Optimistically Overwhelmed

Let's face it, "adulting" is hard. Whether you are a single, independent woman, married with kids or anything in between, the daily juggle can be pretty overwhelming! When quitting is not an option, what is a woman to do? How do we find joy in the juggle? How do we stay optimistic in an overwhelming world? It's simple, find your tribe. DeDe and Chelsea have been friends since they were in 4th grade and even though so many years have passed they can still belly laugh, cry and encourage each other. So, if you can relate to being overwhelmed, need some perspective and are simply interested in hearing real women share their stories ... then we invite you to sit down and listen in.

139: Values are Your "Life Raft" 10/30/2023

139: Values are Your "Life Raft" DeDe & Chelsea are so excited to join their tribe this week, and are sharing their latest “beauties” on this new episode! 🎙 Chelsea leads thing off with a discussion of finding joy in midst of the “piles” of our lives … the tangible “to-do” piles (like laundry, to-do lists, etc) and the non-tangible piles (like phases of our lives, the different hats we wear, etc). Next, DeDe defines what “values” mean to her, and what she’s learned in a mothering class about pinpointing which values are *most* important to each of us. It’s harder than you think, but it is so eye-opening. Come listen in, and feel free to share this episode with friends! Episode Links: Brent Brown: /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/28422101

138: Guard Your Inputs 10/23/2023

138: Guard Your Inputs Hello to our Optimistically Overwhelmed tribe! Thank you for being here … we hope you come away from this episode with some great takeaways and the encouragement to stay optimistic! DeDe starts out the “beauties” by sharing some wonderful insights and points about shifting your perspective. She asks herself, Chelsea, and you listeners what in our lives need a perspective change, and then gives her thoughts on how she puts on her “perspect-ables.” Next, Chelsea discusses the affect our “inputs” (what we read, watch, and listen to) have on our lives, our brains, our mood, etc. She goes on to suggest the importance of guarding those inputs and shares some of her favorite “inputs” she’s enjoyed lately. /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/28389743

137: Pinch Yourself...It's Real 10/16/2023

137: Pinch Yourself...It's Real Join in and listen as DeDe & Chelsea chat about their latest “beauties!” Both ladies are BIG fans of tiny/consistent habits, and Chelsea discovered some amazing advice for habits that are good for your brain and for your happiness! Listen in as she explains the difference between flooding and dripping your dopamine. In this episode DeDe brings up a topic the ladies haven’t touched on too much … Marriage! After reflecting on her wedding anniversary DeDe came up with some tangible tips and advice on this important relationship. Thank you for joining the ladies … they are so happy to have you in their “tribe” of listeners! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/28324133

136: Be a Glimmer-Seeker 10/09/2023

136: Be a Glimmer-Seeker Welcome Tribe! DeDe and Chelsea are so glad you are joining them for their latest episode. Chelsea starts things off by sharing a cool concept she learned about “glimmers” and the positive impact it can have on our daily lives when we seek them out and notice them! You’re going to want to listen and start listing of your OWN “glimmers!” DeDe discusses the strong feelings of being offended, having feelings hurt, and jealousy or comparison … and a phrase she has learned to switch her viewpoint and do the work to be less-judgmental. We’re so glad you are here. Enjoy the episode and share with friends! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/28181159

135: Be a Tums-Runner 10/02/2023

135: Be a Tums-Runner Welcome back to our little corner of the podcast world! Thank you for tuning in and listening last week after our summer break. DeDe kicks off this week’s episode with an amazing story, and the example she saw of someone stepping up and easing a burden. It’s amazing how much relief a kind gesture can cause when we are feeling overwhelmed and anxious! Each fall Chelsea shares her back-to-school theme for her family. In this new episode she explains why this year was unique, and why she chose a theme that would emphasize the power of families. Hope everyone has a great week. Go shine bright! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/28180391

134: Go on the Offense with Grief (Make it a Claudine Day 2023) 09/25/2023

134: Go on the Offense with Grief (Make it a Claudine Day 2023) Welcome back everyone to Optimistically Overwhelmed … DeDe and Chelsea are thrilled to be back behind the microphones! Chelsea starts out reminding listeners about “Make it a Claudine Day” that honors her oldest sister each year on September 9th. For this episode, Chelsea chose a beauty that perfectly describes her experience with grief, and the lessons she’s learned from joining together with others each September to serve in honor of Claudine … and how that has impacted her grief process. DeDe has made an amazing goal that encourages her (and now all of us!) to focus more on our “To-BE” lists than our “To-DO” lists. She beautifully explains what that looks like, and reminds us that life isn’t just about what we do. The ladies are SO happy to have you here listening! Thank you for joining them, and always feel free to share an episode with friends! Go shine bright! Episode links: - /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/28115684

133: Chelsea's "Organizing 101" 06/05/2023

133: Chelsea's "Organizing 101" Welcome to this special episode of Optimistically Overwhelmed! Besides being a podcast co-host and busy momma, Chelsea is also a HUGE fan of organization. She has shared tips over the last few years (including on her very first episode as a guest!) … and the ladies decided to do a “one-stop-shopping” episode with ALL of her very BEST tips! There may be some old favorites shared (“Drawer-a-Day”), but Chelsea will be sharing some new tips as well. She breaks down her tips into two categories: an organized “home” + an organized “life,” and hopes that each of you will be able to learn/apply at least ONE idea after listening. Happy listening … and then happy organizing! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/26995143

132: Have a Conversation "Check-up" 05/22/2023

132: Have a Conversation "Check-up" Welcome back to another new episode of Optimistically Overwhelmed - we are SO glad you are here! Today DeDe starts us out with an amazing “beauty” about giving our selves grace. She talks about realizing it’s all about an “increase” in our lives … not have fast we are increasing, but that we are moving forward. And also the importance of learning to give ourselves grace so we can give it to others! Chelsea digs in to a topic the ladies haven’t discussed yet in their “beauties” on this show … the importance of having a conversation “check up” with yourself and asking how good you are at meaningful conversations. And, DeDe chimes in with her thoughts because this was her EXACT beauty she picked for their next episode (we love when Chelsea & DeDe surprise each other by being on the same wavelength!) We hope you tune in, reflect, and share this episode with someone who could use some light! Go shine bright! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/26901531

131: Stand on the Shoulders of Giants 05/15/2023

131: Stand on the Shoulders of Giants Hello to our Optimistically Overwhelmed tribe! The ladies hope everyone had a wonderful Mother’s Day, and are excited to share this episode with you. Chelsea starts things out with encouraging us all to “Go For It,” and to face our fears and the things that are holding us back. DeDe finishes the episode talking about the lessons she’s learned in motherhood, from her kids & others (including her ancestors). Hope you all have a wonderful week - go shine bright! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/26808327

130: Be a Difference-Maker 05/08/2023

130: Be a Difference-Maker Are you ready for some “beauties?” DeDe and Chelsea are coming at you with some self-reflection and “beauties” that have inspired them this week. DeDe leads a conversation on aiming to be a “difference-maker” instead of an “influencer,” and how the ways we are “difference-makers” might change throughout stages of life. Chelsea shares the power that comes from “naming” the things that are blocking our light, and reminds us all that we aren’t alone! Come listen in, and feel free to share this episode with friends! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/26740932

129: Go Find Another's Balloon 05/01/2023

129: Go Find Another's Balloon Welcome to a fresh new episode of Optimistically Overwhelmed! DeDe and Chelsea hope you each find some “beauty” this week as they discuss this week’s topics. Chelsea shares a powerful metaphor on looking for other’s happiness, instead of just your own. DeDe wraps up the episode with her thoughts on the power that comes from living vertically and looking UP. Have a great week everyone … go shine BRIGHT! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/26710224

128: Thin the Carrots 04/24/2023

128: Thin the Carrots Are you all ready for another episode FULL of “beauties” and inspiration? DeDe helps the listeners visualize what carrots look like when they are grown close together, and how (like gardeners) we need to “thin the carrots” in our lives. She challenges us all to think about what things (physically, mentally, spiritually, etc) we need to thin out of our lives. It’s no secret the ladies love learning from the characters of animals, and this week Chelsea shares what she learned about how buffalos handle storms. /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/26461134

127: Control the Controllables 04/17/2023

127: Control the Controllables DeDe and Chelsea have their latest “beauties” all ready to share with you on this new episode! Come listen in and be inspired. Chelsea is sharing a “beauty” she’s had in her back-pocket for a while … and it’s one she learned and implemented in her own life before sharing. Come hear her explain how to help others around you focus more on internal motivation vs external influence. On this episode DeDe shares some points that have helped her with her biggest challenge … learning that she can’t control everything! Her tips and advice are spot-on and she invites the listeners to try to only “control the controllables.” /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/26461083

126: Magic in the Middle 04/10/2023

126: Magic in the Middle Hellllooooo to our Optimistically Overwhelmed tribe! It has been a minute, huh? DeDe and Chelsea are thrilled to be back after a break with brand new episodes coming your way. DeDe starts this episode off with some amazing “beauties” that encourages us all to “Live Life in Full Bloom” by rejoicing for each other’s wins, by being delighted, and also by living “smarter not harder!” Chelsea then leads a discussion on the “messy middle” we are all probably finding ourselves in, and how to change our outlook from “messy to MAGIC!” /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/26460990

125: Favorite's of 2022 12/26/2022

125: Favorite's of 2022 Welcome to Optimistically Overwhelmed! DeDe and Chelsea are excited to share this special episode as they wrap up 2022. After much deliberation they each picked their TOP favorite “beauties” of the year … one of their own “beauties” and one of each other’s “beauties.” They hope their listeners were able to find the beauty in the overwhelm of life this year, and are so grateful for all of the love and support. Happy listening! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/25426248

124: "Mayonnaise" from Heaven 12/19/2022

124: "Mayonnaise" from Heaven DeDe and Chelsea are back after a short break and are ready to help their tribe this holiday season with two new “beauties!” On this episode Chelsea invites us all to “pull up on the fun bus” as we attend our variety of holiday gatherings (family, friends, work, school, etc). And not just with a good attitude, but with some PLANNED fun as well! DeDe reflects back on her year this episode and shares the benefit that comes from looking for the “mayonnaise” from heaven. Whether they are big or small, we can all find the blessings and miracles in our lives. The ladies hope their listeners have an amazing Christmas and holiday season - and they are grateful to YOU for supporting them! Episode Links: /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/25367808

123: Who Are Your Clappers? 11/21/2022

123: Who Are Your Clappers? Happy Thanksgiving week … we are beyond grateful for our awesome podcast tribe! Thank you for listening, supporting, reaching out, and for encouraging us! Chelsea starts out this week’s episode with getting passionate about her latest beauty (we all know she loves tangible tips!). Listen as she shares some tips she learned from @thelazygenius and how she is applying them to her crazy-busy holiday season. DeDe gets personal with her beauty and relates a story about the “clappers” that were lining a recent family 5K she ran. She compared that race to her motherhood journey (including the obstacles in her way), and felt so grateful for the “clappers” that encourage her and cheer her on. During this week of Thanksgiving she wanted to not just give, but receive and recognize those people filling in the gaps in her life. Episode Links: Magnify Podcast: /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/24984786

122: Ignite Your "Inside Influences" 11/14/2022

122: Ignite Your "Inside Influences" The ladies are excited to share their latest “beauties” on this week’s new episode. DeDe and Chelsea are always looking for inspiration and optimism to share with this tribe. ☀️ DeDe starts out the episode by describing what the “Blame Game” looks like in her household (and we ALL are guilty of playing that game.) She then asks what would happen if we all could just admit when something goes wrong… “It was us!” and encourages us all to react to problems without immediately responding with blame. Chelsea’s been anxious to share more of her family history “love” with the tribe, and in preparation for this Thanksgiving season invites us to all look to those that came before us. She shares the blessings and gratitude that can come from focusing on those ancestors and their stories (“inside influences”) instead of the influences from the crazy world around us. /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/24984213

121: Don't Trip on a Magnolia Pine 11/07/2022

121: Don't Trip on a Magnolia Pine Welcome to another new episode of Optimistically Overwhelmed … where DeDe and Chelsea hunt for “beauties” and share them with their tribe! 🎙 Chelsea discusses the difference between our “free” time and our “available” time, and why it’s important to carve out some unavailable time in our days. The ladies are sure you ALL can relate to how hard it can be to say “no.” Chelsea then shares a few ways we can self-check and tell if we truly are “available” when someone asks. On today’s episode DeDe introduces us to one of her favorite people …. “running DeDe!” She describes the qualities of “running DeDe” and how she wants to implement those attributes into all aspects in her life. The tribe will love hearing all of her awesome running analogies and will leave feeling so inspired. The ladies hope you enjoy this episode and feel so grateful for your support! Please share with friends and spread the “beauty!” /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/24847722

120: Don't be a Candle Blower-Outer 10/31/2022

120: Don't be a Candle Blower-Outer Welcome Tribe! DeDe and Chelsea are so glad you are joining them for their latest episode. On today’s episode DeDe explains the importance of breathing. Of taking those “time-out” moments to deep breathe, and the benefits that gives us all. DeDe even shares a few favorite techniques she has learned! The ladies here at Optimistically Overwhelmed strongly believe that much in our lives and our problems can be improved when we look outside of ourselves and focus on helping others. Chelsea shares something she learned from Brene Brown, and turns it into a way we can support others and their flames (whether they be brightly burning, or barely flickering). We’re so glad you are here. Enjoy the episode and share with friends! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/24847647

119: Be in the Kitchen 10/03/2022

119: Be in the Kitchen DeDe and Chelsea are so excited to share this special episode that has been sitting on the cutting-room floor for 5 months!! Before their (longer-than-planned) hiatus this summer the ladies recorded this episode, and haven’t released it yet. Luckily, their message still rings as true now as it did 5 months ago when they recorded it. Chelsea brings up another gratitude “beauty” that has helped her change her perspective and give positivity to life’s situations. Both ladies agree that there is no such things as “too many” gratitude beauties! DeDe gets up close and personal as she shares a realization (and answer) she recently came to in her “job” as a mother. This discussion is the perfect opportunity to re-evaluate our lives and roles and ask yourself what your “kitchen” is (the place you need to be the most). So, sit back, listen, and enjoy this delayed-release … and ignore any references to Easter! Don’t forget to GO BE GREAT … and SHINE BRIGHT! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/24550074

118: Next Game. Next Kick. 09/26/2022

118: Next Game. Next Kick. It is that time of year … football season! Without meaning to DeDe and Chelsea BOTH picked “beauties” this episode that come from our favorite fall sport. Chelsea shares the lesson she learned from a recent college football game, and reminds us all that we might “fail” … even at things we consider ourselves really good at. She goes on to discuss what it means to give ourselves grace and patience, and to then move on to the “next kick.” For DeDe’s beauty she quotes her son’s defensive coach who yells out to “Make a Play. Change the Game.” DeDe breaks down all of the “games” we are each playing in our life … maybe we have a spouse game + parent game + work game + faith game + health game, etc. (The list goes on!) It’s easy to feel like we are losing each game because life is a LOT. DeDe challenges the tribe to make a list of each “game” and to make ONE play in each game … knowing it can change the whole game. The ladies hope the tribe gets in a football mood while listening to this episode! And, don’t forget to GO BE GREAT … and SHINE BRIGHT! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/24487185

117: The Wolf You Feed Wins 09/19/2022

117: The Wolf You Feed Wins Welcome back Tribe! This episode DeDe and Chelsea are channeling their “wild side” with animal-themed “beauties!” :) [Totally didn’t plan it that way - they were just on the same wavelength. Ha!] DeDe shares with the listeners an old legend about two wolves living inside of each of us. She goes on to discuss all of the different “wolfs” we might have in our lives that are fighting to be fed, and reminds us all that we can choose which ones to feed. Later in the episode Chelsea relates a story she learned about the power of choice, how we can each choose our attitudes, and how choosing to soar can affect our lives. Don’t forget to GO BE GREAT … and SHINE BRIGHT! Episode Links - Chelsea's Interview with Two Average Girls podcast /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/24412968

116: Go Be Great! (Make it a Claudine Day 2022) 09/12/2022

116: Go Be Great! (Make it a Claudine Day 2022) DeDe & Chelsea are BACK with a fresh new season, and are ready to help each other (and YOU) stay “Optimistically Overwhelmed!” ❤️ The ladies have missed this podcast tribe and couldn’t wait to get back behind the microphone. After they catch up (where in the world have they been?!?) DeDe and Chelsea share their beauties … starting with Chelsea’s Back-to-School theme. You also won’t want to miss a special “Make it a Claudine Day” call-in. DeDe finishes up the episode with a beauty about gratitude, and shares a classic story about optimism and reminds us we can all find blessings in our lives (even admist the trials). Have a great day … Go Be Great … and Shine bright! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/24339249

115: Meet Lindsay L. 05/02/2022

115: Meet Lindsay L. DeDe and Chelsea were thrilled to interview an amazing life coach for teens on this week’s new episode. Lindsay (from Youth Rising Coach) is not only a life coach, but a busy mother of six from Prince Edward Island (hello … dreamy!!). One of the many things Lindsay is passionate about in her work is giving parents some “tools” to help them with their teenagers, and it was clear to DeDe and Chelsea that it was EXACTLY what they needed to hear. Tune in and listen to Lindsay’s 3 important shifts that parents can make when dealing with their children. The ladies know their listeners are going to love and listen (and re-listen) to Lindsay’s advice and tips. You can also find the Youth Rising Coach on YouTube, her website, and on Instagram! (see links below) Hope you all have a wonderful week … Go shine BRIGHT! Episode Links: Youth Rising Youth Rising @youthrisingcoach on /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/22922621

114: In a Dark World, Shouldn't We Glitter? 04/25/2022

114: In a Dark World, Shouldn't We Glitter? Join in and listen as DeDe & Chelsea chat about their latest “beauties!” In this episode DeDe brings in another surprise call-in …. someone that brought some “glitter” to her family’s life in 2021. DeDe describes what she learned about opening her heart (even when she didn’t think she had space) and about the importance of having REAL-life connections. Chelsea is READY for springtime and shares what “beauty” she has found in this new season. Springtime is amazing and by observing it we can see so many real-life applications. Thank you for joining the ladies … they are so happy to have you in their “tribe” of listeners! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/22848278

113: Got Oxygen? 04/18/2022

113: Got Oxygen? Hooray! DeDe & Chelsea are back after a little “spring break” … and they have missed their tribe! Come listen in as they catch up and share their latest beauties. Chelsea’s beauty comes from the concept of “putting on your OWN oxygen mask first” (like in the airplane safety instructions), and what she’s recently learned about prioritizing our health, reaching out for help, and making sure we have enough “oxygen” to live our purpose. DeDe shares some sweet thoughts about being better friends, and making real connections. We all know it’s hard to fit more into our lives, but we should take the time to make those connections and find joy in the process. Have a great week everyone … Go shine BRIGHT! Episode Links: Brooke Romney post: /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/22814207

112: Rise Up 03/21/2022

112: Rise Up Welcome to another new episode of Optimistically Overwhelmed … where DeDe and Chelsea hunt for “beauties” and share them with their tribe! Chelsea chats about how easy it can be to fall into a “comparison trap,” but then how freeing it can be to focus only on your OWN road and journey (instead of someone in the “lane” next to you). When she can’t control what is going on in the world DeDe says she can either be defeated/depressed or she can make what small difference she can and “Rise Up!” The ladies hope you enjoy this episode and feel so grateful for your support! Please share with friends and spread the “beauty!” Episode Links - with Charity Lighten /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/22429160

111: Drink While You Pour 03/14/2022

111: Drink While You Pour DeDe and Chelsea are excited to share this new episode with the tribe. They are the first to admit that they can't do life alone - we all need "experts" to turn to when we have questions or struggles. Introducing a fun, new concept to our show ... "phone-a-friend!" During her beauty DeDe phones a surprise "expert" to help talk her through a current situation and to get some helpful advice. You won't want to miss their sweet discussion, and the realization that when you are pouring SO much of yourself into others you need to also be drinking and filling yourself. It's hard to believe but we've all reached the 2-year milestone of the pandemic! Chelsea shares a subtle lesson she's learned from the last two years about "reframing" our days and not attaching fixed labels (like "good day" or "bad day"). Come and listen in - and don't forget to share with your friends! /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/22429154

110: Play Your Tambourine with a Smile 02/28/2022

110: Play Your Tambourine with a Smile Welcome to another brand new episode of Optimistically Overwhelmed! We are all effected by the scary news in the world right now, but DeDe and Chelsea agree that this is exactly when we NEED to find beauties around us and share them. Elephants are amazing animals and can teach us so much! Chelsea shares some lessons she learns about sisterhood from female elephants and the way they protect and encircle each other. DeDe chats about boundaries, and some pretty big changes she made after re-evaluating her priorities. And she shares a hilarious way to think about our roles “in the band” and the importance of evaluating/prioritizing so we are NOT a grumpy tambourine player in the back. Episode links: “” by Brene Brown /episode/index/show/dedeandjamie/id/22266857

Optimistically Overwhelmed

TOPICS