Though we've talked about our new dog, Willow, on the blog, we share a few thoughts and details about her to start of this episode. We share some comments and messages we received from her previous family, and some stories about rehoming a dog. She's seriously such a sweet dog and was definitely made for our family. Also, she's crazy obsessed with me (Chris).
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Cabin Talk: Our Design Approach and How It's Different From Our Home
We closed on a super awesome cabin, and we've already had our first party! We talk about how we're approaching the design of the cabin vs. our own home, and a few eye-opening things we've learned about minimalism. (We're going to give it a try, but it may not be what you think!) When planning a space that will be rented as a vacation home, as opposed to a primary residence, it's surprising the number of things you can do away with. And taking that one step further, do we really need those extra things at all?
Impromptu Game: Name That Minimalist
While talking about the cabin design, Jules shares an article from Apartment Therapy that defines 6 different types of minimalism. She names what they are and Preston and I take turns guessing their definitions--and what's going to happen with the hangers. We also say which ones we identify with most (Jules is striving for essential and mindful), and would love to hear your matches in the comments.
Can't Get You Outta My Mind
Julia: Something Jules and I have been talking about recently is the responsibility people have to those around them. I don't know why, but humans are just naturally competitive - sometimes that's good, sometimes not. She talks about the power of doing something positive and what happens when we focus outward.
Preston: As someone trying to build their own brand, Preston shares his thoughts on the world of marketing and how it has changed in our modern world. He talks about how this applies to all businesses, but specifically why it creates success. The short version? Provide something of value!
Chris: I realize the world loves extremes, but I think there's a much more fulfilling way to live. I'm sure many of you have watched the documentary "What the Health" on Netflix, and perhaps some of you felt shocked by it. I talk about a less popular documentary called "In Defense of Food" (also on Netflix) and why it makes so much more sense, while still lighting a fire under us all to live more healthy. It's definitely worth a watch.
This Episode is Sponsored By:
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You didn’t cover the 7th minimalist (my tribe): aspirational minimalist. I would like to live the minimalist lifestyle, but am really more of a hoarder.
Looove your cabin, it is breathtaking. This coming from someone who has never really liked A frames. Probably because I stayed in too many filled with bunk beds at church camp as a child growing up in Colorado.
Willow looks like a sweetheart. I’m glad you all found each other. In my opinion, the dog chooses the owner.
Anyway, I’m new to your podcast, and am in a different stage of life, but love hearing all your baby stories and diy exploits. It reminds me of my husband and myself when we were younger.
Susie
Hello Preston, Chris, and Julia! I love your podcast. Thank you for all the effort you put into it and for the great free content! I have two questions for you if you ever need more podcast material. First of all, I would love to hear from Preston about how he built his own kitchen. My husband and I are thinking of putting premade (ie. Ikea) cupboard boxes into our kitchen and then building custom doors. Was it a very difficult process? What kinds of equipment/tools are essential? Can you recommend any great resources that you used to learn how to do it?
Secondly, a question for Julia and Chris: We are in the process of renovating our house. This will probably take several years because we will do it as the budget allows. I was wondering how you manage to spread your renovation over several years and yet still keep it cohesive. I love the relaxed style of your home, but you pulled it off while still having the whole thing flow really well. Do you make up a whole house mood board before you begin, or do you go room by room? What are your top tips for keeping a look unified without being matchy? How do you pick colors that go together without looking like it was totally planned?
Thanks so much, guys!
Cindy
You three make me laugh way too loud for a mom whose kids are trying to nap.
I am an essential minimalist so I am SO excited to see what you do in the cabin!
YES everything in moderation, including moderation.
Your "Be open to whatever comes next" room will always be a favourite of mine. I am one of the many who found you through that YHL Reader Redesign. I haven't missed a post/episode since.
CLJ and YHL are a great example of how it doesn't have to be a competition. You both put out AMAZING value. Although at this point I think even if you didn't I'd still follow along. <3
You guys are so entertainting to listen to, as well as always full of great ideas! I don’t think I’m worthy to give any tips on your new cabin decoration, but I’ll put my two cents in from my Airbnb rental experience. When decorating our guesthouse I tried to keep things very simple and only put things in there that I felt were absolute necessity. Then we had family and friends stay there and give feedback of what they thought was missing if they were on vacation. It definitely helped point out a few little extras that would make the house feel cozier. Also, when picking out throw pillows, blankets, and bedding (duvet covers!) make sure these things can be easily cleaned. :) I can’t wait to see what you all do with the cabin! It looks so cute!
Hmmm I want to say I'm a mindful minimalist! Or maybe anything except the aesthetic minimalist (I wouldn't survive with all white walls...). Definitely going to be sharing that article - thanks! (PS: I'm behind on the podcasts, and always listen when I'm doing DIY work, so it's usually binging a few at a time. And "Flower Power's song" is ALWAYS stuck in my head... talk about the most annoying/coincidental earworm ever!).
Love that you talked about "In Defense of Food"! I haven't seen the other, more 'popular' one you talked about, actually, nor have I *seen* "In Defense of Food" but I have read it and many of Michael Pollan's other books and I would really encourage you to read it and some of his others (like "The Omnivore's Dilemma") because, as you said, he is thoughtful and balanced and genuine. Loving the podcast guys!
Haha, I popped in here to talk about Michael Pollan too! I read a few of his books years ago and tried to make my husband read them. He didn't. But he watched the documentaries on Netflix and was inspired, so much so that he started making bread a while ago! Not going to tell him "I told you so"... but I totally did. ;)
The minimalist article and discussion was awesome! I’m trying to pair back our belongings and home as we plan on selling and moving cross country for a two year sebatical. (In your home town of Pittsburgh!) Deciding what to take, what to store, and what to let go of is proving difficult. Not sure what kind of minimalist that is...
I just recently started listening to the podcast and LOVE it. I'm binge listening on my commute (1 hr each way) and it's been the best. Really love the chemistry b/t the 3 of you - it has me laughing a lot! I'll be sad when I'm caught up to real time!
I just wanted to pop in and say, I love your podcast. I've been listening since episode one.
This week was the perfect mix of serious, informative, funny and thoughtful. I loved the "name that minimalist" segment and I am definitely going to check on the documentary that Chris suggested. Keep up the good work guys!
Essential Minimalist with a bit of Aesthetic Minimalist thrown in. **I hear you with the difference between decor for your home vs decor for your cabin. You want it to be welcoming and cozy but don't want to fill it all up with items that take away from the view.
I was so happy to see your Instagram list of spaces to watch - What a great way to put that positive karma out in the internet world.
I just listened to the latest episode and while I have a bit of each of the different kinds of minimalists in me, I relate most with the Mindful Minimalist the most.