When your podcast guest says, “Our goal as parents is to raise up these self-sufficient, independent people someday,” you know she’s in the right place!
Diane Boden and I talk all about her journey to minimalism and the intentional mindset she’s fostered over the last 14 years.
It’s not just about the “stuff” but about experiences, relationships, schedules, and even goals.
We dig into all that and more in this encouraging interview!
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Living with Intention in Home, Parenting, and More
1:10 – Diane Boden is the voice behind the popular Minimalist Moms podcast. She switched her brand to Clear Intentions to better clarify.
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From Minimalist to Living with Intention
3:38 – Diane talks about the moment in her 20s that sparked her minimalist attitude toward stuff.
I’d rather prioritize people and experiences over the things. – Diane Boden
5:18 – We talk about how minimalism has played out in Diane’s life. Does everything have to spark joy? Diane talks more about her rebrand and how minimalism is now less an aesthetic choice and more a lifestyle for her.
Simplifying Relationships, Schedules, and Social Energy
8:06 – You only have room for so many personal connections. Minimalism carries over into every aspect of your life! So you have to be intentional about everything, from relationships to your kitchen cabinets. You can decide if Diane is a jerk for how she “tiered” her friends to decide in whom to really invest.
9:36 – Here we talk about habits, and Diane highly recommends writing down your goals ON PAPER. (Maybe in a bullet journal?)
10:16 – If you want to develop sustainable habits, you’re going to have to do it slowly.
12:49 – Here we get into the meat of our conversation about decluttering. Small wins to start here, too!
“I just want my kids to eat what I make!”
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Teaching Kids to Let Go of Things and Build Real Independence
14:48 – Diane teaches her kids, “If everything is your favorite, nothing is your favorite.” Kids can learn that when new things come in, it’s time to move some of the old things out.
We were never meant to have this much stuff. – Diane Boden
16:05 – I love what Diane says here. Much like phones have changed our lives and we have to figure out how to manage technology, it’s the same with stuff.
18:00 – If shopping is an addiction of yours, you might have to remove yourself from temptation like Diane did.
19:14 – Here’s how Diane frames stewardship and how it helps her be more generous. Here’s my philosophy on stewardship!
20:31 – We talk some more about being intentional when it comes to relationships and friendship. Makes me think of the recent interview on mom friendships with Heather MacFadyen!
Marriage, Kids, and One Practical Place to Start
23:37 – Was it hard for Diane to get her husband and kids on board with this minimalist, intentional frame of mind?
Our goal as parents is to raise up these self-sufficient, independent people one day! – Diane Boden
26:41 – Here we chat about navigating risk with kids – including using a knife in the kitchen and climbing a tree.
29:20 – Diane’s book is titled Minimalist Moms: Living and Parenting with Simplicity. It has great reviews and is beloved in the minimalism community. Diane talks here about trying to write with authenticity and for minimalism newbies.
Kids don’t need plastic knives. They need real skills.
Teach safe technique, focus, and confidence in the all-time fav lesson from our kids cooking class! (ages 2-12)
31:06 – Decluttering might start with assessing pain points.
Resources We Mention for Living with Intention
- Diane’s book, Minimalist Moms: Living and Parenting with Simplicity, is available on Amazon, Bookshop.org, or wherever you find your books.
- The Bullet Journal System
- My stewardship philosophy
- Building mom friendships and overcoming isolation with Heather MacFadyen
- Visit Diane at her website Minimalist Moms Podcast or on social media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, X
Diane Boden is the voice behind the top-rated podcast, Minimalist Moms, which became A Clear Intention Podcast in early 2025. Through her show, Diane shares her personal experiences and interviews inspiring guests who offer insights and tips on living a fulfilling life with less.
Diane’s expertise and message have been sought out by various other podcasts, including The Spillover with Alex Clark, 1000 Hours Outside, The Mom Hour, and more.
In addition to her successful podcast, Diane has also authored a book, Minimalist Moms, released in March 2021. Her words and advice have impacted countless individuals and families looking to simplify their lives and find more meaning in the things that matter most.
Diane resides in Ohio, with her husband and three children.
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