Finding Alignment

61 | Getting Organized is About Finding Alignment

A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life

play

03/27/24 • 22 min

Last week, I defined alignment and discussed its growing acceptance in the realm of personal development. This week, I’m building a bridge from where you are to where you want to be. If you're struggling to get organized, feeling attached to possessions, or facing resistance when it comes to decluttering, this episode is for you.

Join in as we explore the contrasts of living in alignment versus out of alignment, specifically in relation to the challenges of decluttering and achieving your home life aspirations. I'll walk you through three transformative steps designed to bridge the gap between your current state and your desired one, offering a clear pathway to get unstuck and move forward.

Press play and start your journey to a more organized, aligned life.

MENTIONED:

17 | Decision Making Fundamentals

18 | Understanding Emotions and Clutter

19 | When Self-Doubt Becomes Self-Trust

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.

bookmark
plus icon
share episode
A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life - 75 | Getting Things Done

75 | Getting Things Done

A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life

play

07/03/24 • 26 min

Happy July, y'all! As we enter the second half of the year, we're diving into my favorite month—a time for celebration and rest. July is my birthday month and my dedicated month of slowing down, turning inward, and practicing being more than doing.

In today's episode, I’m building on last week's discussion about good intentions. If you haven't already, I encourage you to listen to that episode, as it sets the stage for today's topic: Getting Things Done. Then join me on this episode as I share my approach to making progress on projects, which often involves working intensely for several weeks and then taking time to recuperate. This cycle of focus and rest has been effective for me both as a business owner and as an individual.

We'll discuss how to set realistic goals, eliminate distractions, and break tasks into manageable portions for yourself and also tackle the internal resistance and self-talk that often hinder our progress. Press play to start building the self-trust you need to get things done and lead a more organized and fulfilling life.

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:
Episode 34 The Power of Done

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.

bookmark
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FAQ

How many episodes does A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life have?

A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life currently has 100 episodes available.

What topics does A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life cover?

The podcast is about Declutter, Leisure, Home & Garden, Organization, Life Coaching and Podcasts.

What is the most popular episode on A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life?

The episode title '03 | You're More Organized Than You Think' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life?

The average episode length on A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life is 27 minutes.

How often are episodes of A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life released?

Episodes of A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life are typically released every 7 days.

When was the first episode of A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life?

The first episode of A Pleasant Solution: Embracing an Organized Life was released on Feb 7, 2023.

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