148: October Fix It or Free It: Saying Goodbye to “Someday Shoes”
In this month’s Fix It or Free It Challenge update, we focus on shoes. The pairs we swear we’ll fix but never do. We explore what happens when we realize we’re holding onto things that no longer fit our lifestyle, comfort, or identity. This episode dives into the psychology of decision fatigue and identity clutter, showing how letting go can be just as powerful as repairing.Whether you’re decluttering your own “to-fix” pile or following along with the challenge, this episode offers a thoughtful reminder: fixing brings satisfaction, but freeing something can bring peace.In this Episode, We Talk About:How to decide whether to fix, donate, or let go of an item you’ve been hanging onto. The psychological side of clutter, including identity clutter and decision fatigue. Why letting go of something you thought you’d fix can be an act of self-awareness, not failure.Mentioned in this Episode:Fix It or Free It Challenge 2025: monthly mindful decluttering series Previous projects: workbag straps, Halloween figurines, jewelry, backpack repair Follow and share your updates with us on Instagram @theorganizedflamingoJanuary: Replaced workbag strapsFebruary: Turned a dress into a skirtMarch: Decluttered the fix-it drawerApril: Fixed office cart wheelMay: Repaired two necklaces, donated the restJune: Added anti-slip pads to heels, freed an old pairJuly: Sewed hiking backpack pocketAugust: Let go of uncomfortable headphonesSeptember: Fixed or released Halloween figurinesOctober: Let go of two pairs of shoes I no longer loveReview full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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147: 10 Helpful Questions to Ask Yourself When Organizing Any Space
This week, we’re revisiting one of our most popular classic episodes originally recorded during our Organized & Productive days, which is packed with timeless tips and thoughtful questions that still ring true today.We explore ten powerful “end-goal” words that can guide any organizing project: from purpose and usefulness to comfort and adaptability. These questions are designed to help transform how we think about our spaces, ensuring they reflect who we are and how we live right now.Whether we’re starting fresh, maintaining an organized home, or helping a loved one, this episode reminds us that organizing doesn’t have to be frustrating maybe it can even be purposeful, peaceful, and even fun.In This Episode, We Talk AboutThe 10 end-goal words that make organizing and decluttering more intentional How asking better questions can lead to longer-lasting organizing results Ways to bring comfort, functionality, and joy into our living spacesMentioned in This EpisodeEpisode 001: 7 Steps to Organizing (Almost) Anythinghttps://theorganizedflamingo.com/7-steps-to-organizing/ Episode 008: Step 1: Assess and the Power of Planning Aheadhttps://theorganizedflamingo.com/8-step-1-assess-the-power-of-planning-ahead/ Free Resource: Should You Keep It or Toss It? Decision Treehttps://organizedandproductive.com/keeportossReview full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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146: Strong Space, Strong Self: Organizing Your Home Gym with Care
In this episode, we explore what happens when your home’s “luxury” spaces like the gym or pantry finally come into focus. Inspired by a long-term client who realized her gym felt dreadful after organizing the rest of her home, we talk about why certain areas only become priorities once we feel grounded elsewhere. We’ll also walk through practical tips for creating a safe, motivating, and functional gym space, whether it’s a full room, a corner of the basement, or a moveable setup that fits your lifestyle.In this episode, we talk about:The psychology behind why we organize our wellness spaces lastHow a tidy, safe gym supports motivation and long-term wellnessActionable ways to organize and refresh your home gymMentioned in this episode:How to safely identify wall studs and secure mounted equipmentThe benefits of using mobile, multipurpose storage for home gymsDesign ideas that boost comfort, motivation, and consistencyReview full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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145: Clearing Out the Scary Stuff Lurking at Home
Every October, we delve into a spooky organizing theme, and this year, we’re exploring the mysterious “potions” that may be hiding around our homes. From expired medicine and makeup to old paint cans and forgotten cleaners, expired items can haunt our cabinets, take up space, and sometimes even pose safety risks.In this episode, we explore how to safely declutter these expired potions room by room, why it matters, and how clearing them out can make space for a little fresh magic this season.In this episode, we talk about:How expired “potions” like medicine, beauty products, and paint quietly clutter our spaces. Room-by-room tips to identify and safely dispose of expired items. Why letting go of old potions creates a safer, calmer, and more intentional home.Mentioned in this episode:Past Halloween episodes: Organizing the Scary Spots and How to Keep Critters Out of Storage. Community drug take-back programs for expired medication. Local household hazardous waste and paint recycling resources. Organize & Cherish Newsletter – subscribe for seasonal organizing tips and upcoming episode updates.Review full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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144: Taking Stock of What’s in Your Storage Spaces (Storage Series)
In this episode, we continue our Storage Series by tackling the often-overlooked task of taking inventory of what we own. From seasonal bins in the garage to off-site storage units, it’s easy to lose track of what we’ve tucked away. We explore why doing an inventory at least once a year can bring clarity, save money, and reduce stress.To make this practical for every lifestyle, we share three different inventory methods: one for detail-oriented people, one for those who like a balance of efficiency and detail, and one for anyone who needs the absolute quickest approach. No matter where you fall, you’ll leave with simple strategies to know what you own and why it matters.In this episode we talk about:Why taking inventory of storage spaces at least once a year matters. Three different ways to take inventory, from detailed to super quick. How annual inventory helps prevent clutter, duplicate purchases, and hidden stress.Mentioned in this Episode:The Storage Series episodes covering the hidden costs and benefits of storage. The Fix It or Free It challenge, a monthly practice of repairing or releasing items. Seasonal storage examples like holiday décor and inherited belongings.Review full show notes and resources at https://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
About Organize & Cherish with The Organized Flamingo
Welcome to the Organize & Cherish podcast with The Organized Flamingo, hosted by Stephanie Y. Deininger, a professional organizer and productivity expert. For those of you who love the thought of organizing & being more productive, but don’t know where to start or constantly up against hurdles that don’t let you advance the way you want to, this podcast is for you!This podcast will:- Cover a variety of topics within the organizing and productivity space, offering you tips, inspiration, and plenty of a-ha moments.- Explore different combinations and ways on how to get and stay more organized and productive.- Invite guests in complementary industries such as interior designers, habit coaches, mental health professionals, stylists, and more that help and enhance your organizing & productivity journey.Ready to explore the right organizing and productivity solution for you? Let’s go!You can find full show notes and resources for Organize & Cherish with The Organized Flamingo at http://theorganizedflamingo.com/podcast/. Connect with The Organized Flamingo:Theorganizedflamingo.com@theorganizedflamingo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
South Africa