Teacher, mom of two, and Minimal-ish podcast host Desirae Endres shares how to embrace a clutter-free life without rigid rules. Discover small, realistic steps to simplify your home, schedule, and mental load—especially during busy seasons like back-to-school—so you can focus on what truly matters.
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Resources Mentioned:
Get my children's book: Lenora and Her Super Duper Messy Room
Get all the links and resources at wannabeclutterfree.com/270
Connect with Desirae Endres
Instagram
Desirae's Website
Minimal-ish Podcast
Follow Deanna Yates, the host of Wannabe Clutter Free on:
Instagram
Facebook
Website
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Back-to-school season is here, and if your calendar (and home) already feel overwhelmed, this conversation will be the deep breath you’ve been craving.
Today I’m joined by Desirae Endres, a full-time teacher, mom of two girls, and host of the Minimal-ish podcast. Desirae’s approach to minimalism isn’t about rigid rules or picture-perfect rooms—it’s about making space for what truly matters, even in the middle of carpools, sports practices, and lesson plans.
We cover:
What “minimal-ish” really means (and why it’s more sustainable than extreme minimalism)
How to simplify your home and schedule without adding stress
Ways to manage kids’ toys, clothes, and paper clutter
Letting go of perfectionism in decluttering
How to protect your time and energy during busy seasons
The surprising link between mental clutter and physical clutter
If you’ve ever felt discouraged because minimalism seemed too strict or unrealistic for your family, this episode will show you a gentler, more flexible way forward.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Welcome & Introduction
00:46 Meet Desirae Endres
02:21 Desirae’s Journey to Minimalism
06:30 Realistic Minimalism in a Busy Life
12:37 Managing Kids’ Toys & Clutter
18:36 Balancing Priorities & Letting Go
23:47 Navigating Different Parenting Stages
25:46 Minimalism with Joy & Spontaneity
30:56 Managing Mental & Emotional Clutter
35:59 Practical Tips for Decluttering
40:57 Rapid Fire Questions & Closing Thoughts
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Music: Fresh Lift by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com
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We’d love to hear how you’re applying the strategies discussed in this episode. Share your stories and tips with us on social media (@wannabeclutterfree). Don’t forget to subscribe for more insightful episodes designed to make your busy life a bit easier.
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