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BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this honest and heartfelt episode, Stephanie and Shelly explore setting boundaries while caring for an aging parent, as Shelly shares the emotional realities of supporting her biological father. Drawing from Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents by Lindsay Gibson, they discuss acceptance, healing, and the importance of putting yourself first. The conversation also touches on grief, family estrangement, and planning ahead for retirement, finances, health, and time management. With practical tools like time blocking and thoughtful reflection, this episode offers encouragement for anyone learning to set boundaries and move forward with intention.  Past Episodes You May Love:  Episode 10: Planning the Dream -- Mapping out your 5 year planEpisode 55: Enjoy the JourneyEpisode 164: Recovering from People Pleasing

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this episode, Stephanie begins a powerful new coaching session with Shelly, who finds herself in a major life transition at 60. With a new role in a different industry, the aftermath of a corporate buyout, and the responsibility of caring for aging parents, Shelly shares how her once-stable routine now feels like a rut—and why she’s craving more joy, sparkle, and adventure in her everyday life. Stephanie challenges Shelly to rethink rest, personal permission, and what it really means to take time off—without guilt. The conversation also explores identity, caregiving, and Shelly’s emotional journey of reconnecting with her biological father later in life. This episode is a thoughtful listen for anyone facing midlife change, career transitions, or the desire to slow down and choose themselves. Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/ Website - https://stephanieodea.com Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/ Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/ Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/ Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/ Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! This new year might be calling you to step into a softer version of yourself. In this episode, Stephanie—mom to three Gen Z kids—explores the rising soft living movement and why it’s resonating so deeply right now. With burnout and overstimulation at an all-time high, soft living invites us to choose ease, gentleness, and rest as a meaningful way of life. Stephanie also breaks down the difference between soft living and slow living. While soft living soothes, slow living stabilizes through intentional and proactive life design. Recorded at the start of the new year, this episode is a gentle reminder that you don’t need to overhaul your life—just make small, sustainable shifts toward a life you truly love. Link to Article: Soft Living and Slow Living: What is the Difference? Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/ Website - https://stephanieodea.com Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/ Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/ Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/ Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/ Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Recorded on New Year’s Eve, this episode invites you to pause at the edge of a brand-new year and reflect on where you are right now. Rather than focusing on resolutions or January 1st pressure, Stephanie reframes this moment as the beginning of the rest of your life—one intentional choice at a time. It’s a gentle reminder to slow down, live quietly, and look within for what truly brings you peace. Stephanie challenges the belief that productivity equals self-worth and asks a powerful question: what are you doing today that your future self will be proud of? If something in your life leaves you feeling small or behind, remember—it doesn’t get unlimited access to you. This conversation is an invitation to embrace slow living, choose fulfillment in the present moment, and step into the new year with purpose and clarity. Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/ Website - https://stephanieodea.com Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/ Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/ Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/ Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/ Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this reflective episode, Melessa and Stephanie talk about the end of one era and the beginning of another, exploring what it feels like when life starts to feel easier. Melessa shares her experience moving through big changes, questioning whether ease means something is wrong, and ultimately learning to trust the process. They also discuss the deep impact of close friendships, how those relationships have supported Melessa through transition, and how her life now feels more peaceful and aligned than ever before. In the second half, Melessa opens up about her book-in-progress, her creative flow state, and her flexible goal to finish writing by March 2026. The conversation wraps with thoughtful reflections on family, caregiving as parents age, and how making space for herself—even early in motherhood—helped her stay true to who she is. This episode is a warm, honest look at personal growth, creativity, and what it means to feel like life is finally falling into place. Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/ Website - https://stephanieodea.com Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/ Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/ Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/ Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/ Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this heartfelt episode, Stephanie and Melessa open up about major life transitions—from closing the chapter on an old family home to embracing new routines, healthier habits, and the excitement of building fresh memories. Melessa shares the clarity she found after her Peace Corps session, realizing how grateful she is to downsize now rather than leave that burden to her kids later. She also dives into what “healthy living” looks like today, from weekly gym visits to enjoying long walks and pool time in her new neighborhood. As the conversation unfolds, Melessa reflects on her legacy, the strength she hopes her children remember, and the accomplishments she’s proud of—like earning her master’s degree while raising four little ones. With life slowing down, she’s savoring upcoming adventures, including a road trip with close friends and the joy of finding a new local Bunco group. Tune in for an inspiring, uplifting episode filled with personal growth, fresh starts, and the beauty of embracing new seasons in life.c Past Episodes You May Love: Episode 51: Adult FriendshipsEpisode 73: Christy's Slow Living StoryEpisode 74: Denise's StoryEpisode 75: Ruth's Slow Living StoryEpisode 76: Emily's Story -- escaping a MLMEpisode 77: Lisa's story -- sustainable habitsEpisode 78: Megan's story -- Slow ProductivityEpisode 79: Merideth's Story -- Imperfect ParentingEpisode 180: Meet Jessica, the Autistic Mom Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/ Website - https://stephanieodea.com Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/ Slow Living...

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Adult ADHD and Autism Diagnosis in Midlife: Coaching with MelessaIn this episode of the Slow Living podcast, Stephanie and Melessa have an open, compassionate conversation about receiving an adult ADHD diagnosis and a level-1 autism diagnosis later in life—and how finally having answers has completely changed the way Melessa understands herself, her past, and the world around her. Melessa reflects on growing up without the language or support to explain why she felt different. From being placed in ballet as a child in an attempt to “fit in,” to internalizing expectations that never truly aligned with who she was, she shares how those early experiences shaped her identity. This episode offers deep validation for women navigating late diagnoses, neurodivergence, masking, and self-acceptance in midlife. The conversation also explores Melessa’s current focus on health and well-being, including weight loss, physical therapy, and the motivation that comes from wanting to stay active and present for her future grandchildren. She speaks candidly about body image, how she approaches those conversations thoughtfully with her four daughters, and why modeling self-respect matters more than perfection. As the episode unfolds, Melessa gives an update on her writing journey, sharing where she is in the process and how clarity has come from her family’s recent move into a new home. With fewer distractions and more peace, she’s finding balance, healing, and a deeper sense of self-trust. This is a thoughtful, honest episode for anyone searching for answers later in life, learning to work with their brain instead of against it, or embracing a slow, sustainable path toward growth, clarity, and self-understanding. Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Daily Journaling worksheet -- free download: https://stephanieodea.com/daily Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/ Website - https://stephanieodea.com Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/ Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/ Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/ Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/ Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In “Coming to Terms with Your Past,” Stephanie and Melessa start with a fun look at the arcade room in Melessa’s new home—fitting since she and her husband met in an arcade in the ’80s. They talk through the emotions of moving, surprising their family with the news, and why big decisions still make Melessa feel like she needs her parents’ approval. They also touch on manifestation and how it has shown up in her life. Melessa opens up about her mirror homework—telling herself “there is nothing wrong with me”—and why it was harder than expected. The conversation shifts to family patterns, generational ties, and the stories behind old family photos. She reflects on shame, hidden secrets, and her lifelong urge to call out what’s right. It’s an honest, heartfelt episode about self-healing, family history, and personal growth. Past Episodes You May Love: Episode 12: Taking Stock of the Here and NowEpisode 14: Motivation is a ChoiceEpisode 20: Coaching Follow-Up -- Real Clients, Real ResultsEpisode 88: Internal Dialogue Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/ Website - https://stephanieodea.com Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/ Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/ Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/ Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/ Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this episode, Stephanie and Melessa dive into their three-year goals, bucket-list travel dreams, and the very different ways they each experience adventure. From RV road-tripping fantasies to reflections on slow living, Melessa shares how revisiting Stephanie’s Peace Course feels easier this time around—and how she’s been putting real changes into practice. They open up about aging, retirement, and the unique challenges of long-term planning when you’re raising a big family. The conversation flows into decluttering, time-blocking, and why structure with flexibility helps Melessa stay focused on big goals like writing her book. Stephanie encourages her to approach her creative projects the same way she tackles real-life responsibilities—with intention, deadlines, and heart. They wrap up with a nostalgic look at their teen years and a powerful challenge: to write her own obituary as a way to reflect on her journey and everything she’s accomplished so far. Past Episodes You May Love: Episode 150: Quarter and Midlife CrisisEpisode 155: BurnoutEpisode 170: Reinventing YourselfEpisode 175: Bringing Your Vision to LifeEpisode 189: Do It Badly Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/ Website - https://stephanieodea.com Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/ Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/ Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/ Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/ Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE!   Stephanie and Melessa are now two-thirds of the way through their sessions, and this conversation dives deep into rewriting old beliefs. Melessa opens up about her tendency to overcomplicate things—how her mind feels something must be “hard” to be worthwhile—and how she’s learning to embrace ease and flow instead. Together, they explore the question: Do you have to suffer to succeed? For Melessa, this marks a powerful shift away from her old patterns and toward a mindset that allows success to come without struggle. The episode also takes a heartfelt turn as Melessa shares how she’s mapping out her upcoming book in three parts—her childhood, young adulthood, and family life—and how this process ties into her growth. She and Stephanie talk about the joy of her family’s move into a new home and how it’s brought them closer. As Melessa reflects on her daughters, she hopes her story shows them strength, resilience, and the beauty of transformation. Past Episodes You May Love:  Episode 11: How Woo are You - intersecting belief with action Episode 42: Listening to The Universe Episode 104: 3 Year Plan Episode 106: Manifestation vs Magical Thinking Episode 153: Slow Parenting Series: Adult Years and Estrangement Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/ Website - https://stephanieodea.com Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/ Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/ Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/ Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/ Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this episode, Stephanie and Melessa dive into the power of routine—especially how simple habits like a nightly wind-down and consistent sleep with her CPAP have transformed Melessa’s energy and focus. She shares how she’s built a sustainable writing rhythm, dedicating a few hours several days a week to finish her book by year’s end (or stretch goal: March!). It’s all about creating structure that supports both creativity and self-care. Melessa also opens up about the deeper layers of her family story—balancing honesty and respect as she writes about the women who shaped her. She reflects on the contrast between traditional and nontraditional roles and how she’s learning to honor both perspectives. This conversation is an inspiring look at growth, forgiveness, and finding your authentic voice—perfect for anyone walking their own journey of healing and creative expression. Past Episodes You May Love: Episode 91: Time BlockingEpisode 96: Feeling the FearEpisode 97: Faking ItEpisode 134: Unconditional Love with Love Notes from MomEpisode 163: Are You a Perfectionist?Episode 164: Recovering from People Pleasing Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/ Website - https://stephanieodea.com Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/ Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/ Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/ Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/ Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this heartfelt episode, Melessa settles into her new home and begins mapping out her upcoming book. With Stephanie’s guidance, she revisits her goals and creates a fresh three-year plan that reflects who she is today. Together, they explore how to balance ambition, creativity, and self-compassion while embracing change. Their conversation dives into motherhood, faith, and lifelong friendship. Melessa shares how her Mormon upbringing shaped her family life—and how those influences remain even after leaving the church. Stephanie also challenges Melessa and her husband to imagine their retirement and the later stages of life, sparking a meaningful reflection on growth, purpose, and what truly matters. Past Episodes You May Love:  Episode 26: Stop Delaying HappinessEpisode 33: Healing Childhood TraumaEpisode 36: Becoming Resillient Episode 37: How to Find Your PurposeEpisode 38: Chasing Happiness Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Free Daily Journaling Worksheet: stephanieodea.com/daily Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/ Website - https://stephanieodea.com Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/ Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/ Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/ Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/ Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

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 Cooper Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Free Daily Journaling Worksheet: stephanieodea.com/daily Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/ Website - https://stephanieodea.com Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/ Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/ Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/ Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/ Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

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 years Episode 189: Do It Badly Book 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/daily Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/ Website - https://stephanieodea.com Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/ Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/ Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/ Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/ Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/ Book Link:

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/peace New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/ Website - https://stephanieodea.com Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/ Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/ Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/ Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/ Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/