As summer 2025 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on new beginnings, shifting seasons, and the power of letting go. This episode is both tender and bittersweet, as I share some personal life updates—including milestone school moments for my kids—and an important announcement about the future of the Let’s Slow Down Podcast.

Together, we’ll pause to breathe, reflect on the highlights of summer, and consider what we might carry forward into fall—and what we might lovingly release. I’ll share a quote that struck me deeply about change and letting go, and open up about my decision to step away from podcasting for now.

In these past three years, this space has been such a gift. We’ve explored slowing down, simplifying, and making room for what matters most. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or just found your way to Let’s Slow Down, I’m deeply grateful for your presence, your messages, and your support.

This isn’t necessarily goodbye forever—just goodbye for now. You’ll still have 127 episodes to revisit whenever you need a moment of calm, and of course, my book Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living is always there as a companion for your own journey.

Thank you for walking this path with me. Wishing you courage, peace, and the strength to embrace your own next chapter—whatever that looks like.

With gratitude,
Annemarie

 What if just one small shift could make your summer feel calmer, more present, and more joyful? In this short episode of Let’s Slow Down, Annemarie shares a simple, powerful habit: the unplugged afternoon. You’ll learn why stepping away from screens for even an hour can completely change the feel of your day, how to make it work in a busy life, and easy ideas for enjoying your time offline. Whether you’re at the beach, on your porch, or just taking a break from your to-do list, this tiny change can help you savor the season you’re in.

Can you believe it's the end of July? While summer may feel like it’s turning a corner, we’ve still got time to soak it all in. One of my favorite ways to slow down and savor the season is by getting lost in a good book. In today’s episode, I’m sharing my current reading list—both fiction and nonfiction—and a few standout titles that brought me joy, laughter, insight, and even a little surprise twist or two.

From thought-provoking personal development reads to entertaining novels with clever storylines, there’s something here for everyone—especially if you’re looking for a way to relax, recharge, and reconnect with yourself this summer.

📖 Books I Mentioned:

• In Five Years & One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle

• Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez

• Take Less. Do More. by Glen Van Peski

• Good Energy by Dr. Casey Means
  

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Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

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If it feels like summer is flying by, you’re not alone. In this solo episode, I invite you to pause and make space to truly feel the season. Inspired by summer rhythms around the world—from Italian "Ferragosto" to Nordic cottages by the water—we'll explore how entire cultures embrace rest and how we can, too.

Join me as I share:

• A gentle reminder that you don’t have to earn rest

• How other countries honor the slower pace of summer

• My favorite simple summer pleasures to savor

• Thoughts on the beauty of slow mornings, mindful living, and doing less to feel more

• A small but powerful challenge to bring more presence into your day

Whether you're coming off a big family vacation or navigating a hot, busy week, this episode is your invitation to loosen up, take a deep breath, and remember that slowing down isn't laziness—it’s essential.

A Gentle Challenge for You:Pick one thing to do just a little bit slower today. Let it be a moment you savor. 💛

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✨In this kickoff to the Let’s Slow Down summer short series, Annemarie reflects on the power of solitude and how a quiet weekend alone helped her reconnect with herself and reset after a hectic season. She shares insights from the book Take Less, Do More by Glen Van Peski, and explores how the principle of "less is more" applies far beyond hiking—into our homes, schedules, and minds. This episode invites listeners to slow down, reexamine their definition of success, and consider one powerful, perspective-shifting question:

“Are the choices you are making today supporting the life you truly desire?”

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Order Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order Here

Have feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at [email protected].

Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

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In this inspiring episode of Let’s Slow Down, Annemarie sits down with Karen Porter, RHN, the self-described Health & Happiness Fire Starter, to explore how true wellness begins from within.

Karen opens up about her personal health journey—from struggling with IBS, anxiety, and depression to discovering a holistic approach that transformed her life. She now empowers women to take control of their well-being through mindset shifts, nervous system regulation, nutrition, movement, and joy.

Together, they explore:

• How digestive issues led to emotional healing

• The power of the 5 Ms: Mindset, Meals, Movement, Managing the Nervous System, and Magnifying Happiness

• The effects of toxic stress and elevated cortisol levels

• Practical tips for sustainable self-care in a fast-paced world

• Meditation practices that work—even for busy minds—and how to use Karen’s favorite app, Brain Tap

✨ This is a powerful reminder that slowing down and tuning in can ignite lasting health and happiness.

Resources & Mentions:

• Connect with Karen Porter, RHN:

  Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn

• Brain Tap Meditation App - 44 day free trial, use code: BTPARTNER29

Love this podcast?

💞 Leave a review and share it with a friend!

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Order Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order Here

Have feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at [email protected].

Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

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In this episode, Annemarie sits down with Joshua Becker—author, speaker, and founder of Becoming Minimalist—to explore how our possessions may be quietly stealing the happiness, joy, and meaning we’re chasing. They discuss how to find clarity through less, the powerful benefits of minimalism, and how to begin your own decluttering journey. If you’re ready to let go of excess and focus on what truly matters, this conversation will inspire and guide you.

Connect with Joshua Becker HERE.

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Order Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order Here

Have feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at [email protected].

Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

As another school year draws to a close, many moms (myself included) find themselves overwhelmed by concerts, graduations, field trips, thank-you gifts, and all the emotions that come with wrapping up another chapter in our children’s lives.

In this honest and reflective episode, I’m sharing a few simple ways to stay healthy, present, and grateful during what might be the busiest season of the year—yes, even busier than the holidays. From honoring the emotions of big transitions to keeping perspective during packed schedules, this is a gentle reminder that what really matters is often the simplest thing of all: being here, now.

You’ll hear thoughts on:

• Prioritizing your health (even when time is tight)

• Being fully present at important moments

• Showing gratitude without breaking the bank

• Keeping your home and headspace calm amid the chaos

This is a short, heartfelt check-in for all the moms navigating the wild ride of end-of-year events. You’re not alone—and you can do this with grace.

PS: Don’t miss next week’s episode featuring an inspiring conversation with Joshua Becker of Becoming Minimalist—one of the most powerful voices in the simple living movement.

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Order Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order Here

Have feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at [email protected].

Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

Have you been feeling a quiet tug to live a little differently? Maybe you've been asking yourself questions like:

• How can I make more time for what truly matters?

• I don’t want my house to look Instagram-perfect—I want it to feel like a home. But how?

• How can I slow down and live at a sustainable pace that actually feels good?

• How can I parent in a way that aligns with my values and helps my children become who they’re meant to be?

• Is there anyone else out there who feels this way?

The answer is yes—and this episode is for you.

In today’s heartfelt and down-to-earth conversation, I’m joined by author Whitney English to talk all things home, family, and intentional living. Together, we explore:

• How your environment can impact your mood and productivity

• The tension between raising kids and keeping a tidy home

• The shame that can arise when choosing to live differently

• Practical ways to eliminate distractions and focus on what matters most

If you’ve been craving a slower, more meaningful way of living, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone—and that a life aligned with your values is not only possible, it’s powerful.

Connect with Whitney:

Website

Order her book: Organize First, Decorate Second

Love this podcast? 💞 Leave a review and share it with a friend!

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WEBSITE

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Order Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order Here

Have feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at [email protected].

Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

*affiliate links that don’t affect your price at all!

In this special Mother’s Day edition of Let’s Slow Down, Annemarie honors the beautifully messy, deeply meaningful journey of motherhood. With the school year winding down and life feeling especially full, this episode is a gentle reminder to pause and reflect on what truly matters. Annemarie shares 10 simple joys of parenting that often get lost in the hustle but hold the power to ground us in love and gratitude.

Whether you're a new mom navigating sleepless nights or raising teens with full calendars, this episode will encourage you to slow down, savor the sweet moments, and celebrate the small, meaningful experiences that bring unexpected joy.

• 📚 Simplicity Parenting by Kim John Payne*

• 🎧 Ep. 15 Simplicity Parenting with author Kim John Payne

• 🎧 Ep. 34: How to Incorporate Simplicity In Your Life  

  
  

Love this podcast? 💞🌟 Leave a review and share it with a friend!

Follow Let’s Slow Down:

WEBSITE

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Order Annemarie’s Book:📖 Let’s Slow Down: The Art of Simple, Intentional Living – Order Here*

Have feedback or a podcast idea?Email Annemarie at [email protected].

Let’s uncover your purpose and embrace intentional living together! 🌿

*affiliate link, doesn’t affect your price