Optimistically Overwhelmed

As DeDe & Chelsea have reflected on the last year, they knew that being “Beauty Hunters” helped them look for the good on those hard days. It helped them stay positive and “optimistic” by looking for the beauties around them. But what can help us with the “overwhelm” that we are all most certainly still facing?  The ladies discuss two ways that they tackle that overwhelm: Basics and Balance. Listen in and hear DeDe discuss the importance of doing her “basics” each day, and as Chelsea gives us an analogy about keeping “balance” in your car’s tires. We hope this episode inspires you and encourages you to evaluate your Basics+Balance and to keep looking for the “beauties” in life.   Episode links: Video: Admiral McCraven addresses the University of Texas at Austin, Class of 2014

DeDe & Chelsea are BACK with a fresh new season, and are ready to help each other (and YOU) stay “Optimistically Overwhelmed!”     Before diving into their “beauties” on this episode they briefly introduce you to a new focus they want to carry over during this season …. Basics+Balance+Beauties.  [more to come next week!]   Listen in as Chelsea discusses different types of “rest” that she learned about, and challenges us to look at where we have a “rest deficit.”  (and we’re NOT just talking about a good night's sleep!)   Be inspired as DeDe motivates us all with her beauty ... it is a perfect “anthem” for this year.   The ladies are so thrilled to be back with their tribe, and hope you use our new release day (Monday!) to re-focus and to start your week off on the right foot!   Episode links: "The 7 Types of Rest That Every Person Needs" article  and "The Real Reason Why We are Tired and What to do About It" Ted Talk by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith First rehearsal video of "This is Me" by Keala Settle from G

How would YOU wrap up 2020 in one podcast episode?  That was the question facing DeDe & Chelsea as they approached this new episode … the last one of the year.     Months ago the ladies started sharing their “beauties” on each episode…  Their takeaways from recent life experiences, or inspiration they found around them as they strove to be “beauty hunters.”     So, on this episode, DeDe and Chelsea share their “beauties of 2020.”  Which was no small job!  You better believe that tears were shed as they looked back, REMEMBERED, and reflected.  Recording this podcast during COVID became a sort of “journal” of their year, and they knew they needed to (and we all need to) say “goodbye” to this year and move ahead.   Come and listen in.  Try to list YOUR “beauties of 2020.”  Give space to the reflection we all should be doing after this crazy year, and remember how much we have grown and how resilient we all are.  Then … “go shine bright!”

DeDe and Chelsea cannot WAIT to share with you our special guest this week, Rosalie Mastaler.  The ladies always say that one major plus of doing this podcast is the connections they are able to make with inspiring people, who they would otherwise never have met … and Rosalie is the perfect example of this.     On this episode Rosalie touches our hearts as she shares her family’s journey, and it is full of faith, hope, love and positivity.  Rosalie’s son, Hunter, tragically lost his leg and she discusses how it has changed their lives… the grief, the entrance into being a family with “special needs”, the way she controlled the narrative, her process of writing their story, and more.     DeDe and Chelsea found so much beauty and inspiration in Rosalie’s message, and we know you will too.  They are so grateful to her for sharing her positivity and her story of endurance.   Episode links: - Rosalie’s website - Read and listen to her story here - Find out more from Casey Mulligan Walsh, who taught Rosalie how gri

 DeDe and Chelsea sure are happy to be back on the podcast today - they’ve missed their tribe, but had a wonderful week off with family for Thanksgiving.   This week the ladies discussed their latest beauties.  You can tell DeDe & Chelsea are “in tune” because they both picked beauties that ask a question … a question that makes you ponder and reflect on your lives.     Come listen in as DeDe describes exactly what a “lollipop moment” is and challenges you to reach out to someone who has made an impact in your lives.     Chelsea shares her love of family history, and discusses the Pilgrims who got on the Mayflower because that is what they felt they were called to do.  What is it YOU might feel called to do like the Pilgrims?  What is YOUR Mayflower moment?   Episode links: - Drew Dudley TEDxToronto talk: “Everyday leadership”  - Tim Ballard's book, "The Pilgrim Hypothesis"

DeDe and Chelsea can’t WAIT for our tribe to get to know Amanda (from Ever So Organized®).  Not only are you going to hear some amazing tips and advice from this professional organizer, but you will love hearing about her journey from being a Disneyland float driver to a school teacher and now to starting her own business.  The ladies also discuss Amanda’s journey of starting a family, her experience during COVID with 3 little ones at home, and more.     Chelsea and DeDe are so thrilled they had the chance to interview Amanda and they know you’ll enjoy hearing from this positive, organized and upbeat member of our tribe.     Episode Links: Ever So Organized website Ever So Organized Instagram Ever So Organized: Freebie Handouts

DeDe and Chelsea were among the many who were so saddened to hear of the passing of Collin Kartchner last month.  He left behind his beautiful wife and four children.  Our Episode 65 (about the Social Dilemma) had just come out the week of his passing, and on it DeDe discussed what she learned from Collin in one of his podcast episodes.   Collin Kartchner was an incredible force for good in the world.  His mission was to #SavetheKids … from the harmful effects of smart phones, pornography, and social media addiction.  He also taught us parents SO much: about how technology is eroding family relationships, and how our children are modeling our behavior.  Collin was MAKING A DIFFERENCE in a huge way. After his passing, his wife Lizzy posted: “If he made an impression on your life, inspired you to change your direction to a clearer course even if it was hard, if he made you laugh, touched your heart … help him live on in you.”  And that is why we are doing this episode.  We want his memory and his fight to live

DeDe and Chelsea are thrilled to introduce you to their friend Robin, a mom of four littles with a Marriage & Family Therapy background.  Robin’s upbeat personality and sense of humor will draw you in, and her sage advice will give you the motivation you need to face life’s challenges.  Robin and the ladies discuss how important it is to change your perspective when facing something tough.  Sometimes you need to step back and get a better look, OR you might need to lean in and focus.  Robin also chats about how important it is to have a “tribe” … and we thrilled to have her in OUR tribe.  

Hey friends!  In this episode DeDe & Chelsea share their latest “beauties.”  DeDe continues to be inspired by Magnolia Journal’s latest issue and we chat about how important the “anchors” (big and small!) are in our lives.  Especially in these chaotic times, we need our anchors to steady us and give our hearts peace & rest.  Chelsea discusses her upcoming focus for November and how she can “choose gratitude over complaining.”  The ladies discuss the harmful (physical and emotional!) effects complaining have on us, and how a great way to show our thankfulness this time of year is to consciously work on our complaining.     Episode Links:  Huffington Post: “How Complaining Physically Rewires Your Brain for Negativity” by Dr. Travis Bradberry   Brooke Romney Post: "Teen Talk Tuesday: Complaining"

Trust us when we say you are going to LOVE this episode with Chelsea’s cousin, Bethany (of @shiplapaddict fame).  Not only does she “do it all” with a successful instagram account, podcast and blog … but she does it with such positivity and humility.     In this interview Bethany shares how she grew her Instagram account into a business, and all of the ups and downs that comes with that process.  We discuss her transition from being a stay-at-home mom to an empty-nester … and how she found something for herself that utilized her passion for decorating.     Episode Links: Check out her Instagram account @shiplapaddict for dreamy home inspiration….   her fun podcast @athomewithjandbod for some laughs and positivity …   and her blog “shiplapaddict.blog” for all-things-Bethany!

On today’s episode DeDe & Chelsea discuss a “hot topic” that has been floating around their families, friends, and online … “The Social Dilemma.”  This hit new Netflix documentary touches on something we ALL should be thinking about - our technology use!  The ladies discuss their thoughts, what they were surprised to learn, how they are “rebooting their use” and more.  Dede touches on kids & technology, and how to just “give them a bang trim” when they want access to EVERYTHING.    Stay tuned until the end for a special message from our Jamie as she fills our tribe in how she “shook it up” and is making some changes.  We love you Jamie!   Episode links: The Social Dilemma website  Data Detox Kit The Collin Kartchner Podcast: “Be a Loving Hard-A**, with Dr. Amy”

We have some amazing & motivational beauties for our listeners this week!  DeDe and Chelsea each reflect on goals and values, and how they drive us.  Dede reminds us that sometimes when we are going through something hard we need to “bust out the cheesy basics” … the basics that drive us to look at our values.  Chelsea discusses goals that balance our mind+body+spirit, and encourages us to “go through the grind” when we set hard goals to get our lives in balance.     We invite our tribe to listen in and get motivated!!   Episode links: “Father of the Bride 3-ish” Awesome with Allison, episode 129 “How to Feel, Deal, & Heal with therapist and powerhouse @heytiffanyroe” Better than Happy” by Jody Moore, episode  “How to Make Achieving Your Goals Easier”

Get ready friends because Chelsea & DeDe dive into some favorites on this episode … Organizing and Joanna Gaines!   Fans of the Netflix show “Get Organized with The Home Edit” can listen in to Chelsea expand upon one of their catchphrases … “It’s a SYSTEM!”  You won’t want to miss some of Chelsea’s personal organizing tips too.  DeDe discusses the beauty of “enjoying your rhythm” from Joanna Gaines’ recent Magnolia Journal article.  She shares how we can lean into the rhythms of our lives - despite the craziness surrounding us.     Enjoy friends, and go shine bright!   Episode links:  Netflix Show: Get Organized with The Home Edit The Home Edit: Instagram page Organize with Tracy: Instagram page Ever So Organized: Instagram page

If humanity ever needed a reminder that the Universe is NOT conspiring against us, it is now. Well friends, this episode is your reminder. Stephanie is your reminder. Her story is your reminder.  And Milo... Sweet Milo and his mega-watt smile are DEFINITELY your reminder. DeDe, Jamie and Chelsea can't wait to share this interview with the Tribe. All the things that had to happen to make this episode possible, well, you will just have to listen in to find out. But it is bursting at the seams with love and one extremely powerful message. What happens when we start loving what is happening right now? Not what was or what could be. What happens when we embrace our reality and love what IS. Well, what are you waiting for?! Press play! And don't forget to share your own story with us over @optimisticallyoverwhelmed on Instagram. Keep on shining bright!    Stephanie links:  - Instagram: StephieBenton  - Article in Deseret News, “What People with Down Syndrome Can Teach us about Living in the Moment” by Lois M. Coll

Beauty can be found in so many places. In nature. In the faces of others. In a moment of stillness. And it can also be found in the 1989 hit "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure". And that is exactly where Chelsea is hunting for Beauties this week! Yes, Way! You don't wanna miss this episode!  Today's show is amazing, and packed full of so much goodness, love and hope! And with Election Season in full swing, the Tribe needs this more than ever! So grab a quiet spot and get your weekly dose of beauty. And in the wise words of Abraham Lincoln, "Be Excellent to each other, and... Party on, dudes!" And don't forget to shine bright while you are at it.  Episode Links: BOATLIFT, An Untold Tale of 9/11 Resilience  On Oasis of Kindness on 9/11: This town welcomed 6,700 strangers among terror attacks by Katharine Lackay 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms by Rachel Nielson: “How to Have Grace-Filled Political Conversations with Family & Friends" Pantsuit Politics podcast link  

Friends! It is week 26 of our new normal, we have crossed the finish line of this marathon called Life, and it is time to SHAKE THINGS UP!  DeDe is sharing some exciting news along with her weekly Beauty. Chelsea brings some truth and deliciousness while revealing the Beauty she hunted this week. And Jamie, the true Gemini she is, starts the episode off with a funny story and ends it with a tearjerker Beauty that leaves her a blubbering mess. There is something for everyone in this Tribe, so put yourself in time out for a change and brighten your day with your favorite ladies! And as always, feel free to share the Beauties you've found with us over @optimisticallyoverwhelmed on Instagram. Until next time, go shine bright!    Episode Links: LDS Living Article by Danielle Christensen DeDe's Beauty Counter website "Coaching with Jody Moore" Instagram post Quiz: What Ben & Jerry's Flavor Are You?

September 9th marks eight years since Chelsea’s oldest sister, Claudine, passed away.  Join Chelsea & Dede for this incredible episode honoring one FABULOUS woman whose example continues to bring light & happiness to the world.  Who better to interview than Claudine’s husband and oldest son, Brent & Justin Taylor?  These men share heartfelt thoughts, stories, and sweet insights to Claudine and her legacy of service and optimism.  Listen in as they all share a Claudine “beauty” that she has left with them.  Become inspired by her gift of being everywhere, and by how she made everyone who crossed her feel like they were her very best friend.  Please join us in providing small acts of kindness in Claudine’s honor on September 9th … use #makeitaClaudineDay and tag us on Instagram so we can share with our listeners.

Come one, come all! Grab your Skinny Margarita or an ice cold Diet Coke and join the Ladies as they pour it out! They are emptying that stress cup that has runneth over after another week of Quarantine living. But more importantly,  they are serving up three amazing new Beauties along with a dash of hot topics.    So, listen in and let DeDe, Jamie and Chelsea help fill that pitcher of yours with some self-love and goodness. The world may be social distancing but we can all find a way to gather round and intertwine as one, even if only virtually. You are not alone in this, friends. Remember that! And also remember to go show us some love over on Instagram. Until next week, bottoms up!   Episode Links: “Intertwining Roots - A Lesson on Community” by Joanne Eddy “Braving the Wilderness” by Brené Brown 

"Ladies & Gentlemen, the Captain has turned on the seatbelt sign as we are experiencing some turbulence. As we attempt to reach our cruising altitude of 30,000 feet, we recommend you remain seated and allow the soothing voices of DeDe, Jamie and Chelsea to calm your stresses and nerves. And thank you for flying with Optimistically Overwhelmed Airlines." Friends, if you have had a turbulent week or maybe five days straight of having THAT kind of day, then listen in to this episode. The ladies are here with three new Beauties to share, along with some laughs and, okay okay, maybe even a tear or two. Everything you have come to know and love from the Tribe. So, get comfy and settle in to a recliner, or go hide out in a closet away from the kids and get your weekly dose of goodness. We are all in this together. "You are now free to move about the Cabin."     Episode links: Untamed by Glennon Doyle Good Things to Come by Jeffrey R. Holland

Guess who’s back in the Beauty Hunting house?! DeDe, Jamie and Chelsea are coming at you with a fresh new season of optimism. The ladies have spent their Summer Break searching high and low for those Beauties and they are here to share three great ones with you on today’s episode.   So whether you are gearing up for school to start back up (whatever version that means these days) or you are stressed beyond belief and just waiting for the murder hornets to arrive, listen to this feel good hit of the Summer! And as always, we would love to hear the beauties you have hunted along the way. Until then, go shine bright!   Episode Links: “Come What May, and Love It” by Joseph B. Wirthlin "Welcome to Holland" by Emily Perl Kingsley The Happiness Lab: Episode 6 "Dial D for Distracted" by Dr. Laurie Santos