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How To Live Happier

2021-11-09 Mama Minimalist

Capitalism has coerced us into thinking about contentment in terms of possessions, and many of us accumulate both stuff and money in hopes of living happier. But time and time again research finds that happiness is actually found in places that are notoriously free: in getting good sleep, in nurturing quality relationships, and in giving, to name a few.

Today I bring you an interview with podcaster Julia Szpor. Julia and I discuss the latest science-backed findings into how each of us can live happier amidst a culture that glorifies consumption.

Here’s a preview:

[10:30] Do genetics come into play when discussing happiness?

[11:15] The Number One way to teach yourself to overcome Negativity Bias

[15:15] Letting go of expectations for greater well-being

[19:45] What science says about spending money on others

[22:00] Why thinking critically about the 5 people you spend the most time with is worth the effort

[24:00] Where you should *actually* spend your money for long term happiness

Resources mentioned:

Box Giver

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The Unfollow Effect

We've come a long way. But not necessarily in the right direction.

From the the nostalgic days of AOL Instant Messenger to 2026's high-stakes, algorithmic landscape, constant connectivity has fundamentally shifted our attention spans, our peace of mind, and the way we show up for our families.

Worse, the desire to show up online often takes us directly out of real life. It's no surprise, then, that we're feeling the mental and emotional weight of the "scroll".

We don't have to throw our phones in a lake to find the reprieve we desperately need. On today's show author Emily Feldpausch argues that it isn’t about rejecting technology. It’s about reclaiming the intentionality that the algorithms try to take away.

Here's a preview:

[5:00] Reflections on the shift from the early days of AIM and MySpace to the current user experience that often feels designed against us

[8:45] How being always on has eroded our collective sense of peace and altered the dynamics of modern family life

[18:00] How to stop checking in and start being present

[23:00] A candid look at 2026 internet culture, from shopping hauls to harmful beauty standards. Can we still find corners of the web that align with our true values?

[27:00] Emily's personal strategies for maintaining phone boundaries to protect her mental space

Resources mentioned:

This episode is sponsored by Fearless Finance. Use code SUSTAINABLE to get $50 off your first meeting.
Technology Is Getting Worse
The Unfollow Effect: Intentional Living in a Digital Age
Book Club

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My Story

Hello there, I’m Stephanie. I live a crazy, beautiful life as a full-time wife, blogger + mother to two spirited daughters. I’m on a mission to simplify eco-friendly living so as to greater enjoy life’s sweeter moments.

Want to know more? Read my story.