In this episode, I'm sharing a behind-the-scenes look at my living room makeover—from designing custom sofas with Birmingham Wholesale Furniture to finding the perfect durable rug to complete the space. I walk through why I chose custom over ready-made, what details mattered most, and how I'm giving my old sofas new life through reupholstery.

If you're choosing new furniture or hoping to elevate what you already own, this episode is packed with practical, real-life design tips!

• Birmingham Wholesale Furniture Website (Use code FAMILYSAVVY10 for 10% off!)
• My Designer at Birmingham Wholesale: Susan Small
• Sofa Style: Lillian August's Florian Sofa
• The sofa modifications I selected were a single bench, soft down cushions, dressmaker skirt, and added trim.
• The fabric for the sofas is from Revolution Fabrics.
• Ruggable Sierra Ivory & Opal Rug (Use code: SAVVY15 for 15% off!)
• Home with Hechart Maze - Snow Rug - This is the rug I previously had in my living room.

The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends!

Foolproof Way to Remove Pet Stains & Vomit from Your Rugs and Carpet

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The Ultimate Holiday Home Refresh You'll Thank Yourself For Later

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When my goldendoodle Tucker threw up on my brand new living room rug within 24 hours of installing it, I learned firsthand what works and what doesn't when it comes to removing pet stains.

In this episode, I share the exact steps I took to clean it up quickly and effectively, plus a few common mistakes to avoid. You'll hear my favorite products for stain removal—like Folex, Soilove, LA's Totally Awesome, and Capture—and how each one performs on different messes. Whether you're dealing with pet puke, coffee spills, or muddy footprints, this episode will help you rescue your rug and keep it looking (and smelling) fresh.

1. Neutralize the acid.Pet vomit is acidic, so your first step is to neutralize it before trying to clean it. Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 cup of water, then pour or sprinkle the solution over the stained area. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to neutralize the acid and loosen the stain.
2. Scrape and blot. Don't rub!After the baking soda mixture has sat for a bit, gently scrape from the outside of the stain inward using a spoon or dull edge (this prevents spreading). Then, blot the area with paper towels or a clean white cloth to absorb as much moisture as possible. Avoid rubbing, because it can push the stain deeper into the fibers.
3. Treat the stain.Once you've blotted up most of the mess, spray the area generously with Folex Instant Carpet Spot Remover. Let it air dry. No need to rinse. You'll be amazed at how quickly the stain disappears!

• Sierra Ivory Opal Rug from Ruggable
• Capture Carpet Total Care Kit
• Folex Instant Carpet Spot Remover
• Soilove Laundry Soil-Stain Remover (2-Pack)
• LA's Totally Awesome All Purpose Cleaner Spray

The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends!

15 Costco Items You Need for Cooking & Entertaining this Season

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The Ultimate Holiday Home Refresh You'll Thank Yourself For Later

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If you love hosting but don't want the stress of complicated appetizers, this episode is for you! I'm sharing my go-to easy party dips–from savory favorites (like Taziki's Whipped Feta Dip, Chuy's Jalapeño Dip, and Houston's Spinach Artichoke Dip) to cozy baked dips (like Buffalo Hot Wing Dip and Blackberry Baked Brie). And for something sweet, you'll love my quick dessert dips like 2-Ingredient Caramel Sauce and Caramel Apple Dip.

These party dips are simple, delicious, and perfect for your next gathering, whether you're hosting a dinner party or holiday get-together.

PARTY DIP RECIPES:

• 2-Ingredient Caramel Sauce

• Caramel Apple Dip

• Taziki's Whipped Feta Dip

• Chuy's Creamy Jalapeno Dip

• Black Bean, Corn, & Feta Dip

• Houston's Spinach Artichoke Dip

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts Dip

• Buffalo Hot Wing Dip

• Blackberry Baked Brie

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Spinach Artichoke Dip Video Tutorial

• Blackberry Baked Brie Video Tutorial

• Kosterina - Use my link for 15% off your first order! I love using their Apple Cider Vinegar for my Black Bean, Corn, & Feta Dip.

WHERE TO LISTEN

The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends!

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15 Costco Items You Need for Cooking & Entertaining this Season

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The Ultimate Holiday Home Refresh You'll Thank Yourself For Later

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The key to stress-free holiday hosting is preparing ahead of time! In this episode, I'm walking you through a simple checklist of things you can do right now to get your home looking (and feeling) fresh, clean, and guest-ready. From cleaning your washer and dryer to freshening up your front door and polishing the holiday china, these easy steps will help you enjoy the season without the last-minute scramble. A little prep now means a lot more peace (and a lot less stress) later!

HOLIDAY HOSTING CHECKLIST:

Laundry Area

• Drain and clean your washer filter

• Run a cleaning cycle on your washer tub

• Check and clean your dryer lint trap and vent

• Clean underneath and behind your washer and dryer

Kitchen

• Clean and freshen garbage disposals

• Run a cleaning cycle with dishwasher cleaner to freshen up your dishwasher

• Remove debris from the dishwasher filter

• Deep clean your refrigerator and freezer (inside and out)

Home Maintenance

• Replace air filters if needed

• Schedule a carpet cleaning or spot clean high-traffic areas

• Mow and blow your yard to tidy up outdoor spaces

• Freshen up your front door (wreath, doormat, etc.)

• Wash windows & windowsills

Entertaining Essentials

• Wash and organize your holiday china ahead of time

• Clean and polish serving pieces and glassware

• Set up caddies for flatware or utensils to pull out for easy entertaining

LINKS & RESOURCES:

• Thymes Frazier Fir Candle on Amazon

• Thymes Frazier Fir Dishwashing Liquid

• Laundry Wool Dryer Balls

• Oxo Under-Appliance Duster

• Better Homes & Gardens Utensil Caddy

• Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner

• Utopia Home Cloth Napkins 17x17 Inches

WHERE TO LISTEN

The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends!

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15 Costco Items You Need for Cooking & Entertaining this Season

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The Ultimate Dinner Party Guest Checklist: 15 Habits of the Most Gracious Guests

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In this episode, award-winning interior designer Dana Wolter joins us to share how her battle with cancer reshaped the way she approaches design and life. Dana opens up about her new book, Elegance and Comfort of Home, and how she creates homes that are not only elegant and beautiful but also comfortable and functional for real families. She also shares practical design advice and gives us an inside look at what it's like to work with her and her outstanding team.

• What inspired Dana to create her stunning coffee table book, Elegance and Comfort of Home?

• How did she get her start in interior design?

• How did her personal wellness journey and cancer diagnosis shape her perspective on life and design?

• What are Dana's top tips for making your home feel both comfortable and personal to you?

• What's her secret to balancing elegance and functionality, especially in homes with young children?

• What design trends is Dana loving?

• How can the right lighting transform a space, and what color temperatures for lightbulbs does she recommend for different rooms?

• What does Dana's design process look like when working with clients?

• If you're planning a renovation on a budget, where's the best place to start?

• Dana Wolter Interiors Website

• Elegance and Comfort of Home book:

  Order a signed copy on Dana's website

  Also available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, & Books A Million

• Follow @danawolterinterior on Instagram for book tour updates

The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends!

Savvy Home Design: Where to Save & Splurge with Alex Hechart

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Luxury Home Decor for Less: Hidden Gems on T.J. Maxx's Website

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In this inspiring conversation, Hobby Lobby founder David Green and Legacy Stone CEO Bill High share what it truly means to leave a legacy—not just an inheritance. From their newly-released book The Legacy Life, David and Bill offer timeless wisdom on stewardship, prayer, and tangible next steps to lead your family with purpose to make a lasting impact for generations to come.

QUESTIONS ANSWERED IN THIS EPISODE:

• What does "legacy" really mean to David and Bill?

• What's the difference between leaving an inheritance and leaving a legacy?

• How did David and Bill's upbringings shape how they view legacy?

• How can parents distribute an inheritance in a way that encourages purpose, work ethic, and wisdom?

• What can young families do now to begin building a lasting legacy?

• How did the idea for the Museum of the Bible come to life?

• How has David seen God move in and through Hobby Lobby over the years?

• What was it like walking through Hobby Lobby's Supreme Court case?

• What resources are available to help families define their values and live them out through giving?

LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• The Legacy Life: Leading Your Family to Make a Difference for Eternity on Amazon
• Legacy Stone Resources to help families on the path to biblical success for generations to come.
• One Hope Ministry
• Every Home for Christ

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Honest Q&A with my Husband: Marriage, Parenting, & Menopause

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Melanie Shankle on "Here be Dragons": Navigating Generational Trauma & Motherhood

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• Watch on YouTube

WHERE TO LISTEN:

The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends!

In this episode, I'm sharing the pantry staples and kitchen items that instantly elevate everyday cooking. These are the essentials I always keep on hand—from sauces to seasonings and more—that add depth and flavor to almost any dish.

I'll also share how I use these favorites to take simple meals to the next level. Whether you're stocking your pantry or just want to up your flavor game, this episode will inspire you to cook smarter and more deliciously with these essential pantry staples.

PANTRY STAPLES GROCERY LIST:

• Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce

• Rao's Alfredo Sauce

• Rind of Parmigiano Reggiano

• Butter

• Bacon Fat

• Liquid Smoke

• Redmond Smoked Salt (Use my code FAMILYSAVVY for a special discount!)

• Fresh Lemons

• Kosterina Fruit Vinegars (Use my link for 15% off your first Kosterina order!)

RECIPES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie

• Broccoli Cheddar Soup (that's better than Panera)

• Chicken Tetrazzini for a Crowd

• Brunswick Stew

• Spicy Hamburger Vegetable Soup

• Mississippi Green Beans

• Summer Squash Casserole

• Why Bacon Grease is Liquid Gold & the Best Ways to Use It

• Best Smoked Beef Brisket

WHERE TO LISTEN

The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends!

LIKED THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT!

15 Costco Items You Need for Cooking & Entertaining this Season

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Hosting a Small Group: Meals, Marriage, & Meaningful Community

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In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Chrissy Schubert, mom to Ady and founder of Ady's BiG Army, to hear the powerful story behind her daughter's journey. Chrissy shares how Ady was diagnosed with autism, the struggles their family faced, and the miracle of how Ady went from being nonverbal to spelling out her very first poem.

Out of this journey came Ady's BiG Army, an organization that helps adults with disabilities by providing resources, support, and community for families navigating similar challenges. This conversation is filled with hope, faith, and practical insight for anyone looking for organizations that resource adults with disabilities.

• Who is Ady? - Her story, her diagnosis with autism and mitochondrial dysfunction, and how her journey inspired Ady's BiG Army.

• Understanding Ady's Journey - How she experienced regressions and the causes behind them & the miracle of how she went from being unable to communicate to spelling out her first poem.

• A Mother's Perspective - Chrissy shares the struggles and emotions of raising a severely autistic child, the impact on her marriage, and how God worked through their challenges.

• The Birth of Ady's BiG Army - How the nonprofit began, the heart behind it, and the amazing projects they've done to serve families facing similar struggles.

• Looking Ahead - What Ady's BiG Army is doing now, their vision for the future, and how listeners can support their mission.

• Ady's BiG Army's website

• Follow along with Chrissy & Ady's hiking journey

• Check out all the BiG replication locations across the country

• Mark your calendars for the Art Auction on April 25, 2025!

• Mitchell's Place in Birmingham, AL

The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends!

How Unless U Helps Create a Brighter Future for Developmentally Disabled Adults

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Thistle Farms: A Safe Haven for Human Trafficking Survivors

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Wondering if investing in an infrared sauna is worth it? After nearly a year of regular use in my Sunlighten sauna, I've experienced life-changing results. My osteoarthritis pain is gone, and my skin has a noticeable glow after every session.

In this episode of The SavvyCast, I welcome back Connie Zack, co-founder of Sunlighten Saunas, to break down the science behind infrared sauna benefits and answer the questions you submitted on Instagram. From reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular health to choosing the right size for your home, this episode will help you understand the benefits and decide if an infrared sauna is right for you.

QUESTIONS ANSWERED IN THIS EPISODE:

• What's the science behind how infrared saunas work?
• How can infrared saunas reduce inflammation, support cardiovascular health, promote anti-aging, and more?
• How is an infrared sauna different from a traditional sauna?
• What are the unique benefits of far infrared vs. near infrared light?
• What size sauna is best for your home?
• How hot do infrared saunas get?
• Where should you place an infrared sauna in your house?
• Do you need to sit directly next to the infrared light panels to experience results?
• What benefits has Jamie personally noticed since using her sauna?
• How has regular use helped with Jamie's osteoarthritis?
• What does Jamie and Zane's sauna routine look like?

LINKS & RESOURCES:

• Sunlighten Saunas - I own the 3-seater mPulse Conquer.

WHERE TO LISTEN

The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends!

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Detoxing and Energizing the Body with Infrared Light Therapy

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Which Beauty & Skincare Treatments Actually Make a Difference (Botox, Sculptra, Microneedling, & More)

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In this episode, I'm diving into practical do's and don'ts every woman should know to stay safe in everyday life. Whether you're running errands, walking your dog, or traveling, these proactive safety tips are designed to help you feel more prepared and confident.

From simply trusting your gut and being observant to knowing when not to wear headphones or when to make a scene, these simple yet powerful strategies can be the difference between your safety and becoming a victim. My goal is to equip you with tools to help you avoid dangerous situations and take control of your safety, without living in fear as a woman.

8 DON'TS FOR WOMEN'S SAFETY

• Use discretion when talking to strangers, and avoid unnecessary interactions, even in places you feel safe.

• Don't go places alone if you can help it, especially with a dog or baby.

• Don't wear headphones. Your hearing is one of your best defense mechanisms.

• Don't feel pressured to be polite when your gut says otherwise.

• Avoid going out at night when possible.

• Don't let your gas tank dip below half full.

• Don't be embarrassed by confrontation.

• Don't hesitate to call 9-1-1.

6 DO'S FOR WOMEN'S SAFETY

• Trust your gut.

• Be observant and aware of your surroundings.

• Choose a seat near a door or exit when possible.

• Ask someone to walk you to your car if you feel uneasy.

• Make a scene if you sense danger.

• Park in open, visible areas whenever possible.

LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Personal Safety Alarm on Amazon

WHERE TO LISTEN

The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends!

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• Prepared for Anything: My Essential Home Readiness Tips

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• Emergency Preparedness with Jase Case's Aaron Asay

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• Watch on YouTube