Slow Living | Find Peace, Balance, and Calm in Hustle Society
Beat Overwhelm and Live a Soft and Slow Life
Stephanie O'Dea
Show overview
Slow Living | Find Peace, Balance, and Calm in Hustle Society has been publishing since 2021, and across the 5 years since has built a catalogue of 242 episodes, alongside 1 trailer or bonus episode. That works out to roughly 130 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a weekly cadence.
Episodes typically run twenty to thirty-five minutes — most land between 26 min and 38 min — though episode length varies meaningfully from one episode to the next. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Education show.
The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 4 days ago, with 20 episodes already out so far this year. Published by Stephanie O'Dea.
From the publisher
If you are a busy woman trying to do all the things for all the people all the time and feel like whatever you do isn’t enough, this is the podcast for you. Maybe you have ADHD, maybe you don’t. Maybe you work full time and have kids, maybe you don’t. But whatever is happening in your life right now isn’t working and you aren’t sure what to do next. Deep breath in, deep breath out. Help is here. New York Times bestselling author and slow living expert Stephanie O’Dea is your friendly guide to creating a calm, peaceful, and purpose-filled life—without the burnout. This isn’t a pushy productivity or goal-setting show. Instead, Stephanie shares gentle, practical ways to simplify your routines, find work-life balance, and bring more peace and tranquility into your days. Through honest conversations and easy-to-follow tips, you’ll learn to slow down, realign your priorities, and create the space to truly enjoy your life. Each episode covers topics like: Creating simple, sustainable routines Parenting with presence and patience Mindful time management (without the hustle) Organization and decluttering for a calm home Finding peace in relationships and daily life In a world that moves too fast and constantly demands more, this podcast is your weekly reminder that you are already enough. You don’t need to chase perfection—you just need to slow down and live intentionally. Stephanie O’Dea is the New York Times bestselling author of Slow Living: Cultivating a Life of Purpose in a Hustle-Driven World and the creator of A Year of Slow Cooking, featured on Good Morning America, The Rachael Ray Show, and in major national publications. With a background in child development, psychology, and early childhood education, Stephanie has helped millions of busy families simplify, reconnect, and rediscover what truly matters. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband of 25+ years, their three kids, and their beloved dog, Sheldon—where they practice what she preaches: slowing down, unplugging, and savoring a peaceful life.
Latest Episodes
View all 242 episodesSlow Living for Millenials and Gen X
Slow Living for Gen Z
Slow Living, Social Media, and AI
Slow Travel -- What Is It?
Meet the Whole Wellness Mama
Shelly Session 6 (Part 2): Living in Peace for Now and Forever
Shelly session 6 (Part 1): Affirmations, Being Woo, and Sticking to the Plan
Ep 234Shelly Session 5 (Part 2): Creating Your Perfect Hallmark Christmas
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Get ready to step into a cozy, joy-filled episode as Shelly shares her vision for the ultimate “Hallmark Christmas” and how she’s planning to make December truly magical. From finishing her Christmas shopping before Thanksgiving to putting up her tree right after and even planning a festive holiday dog photoshoot, she’s fully embracing Christmas preparation. If you love holiday planning, Christmas traditions, and getting ahead on your seasonal to-do list, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired.Shelly and Stephanie also talk about how Christmas can still feel magical as we get older, especially with traditions like a Hallmark Christmas movie marathon. They wrap up by shifting from holiday cheer to everyday responsibilities — like finally scheduling those long-overdue medical appointments. It’s a relatable mix of festive fun, productivity, and real-life balance that makes this episode a perfect listen. Past Episodes You May Love: Episode 7: How to Slow Down this Holiday SeasonEpisode 13: New Years Resolutions -- yay or nay?Episode 25: Caring for the CaregiverEpisode 43: Imperfect ActionEpisode 80: Don't Reinvent the WheelWant to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Ep 233Shelly Session 5 (Part 1): Celebrating Your Wins and Traditional Gender Divide with Housework
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this episode, Stephanie and Shelly kick things off by celebrating a major personal growth win—Shelly is learning to say no and step out of the caretaker role with her dad so she can simply be his daughter. They talk about setting healthy boundaries in family relationships, shifting long-standing dynamics, and still showing love in practical ways (hello, Walmart runs!). Shelly also shares how organizing her closet has transformed her morning routine, proving that small habits and simple systems can create big mindset shifts.The conversation flows into career confidence, dealing with difficult customers at work, and building self-worth through tools like Shelly’s affirmation wall. They also touch on prioritizing annual medical appointments, creating hobbies that feel joyful instead of heavy, and the realities of the traditional gender divide in housework. If you’re navigating caregiving boundaries, personal growth, work stress, or conversations around household roles and modern womanhood, this episode offers relatable insights and empowering encouragement you won’t want to miss.Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Ep 232Shelly Session 4 (Part 2): Working and Living Your Best Life
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this episode, Shelly and Stephanie dive into the realities of balancing a demanding new job with personal well-being. As Shelly considers moving from part-time to full-time work, the conversation explores what it really means to unwind after a stressful day—whether that’s floating in the pool, carving out quiet time, or simply giving herself permission to rest. They also unpack the pressure of being the person everyone relies on, and how easy it is to put your own goals on hold while supporting others.This episode is a heartfelt look at self-care, personal growth, and creating a healthier lifestyle—without guilt. From redefining what a truly “healthy person” looks like (think daily walks, better sleep, and hydration) to setting meaningful goals like finishing a scrapbooking project, Shelly reflects on choosing herself more intentionally. If you’re striving to live your best life, set healthy boundaries, reduce stress, and prioritize your own dreams, this empowering conversation will leave you inspired to take that next small step.Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Ep 231Shelly session 4 (Part 1): Rest is Not Something to Earn
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this uplifting episode, Shelly shares how she’s getting back into a healthy routine—walking consistently, scheduling labs and her annual mammogram, and taking proactive steps toward the vision she has for herself in her 70s. She also opens up about her daily check-ins with her dad and the realization that she doesn’t have to be his only medical support, exploring healthier caregiver boundaries and new ways to shift their relationship.From decluttering closets and clearing out the garage to rediscovering her love of crafting, Shelly is creating space for more peace in her life. Stephanie challenges her to schedule intentional rest and even plan rewards—because self-care, healthy aging, and true wellness include downtime too. If you’re navigating a health journey, caregiving stress, or simply craving more balance, this episode will inspire you to take your next step.Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Ep 230Shelly Session 3 (Part 2): Navigating Elderly Parents and Saying No
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this episode, Shelly shares her fears around cancer returning and why prioritizing her health feels more important than ever. From committing to annual mammograms and finding a new primary care physician to moving her body more and getting outside, this episode focuses on setting boundaries now to create a healthier, more fulfilling future.Stephanie challenges Shelly to take action—choosing healthier foods, cutting back on sugar, and following through on goals instead of just thinking about them. The conversation also takes an intriguing turn as they explore whether ADHD could be influencing Shelly’s habits, leading to reflection, research, and a closet clean-out commitment. If you’re navigating women’s health, personal growth, or lifestyle changes, this episode will inspire you to start small and move forward. Past Episodes You May Love: Episode 121: Anxiety, ADHD, and MoreEpisode 125: Everybody has SomethingEpisode 131: Women's HealthEpisode 150: Quarter and Midlife CrisisEpisode 156: The Self Cleaning HouseWant to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Ep 229Shelly session 3 (Part 1): Taking Care of Adult Parents
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this episode, Stephanie and Shelly share real-life updates from a hectic season at work to a sweet ice cream outing with Shelly’s dad. Shelly talks about shifting their relationship from caregiver to simply being his daughter. The conversation turns to end-of-life planning and why those uncomfortable talks still matter. Shelly also opens up about feeling overwhelmed by clutter, especially clothes and sentimental items from loved ones who have passed.Shelly shares her goal of finishing holiday shopping before Thanksgiving and how decluttering her home and garage ties into lowering stress. Stephanie talks about balancing a full-time job with her many hobbies, including her all-inclusive zoo pass around San Diego. Health also comes up, from Stephanie managing allergies to Shelly working to get health insurance again. Together, they stress the importance of routine lab work and knowing your health baseline, even during busy seasons.Past Episodes You May Love:Episode 59: CodependencyEpisode 87: Control and/or WorthinessEpisode 88: Internal DialogueEpisode 100: Life Coaching Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Ep 228Shelly Session 2 (Part 2): Working on the next Best Step | From Survival Mode to Strength
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! In this episode, Stephanie and Shelly dive into a powerful self-reflection exercise, exploring the adjectives Shelly uses to describe herself and her current season of life. The conversation opens up into an honest discussion about health, menopause, and how ongoing struggles with doctors and health insurance have shaped Shelly’s mindset. With vulnerability and compassion, they talk about how discouragement can impact not just the body, but self-image and confidence too.Shelly describes her life as being in “survival mode,” which leads to a meaningful conversation about her journey through breast cancer, family relationships, and resilience. Stephanie gently challenges Shelly to reimagine what health looks like for her future self, sparking a hopeful discussion about aging well, staying active, and a growing love for hiking. The episode wraps with reflections on the book Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents by Lindsay Gibson and how its insights helped Shelly better understand her relationship with her father—making this a thoughtful, relatable listen about healing, health, and personal growth.Past Episodes You May Love:Episode 9: How to Get What You Want When You Want ItEpisode 26: Stop Delaying HappinessEpisode 36: Becoming Resilient Episode 43: Imperfect ActionEpisode 51: Adult FriendshipsWant to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Ep 227Shelly session 2 (Part 1): County Fairs, Hobbies, Time Blocking, and Continuing to Establish Boundaries
BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE! Stephanie and Shelly kick off this episode with a fun chat about County Fairs, table scapes, and Stephanie’s entries in the Home and Hobby Garden. The conversation quickly shifts to Shelly’s new role at work and the challenge of creating a routine that actually works with her new hours. They dig into productivity, time management, and a time-blocking exercise that helped Shelly see where her time and energy were really going.From morning routines to the supportive scrapbooking community Shelly checks in with daily, this episode is all about balance and connection. The conversation wraps with an honest look at boundaries, caregiving, and what it means to be an introverted extrovert—especially when navigating family dynamics. It’s a warm, relatable episode full of self-awareness, growth, and encouragement you won’t want to miss.Want to know more about living a slowed down life?!Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Ep 226Learning to Set Boundaries. Real Coaching, Session 1 part 2 with Shelly
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
Ep 225Meet Shelly. Real Coaching, Session 1 Part 1
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/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Ep 224Soft Living vs Slow Living: What's the Difference?
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/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Ep 223Beginning of the Rest of Your Life
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/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/
Ep 222Wrapping it All Up. Melessa Session 6 (Part 2)
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/peaceNew Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyouJoin me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/Website - https://stephanieodea.comBlog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcastSpeaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/