As teens near the end of high school, many families feel the sudden pressure of answering the question, what’s next?  In this episode, Hannah and I dive into how the modern college system developed, why it often no longer fits the realities of work and opportunity, and what can be lost when college becomes the default without a clear end goal. Hannah lays out her practical framework for helping teens think through future work based on real-life needs—not just passion—and why slowing the process down matters more than ever. If you’re looking for insight into guiding your teen through this important transition in life, don’t miss this episode!
In this episode, we cover:
- Navigating the sudden pressure of everyone asking “what’s next?” when teens near the end of high school
- How the modern college system developed and why today’s default path no longer matches the realities of work, debt, or opportunity
- The surprising data behind how few jobs actually require a college degree and why degree inflation persists anyway
- What gets lost when young adults are pushed into college without clarity– time, confidence, flexibility, and momentum
- Reframing career conversations away from passion-first thinking and toward identifying real-life needs and long-term goals
- A practical framework for helping teens evaluate their desired future work based on income, schedule, location, and work environment
- Why exposure and exploration matter more than credentials, and how simply shadowing careers of interest can prevent costly missteps
- How student loan debt quietly limits future options like family life, entrepreneurship, and location flexibility
- Why parents play a critical role in slowing the process down, asking better questions, and refusing to co-sign unclear decisions
- Encouragement for families who feel unsure how to guide teens without a clear roadmap and why building an individualized plan together is worth the effort
<a href="https://simplefarmhouselifepodcast.com/2026/01/06/do-teens-really-need-college-rethinking-the-path-after-high-school-hannah-of-degree-free-episode-323/">View full show notes on the blog</a> + <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BrFZfqghbqY">watch this episode on YouTube.</a>
<a href="https://simplefarmhouselifepodcast.com/sponsors/">Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible</a>!
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Listen to the <a href="https://pod.link/1448210728/episode/Y2E0ODUwMjItYzVmYS0xMWVmLTk5OGYtMGZjODlmM2JhODc2">1000 Hours Outside interview with Hannah </a>
Grab a copy of Hannah’s book, <a href="https://degreefree.com/book">The Degree Free Way: How to Help Your 16-20 Year Old Build the Life They Want</a>
Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my <a href="http://bit.ly/simplesourdoughcourse">Simple Sourdough course</a>
Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my <a href="https://bit.ly/simplesewingcourse">Simple Sewing series</a>
Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my <a href="https://homesteadliving.com/daily-sourdough/?utm_source=farmhouseonboone&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=SRD">Daily Sourdough cookbook</a>
CONNECT
Hannah of Degree Free | <a href="https://degreefree.com/">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/degreefree">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/DegreeFree">YouTube</a> | <a href="https://x.com/degreefreepod">X</a> 
Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | <a href="https://www.farmhouseonboone.com/">Blog</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/FarmhouseonBoone">YouTube</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/farmhouseonboone/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@farmhouseonboone">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/farmhouseonboone/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/farmhouseonboone/_created/">Pinterest</a>
Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: <a href="http://bit.ly/SFLquestions">bit.ly/SFLquestions</a>.

<description>As teens near the end of high school, many families feel the sudden pressure of answering the question, what’s next?  In this episode, Hannah and I dive into how the modern college system developed, why it often no longer fits the realities of work and opportunity, and what can be lost when college becomes the default without a clear end goal. Hannah lays out her practical framework for helping teens think through future work based on real-life needs—not just passion—and why slowing the process down matters more than ever. If you’re looking for insight into guiding your teen through this important transition in life, don’t miss this episode!

In this episode, we cover:

- Navigating the sudden pressure of everyone asking “what’s next?” when teens near the end of high school

- How the modern college system developed and why today’s default path no longer matches the realities of work, debt, or opportunity

- The surprising data behind how few jobs actually require a college degree and why degree inflation persists anyway

- What gets lost when young adults are pushed into college without clarity– time, confidence, flexibility, and momentum

- Reframing career conversations away from passion-first thinking and toward identifying real-life needs and long-term goals

- A practical framework for helping teens evaluate their desired future work based on income, schedule, location, and work environment

- Why exposure and exploration matter more than credentials, and how simply shadowing careers of interest can prevent costly missteps

- How student loan debt quietly limits future options like family life, entrepreneurship, and location flexibility

- Why parents play a critical role in slowing the process down, asking better questions, and refusing to co-sign unclear decisions

- Encouragement for families who feel unsure how to guide teens without a clear roadmap and why building an individualized plan together is worth the effort

View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Listen to the 1000 Hours Outside interview with Hannah 

Grab a copy of Hannah’s book, The Degree Free Way: How to Help Your 16-20 Year Old Build the Life They Want

Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course

Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series

Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook

CONNECT

Hannah of Degree Free | Website | Instagram | YouTube | X 

Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest

Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.</description>

How to help your teen make wise career decisions without defaulting to student debt

As teens near the end of high school, many families feel the sudden pressure of answering the question, what’s next?  In this episode, Hannah and I dive into how the modern college system developed, why it often no longer fits the realities of work and opportunity, and what can be lost when college becomes the default without a clear end goal. Hannah lays out her practical framework for helping teens think through future work based on real-life needs—not just passion—and why slowing the process down matters more than ever. If you’re looking for insight into guiding your teen through this important transition in life, don’t miss this episode!

In this episode, we cover:

- Navigating the sudden pressure of everyone asking “what’s next?” when teens near the end of high school

- How the modern college system developed and why today’s default path no longer matches the realities of work, debt, or opportunity

- The surprising data behind how few jobs actually require a college degree and why degree inflation persists anyway

- What gets lost when young adults are pushed into college without clarity– time, confidence, flexibility, and momentum

- Reframing career conversations away from passion-first thinking and toward identifying real-life needs and long-term goals

- A practical framework for helping teens evaluate their desired future work based on income, schedule, location, and work environment

- Why exposure and exploration matter more than credentials, and how simply shadowing careers of interest can prevent costly missteps

- How student loan debt quietly limits future options like family life, entrepreneurship, and location flexibility

- Why parents play a critical role in slowing the process down, asking better questions, and refusing to co-sign unclear decisions

- Encouragement for families who feel unsure how to guide teens without a clear roadmap and why building an individualized plan together is worth the effort

View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Listen to the 1000 Hours Outside interview with Hannah 

Grab a copy of Hannah’s book, The Degree Free Way: How to Help Your 16-20 Year Old Build the Life They Want

Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course

Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series

Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook

CONNECT

Hannah of Degree Free | Website | Instagram | YouTube | X 

Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest

Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

323. Do Teens Really Need College? Rethinking the Path After High School | Hannah of Degree Free

So many of the questions we carry as mothers aren’t about doing more, but about knowing what actually matters. In this Q&amp;A-style episode, I’m answering a wide range of listener questions on motherhood, homemaking, sourdough, sleep, budgeting, and family culture. We talk through pursuing big dreams later in life, simplifying from-scratch cooking without burnout, navigating intense toddler phases, and why flexibility often serves families better than precision. If you’ve been craving reassurance, perspective, and practical encouragement for everyday family life, this episode is for you.
In this episode, we cover:
<ul>
 <li>
Why it’s never “too late” to pursue land, homesteading, or long-term family dreams and how thinking generationally reframes the pressure to accomplish all your dreams right now
</li>
 <li>
A practical starting point for moms learning to cook from scratch without feeling overwhelmed
</li>
 <li>
Navigating the intense “only mom will do” phase with toddlers and why not every hard season needs fixing
</li>
 <li>
Thoughts on daily vitamins during postpartum and nursing, plus the role of consistency over perfection
</li>
 <li>
Babywearing realities, newborn neck chafing, and simple ways to keep sensitive skin comfortable and healing
</li>
 <li>
Helping preschoolers learn to fall asleep independently after extended co-sleeping without turning bedtime into a nightly battle
</li>
 <li>
A straightforward approach to budgeting and saving later in life by simply making spending visible
</li>
 <li>
Why measuring sourdough starter isn’t as critical as many think and how I approach baking with a relaxed, flexible mindset
</li>
 <li>
Diving into our open-handed approach to having a large family, cultural pressure, and how much planning really belongs in family size conversations
</li>
 <li>
Breastfeeding around older children, modesty at home, and why this has become a non-issue over time
</li>
 <li>
Setting boundaries with nearby grandparents when frequent visits start shaping daily habits and family culture
</li>
 <li>
Using sourdough starter straight from the fridge, reducing waste, and simplifying feeding rhythms
</li>
 <li>
Choosing in-person church even when it disrupts naps and why long-term habits matter more than short-term inconvenience
</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://simplefarmhouselifepodcast.com/2025/12/30/why-we-chose-a-big-family-sourdough-troubleshooting-baby-toddler-sleep-and-more-qa-episode-322/">View full show notes on the blog</a> + <a href="https://youtu.be/hVGPtUBROFY">watch this episode on YouTube</a>.
<a href="https://simplefarmhouselifepodcast.com/sponsors/">Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible</a>!
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Check out my friend <a href="https://youtu.be/HLupR3yB7Vk?si=ecNFpRILTXrBehBm">Abbie’s podcast episode on Christians and fertility</a>
Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my <a href="http://bit.ly/simplesourdoughcourse">Simple Sourdough course</a>
Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my <a href="https://bit.ly/simplesewingcourse">Simple Sewing series</a>
Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my <a href="https://homesteadliving.com/daily-sourdough/?utm_source=farmhouseonboone&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=SRD">Daily Sourdough cookbook</a>
CONNECT
Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | <a href="https://www.farmhouseonboone.com/">Blog</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/FarmhouseonBoone">YouTube</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/farmhouseonboone/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@farmhouseonboone">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/farmhouseonboone/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/farmhouseonboone/_created/">Pinterest</a>
Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: <a href="http://bit.ly/SFLquestions">bit.ly/SFLquestions</a>.

<description>So many of the questions we carry as mothers aren’t about doing more, but about knowing what actually matters. In this Q&amp;A-style episode, I’m answering a wide range of listener questions on motherhood, homemaking, sourdough, sleep, budgeting, and family culture. We talk through pursuing big dreams later in life, simplifying from-scratch cooking without burnout, navigating intense toddler phases, and why flexibility often serves families better than precision. If you’ve been craving reassurance, perspective, and practical encouragement for everyday family life, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we cover:


 
Why it’s never “too late” to pursue land, homesteading, or long-term family dreams and how thinking generationally reframes the pressure to accomplish all your dreams right now



 
A practical starting point for moms learning to cook from scratch without feeling overwhelmed



 
Navigating the intense “only mom will do” phase with toddlers and why not every hard season needs fixing



 
Thoughts on daily vitamins during postpartum and nursing, plus the role of consistency over perfection



 
Babywearing realities, newborn neck chafing, and simple ways to keep sensitive skin comfortable and healing



 
Helping preschoolers learn to fall asleep independently after extended co-sleeping without turning bedtime into a nightly battle



 
A straightforward approach to budgeting and saving later in life by simply making spending visible



 
Why measuring sourdough starter isn’t as critical as many think and how I approach baking with a relaxed, flexible mindset



 
Diving into our open-handed approach to having a large family, cultural pressure, and how much planning really belongs in family size conversations



 
Breastfeeding around older children, modesty at home, and why this has become a non-issue over time



 
Setting boundaries with nearby grandparents when frequent visits start shaping daily habits and family culture



 
Using sourdough starter straight from the fridge, reducing waste, and simplifying feeding rhythms



 
Choosing in-person church even when it disrupts naps and why long-term habits matter more than short-term inconvenience




View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Check out my friend Abbie’s podcast episode on Christians and fertility

Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course

Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series

Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook

CONNECT

Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest

Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.</description>

Family size, homemaking rhythms, sourdough baking, sleep, and budgeting

So many of the questions we carry as mothers aren’t about doing more, but about knowing what actually matters. In this Q&A-style episode, I’m answering a wide range of listener questions on motherhood, homemaking, sourdough, sleep, budgeting, and family culture. We talk through pursuing big dreams later in life, simplifying from-scratch cooking without burnout, navigating intense toddler phases, and why flexibility often serves families better than precision. If you’ve been craving reassurance, perspective, and practical encouragement for everyday family life, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we cover:


  
Why it’s never “too late” to pursue land, homesteading, or long-term family dreams and how thinking generationally reframes the pressure to accomplish all your dreams right now



  
A practical starting point for moms learning to cook from scratch without feeling overwhelmed



  
Navigating the intense “only mom will do” phase with toddlers and why not every hard season needs fixing



  
Thoughts on daily vitamins during postpartum and nursing, plus the role of consistency over perfection



  
Babywearing realities, newborn neck chafing, and simple ways to keep sensitive skin comfortable and healing



  
Helping preschoolers learn to fall asleep independently after extended co-sleeping without turning bedtime into a nightly battle



  
A straightforward approach to budgeting and saving later in life by simply making spending visible



  
Why measuring sourdough starter isn’t as critical as many think and how I approach baking with a relaxed, flexible mindset



  
Diving into our open-handed approach to having a large family, cultural pressure, and how much planning really belongs in family size conversations



  
Breastfeeding around older children, modesty at home, and why this has become a non-issue over time



  
Setting boundaries with nearby grandparents when frequent visits start shaping daily habits and family culture



  
Using sourdough starter straight from the fridge, reducing waste, and simplifying feeding rhythms



  
Choosing in-person church even when it disrupts naps and why long-term habits matter more than short-term inconvenience




View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Check out my friend Abbie’s podcast episode on Christians and fertility

Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course

Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series

Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook

CONNECT

Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest

Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

322. Why We Chose a Big Family, Sourdough Troubleshooting, Baby/Toddler Sleep, and More Q&A

Clutter often adds to the mental load of motherhood in ways we don’t always notice. In this episode, we talk about why women tend to feel the weight of clutter more deeply, how “just in case” thinking fills our homes, and what true preparedness looks like. We walk through unfinished projects, kids’ toys, digital clutter, and paperwork, offering simple, realistic ways to let go without guilt. If you’ve been craving a calmer, more functional home without chasing perfection, join us for this practical and encouraging conversation!
In this episode, we cover:
- Why clutter affects women more than men and how a stressful home environment compounds the mental load of motherhood
- The difference between true preparedness and keeping “just in case” items that never actually get used
- A practical way to evaluate things you plan to fix someday and how to finally let them go without guilt
- How community, shared resources, and skills can replace the pressure to own and store everything yourself
- Rethinking modern convenience items, appliances, and technology that add more complexity than ease in daily life
- Handling manuals, paperwork, and household information digitally to reduce piles, decision fatigue, and visual clutter
- Creating simple systems for managing food storage, bulk buying, and pantry organization without overcomplicating it
- Realistic strategies for managing kids’ toys, rotating items, and reducing daily cleanup without constant battles
- How to shop more intentionally by slowing down purchases, making space before buying, and acknowledging your current season
- Letting go of sentimental clutter while still preserving meaningful memories in ways that don’t overwhelm your home
- The hidden weight of digital clutter, from endless photos and screenshots to the pressure modern moms feel to document every moment instead of simply living it
<a href="https://simplefarmhouselifepodcast.com/2025/12/23/decluttering-as-a-mom-where-to-start-and-what-to-let-go-robyn-of-minimalist-home-episode-321/">View full show notes on the blog</a> + <a href="https://youtu.be/tM920wskBk0">watch this episode on YouTube</a>.
<a href="https://simplefarmhouselifepodcast.com/sponsors/">Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible</a>!
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Check out Robyn’s previous appearances on SFL:
<ul>
 <li>
<a href="https://simplefarmhouselifepodcast.com/2024/01/09/episode-219-prioritize-peace-in-your-home-build-your-decluttering-skills-in-the-new-year-robyn-of-minimalist-home/">Episode 219 | Prioritize Peace in Your Home: Build Your Decluttering Skills in the New Year</a>
</li>
 <li>
<a href="https://simplefarmhouselifepodcast.com/2024/12/17/do-you-have-too-much-stuff-simplify-your-life-through-decluttering-and-minimalism-robyn-buchanan-of-minimalist-home-episode-268/">Episode 268: Do You Have Too Much Stuff? Simplify Your Life Through Decluttering and Minimalism</a>
</li>
</ul>
Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my <a href="http://bit.ly/simplesourdoughcourse">Simple Sourdough course</a>
Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my <a href="https://bit.ly/simplesewingcourse">Simple Sewing series</a>
Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my <a href="https://homesteadliving.com/daily-sourdough/?utm_source=farmhouseonboone&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=SRD">Daily Sourdough cookbook</a>
CONNECT
Robyn of Minimalist Home | <a href="https://minimalisthome.ca/">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/robynbuchanan.yt">Instagram</a> | <a href="http://youtube.com/@minimalisthome">YouTube</a>
Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | <a href="https://www.farmhouseonboone.com/">Blog</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/FarmhouseonBoone">YouTube</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/farmhouseonboone/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@farmhouseonboone">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/farmhouseonboone/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/farmhouseonboone/_created/">Pinterest</a>
Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: <a href="http://bit.ly/SFLquestions">bit.ly/SFLquestions</a>.

<description>Clutter often adds to the mental load of motherhood in ways we don’t always notice. In this episode, we talk about why women tend to feel the weight of clutter more deeply, how “just in case” thinking fills our homes, and what true preparedness looks like. We walk through unfinished projects, kids’ toys, digital clutter, and paperwork, offering simple, realistic ways to let go without guilt. If you’ve been craving a calmer, more functional home without chasing perfection, join us for this practical and encouraging conversation!

In this episode, we cover:

- Why clutter affects women more than men and how a stressful home environment compounds the mental load of motherhood

- The difference between true preparedness and keeping “just in case” items that never actually get used

- A practical way to evaluate things you plan to fix someday and how to finally let them go without guilt

- How community, shared resources, and skills can replace the pressure to own and store everything yourself

- Rethinking modern convenience items, appliances, and technology that add more complexity than ease in daily life

- Handling manuals, paperwork, and household information digitally to reduce piles, decision fatigue, and visual clutter

- Creating simple systems for managing food storage, bulk buying, and pantry organization without overcomplicating it

- Realistic strategies for managing kids’ toys, rotating items, and reducing daily cleanup without constant battles

- How to shop more intentionally by slowing down purchases, making space before buying, and acknowledging your current season

- Letting go of sentimental clutter while still preserving meaningful memories in ways that don’t overwhelm your home

- The hidden weight of digital clutter, from endless photos and screenshots to the pressure modern moms feel to document every moment instead of simply living it

View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Check out Robyn’s previous appearances on SFL:


 
Episode 219 | Prioritize Peace in Your Home: Build Your Decluttering Skills in the New Year



 
Episode 268: Do You Have Too Much Stuff? Simplify Your Life Through Decluttering and Minimalism




Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course

Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series

Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook

CONNECT

Robyn of Minimalist Home | Website | Instagram | YouTube

Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest

Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.</description>

A realistic approach to simplifying your home, paperwork, and daily life

Clutter often adds to the mental load of motherhood in ways we don’t always notice. In this episode, we talk about why women tend to feel the weight of clutter more deeply, how “just in case” thinking fills our homes, and what true preparedness looks like. We walk through unfinished projects, kids’ toys, digital clutter, and paperwork, offering simple, realistic ways to let go without guilt. If you’ve been craving a calmer, more functional home without chasing perfection, join us for this practical and encouraging conversation!

In this episode, we cover:

- Why clutter affects women more than men and how a stressful home environment compounds the mental load of motherhood

- The difference between true preparedness and keeping “just in case” items that never actually get used

- A practical way to evaluate things you plan to fix someday and how to finally let them go without guilt

- How community, shared resources, and skills can replace the pressure to own and store everything yourself

- Rethinking modern convenience items, appliances, and technology that add more complexity than ease in daily life

- Handling manuals, paperwork, and household information digitally to reduce piles, decision fatigue, and visual clutter

- Creating simple systems for managing food storage, bulk buying, and pantry organization without overcomplicating it

- Realistic strategies for managing kids’ toys, rotating items, and reducing daily cleanup without constant battles

- How to shop more intentionally by slowing down purchases, making space before buying, and acknowledging your current season

- Letting go of sentimental clutter while still preserving meaningful memories in ways that don’t overwhelm your home

- The hidden weight of digital clutter, from endless photos and screenshots to the pressure modern moms feel to document every moment instead of simply living it

View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Check out Robyn’s previous appearances on SFL:


  
Episode 219 | Prioritize Peace in Your Home: Build Your Decluttering Skills in the New Year



  
Episode 268: Do You Have Too Much Stuff? Simplify Your Life Through Decluttering and Minimalism




Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course

Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series

Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook

CONNECT

Robyn of Minimalist Home | Website | Instagram | YouTube

Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest

Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

321. Decluttering as a Mom: Where to Start and What to Let Go | Robyn of Minimalist Home

The family table has always been about more than food, yet it’s common to let this rhythm of family connection fall to the wayside in the midst of busy family life.  In this conversation, we explore why shared meals have slowly faded from many homes, the real obstacles that make dinnertime feel difficult, and how simple, nourishing food can still anchor our families in busy seasons.  We talk about flexible from-scratch recipes, rethinking productivity as mothers, and why the table becomes even more important as children grow.  This episode offers practical encouragement for cultivating belonging around the family table without the pressure of perfect or elaborate meals.
In this episode, we cover:
- How family dinner slowly faded from American life and why reclaiming the table matters more now than ever
- The biggest obstacles modern families face when it comes to eating together and which ones are worth pushing back against
- Why gathering around the table becomes more important as children get older, not less
- A realistic look at simple, nourishing dinners that can come together in 20 minutes without elaborate planning
- What it really looks like to keep a “flow” going throughout the day without being tied to the kitchen
- How meal prep, sourdough, broth, and slow cooking create flexibility instead of pressure in busy seasons
- Setting boundaries around activities and schedules while still allowing teens to grow in their independence
- Practical ways to cultivate connection at the table with young children, even when meals feel chaotic
- Using stories, shared rituals, and simple questions to turn mealtime into a natural place for conversation and safety
- Reframing productivity in motherhood by embracing choppy, interrupted work rhythms and learning how small pockets of effort still add up to progress
- Rethinking kids’ snacking habits, how constant grazing impacts appetite and mealtime connection, and why “hunger” can actually work in your favor
- Why hosting doesn’t require special menus or extra effort and how shared meals foster community
<a href="https://simplefarmhouselifepodcast.com/2025/12/16/why-family-dinner-still-matters-and-how-to-make-it-work-in-busy-seasons-sarah-of-well-folk-revival-episode-320/">View full show notes on the blog</a> + <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Is4t1Mr8v2c">watch this episode on YouTube</a>.
<a href="https://simplefarmhouselifepodcast.com/sponsors/">Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible</a>!
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Spark conversation around the table with <a href="https://www.drashleyturner.com/shop-online/cultivating-the-restorative-table">Cultivating the Restorative Table by Dr. Ashley Turner</a>
Listen in on <a href="https://simplefarmhouselifepodcast.com/2022/07/14/episode-141-traditional-eating-when-you-have-food-sensitivities-dr-ashley-turner-of-restorative-wellness-center/">my conversation with Dr. Ashley Turner on SFL</a>
Browse the <a href="https://www.wellfolkrevival.com/the-folk-school">Folk School classes</a> over at Well Folk Revival
Check out Sarah’s <a href="https://www.wellfolkrevival.com/the-greenhouse">Greenhouse Group online membership</a>
Get your copy of Sarah’s DIY book, <a href="https://www.wellfolkrevival.com/shop-resources/p/homemade-gifts-from-the-heart-home">Homemade Gifts from the Heart and Home</a>
Join my <a href="https://bit.ly/farmhouseyoutubemasterclass">FREE masterclass</a> to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube
Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my <a href="http://bit.ly/simplesourdoughcourse">Simple Sourdough course</a>
Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my <a href="https://bit.ly/simplesewingcourse">Simple Sewing series</a>
Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my <a href="https://homesteadliving.com/daily-sourdough/?utm_source=farmhouseonboone&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=SRD">Daily Sourdough cookbook</a>
CONNECT
Sarah of Well Folk Revival | <a href="https://www.wellfolkrevival.com/">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wellfolkrevival/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wellfolkrevival/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYVgGH9s-cs0KenGG7fzxIA">YouTube</a>
Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | <a href="https://www.farmhouseonboone.com/">Blog</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/FarmhouseonBoone">YouTube</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/farmhouseonboone/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@farmhouseonboone">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/farmhouseonboone/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/farmhouseonboone/_created/">Pinterest</a>
Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: <a href="http://bit.ly/SFLquestions">bit.ly/SFLquestions</a>.

<description>The family table has always been about more than food, yet it’s common to let this rhythm of family connection fall to the wayside in the midst of busy family life.  In this conversation, we explore why shared meals have slowly faded from many homes, the real obstacles that make dinnertime feel difficult, and how simple, nourishing food can still anchor our families in busy seasons.  We talk about flexible from-scratch recipes, rethinking productivity as mothers, and why the table becomes even more important as children grow.  This episode offers practical encouragement for cultivating belonging around the family table without the pressure of perfect or elaborate meals.

In this episode, we cover:

- How family dinner slowly faded from American life and why reclaiming the table matters more now than ever

- The biggest obstacles modern families face when it comes to eating together and which ones are worth pushing back against

- Why gathering around the table becomes more important as children get older, not less

- A realistic look at simple, nourishing dinners that can come together in 20 minutes without elaborate planning

- What it really looks like to keep a “flow” going throughout the day without being tied to the kitchen

- How meal prep, sourdough, broth, and slow cooking create flexibility instead of pressure in busy seasons

- Setting boundaries around activities and schedules while still allowing teens to grow in their independence

- Practical ways to cultivate connection at the table with young children, even when meals feel chaotic

- Using stories, shared rituals, and simple questions to turn mealtime into a natural place for conversation and safety

- Reframing productivity in motherhood by embracing choppy, interrupted work rhythms and learning how small pockets of effort still add up to progress

- Rethinking kids’ snacking habits, how constant grazing impacts appetite and mealtime connection, and why “hunger” can actually work in your favor

- Why hosting doesn’t require special menus or extra effort and how shared meals foster community

View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Spark conversation around the table with Cultivating the Restorative Table by Dr. Ashley Turner

Listen in on my conversation with Dr. Ashley Turner on SFL

Browse the Folk School classes over at Well Folk Revival

Check out Sarah’s Greenhouse Group online membership

Get your copy of Sarah’s DIY book, Homemade Gifts from the Heart and Home

Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube

Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course

Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series

Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook

CONNECT

Sarah of Well Folk Revival | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest

Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.</description>

Why shared meals matter more as kids grow, how to simplify dinner, and practical ways to build connection around the table

The family table has always been about more than food, yet it’s common to let this rhythm of family connection fall to the wayside in the midst of busy family life.  In this conversation, we explore why shared meals have slowly faded from many homes, the real obstacles that make dinnertime feel difficult, and how simple, nourishing food can still anchor our families in busy seasons.  We talk about flexible from-scratch recipes, rethinking productivity as mothers, and why the table becomes even more important as children grow.  This episode offers practical encouragement for cultivating belonging around the family table without the pressure of perfect or elaborate meals.

In this episode, we cover:

- How family dinner slowly faded from American life and why reclaiming the table matters more now than ever

- The biggest obstacles modern families face when it comes to eating together and which ones are worth pushing back against

- Why gathering around the table becomes more important as children get older, not less

- A realistic look at simple, nourishing dinners that can come together in 20 minutes without elaborate planning

- What it really looks like to keep a “flow” going throughout the day without being tied to the kitchen

- How meal prep, sourdough, broth, and slow cooking create flexibility instead of pressure in busy seasons

- Setting boundaries around activities and schedules while still allowing teens to grow in their independence

- Practical ways to cultivate connection at the table with young children, even when meals feel chaotic

- Using stories, shared rituals, and simple questions to turn mealtime into a natural place for conversation and safety

- Reframing productivity in motherhood by embracing choppy, interrupted work rhythms and learning how small pockets of effort still add up to progress

- Rethinking kids’ snacking habits, how constant grazing impacts appetite and mealtime connection, and why “hunger” can actually work in your favor

- Why hosting doesn’t require special menus or extra effort and how shared meals foster community

View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Spark conversation around the table with Cultivating the Restorative Table by Dr. Ashley Turner

Listen in on my conversation with Dr. Ashley Turner on SFL

Browse the Folk School classes over at Well Folk Revival

Check out Sarah’s Greenhouse Group online membership

Get your copy of Sarah’s DIY book, Homemade Gifts from the Heart and Home

Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube

Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course

Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series

Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook

CONNECT

Sarah of Well Folk Revival | Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest

Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

320.  Why Family Dinner Still Matters (and How to Make It Work in Busy Seasons) | Sarah of Well Folk Revival

So much of motherhood and homemaking lies in learning to hold both the big-picture vision and the everyday realities with open hands.  In this episode, I’m sharing our current farmhouse building update, the excitement of turning my attention to interior design choices, and reflections on raising babies in two very different eras of motherhood.  I’m chatting through toxin anxiety, health decisions, and why I lean heavily on practicality and the 80/20 mindset.  I also dive into the tools and rhythms that make newborn life peaceful in our home— woven wraps, intuitive nursing, co-sleeping, and eventually transitioning little ones to independent sleep.  If you need reassurance, perspective, or just an honest chat about real-life motherhood from a mom of nine, join me for this Q&amp;A!
In this episode, we cover:
- Starting with a current house update— a pause in building, window delays, linseed-oil–paint prep, and the excitement of finally moving into insulation and interior choices
- It is time to re-orient my creative brain toward selecting paint colors, finishes, and a more collected, relaxed country decor style with the help of a designer friend
- Reflections on becoming a mom across two very different eras—before smartphones, before constant internet advice—and how perspective shapes confidence
- A listener question on toxin anxiety, lead concerns, EMFs, PUFAs, tick bites, and how I keep worry in check by leaning on experience and practicality
- The balance between caring about health and letting go of what can’t be controlled—embracing the 80/20 mindset in food, lifestyle, and motherhood
- Why woven wraps remain my most-used newborn tool, plus a simple overview my favorite carry, how wovens differ from stretch wraps, and the real-life practicality of babywearing in a busy home
- An look at our experience with baby tongue ties— four kids with ties, five without, what releases have looked like, and why each experience was different
- A deep dive into my newborn approach: no wake windows, no schedules, responsive nursing, intuitive rhythms, and embracing babywearing and co-sleeping to make the early months peaceful
- What co-sleeping safely looks like for our family and how I transition babies to independent sleep around age one
- Thoughts on organic vs. non-organic foods in real life, and why I don’t stress about every single grocery purchase
- A peek into bedtime routines with multiple young kids— reading together, keeping the process simple, and why teaching little ones to fall asleep on their own is key for us
- Handling night wakings, self-soothing, and why I don’t feel guilty about sleep training when the time comes
<a href="https://simplefarmhouselifepodcast.com/2025/12/09/what-i-dont-stress-about-anymore-as-a-mom-of-nine-more-qa-episode-319/">View full show notes on the blog</a> + watch this episode on YouTube.
<a href="https://simplefarmhouselifepodcast.com/sponsors/">Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible</a>!
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Follow my friend <a href="https://www.instagram.com/storied_interiors/">Anne at @Storied_Interiors</a> for interior home design inspiration
Check out the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@FarmhouseonBoone/featured">Farmhouse on Boone YouTube channel</a> to catch up on our farmhouse building project
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OH9Vbq2BY7s">A few of my recent home building updates</a>: collecting architectural salvage pieces for our home, a recent walk-through of our build
Join my <a href="https://bit.ly/farmhouseyoutubemasterclass">FREE masterclass</a> to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube
Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my <a href="http://bit.ly/simplesourdoughcourse">Simple Sourdough course</a>
Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my <a href="https://bit.ly/simplesewingcourse">Simple Sewing series</a>
Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my <a href="https://bit.ly/farmhouseyoutubecourse">YouTube Success Academy</a>
Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my <a href="https://homesteadliving.com/daily-sourdough/?utm_source=farmhouseonboone&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=SRD">Daily Sourdough cookbook</a>
CONNECT
Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | <a href="https://www.farmhouseonboone.com/">Blog</a> | <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/FarmhouseonBoone">YouTube</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/farmhouseonboone/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@farmhouseonboone">TikTok</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/farmhouseonboone/">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/farmhouseonboone/_created/">Pinterest</a>
Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: <a href="http://bit.ly/SFLquestions">bit.ly/SFLquestions</a>.

<description>So much of motherhood and homemaking lies in learning to hold both the big-picture vision and the everyday realities with open hands.  In this episode, I’m sharing our current farmhouse building update, the excitement of turning my attention to interior design choices, and reflections on raising babies in two very different eras of motherhood.  I’m chatting through toxin anxiety, health decisions, and why I lean heavily on practicality and the 80/20 mindset.  I also dive into the tools and rhythms that make newborn life peaceful in our home— woven wraps, intuitive nursing, co-sleeping, and eventually transitioning little ones to independent sleep.  If you need reassurance, perspective, or just an honest chat about real-life motherhood from a mom of nine, join me for this Q&amp;A!

In this episode, we cover:

- Starting with a current house update— a pause in building, window delays, linseed-oil–paint prep, and the excitement of finally moving into insulation and interior choices

- It is time to re-orient my creative brain toward selecting paint colors, finishes, and a more collected, relaxed country decor style with the help of a designer friend

- Reflections on becoming a mom across two very different eras—before smartphones, before constant internet advice—and how perspective shapes confidence

- A listener question on toxin anxiety, lead concerns, EMFs, PUFAs, tick bites, and how I keep worry in check by leaning on experience and practicality

- The balance between caring about health and letting go of what can’t be controlled—embracing the 80/20 mindset in food, lifestyle, and motherhood

- Why woven wraps remain my most-used newborn tool, plus a simple overview my favorite carry, how wovens differ from stretch wraps, and the real-life practicality of babywearing in a busy home

- An look at our experience with baby tongue ties— four kids with ties, five without, what releases have looked like, and why each experience was different

- A deep dive into my newborn approach: no wake windows, no schedules, responsive nursing, intuitive rhythms, and embracing babywearing and co-sleeping to make the early months peaceful

- What co-sleeping safely looks like for our family and how I transition babies to independent sleep around age one

- Thoughts on organic vs. non-organic foods in real life, and why I don’t stress about every single grocery purchase

- A peek into bedtime routines with multiple young kids— reading together, keeping the process simple, and why teaching little ones to fall asleep on their own is key for us

- Handling night wakings, self-soothing, and why I don’t feel guilty about sleep training when the time comes

View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Follow my friend Anne at @Storied_Interiors for interior home design inspiration

Check out the Farmhouse on Boone YouTube channel to catch up on our farmhouse building project

A few of my recent home building updates: collecting architectural salvage pieces for our home, a recent walk-through of our build

Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube

Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course

Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series

Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy

Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook

CONNECT

Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest

Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.</description>

What I’ve learned about newborn sleep, sleep training, toxins, and homemaking after nearly two decades of motherhood

So much of motherhood and homemaking lies in learning to hold both the big-picture vision and the everyday realities with open hands.  In this episode, I’m sharing our current farmhouse building update, the excitement of turning my attention to interior design choices, and reflections on raising babies in two very different eras of motherhood.  I’m chatting through toxin anxiety, health decisions, and why I lean heavily on practicality and the 80/20 mindset.  I also dive into the tools and rhythms that make newborn life peaceful in our home— woven wraps, intuitive nursing, co-sleeping, and eventually transitioning little ones to independent sleep.  If you need reassurance, perspective, or just an honest chat about real-life motherhood from a mom of nine, join me for this Q&A!

In this episode, we cover:

- Starting with a current house update— a pause in building, window delays, linseed-oil–paint prep, and the excitement of finally moving into insulation and interior choices

- It is time to re-orient my creative brain toward selecting paint colors, finishes, and a more collected, relaxed country decor style with the help of a designer friend

- Reflections on becoming a mom across two very different eras—before smartphones, before constant internet advice—and how perspective shapes confidence

- A listener question on toxin anxiety, lead concerns, EMFs, PUFAs, tick bites, and how I keep worry in check by leaning on experience and practicality

- The balance between caring about health and letting go of what can’t be controlled—embracing the 80/20 mindset in food, lifestyle, and motherhood

- Why woven wraps remain my most-used newborn tool, plus a simple overview my favorite carry, how wovens differ from stretch wraps, and the real-life practicality of babywearing in a busy home

- An look at our experience with baby tongue ties— four kids with ties, five without, what releases have looked like, and why each experience was different

- A deep dive into my newborn approach: no wake windows, no schedules, responsive nursing, intuitive rhythms, and embracing babywearing and co-sleeping to make the early months peaceful

- What co-sleeping safely looks like for our family and how I transition babies to independent sleep around age one

- Thoughts on organic vs. non-organic foods in real life, and why I don’t stress about every single grocery purchase

- A peek into bedtime routines with multiple young kids— reading together, keeping the process simple, and why teaching little ones to fall asleep on their own is key for us

- Handling night wakings, self-soothing, and why I don’t feel guilty about sleep training when the time comes

View full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.

Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make this show possible!

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Follow my friend Anne at @Storied_Interiors for interior home design inspiration

Check out the Farmhouse on Boone YouTube channel to catch up on our farmhouse building project

A few of my recent home building updates: collecting architectural salvage pieces for our home, a recent walk-through of our build

Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTube

Master the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough course

Gain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing series

Turn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success Academy

Keep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbook

CONNECT

Lisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest

Do you have a question you’d like me to answer on the podcast?  A guest you’d like me to interview?  Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.

319. What I Don’t Stress About Anymore as a Mom of Nine + More Q&A

With over ten years experience making a home, author and mom of eight, Lisa Bass, shares her love for from scratch cooking, natural living and all things handmade. As a full-time blogger and homeschooler, Lisa also mixes in a little mom life and business tips.

Simple Farmhouse Life

Details

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