Sustainable in the Suburbs

Connecting with nature starts with understanding that we aren’t separate from the natural world — we are part of it.This week, I’m joined by Tim Christophersen, author of Generation Restoration and a leading global voice on ecosystem restoration, to talk about ecological literacy, our relationship with nature, and what it means to restore that relationship in our everyday lives.We talk about what it actually means to be ecologically literate — knowing where our food and water come from, understanding the role nature plays in our communities, recognizing the species we share those spaces with, and beginning to see ourselves as part of those systems rather than separate from them.We also look at what this means closer to home, including the potential of suburban yards and neighbourhoods, nature as infrastructure, community restoration, regenerative agriculture, and how ordinary people can participate in restoring the ecosystems around them.And while the challenges facing the natural world are enormous, this is ultimately a hopeful conversation about agency, reciprocity, and why rebuilding our relationship with nature can change the way we approach sustainable living.TakeawaysWhat ecological literacy means and why we need to relearn itHow the language we use can unconsciously reflect how we see natureWhat reciprocity can look like in our relationship with the natural worldWhy trees, wetlands, soil and other ecosystems are essential infrastructureHow connecting with nature can begin right outside your own front doorThe role suburban yards, native plants and citizen science can play in ecosystem restorationWhy community action and local policy matterOur shared belief that there is still so much reason to hopeOne Small ShiftGet curious about one part of the natural world you encounter every day. Ecological literacy grows through curiosity and observation — and simply paying closer attention can begin to change our relationship with the living world around us.Connect with TimLinkedInWebsiteGeneration Restoration: How to Fix Our Relationship Crisis with Mother Nature Related Blog PostsSafe Nesting Materials for BirdsA Simple Framework for Climate Action10 Sustainable Living Mistakes to AvoidRelated EpisodesEp. 20: Wildlife Conservation, Birding, and Finding Hope in NatureEp. 51: Can You Be Sustainable in the Suburbs?Ep. 54: Litter Prevention and Community Action with Keep America BeautifulSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

If you want to reduce food waste, save money on groceries, and learn about easy and practical food preservation, this conversation with Kris Bordessa is a great place to start.In this episode, I’m joined by Kris Bordessa, author of Attainable Sustainable and Attainable Sustainable Pantry, to talk about ‘old-fashioned’ kitchen skills that are still incredibly useful in modern life. We talk about using what you already have before heading back to the grocery store, stocking a more useful pantry, preserving seasonal abundance, and why safe canning matters.Kris also shares why these skills are not just for homesteaders or preppers. They are practical tools that can help ordinary households stretch food budgets, reduce waste, and feel more capable when life gets unpredictable.This conversation is about building a more sustainable kitchen in a way that feels realistic, not overwhelming. You do not need to preserve everything, make every pantry staple from scratch, or completely change the way you cook. But learning a few simple sustainable habits in the kitchen can make low waste living feel more doable.TakeawaysStarting with what you already have in your fridge, freezer, and pantry can help you reduce food waste, save money on groceries, and avoid unnecessary grocery runs.A more useful pantry does not have to be complicated. Staples like beans, grains, broth, potatoes, onions, garlic, and oil can make flexible cooking easier.Food preservation can start small. Freezing, quick pickling, dehydrating herbs, making herb salts, and preserving in salt or oil are all practical ways to use seasonal abundance.Safe canning matters. Water bath canning and pressure canning are used for different foods, and trusted, tested recipes are important.You do not need to make everything from scratch. Some things, like salad dressing, may be worth making at home, while others, like tomato paste, may not be worth the time.Preparedness does not have to mean fear-based prepping. A stocked pantry and the skills to use it can help ordinary households feel more capable when routines, budgets, or supply chains are disrupted.Self-reliance does not mean doing everything alone. Sharing food, recipes, tools, and skills is part of building more resilient communities.One Small ShiftBefore your next grocery shop, start with what you already have.Take a few minutes to look through your fridge, freezer, and pantry, and choose one or two things that need to be used before you bring more food into the house. Maybe it’s leftover rice, soft fruit, wilting vegetables, or something you bought with good intentions and then forgot about.If you want a little more guidance, my Simple Kitchen Audit is a good place to start. It’s a 10-page workbook that walks you through what’s working in your kitchen, where food and packaging waste are creeping in, and what small changes could help your kitchen feel more organized, lower-waste, and easier to use.Connect With KrisAttainable Sustainable: The Lost Art of Self-Reliant Living (book)Attainable Sustainable Pantry: A Back-to-Basics Guide to Stocking Your Kitchen (book)WebsiteFacebookPinterestInstagramRelated Blog PostsA Beginner’s Guide to a Sustainable KitchenHow to Use Beeswax Wraps (Plastic Free Food Storage)Plastic Free Pantry — How to Refill in Your Own ContainersCreating a Sustainable Kitchen: 11 Ways to Reuse Food ScrapsRelated Podcast EpisodesEp. 13: Plastic Free Food Storage with Hive to HomeEp. 38: Things I Don’t Buy AnymoreEp. 45: How to Spend Less on Groceries by Reducing Food Waste Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Sustainable living is increasingly being marketed as something we need to shop for. We are constantly being shown greener products, better materials, and more sustainable versions of things we already own—but for most of us, the best place to start is by using what is already in our homes more fully.In this episode, I’m talking about why waste begins long before something reaches the landfill and why using what we already own is one of the most practical sustainable habits we can build.TakeawaysEco-friendly products now seem to follow the same trend cycles as everything else.Waste also includes when we buy more than we can realistically use, maintain, store, or even remember we own.Once something is in our home, much of its environmental impact has already happened. The next question is how much value and use we can get from it.It is okay for useful things to look repaired, scratched, mismatched, or even a little ugly.Shopping your own house first can help you find the exact item you need, a workable substitute, something that can be repaired, or something you have simply forgotten about.Using what you have does not mean never buying anything. It gives you better information so you can shop more slowly and deliberately when you genuinely need something.Creating use-first areas, keeping a pause list, repairing things quickly, borrowing rarely used items, and using the good stuff now are all practical ways to reduce waste.Low waste living becomes easier when the things we already own are visible, accessible, cared for, and actually used.One Small ShiftTake stock of what is under your bathroom sink.Pull everything out and see what is already open, what needs to be used up, and what you have duplicates of. Then choose one product to finish before you replace it or try something new.Related Podcast EpisodesEp. 12: How to Quit Using Amazon (And Why You Should)Ep. 23: Borrow Before You Buy — Sharing, Renting, and the Circular EconomyEp. 47: Sustainable Bathroom Swaps That Save Money and Reduce WasteSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Litter is one of the most visible forms of waste in our communities. It shows up along roads, in parks, on trails, near schools, and in the places we move through every day. But it is also a clue — about our habits, our infrastructure, our systems, and how we care for where we live.In this episode, I’m joined by Jenny Lawson, President and CEO of Keep America Beautiful, for a conversation about the 2026 National Litter Study, what it reveals about litter in communities across the United States, and why litter prevention is about more than picking up garbage.We talk about why litter matters, how social norms and infrastructure shape behaviour, what has changed since 2020, and how individuals, businesses, local governments, and community organizations all have a role to play in creating cleaner, healthier public spaces.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by big environmental problems, this conversation is a reminder that you can take action in a very practical place: your own neighbourhood.TakeawaysLitter is connected to community care, shared responsibility, and how people feel about the places where they live.The 2026 National Litter Study shows real progress, while also making clear that there is still work ahead.Infrastructure, access, education, enforcement, and local programs all shape litter prevention.Social norms play an important role in how people care for shared spaces.Businesses, producers, local governments, and communities all have a role to play in litter prevention.Community cleanups are a great starting point for broader environmental action.One Small ShiftChoose one shared space you pass through regularly and notice it differently.Look at what kind of litter shows up, whether there are bins nearby, and whether the space feels cared for. Then choose to help reduce waste by picking up few pieces of litter and look for the nearest bin.Connect With Keep America BeautifulWebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedInTwitterRelated Podcast EpisodesEp. 18 - Community Communities Through Green SpacesEp. 42 - Overwhelmed by Climate Change? Start HereEp. 51 - Sustainable Living in the SuburbsRelated Blog Posts50 Ways to Be More SustainableHow to Start Living More SustainabilityHow to Do a Trash Audit (With Kids!)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

If you are trying to reduce plastic waste at home, you might be wondering what to do with the plastic you already have. The answer is not to throw it all away and buy a new set of eco-friendly swaps. It is to use what you have, rethink the plastic that moves through your home, and start noticing where single-use plastic shows up in your daily routines.In this episode of Sustainable in the Suburbs, Sarah talks about reducing single-use plastic in real life: using the containers, bags, bins, and Tupperware you already own; choosing reusables that actually fit your habits; giving so-called disposable plastic one more job before it hits the garbage; and using your voice to ask for better systems.Plastic itself is not the whole problem. Waste is the problem. Disposability is the problem. And this episode is a practical reset for anyone who wants to reduce plastic waste, keep materials in circulation, and make small shifts that actually fit real life.TakeawaysPlastic itself is not the problem. Single-use plastic is often the problem.Reducing plastic waste does not mean throwing away every plastic thing in your house. Use what you already have until it is no longer usable.A reusable product only works if you actually use it. Choose reusable products that fit your real habits, not the ones that look the most sustainable online.Individual habits matter, but they are not the whole story. Ask businesses why plastic packaging is there in the first place, and use your voice as well as your wallet.Systems are made of people, and people can be influenced.One Small ShiftBefore you throw away a piece of plastic, ask whether it can do one more job. It’s only single-use if you use it once!ResourcesPlastic Free July31 Easy Swaps to Reduce Plastic Waste 10 Zero Waste Kitchen Swaps That Save You MoneyPlastic-Free Pantry: How to Refill in Your Own ContainersHow to Pack a Zero Waste School LunchRelated EpisodesEpisode 8: 5 Easy Plastic-Free Kitchen SwapsEpisode 47: Eco-Friendly Bathroom SwapsSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Climate action begins at the kitchen table — and a more sustainable kitchen starts with knowing where to focus.In this episode of Sustainable in the Suburbs, Sarah talks with Naomi Hansen, author of Building a Sustainable Kitchen: A Practical Guide to Prioritizing the Planet from the Heart of Your Home, about what actually matters when it comes to food, waste, and climate action at home.Together, they explore why the kitchen is such a powerful place to begin, how food waste connects to bigger climate solutions, and why the most sustainable choice is not always the one that looks the most sustainable from the outside.TakeawaysWhy the kitchen is a meaningful place to start with climate actionHow food waste connects to sustainability and climate impactWhy some popular sustainable swaps only scratch the surfaceHow to think about trade-offs, like packaging versus wasted foodWhy individual action still matters, especially when it spreads through families, friends, and communitiesConnect with NaomiWebsiteInstagramBuilding a Sustainable Kitchen (book) ResourcesDrawdown:The Most Comprehensive Plan Ever Proposed to Reverse Global Warming - Paul Hawken (book)How to Prevent Food Waste With Kids (blog post)11 Ways to Reuse Food Scraps (blog post)10 Zero Waste Kitchen Swaps That Save You Money (blog post)Related EpisodesEp. 4 - How to Conduct a Household Waste AuditEp. 13 - Beeswax Wraps 101Ep. 45 - How to Spend Less on Groceries by Reducing Food WasteSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Can you be sustainable in the suburbs? Well, yes and no.Suburban life can make sustainable living complicated — especially when communities are built around cars, convenience, private space, and consumption. But the suburbs are also where so many of us live, raise families, volunteer, vote, garden, organize, and build community.So what does climate action actually look like here?This episode looks at sustainable living in the suburbs beyond eco swaps and bigger purchases, and asks what becomes possible when we start thinking about our neighbourhoods, local politics, shared resources, and community resilience.TakeawaysWhy suburban sustainability is complicated, but very doableHow car dependency shapes the landscape and our daily choicesWhy the suburbs should not be written off in climate conversationsHow sustainable living goes beyond buying greener productsWhy free, inexpensive, and investment-level actions all matterHow community resilience and local politics shape what comes nextOne Small ShiftChoose one free action that connects your household to your community.Sustainability is something we practise, share, and build where we live — and sometimes that starts with one small step outside our own front door.Related EpisodesEp. 7 - Rethinking Zero Waste and Building Community CareEp. 12 - How to Quit Using Amazon (and Why You Should)Ep. 24: 5 Sustainable Living Mistakes to Avoid (and What to Do Instead)Ep. 36: How to Host a Clothing SwapEp. 42: Overwhelmed by Climate Change? Start Here.Ep. 45: How To Spend Less on Groceries by Reducing Food WasteBlog Posts50 Ways to Be More SustainableHow to Drive Less in the SuburbsHow to Start Living SustainablySupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Back in 2020, I was a guest on the now inactive podcast Practical(ly) Zero Waste, hosted by Elsbeth Callaghan. At the time, my kids were little, the zero waste movement online was deep in its “trash jar” era, and many of us were trying to figure out what sustainable living looked like outside of perfectly curated Instagram squares.Six years later, a lot has changed.Kids are older, life looks different, and both of us have let go of a lot of the pressure and aesthetics that surrounded zero waste in those early online days. But underneath all of that, the values are still very much the same.In this full-circle conversation for Episode 50 of Sustainable in the Suburbs, Elsbeth and I talk about what sustainable living looks like now: parenting teenagers and young kids, balancing low waste goals with real life, navigating burnout and social media, building community, and why consistency matters a whole lot more than perfection.We also talk about what we’ve kept, what we’ve let go of, and how many of the “small shifts” we started years ago have quietly become lifelong habits.TakeawaysWhy sustainable living looks very different after years of actually living itThe shift from perfection and aesthetics toward values and consistencyRaising eco-conscious kids through everyday habits rather than pressureHow composting, secondhand shopping, and reusables became family routinesThe connection between sustainability, community, and raising responsible citizensWhy slowing down is often the most sustainable choiceHow “eco-frugal” living can save money while reducing wasteNavigating low waste living with celiac disease and accessibility needsOne Small ShiftYou can always start again.Even if you’ve fallen out of old habits, even if life looks completely different now, small intentional changes still matter. Start with one thing that feels manageable and build from there.ResourcesPractical(ly) Zero WastePZW - Ep. 69: Raising Eco KidsInkwood Print ShopRelated Episodes4: How to Conduct a Household Waste Audit11: Money, Enoughness, and Community Care with Women’s Personal Finance12: How to Quit Using Amazon (and Why You Should)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

In this episode, I’m talking about what sustainable living with kids actually looks like in real life. Not the Instagram version — the real version. The conversations, the habits, the overwhelm, the convenience culture, and the small shifts that slowly become part of how your family moves through the world.TakeawaysKids learn consumption habits by watching usSustainable living with kids is about buying less, not buying “eco” productsConvenience culture is deeply connected to overwhelm and mental loadSmall habits shape how kids think about waste, spending, and consumptionInvolving kids in the “why” helps sustainability become a mindsetSustainability conversations naturally deepen as kids growIt’s never too late to start having these conversations as a familyOne Small ShiftHave a family conversation about consumption, waste, or sustainability this week. Ask your kids what they notice, what they care about, and what ideas they have. You might be surprised by the answers.Resources10 Tips for Going Zero With KidsHow to Do a Trash Audit With KidsThrift Shopping for KidsHow to Prevent Food Waste With KidsBecoming a Zero Waste FamilyHow to Pack a Zero Waste School LunchRelated EpisodesEp. 16: Sustainable Living with Kids — Save Money and Reduce Waste with Jessica NakamuraEp. 17: How to Raise Eco-Friendly Kids with Talayna ZachariasEp. 22: From Refills to Resilience — Simple, Real-Life Sustainable Living with Julie DarrellEp. 32: Overstimulation, Overconsumption, and the Pressure to Do More with Gillian GabrylukEp. 40 – How to Host a Zero Waste Birthday Party for Kids Ep. 46: How to Talk to Kids About Climate Change with Brittany JeffersonSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Sustainability advice is everywhere — and even when you care, even when you’re trying to pay attention, it can be hard to know what actually matters.In this episode, I’m joined by Alexa Pavan of Go Green With Alexa, a climate communicator and copywriter who’s focused on making sustainability more understandable, more approachable, and a lot more connected to real life.We talk about what it looks like to move through all of that information — how to figure out what’s credible, what’s actually helpful, and how to take those bigger ideas and bring them into your day-to-day life.From composting and food waste to media literacy and community action, this conversation is about finding your footing in a space that can feel overwhelming and remembering that sustainability doesn’t have to be complicated to matter.TakeawaysSustainability advice can feel overwhelming — slowing down and checking sources helps you build confidence in what you’re seeing and sharing.Food waste is one of the most impactful places to start, both environmentally and financially.Composting is a powerful way to reduce waste, especially when it’s supported at a larger, community level.Sustainable living looks different in every household — it needs to fit your life to stick.Small, everyday choices can extend beyond the home and shape communities and local systems.Civic engagement is part of building greener communities.Creativity and problem-solving are part of sustainable living.One Small ShiftStart paying attention to what’s around you. Get curious about the life cycle of an object near you. Building awareness is the first step toward making more intentional choices.Connect With AlexaWebsiteInstagramYouTubeResourcesHousehold Waste Audit Workbook (free resource)How to Prevent Food Waste With Kids (blog post)11 Ways to Reuse Food Scraps (blog post)Related Episodes24: 5 Sustainable Living Mistakes to Avoid (and What to Do Instead)45: Food Waste Is Costing You — How to Spend Less on Groceries with Chelsey Schmuland46: How to Understand Climate Change (and Talk About It With Your Kids) with Brittany JeffersonSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Bathroom swaps are one of the most common entry points into sustainable living — but they can also be one of the most overwhelming.There are so many products, so many recommendations, and so much pressure to replace everything all at once.In this episode of Sustainable in the Suburbs, I’m talking about what it actually looks like to approach sustainable bathroom swaps in a way that’s doable, practical, and budget-friendly. The focus is on using what you already have, reducing repeat purchases, and making changes that actually stick in real life.We dig into how much waste is coming from the bathroom, why so many of these items are designed to be used and replaced quickly, and how shifting your approach can naturally reduce both waste and spending over time.I also walk through what has (and hasn’t) worked in my own routine — from bar soap and toothpaste to deodorant and other everyday products — and why simplifying your routine can often be more impactful than swapping everything out.TakeawaysWhy the bathroom is a major source of household waste Start with what you already have instead of buying new “eco swaps”Which sustainable bathroom swaps tend to work in real life (and which don’t always)Simplify your routine instead of adding more productsHow small, consistent changes can reduce waste without overhauling everythingOne Small ShiftTake an inventory of what you already have in your bathroom and focus on finishing those products first. From there, you can make more intentional choices about what you actually want to replace (and what you don’t).ResourcesEco-Friendly Bathroom Swaps (blog post)Related Episodes4: How to Do a Household Waste Audit8: 5 Easy Plastic-Free Kitchen Swaps for Sustainable Living9: Skincare, Sustainability, and Self-Care with Rebecca Ogilvie10: How to Refill in Your Own Containers for a Plastic-Free Pantry22: From Refills to Resilience — Simple, Real-Life Sustainable Living with Julie Darrell38: Things I Don’t Buy Anymore — Eco-Frugal Shifts That Reduce Waste and Save MoneySupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

We spend a lot of time talking about climate change — but not nearly enough time understanding it.Most of us were never really taught how to understand it, especially in a way that connects it to history, systems, power, and the everyday decisions we’re making.This week, I’m joined by Brittany Jefferson, an educator and founder of EJ EDU, to talk about climate literacy — what it means, why it matters, and how it shapes the way we think about everything from education to environmental justice.We talk about why climate can’t just live in science class, what’s missing from how it’s typically taught, and how understanding the bigger picture can change the way we approach sustainability.We also bring this into everyday life — from raising kids and navigating climate anxiety to having conversations at home and taking local climate action.TakeawaysWhat climate literacy actually means Why social studies, history, and systems thinking are essential to understanding climate changeEnvironmental justice and who is most affected by the systems we live inThe role of education as a climate solutionHow kids are already engaging with climate — from curiosity to overwhelmWays to approach climate conversations at home in age-appropriate, grounded waysNavigating the tension between individual action and systemic changeOne Small ShiftDownload the Climate Venn Diagram. It’s a simple but powerful way to figure out where your skills, your interests, and the needs of the world overlap — and where you can focus your time and energy.Connect with BrittanyInstagramPatreonTeachers Pay TeachersResourcesAll We Can Save – Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson (book)What If We Get It Right? – Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson (book)How to Talk to Your Kids About Climate Change - Harriet Shugarman (book)Earth Matters (educational game)Related EpisodesEp. 5: How to Navigate Climate Emotions with Jen KnochEp. 7: Rethinking Zero Waste with April DickinsonEp. 42: Overwhelmed by Climate Change? The Climate Venn Diagram Can HelpSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

You’re not just wasting food — you’re throwing money in the trash.This week I’m joined by returning guest Chelsey Schmuland, and we’re digging into one of the most overlooked ways to save money on groceries: reducing food waste.Chelsey is the maker behind Hive to Home, where she creates handmade beeswax wraps as a reusable alternative to plastic food storage. She’s also a grocery budgeting queen and food rescue enthusiast.We talk about how much food we’re actually wasting (and what that costs), how food rescue apps can dramatically transform your grocery budget, and why proper storage makes a bigger difference than you might think.If you’re trying to spend less, waste less, and make your kitchen work better for you — this episode is packed with strategies you can start using right away.TakeawaysFood waste is one of the fastest ways to lose money on groceries — often without realizing itFood rescue is a practical way to cut your grocery billProper storage — especially breathable storage — helps food last longerBeeswax wraps are a reusable, plastic-free way to keep food freshPlanning for leftovers and using scraps can stretch your groceries budgetStrategies on how to (re)use and store almost everythingComposting helps close the loop — but keeping food in use is the goalOne Small ShiftBefore you shop this week, check the reduced section or a food rescue app first — and build one meal around what you find.Connect with ChelseyWebsiteInstagramResourcesA Beginner’s Guide to a Sustainable Kitchen (use code PODCAST20)11 Ways to Reuse Food ScrapsHow to Prevent Food Waste with KidsHow to Use Beeswax Wraps (and Keep Food Fresh Without Plastic)Flashfood (use code is SUST7K8EA for $5 off)Too Good to Go Odd BunchSouper CubesSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Spring is when the birds get loud again. You hear them before you see them — in the morning, in the trees, and in the background of your day.If you’ve ever thought about getting into birding, this is a really natural place to start — right outside your door.In this episode, we’re talking about how to start birding in your own backyard, how to identify common birds by sight and sound, what’s happening during nesting season, and how to support birds in ways that genuinely help.There’s a lot of advice out there this time of year — and not all of it is as helpful as it sounds. So we’ll also walk through what to avoid, common bird hazards in suburban spaces, and simple ways to support backyard biodiversity and habitat.TakeawaysHow to start birding right in your own backyardWhy birdsong supports mental well-beingHow to identify birds by sight and sound (using Merlin Bird ID)What citizen science is — and how to take partA look inside Project NestWatch and nesting seasonHow to join the Great Backyard Bird CountWhy common nesting materials (like yarn and dryer lint) can harm birdsWhat birds actually need: habitat, not materialsCommon bird hazards (windows, cats, habitat loss)Simple ways to support backyard biodiversityOne Small ShiftLeave your earphones at home for one walk this week and just listen. Learn to identify one bird by sound and tell me who it is!Resources:Safe Nesting Materials for Birds (blog post)Merlin Bird IDBirds Canada - Project NestWatchBirds Canada - SwiftWatchGreat Backyard Bird CountWild Birds UnlimitedFeather FriendlyRelated Episodes:Ep. 18: Connecting Communities Through Green Spaces with Carolyn ScotchmerEp. 20: Wildlife Conservation, Birding, and Finding Hope in Nature with Matt HowardEp. 25: Redefining Sustainable Living — From Zero Waste to Real-World ResilienceSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

What does sustainable living actually look like in the suburbs — in places designed around cars, convenience, and big box shopping?Laura Newton is the founder of The Kind Matter Company, a Canadian eco-boutique and refill store focused on low waste living, eco friendly products, and non-toxic household essentials. What began as a personal search for safer products after her daughter developed severe allergies has grown into a retail business built around making sustainable living more accessible for everyday families.Kind Matter now has multiple locations across Ontario, including a flagship store in Mississauga’s Heartland Town Centre — a typical suburban shopping plaza where refillable products, Canadian brands, and plastic-free options sit alongside everyday errands.This conversation explores how refill stores and low waste shopping fit into suburban life, what customers are actually looking for, and how eco friendly products become part of real, everyday routines — without requiring a complete lifestyle overhaul.TakeawaysWhy accessibility is one of the biggest barriers to sustainable living and low waste livingWhat customers are most curious — and hesitant — about when they first encounter refill stores and refill systemsWhy cleaning products are often the gateway into refilling and eco friendly home swapsHow placing refill shops inside suburban shopping plazas changes everyday shopping habitsThe role Canadian and women-owned brands play in Kind Matter’s product curationThe importance of community-focused sustainability and local shopping in suburban areasConnect With LauraThe Kind Matter CompanyTerra GreenhousesProducts MentionedBirch BabeCheekbone BeautyThe Bare HomeNotice Hair Co. (see in store)Routine Cream (see in store)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

This episode originally aired in the very first month of Sustainable in the Suburbs. I’m revisiting it now because this idea remains one of the clearest ways to find your place in climate action — and sometimes returning to the foundation is exactly what helps us feel re-energized.Climate change feels HUGE — and it is. The problem is urgent and complex. And when you start looking for solutions, it can seem like there’s an endless list of things you should be doing. All of them are important, and that can feel completely overwhelming.But meaningful climate action doesn’t happen because one person does everything. It happens when many people each find their place — in their homes, their neighbourhoods, and their communities.In this episode, I’m sharing a simple framework I often come back to refocus my efforts: the Climate Action Venn Diagram from Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson. We’ll talk about how your skills, your joys, and the needs of the world can come together to help you find your own personal starting point — one that feels meaningful, realistic, and sustainable for the long haul.TakeawaysThe Climate Venn Diagram helps identify a meaningful starting point for climate action by looking at what brings you joy, what you’re good at, and what the world needs.Sustainable living isn’t about doing everything — it’s about doing something that feels right for you.Joy is a powerful motivator in climate work and there are countless ways to contribute your skills.Climate action often happens at the community level — through local advocacy, shared resources, and collective resilience.Building habits that feel good and fit your life helps make climate action sustainable for the long term.One Small ShiftDownload a copy of Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson’s Climate Venn Diagram worksheet, grab a pencil, and just see what comes up. You might be surprised by how much clarity this one little exercise can bring.ResourcesHow to Start Living Sustainably: A Simple Framework for Climate ActionClimate Action Venn DiagramHow to Find Joy in Climate Action (TED Talk)What If We Get It Right? (website)All We Can Save - Ayana Elizabeth Johnson & Katharine K. Wilkinson (book)What If We Get It Right - Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson (book)Buy Nothing ProjectRelated EpiosdesSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

What does sustainability look like in a fast-moving industry like film and television?In this episode, Canadian actress Erin Karpluk shares how growing up in Jasper shaped her connection to nature, how the 2024 wildfires impacted her community, and how those experiences inform the way she approaches sustainability — both personally and professionally.We talk about eco-friendly habits, secondhand fashion, sustainable travel, and what waste and sustainability look like behind the scenes on film sets. This is a conversation about environmental awareness, resilience, and the small shifts that can influence culture at work.TakeawaysHow growing up in Jasper shaped Erin’s connection to nature and communityThe impact of the 2024 Jasper wildfires on memory and resilienceWhat sustainable living looks like in everyday routinesHow sustainability in film production is evolving — and where it still needs workPractical eco-friendly travel habits for people who live on the roadHow small workplace habits can shift culture over timeWhy connection to people and place fuels environmental awarenessConnect With ErinInstagramFacebookIMDbSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

I can’t be the only one who has complicated feelings about goody bags… right?Kids' birthday parties have quietly escalated. The venues. The décor. The goody bags. The expectation that every year has to be a little bigger than the last.But most kids don’t actually need all of that.In this episode, I’m sharing how we’ve kept birthday parties simple, low waste, and still genuinely fun — from smaller guest lists to reusable decorations, bulk food, experience gifts, and activities that don’t end up in the trash.If you’re looking for practical, eco-friendly birthday party ideas that feel realistic for busy families, this episode walks through exactly how we do it.Related EpisodesEp. 16: Sustainable Living with Kids with Jessica NakamuraEp. 22: Simple, Real-Life Sustainable Living with Julie DarrellEp. 23: Borrow Before You Buy with LEND-IT.CAEp. 26: Holiday Food Waste — Simple Ways to Reduce Waste and Save MoneyResourcesHow to Have a Zero Waste Birthday Party for Kids (blog post)Should You Give Secondhand Gifts (blog post)Eco-Friendly Gift Ideas for Kids (blog post)Balloons BlowSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

We talk a lot on this show about the small daily habits inside our homes. But every so often, the choices get bigger.Renovations bring in materials, demolition, budgets, trades, and long-term decisions all at once. They shape how a home functions — and how it holds up — for years.In this episode, I’m joined by Brittany Steptoe Wright, Founder and Principal of BSW Design and COO of Steptoe Carpentry, for a practical and thoughtful conversation about what sustainable design actually looks like inside real projects with real budgets.If you’re planning a renovation — or simply thinking about your home with a longer lens — this conversation offers a steady framework for building and living in a way that lasts.TakeawaysWhat sustainable design actually looks like inside a renovationWhere renovation waste comes from — and where it can realistically be divertedWhy durability often matters more than trend cyclesHow antiques and inherited pieces can anchor a renovationHow professionals weigh sourcing, longevity, and budget togetherWhy maintenance plays a key role in sustainabilityOne Small ShiftTake care of your things — loved things last!Maintain them. Repair them. Clean them properly. Loved things last — and extending the life of what’s already in your home is one of the simplest and most meaningful sustainability decisions you can make.Connect With BritWebsiteInstagramPodcastResourcesHabitat for Humanity Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)Sustainable WasteFarrier Home RC Home HanStoneJairpur LivingSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Buying less is one of the most powerful forms of climate action we have.In this episode, I’m sharing some of the things I’ve stopped buying over the last ten years of sustainable living. This shift into eco-frugal living happened gradually, beginning with using up what I already had, doing periodic waste audits to see what we were consistently throwing way, and getting very clear on how and where to spend our money.Because truly, the most sustainable thing you can buy is nothing.TakeawaysClimate action begins at the kitchen tableMany “household essentials” are designed to be constant restock itemsMarketing — especially in personal care — encourages us to buy more than we needReusables make the most sense for things you use all the timeSaving money and reducing waste naturally go hand in handNot buying creates mental, physical, and financial spaceOne Small ShiftInstead of focusing on what you might stop buying next, try making a short list of things you already don’t buy anymore — and notice what made that possible.ResourcesHousehold Waste Audit Workbook (free download)A Beginner’s Guide to a Sustainable Kitchen (use code PODCAST20)How to Quit Using Amazon (blog post and podcast episode)10 Zero Waste Kitchen Swaps That Save You Money (blog post)How to Pack a Zero Waste School Lunch (blog post)3 Ways to Have a Zero Waste Period (blog post)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Donation dumps are basically reverse shopping hauls.Decluttering is often framed as an end point — clear it out, drop it off, move on. But what if the way we let things go quietly trains how we bring new things in?In this episode of Sustainable in the Suburbs, I’m exploring the relationship between decluttering, donation, and sustainable living — and why donation isn’t bad, but also isn’t neutral. We talk about mindful decluttering, overwhelmed donation systems, and how slowing down the letting-go process can shape more intentional habits around both acquiring and discarding things.This conversation sits at the intersection of sustainable decluttering, minimalism, and organization, and asks what becomes possible when we stay present through the full life cycle of our stuff, instead of treating decluttering as the end of the story.TakeawaysDecluttering is part of the buying cycle, not separate from itDonation isn’t bad — but it isn’t neutralDonation systems are overwhelmed by the sheer volume of donated goodsSlowing down decluttering creates useful feedbackCommunity-based solutions take more time... and that's the pointPaying attention when things leave your home shapes future purchasesOne Small ShiftLook into your community-based options. That might mean joining a Buy Nothing group, checking what local organizations actually need, or learning where items are most likely to stay in use — and letting that guide how you let things go.ResourcesSustainable Decluttering – An Eco-Friendly Approach to Letting Things Go (blog)How to Host a Clothing Swap (podcast episode)Fewer, Better Things - How to Reduce Kitchen Clutter (podcast episode)Sustainable Minimalism - Stefanie Marie Seferian (book)No New Things - Ashlee Piper (book)The Story of Stuff - Annie Leonard (book)Consumed - Aja Barber (book)Aja Barber (Patreon)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

We all have clothes we don’t wear. Pieces that might fit again someday, that were expensive, or that feel too nice to just drop into a donation bin. When those clothes start piling up, donation often becomes the default solution. And once those bags are gone from the trunk, the buying cycle begins again.In this episode, I’m taking a closer look at that pattern, and at what it might look like to slow down not just how we buy clothes, but how we let them go. We’re talking about clothing swaps — how they work in real life, why they’re such a powerful (and often overlooked) tool for sustainable living, and how sharing clothes within our existing circles can keep clothing in use closer to home, while also building connection and community.TakeawaysHow donation has become part of the buying cycle (and why that matters)How clothing swaps keep clothes in use locallyWhy letting go of clothing is emotional (and how swaps create a softer landing)How to actually host a swapWhy planning for leftovers is just as important as planning the swap itselfHow sharing clothes can quietly build connection and communityOne Small ShiftTry it! If you have host energy, host a clothing swap — start small, keep it simple, and see what happens. And if hosting feels like too much, say YES to attending one.ResourcesHow to Host a Clothing Swap (blog post)Ep. 35: Rethinking Sustainable Fashion with Sabs KatzClotheshorse PodcastConsumed - Aja Barber (book)Aja Barber - PatreonSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

This episode touches on sustainable fashion — but it’s not only about fashion.It’s a conversation about how we think about clothes, how we relate to what we already own, and how everyday decisions around getting dressed connect to consumption, care, and creativity.I’m joined by Sabs Katz, the creator of Sustainable Sabs and a cofounder of Intersectional Environmentalist, for a thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation about personal style, overconsumption, and what it looks like to slow down without turning sustainability into a rulebook.We talk about clothing as memory and legacy, why reducing consumption matters more than chasing “better” products, and how practices like mending, swaps, and intentional limits can actually make style clearer — not more restrictive.This episode is for anyone who wears clothes — which is all of us.TakeawaysWhy fashion can be such a complicated entry point into sustainabilityWhat “sustainable fashion” can look like in real lifeClothing as memory, inheritance, and careReducing consumption without rigidityMending, swaps, and community-based alternativesFinding creativity outside of constant trendsSome excellent challenges to curb your consumption and recharge your creativityOne Small ShiftPause before buying something new. Save it, sit with it, and see how you feel about it a week later.Connect With SabsInstagramWebsiteSubstackResourcesIntersectional EnvironmentalistIndyxHot or Cool InstituteDrive to Target - poems by Hayley DeRochePattie GoniaHow to Host a Clothing Swap (blog post)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Paper towels are one of those everyday items most of us don’t think twice about — until we do. They’re convenient, familiar, and deeply embedded in our kitchen routines. But when you slow down and look at what goes into making something designed to be used once and thrown away, it becomes worth questioning.In this solo episode of Sustainable in the Suburbs, I’m talking about how to quit (or significantly reduce) paper towel use in a way that’s practical, flexible, and rooted in real life. I share how paper towels quietly disappeared from our home years ago, why they’re so easy to overuse, and what actually works instead.We dig into the environmental and financial cost of paper towels, how ideas about cleanliness and convenience shape our habits, and why changing what’s within reach can naturally change behaviour. I also walk through realistic reusable alternatives, storage and laundry concerns, edge cases where disposables still make sense, and what to do if you already have paper towels at home.The focus is on choosing reusables where they make sense, and how small changes add up over time in everyday life.TakeawaysWhy paper towels are designed to be overused — and why that’s not a personal failure.The environmental impact of single-use paper products.Practical alternatives to paper towels that work in everyday homes.How small behavioural changes can reduce waste.Why using fewer paper towels still matters, even if you don’t eliminate them entirely.One Small ShiftTake the paper towel roll off your counter and put it somewhere else — under the sink, in a cupboard, or the pantry. Just notice what you reach for instead over the next week or two.Related Episodes8: 5 Easy Plastic-Free Kitchen Swaps for Sustainable Living11: Money, Enoughness, and Community Care with Women's Personal Finance33: Fewer, Better Things — How to Reduce Kitchen Clutter and WasteResourcesWhat to Use Instead of Paper Towels (all my favourite products)How to Knit a Dish Cloth (free PDF pattern)10 Zero Waste Kitchen Swaps That Save You Money (blog post)A Beginner's Guide to a Sustainable Kitchen (use code PODCAST20)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Our homes are full of things we barely notice until they start to feel heavy. Duplicate pantry items, forgotten gadgets, drawers that are full of junk... And suddenly, everyday life feels harder than it needs to be.In this episode, I’m joined by Sasha Mazzuca, founder of Disch and a professional organizer, for a thoughtful conversation about our relationship to stuff — and how choosing fewer, better things can make daily life feel calmer, more functional, and more sustainable.Sasha shares how years of organizing clients’ kitchens led her to a surprisingly universal problem: the towel drawer. From there, she walks us through how thoughtful design, simple systems, and well-made tools can reduce clutter, decision fatigue, and waste — without requiring a full lifestyle overhaul.We talk about why eco-friendly products don’t have to be boring or expensive, how paper towels quietly add up in both cost and resources, and why the kitchen is often the easiest place to start building more sustainable habits. This conversation is especially timely for anyone feeling the pull to declutter, reset, or simplify — without chasing perfection.TakeawaysWhy clutter often comes from delayed decisions and forgotten duplicatesHow professional organizing intersects with sustainabilityCommon myths about eco-friendly products — including cost and aestheticsWhy the kitchen is a natural gateway to sustainable livingWhy paper towels are one of the easiest places to reduce wasteHow fewer, better-designed tools can support lasting habitsOne Small ShiftSasha suggests starting with one drawer — especially the towel drawer. Choosing tools that actually work, fit neatly, and get used every day can reduce clutter, waste, and mental load far more than we expect.Connect With Sasha / DischWebsiteInstagramFacebookResourcesWhat To Use Instead of Paper Towels (blog post)10 Zero Waste Kitchen Swaps That Save You Money (blog post)A Beginner's Guide to a Sustainable Kitchen (e-book - use code PODCAST20)5 Easy Plastic-Free Kitchen Swaps (previous episode)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

If the week between Christmas and New Year’s leaves you feeling overstimulated, scattered, or unsure how to move forward without just adding more pressure, you’re not alone. After a season filled with noise, expectations, and stuff, it can be hard to find your footing — especially when the cultural message is already shifting toward doing more, fixing more, and buying more in January.This week, I’m joined by Gillian Gabryluk, founder of Sileo Health & Wellness and host of the Be Still and Live podcast. Gillian shares a grounded perspective to what it looks like to slow down, reconnect with ourselves, and move into the new year with intention rather than urgency.We talk about overstimulation, the myth that “more” will make us feel better, and why there’s nothing we can add to cart that will fix the feeling of overwhelm. Gillian explains why stillness is a form of strength, and offers gentle, practical ways families can create calmer rhythms at home, especially during winter.This conversation is a reminder that sustainable living often begins long before the recycling bin — with clarity, values, and learning to want less.TakeawaysWhy the constant noise of modern life leaves us feeling overstimulatedHow shopping, scrolling, and clutter become default coping mechanismsWhy “more” — more doing, more buying, more fixing — rarely brings reliefHow winter naturally invites reflection and a slower paceHow values-based living often leads to consuming lessWhy small shifts are more sustainable than big overhaulsOne Small ShiftGillian suggests practicing the pause — especially when the urge to scroll, shop, or add something new shows up. Often, the calm we’re looking for is already available once we slow down enough to notice it.Connect With GillianWebsiteInstagramBe Still and Live - PodcastResourcesHow to Create Eco-Friendly Holiday Traditions (blog post)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

After releasing 31 episodes — something I am frankly amazed at — I wanted to take a few minutes to look back on this first year of Sustainable in the Suburbs. What’s worked, what’s been harder than expected, and what I’ve learned along the way.In this short solo episode, I reflect on how the podcast has shaped my own thinking around sustainable living, why some conversations have resonated more than others, and how this show has slowly become a deeper, more community-focused part of my work. I also share the five episodes you’ve returned to most — a mix of topics that says a lot about what we’re collectively navigating right now.Finally, I invite you into what comes next. As I start planning for 2026, I’d genuinely love to hear what you want more of — the questions you’re sitting with, the topics you want explored, and the conversations that would support you where you are right now. TakeawaysSustainable living works best when it fits into real, everyday life.Slowing down and reflecting can lead to more intentional choices.Community care and connection are central to meaningful climate action.Food waste prevention continues to be one of the most impactful areas to focus on.Intentional spending can support local economies and broader systems change.Top Five Episodes of 2025Money, Enoughness, and Community Care with Women’s Personal FinanceHow to Quit Using Amazon — and Why You ShouldHoliday Food Waste — Simple Ways to Reduce Waste, Save Money, and Celebrate SustainablyBeeswax Wraps 101 with Hive to Home5 Sustainable Living Mistakes to Avoid (and What to Do Instead)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Every holiday season, those beautifully wrapped gifts under the tree inevitably results in a giant pile of very fancy garbage in five minutes flat.In this week’s episode of Sustainable in the Suburbs, Sarah Robertson-Barnes looks at something most of us keep meaning to do better with next year… gift wrapping. From the confusing rules around what’s actually recyclable to the Pinterest pressure of “perfect” presentation, this episode explores why wrapping creates so much waste — and what we can do instead.Sarah walks through simple, low-waste wrapping ideas using things you already have at home, as well as what kids learn from watching us wrap, and how a few small shifts can make your holiday wrapping a little easier and a lot less expensive. Whether you love wrapping gifts or dread it every year, this episode offers practical, accessible ideas to help you reduce waste, save money, and make the season feel more intentional.TakeawaysAlmost ALL wrapping paper is not recyclable, leading to significant waste.The easiest place to start is using what you already have.Reusable wrapping options can make gifts feel special without adding to holiday waste.Practical, everyday items can double as thoughtful and sustainable packaging.Simple, natural touches can elevate gifts while keeping materials out of the trash.Modelling mindful wrapping teaches kids about care, intention, and resourcefulness.One Small ShiftTake five minutes to look around your home and see what you already have that could be used for wrapping this year — paper bags, fabric scraps, jars, twine, whatever’s on hand. Start there, and let the rest follow.ResourcesSustainable Gift Wrapping Ideas How to Clean Pine Cones for CraftingSalt Dough OrnamentsDried Orange SlicesHow to Wrap Gifts with Cloth (video)Zero Waste Gift Wrapping Ideas (Pinterest)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

If the holidays seem to get louder and more overwhelming every year, you’re not imagining it. From endless ads to the pressure to make everything “magical,” it’s easy to get swept into a season that feels more stressful than joyful. And for parents trying to have a more sustainable holiday with kids, the noise can make it hard to stay grounded in what really matters.This week, I’m joined by Stephanie Seferian, host of the Sustainable Minimalists podcast and author of Sustainable Minimalism. Stephanie brings such a thoughtful, grounded perspective to what it means to step back from the holiday frenzy and reclaim a season rooted in connection rather than consumption.We talk about why less often feels harder than more, how cultural messaging around holiday magic drives emotional spending, and what it looks like to model enoughness for our kids. Stephanie also shares practical ideas for secondhand gifts, simple homemade traditions, and creating a mindful holiday season that actually feels good.TakeawaysHow “holiday magic” messaging fuels emotional and impulse spendingWhat ‘doomspending’ is and why its amplified at this time of yearHow holiday marketing shapes our expectations and buying habitsSecondhand gifts, swaps, and other simple alternatives to buying newModeling “enough” for kids in a season of big expectationsSetting boundaries around marketing, comparison, and the mental loadSlowing down with the season instead of speeding upCreating simple, sustainable holiday traditions that feel goodOne Small ShiftStephanie suggests buying for fewer people. A smaller list means less pressure, less waste, and more room for the parts of the holidays that actually matter.Connect With StephanieInstagramWebsiteSubstackSustainable Minimalism (book)Sustainable Minimalists (podcast)ResourcesSustainability in the Suburbs (Sustainable Minimalists podcast)Is It Okay To Give Secondhand Gifts (episode & blog post)How to Stop Shopping on Amazon (blog post)6 Recipes for Gifts in a Jar (blog post)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Some of the most meaningful gifts we give (and receive) aren’t new. They’re secondhand.And yet… so many of us still hesitate.In this week’s episode of Sustainable in the Suburbs, Sarah Robertson-Barnes digs into the cultural stigma around secondhand gifts, why it lingers, and why it’s slowly shifting. This episode explores what makes a gift meaningful in the first place — and why secondhand gifts, whether thrifted, vintage, or passed down, often hold the most heart.Sarah shares listener stories, practical ideas, and her own real-life secondhand wins — all to help you rethink what gifting can look like this season. Whether you’re new to the idea of secondhand gifting or already a Buy Nothing pro, this conversation offers encouragement, inspiration, and lots of doable takeaways.TakeawaysCultural stigma around secondhand gifting still exists — but it’s shifting.Intention matters more than whether a gift is new or used.Thrifted and pre-loved gifts can dramatically reduce waste and carbon emissions.Creativity thrives when you step outside the “brand new” box.Secondhand gifts often carry memory, story, and connection.Online marketplaces and local thrift shops offer incredible gifting potential.Community spaces like Buy Nothing groups can spark beautiful gifting moments.One Small ShiftThis year, choose to give one secondhand gift. Let gifting be less about “new” and more about meaning.ResourcesIs It Okay to Give Secondhand Gifts? (blog post)Eco-Friendly Gift Ideas for Kids (blog post)How to Stop Shopping on Amazon (blog post)A Very Big List of Sustainable Canadian Brands (blog post)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

What if the things we already have — the scraps, the leaves, the little bits most people throw away — are exactly where creativity begins?This week, Sarah Robertson-Barnes talks with Sibia Torres Padilla, the artist and author behind @sibster and Charming Woodland Crafts: 50 Fun and Easy Projects Made from Natural and Recycled Materials.Sibia shares how her upbringing shaped her creativity and resourcefulness, and how those early lessons in “making do” evolved into a lifelong love of turning the everyday into something meaningful. Together, they explore the beauty of creative reuse, the emotional connections formed through making, and how crafting with kids can nurture imagination and mindfulness — especially during the busy holiday season.They also talk about the realities of navigating online fame, what it felt like to publish her first book, and why creating something by hand can be such a powerful act of hope.TakeawaysCreativity and sustainability are deeply connected — both begin with what’s already around us.Creative reuse transforms ordinary materials into art and joy.Making things by hand fosters connection with nature and each other.Publishing Charming Woodland Crafts was a dream realized.The holidays offer a chance to create intentionally, not consume endlessly.You don’t need to be “crafty” to make something meaningful.Beauty exists even in what others might see as trash.One Small ShiftLook at what’s already in your home — paper scraps, jars, pinecones, fabric bits — and see what could become something new. Start with one small, handmade project and let the process be the point.Connect with SibiaInstagramFacebookResourcesCharming Woodland Crafts: 50 Fun and Easy Projects Made from Natural and Recycled Materials (buy Sibia’s book!)6 Recipes for Gifts in a Jar (blog post)Sustainable Gift Wrapping Ideas (blog post)Seasonal Decor: How to Make Dried Orange Slices (blog post) Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Festive food and drink are an important part of celebrating the holidays, but food waste shouldn’t be.  In this episode of Sustainable in the Suburbs, Sarah Robertson-Barnes shares simple, sustainable ways to reduce food waste, save money, and plan mindful, eco-friendly holiday meals.From meal planning and low-waste hosting tips,  to getting kids involved in the kitchen, you’ll learn how to plan for enough, use what you have, and enjoy the season without overspending or overbuying. This episode is full of practical tips and real-life inspiration to help your family live a little greener — one meal at a time.TakeawaysPreventing food waste is one of the easiest ways to save money and cut emissions.Plan meals around what you already have — and plan for enough, not excess.A kitchen audit before shopping helps you save money and stress.Changing the way you host can significantly cut costs and reduce waste.Encourage guests to bring containers for leftovers.Abundance is about gratitude and connection, not “more.”Simple shifts in how we plan and eat can make a real difference for the planet.One Small ShiftThis week, try planning the old-fashioned way! Sit down with a pen and notebook before the busy season hits, take stock of what’s in your kitchen, and make a simple plan for what you actually need.ResourcesFoodMeshReFEDHow to Reduce Food Waste Over the Holidays (blog post)6 Recipes for Gifts in a Jar (blog post + free download)A Simple Kitchen AuditA Beginners Guide to a Sustainable Kitchen (use code PODCAST20)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

What happens when your life changes completely — but your commitment to living sustainably stays the same?This week, I’m joined by Kristy Halderman, whose sustainability journey has taken her from Washington, DC to Montana — touching nearly every part of sustainable living along the way. From going all-in on zero waste and launching an oat milk business, to working in sustainable investing, and now community-based environmental advocacy, Kristy’s story is a reminder that our definition of sustainability can — and should — evolve over time.We talk about what it’s like to live your values in a place where sustainability isn’t the norm, why accessibility matters more than perfection, and how to keep showing up even when conditions aren’t ideal. Kristy also shares her love of trails, her unexpected passion for beavers, and how journaling helps her stay grounded through eco-anxiety and change.This conversation is honest, funny, and deeply relatable — a reminder that sustainable living doesn’t always look the same everywhere, and that progress still counts, even when it’s quiet.TakeawaysSustainable living looks different everywhere — and that’s okayAccess, infrastructure, and community support all shape what’s possibleLow waste is both a personal practice and a systemic issueBuilding a sustainable business brings lessons in balance and resilienceMoney and sustainability are linked — but real change depends on the systems behind themAdvocacy takes many forms — from finance to trail work to quiet persistenceBeavers remind us that resilience and ecosystem health go hand in handCaring for your mental health is part of being a climate advocateOne Small ShiftGo analog. Step away from your screens, pick up a pen, and spend a few minutes journaling — about what’s heavy, what’s working, or what you want to focus on next. Writing by hand can be grounding and clarifying, helping you slow down, ease eco-anxiety, and reconnect with what matters most.Connect with KristyWebsiteInstagramRelated EpisodesEp. 11: Money, Enoughness, and Community Care with Women's Personal FinanceEp. 20: Wildlife Conservation, Birding, and Finding Hope in Nature with Matt HowardSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Sustainable living isn’t a straight path — it’s a practice that shifts and changes as we do.Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about what sustainable living really looks like. I’ve tried just about everything, and while some things worked beautifully (at least for a while), others were total disasters! This episode is a look back at a few of those lessons — the cutlery kits, the trash jars, the guilt, the burnout, and the pressure to both reduce waste and make it all look perfect online. Because sustainable living isn’t about getting it right — it’s about finding what fits your real life.In this personal episode, I’m sharing five common traps we might fall into and why imperfection, flexibility, and community matter so much more than being perfect. It’s a gentle reminder that progress isn’t about what you see online; it’s about showing up, doing what you can, and keeping at it.TakeawaysWhy buying your way to sustainability won’t work  and what to do insteadThe burnout that comes from trying to “do it all” and how to recover from itHow guilt and shame are built into our systems (and why they don’t lead to change)The difference between looking sustainable and living sustainablyWhy messy, imperfect progress creates the most lasting changeOne Small ShiftBefore you buy your next “eco” product, PAUSE. Put it in your cart, wait a few days, and see how you feel. You might already have what you need — or realize you didn’t need it at all.ResourcesHow NOT to Go Zero Waste (blog post)50 Easy Ways to Be More Sustainable (blog post)Household Waste Audit WorkbookA Beginner's Guide to a Sustainable KitchenSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Do you really need to own everything? From ladders and camping gear to canning supplies and extra tables, so many of the things cluttering our homes only get used once or twice a year. What if borrowing — instead of buying — became our default?For Circular Economy Month, this episode looks at how sharing, renting, and borrowing can strengthen our communities while cutting down on overconsumption. This week I am joined by Tim Sattler, the founder of LEND-IT.CA, a rental marketplace that connects neighbours and local businesses so people can access what they need without buying new.Tim shares how his small-town upbringing and military experience inspired him to create a platform that makes sustainable choices more convenient. We talk about how borrowing keeps value in our communities, why convenience is key to lasting behaviour change, and how rethinking ownership can make life simpler for families.TakeawaysHow a small-town mindset of borrowing and helping neighbours led to the creation of LEND-IT.CAWhy convenience is essential if we want eco-friendly choices to stick.The role of renting in reducing waste, clutter, and costs — especially in suburban homes.How LEND-IT.CA connects individuals and small rental businesses to keep value local.How renting and borrowing locally supports the circular economy.Practical examples of borrowing for family life — from sports equipment and DIY tools to party décor and camping gear.How trying before buying can help families save money and prevent unwanted purchases.One Small ShiftBefore you click “buy now,” pause for a moment. Do you really need to own that item? Could you borrow it from a neighbour or rent it locally instead? Trying before buying is one small shift that keeps money in your community, reduces waste, and helps build a stronger community for all.Connect with Tim SattlerLEND-IT.CA (website)App StoreGoogle PlayFacebookInstagramResourcesLend What You Have, Borrow What You Need (blog post)Circular Innovation CouncilSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

What if stepping into a refill shop for the first time could change the way you see your whole community?This week, I’m joined by Julie Darrell, owner and founder of Bring Your Own Long Beach. Since 2017, Julie has been helping her community cut down on single-use plastics, rethink consumption, and find approachable ways to live more sustainably.We talk about what really happens inside a refill shop — from the first-time nerves to the “aha” moment when you realize how easy and empowering refilling can be. Julie also shares what it’s like raising teens in a low-waste household, how she’s built community through local partnerships, and what keeps her grounded through the ups and downs of running a values-based business.It’s a conversation about small steps, local action, and the quiet power of community care — a reminder that systems change starts with the choices we make every day.TakeawaysRefill shops make low-waste living simple, practical, and community-drivenRefilling can be intimidating at first, but it’s easy and empowering once you trySustainable living doesn’t have to be expensive — it’s about using what you haveTeaching teens about consumption and waste builds lifelong awarenessCommunity partnerships strengthen local action and keep small businesses resilientBurnout is real in sustainability work, but community and purpose help you keep going Plus, possibly the greatest zero waste birthday idea OF ALL TIME!Connect With JulieBYO Long Beach (Website)Bring Your Own Long Beach (Instagram)BYO Long Beach (Instagram)ResourcesAlgalita Marine Research and EducationCircular Economy MonthHow to Refill in Your Own Containers (Blog post)How to Have a Zero Waste Birthday Party for Kids (Blog post)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Halloween is supposed to be spooky, but the real horror might just be the mountain of waste it leaves behind. Costumes that only last one night, piles of plastic candy wrappers, cheap décor that lasts one season, and millions of pumpkins sent straight to landfill. It’s expensive and wasteful — but it doesn’t have to be that way.In this episode of Sustainable in the Suburbs, I’m sharing how to celebrate Halloween in a way that’s festive, affordable, and low waste. You’ll hear ideas for costumes, candy, decorations, and pumpkins that cut back on trash while still keeping the spirit of Halloween. And as always, it’s about picking what feels doable for you — practical, budget-friendly shifts that reduce waste without losing what you love about the season.TakeawaysHow Halloween has become one of the most wasteful (and expensive!) holidays of the year.Costume ideas to save money and reduce wasteHow to hand out treats without all the plastic.Eco-friendly décor tips and why you should skip fake spider webs.What to do with your pumpkins after HalloweenResourcesZero Waste Halloween (blog post)What to Do With Your Pumpkin After Halloween (blog post)Seasonal Decor - Making a Trash Pumpkin (blog post)Ethical Candy to Try This Halloween (Fairtrade America)Pumpkin Parades (City of Toronto)TerraCycle - Halloween Treat WrappersSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

What if noticing a chickadee, or spending Sunday offline, could change the way you see your neighbourhood — and yourself?This week, I’m joined by Matt Howard, a wildlife biologist, writer,  and engaging voice on how we connect with the natural world. Matt has worked everywhere from a tiny island in Alaska to California wind farms, and he now brings that deep ecological knowledge into everyday conversations about birds, frogs, and even the gear we think we need to enjoy the outdoors.We talk about everything from chickadee calls and suburban bird feeders to wildlife road crossings, community science, and why stories matter just as much as data. Matt also shares how his “Log Cabin Sundays” digital detox practice has shifted his perspective, and what it means to navigate being a middle-aged “influencer” in the sustainability space.This conversation is both funny and hopeful — a reminder that connecting with nature doesn’t have to be complicated, and that the choices we make in our own backyards and communities really do matter.TakeawaysStorytelling can help people connect with science and see nature differentlyBird feeders and native plants can create vital suburban habitatsCommunity science projects let anyone contribute to conservationWildlife road crossings save countless animals and need ongoing supportNoise pollution is a hidden but powerful threat to wildlifeLog Cabin Sundays show the value of slowing down and unpluggingBuying outdoor gear second-hand is one way to enjoy nature without feeding consumerismOne Small ShiftMatt suggests making your next outdoor adventure a little greener by choosing secondhand gear. Whether it’s borrowing from a friend, checking a thrift shop, or repurposing what you already have, enjoying nature doesn’t have to come with new stuff.Connect With MattInstagramTikTokThreadsPatreon - Howie's Everything ClubSubstack - Log Cabin SundaysYouTubeResourcesMerlin Bird ID (app)Safe Nesting Materials for Birds (blog post)Beaverland: How One Weird Rodent Made America - Leila Philip (book)Silent Spring - Rachel Carson (book)No New Things - Ashlee Piper (book)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

What if travel could be a form of care — for the planet, for ourselves, and for each other?This week, I’m joined by Renee de Ronde, the creator behind Conscious Compass, where she shares slow, nature-led travel experiences rooted in beauty, intention, and connection. We talk about everything from glamping and family road trips to Canadian landscapes and creator community — and what it really means to travel consciously in today’s world.Renee’s storytelling is gentle and grounded, and her photography will make you want to pack up and head straight for the forest (after you refill your reusable water bottle, of course). This conversation is a thoughtful look at how we experience place, why local adventures matter, and how slowing down can bring us closer to the things that actually make travel meaningful.TakeawaysWhy sustainable travel is about how we travel, not just where we goThe connection between photography, memory, and environmental activismHow local travel — especially in Canada — can be just as awe-inspiring as international tripsThe role of community and friendship in shaping a more connected, conscious lifeWhy “buy less” might be the most underrated travel (and life) tip out thereOne Small ShiftRenee shares how buying less (and buying more intentionally) helped shift her relationship with both travel and sustainability. It's not about doing without —  it's about doing with care.Connect with ReneeConscious Compass – InstagramSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” Green spaces strengthen our neighbourhoods, connecting us to nature and to each other.In this episode, I’m joined by Carolyn Scotchmer, Executive Director of TD Friends of the Environment Foundation (TD FEF). Carolyn has spent more than a decade supporting community development through urban greening and community gardening initiatives across Canada. Today, she leads TD FEF’s national granting programs — including TD Tree Days, which for the past 15 years has brought families, volunteers, municipalities, not-for-profits, and Indigenous communities together to plant over half a million trees and help create healthier, more connected neighbourhoods.TakeawaysWhat it means to build a career rooted in environmental stewardship and community impactHow green spaces support health, well-being, biodiversity, and community resilienceHow collaborations between corporations, not-for-profits, municipalities, and Indigenous communities bring projects like TD Tree Days to lifeThe joy of volunteering together — a fun, hands-on way to build connections with neighbours, family, and the nature that surrounds usResourcesTD Tree DaysTD Friends of the Environment FoundationSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Is it possible to raise kids who care about the planet — without adding more to your already overflowing plate?In this episode, I’m joined by Talayna Zacharias, a sustainability educator and content creator based in Alberta, to talk about what it really means to raise eco-conscious kids in a culture that pushes convenience and consumption.We dig into parenting with sustainability at the core, how to model care and connection through small, everyday actions, and why curiosity, nature, and imperfection are essential tools in raising eco-conscious kids. Talayna also walks us through the full 7 R’s of sustainability — and we share a few laughs about when reusing becomes… hoarding.TakeawaysWhat it means to parent with sustainability at the centre of everyday family lifeA deeper look beyond the 3R’s — and how their order helps guide practical choicesUsing mindfulness, gratitude, and curiosity to raise kids who care about the EarthHow to tell the difference between thoughtful reuse and just accumulating clutterWhy embracing imperfection matters — especially in parentingDigital tools to make sustainable living feel more doable for familiesWhether you’re just starting your low-waste journey or looking to deepen your family’s connection to the Earth, this is a practical, grounding conversation that will leave you feeling encouraged and ready to take your next small step.One Small ShiftCreate a “reuse bin” at home so your kids can access repurposed materials for crafts, projects, and creative play — a simple way to normalize secondhand and reduce waste while having fun.Connect with TalaynaInstagramWorkbooks & PrintablesResources10 Tips for Going Zero Waste with KidsHow to Do a Trash Audit with KidsNo Mow May Explained: Skip the Mower, Feed the Bees, and Help the PlanetSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

From cloth diapers and thrifted toys to birthday party overload, this is what sustainable living with small kids actually looks like — the joys, the trade-offs, and what makes it doable.This week, I’m joined by Jessica Nakamura — a local realtor, mom of three (including twin toddlers), and self-described “kinda eco mom.” We sat down in my living room (sharing a mic in a DIY pillow fort) to talk about what sustainable living with kids really looks like in the thick of suburban parenting.Jessica shares the eco-friendly tips and small shifts that have worked for her family — from cloth diapering and gift-free birthdays to secondhand shopping and passing baby "essentials" between friends — and how she’s learned to let go of perfection along the way.We also talk about frugal living, budget-friendly sustainability, the reality of overconsumption, and what it means to lead by example without being the “boring mom.” This one’s full of laughs, honesty, and real talk about raising kids, building community, and living a little greener — even when life is loud, messy, and on a budget.TakeawaysMaking eco-conscious choices with babies, toddlers, and tight budgets.Why cloth diapering can work — and why it’s okay to buy the disposables.Rethinking gift giving, especially for kids' partiesHow to reduce paper towel use without losing your mindThe emotional weight of clutter (and what she’s seen in thrift stores).Why your local Buy Nothing group is a community game-changerSupporting local through real estate and building neighbourhood resilienceOne Small ShiftJessica encourages us to pause before clicking “buy” — and consider borrowing, thrifting, or reaching out to your local library or Buy Nothing group instead.Connect With JessicaThat Mama Realtor - WebsiteThat Mama Realtor - PerksThat Mama Realtor - InstagramResourcesZero Waste Birthday Parties for KidsThrift Shopping for KidsEco-Friendly Gift Ideas for KidsSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Food doesn’t come from the grocery store — it comes from the earth. Sustainable gardening is our most direct connection to nature, and one of the most powerful ways we can take climate action right in our own backyards.This week, I’m joined by Tasha Medve, the gardener and creator behind The Purposeful You. Tasha shares her passion for creating a “food oasis” at home, her best tips for beginners, and why gardening is about so much more than summer harvests. From fall crops to companion planting, we talk about the joy, the practicality, and the deeper meaning of growing your own food.We also dig into family life: how to get kids involved in gardening, why it matters to raise eco-conscious kids, and how the garden itself can be the best teacher of all.TakeawaysHow gardening connects us to the earth and why it matters now more than ever.Practical tips for beginners, including raised beds, fall planting, vertical growing techniques, and companion planting.How to make gardening fun and age-appropriate for kids.Reframing “failures” in the garden as part of the process.The therapeutic and reflective side of gardening.Small, sustainable shifts families can make at home.One Small ShiftOne of the very first changes Tasha made at home was rethinking single-use disposables like paper towels. By simply moving the paper towels out of sight, she created a habit shift that made low-waste living feel more natural. Stay tuned for us losing our minds over dish cloths!Connect with TashaThe Purposeful You - WebsiteThe Purposeful You - InstagramThe Purposeful Gardner (Book - pre-order now!)DIY Arch - Ideal for Vertical Growing (free printable)ResourcesWest Coast SeedsWhat to Use Instead of Paper Towels: 5 Easy SwapsSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Back-to-school doesn’t have to mean a cart full of new stuff. In this episode of Sustainable in the Suburbs, I’m sharing how to get your kids ready for school without wasting money — or creating a mountain of waste.From supplies and clothing to tech and litterless lunches, you’ll hear practical tips for:Starting with what you already have before buying new.Teaching kids the difference between needs and wants.Shopping secondhand first and making use of community resources.Tips for thrifting with and for your kids.Choosing durable, repairable, and refillable items when you do need to buys.Packing low-waste lunches (and making mornings easier in the process)!We’ll also talk about mindset — how to push back on the marketing pressure that tells us everything “expires” every August, and instead set your family up for a school year that’s lighter on the planet and your wallet.And stick around to the end for this week’s One Small Shift — a simple, doable way to make your child’s school year more sustainable.ResourcesHow to Pack a Zero Waste School Lunch25 Healthy Snacks for Zero Waste LunchesThrift Shopping for KidsHow to Stop Shopping on Amazon (And Why You Should)Support the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Let your reusables look reused.In this episode of Sustainable in the Suburbs, I’m joined by Chelsey Schmuland, the owner and maker behind Hive to Home in Nova Scotia. Chelsey creates beautiful handmade beeswax wraps as a sustainable, renewable alternative to plastic food storage — but that’s just the beginning. She’s also a backyard chicken keeper, bread baker, waste diversion enthusiast, and all-around eco-nerd in the best possible way.We talk about what inspired her to start Hive to Home, how her wraps are made, creative ways to use them, and why preventing food waste is one of the most powerful climate actions we can take in our own kitchens. Along the way, we also get into composting, connecting with nature, and the joy of using what you already have.TakeawaysSustainable living can start with small, manageable changes.Beeswax wraps are a practical, reusable alternative to plastic food storage.How to use beeswax wraps for food storage and beyond!Understanding food waste’s impact on climate change is crucial — Canadian households waste $1300 worth of food per year, and 63% of it could have been eaten.Food waste prevention tips including meal planning, proper (and plastic free storage), and using food rescue apps to save money and keep food out of the landfill.Composting is a rewarding way to manage scraps and close the loop.Community and shared interests are key to strengthening sustainability efforts.One Small ShiftPause the scroll! Slow down and notice how you feel less overwhelmed, and feel less compelled to consume.Connect with Chelsey @ Hive to HomeHive to Home - ShopHive to Home - InstagramHive to Home - Beeswax Wrap CareResourcesA Beginner’s Guide to a Sustainable Kitchen (use code PODCAST20 to save 20%)Plastic Free July: 31 Easy Swaps to Reduce Plastic Waste10 Zero Waste Kitchen Swaps That Save You Money1000 Hours OutsideSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

We know it’s a problem, we just don’t know how to stop. Here’s how to start...In this episode of Sustainable in the Suburbs, I’m talking about how to quit Amazon — or at least drastically reduce your reliance on it — in a way that’s actually doable.We dig into the real costs of convenience, from environmental harm to the engineered scarcity of Amazon’s business model. But more importantly, I’ll walk you through how my family has shifted away from using Amazon — and how you can, too.The goal isn’t to overhaul your shopping habits overnight. It’s about slowing down, paying attention, and finding new ways to shop that feel better for you, your wallet, and the world.TakeawaysWhy reducing your Amazon use isn’t about guilt or going without — it’s about spending in ways that feel better for you, your values, and your community.The real cost of convenience: how Amazon’s business model fuels overconsumption and the plastic waste crisis.What “free shipping” really means — and why small businesses can’t compete.Practical ways to untangle from Amazon without making life harder.The three mindset shifts that helped me: Pause, Buy Local, and Shop Secondhand.Small, intentional changes away from Amazon support your local economy, reduce waste, and align with the kind of world you want to help build.One Small ShiftTry a “pause rule” for online shopping — only place orders on a set day each week (or month) and let your cart sit until then. You might be surprised how many things you no longer want or need.ResourcesBuy Less, Buy Better: My Favourite Canadian BrandsWell.ca - Shop Canadian BrandsBookshop.org - Support Independent BooksellersFacebook MarketplaceBuy Nothing ProjectPoshmark (invite code SUSTAINABLESRB)DePopThreadUpKijiji LEND-IT.CASupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Money choices are climate action too.This week, Regina Moore and Angela Rozmyn from Women’s Personal Finance join me for a thoughtful, honest conversation about the overlap between money, sustainability, and community care.We talk about spending in alignment with your values, why “enoughness” can be such a powerful mindset shift, and how boycotts and intentional choices can be forms of protest. We also explore the role community plays — not just in sharing resources, but in building resilience and pushing back on the systems that encourage overconsumption.It’s a conversation that invites you to look at your own financial choices through a new lens and see how small, intentional shifts can add up to something bigger.TakeawaysThe concept of “enoughness” and how it reduces overconsumption.Why value‑aligned spending matters and how to start thinking differently about your purchases.How money is tied to values, systems, and power.How boycotts and not spending can be powerful forms of protest.The role of community care and sharing in financial and climate resilience.One Small ShiftRegina: Go through your fridge and pantry each week, repurpose what you have, and reduce food waste.Angela: Have a real conversation with a neighbour — get to know them, exchange contact info, and start building that local network of care.ResourcesThe Serviceberry - Robin Wall KimmererConsumed - Aja BarberConnect with Women's Personal FinanceWebsiteCommunitiesNewsletterInstagramThreadsFacebookTikTokSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

Bringing your own containers to refill shops, markets, or even cafés is one of the easiest ways to cut down on single‑use packaging. It saves money, keeps your pantry organized, and helps shift the way we think about consumption.In this episode of Sustainable in the Suburbs, I’m sharing how to make refilling feel like second nature as a sustainable living practice. You’ll hear practical tips for overcoming barriers to refilling (including how to choose the right containers and understanding store policies), how small mindset shifts can lead to refill at scale, and plenty of encouragement to get started where you are.TakeawaysWhy refilling is one of the easiest ways to reduce waste.How a plastic‑free pantry can make life simpler and more organized.The money‑saving perks of bulk shopping.What mindset shifts often happen when you start refilling.Where to look for refill opportunities beyond zero‑waste stores.How to advocate for refill options everywhere.One Small ShiftPick one item you buy regularly — coffee, rice, snacks — and look for a place to refill it in your own container. That single change can make a surprising difference.ResourcesHousehold Waste Audit Workbook (FREE download)Plastic-Free Pantry: How to Refill Your Own Containers (Blog)Plastic-Free July: 31 Easy Swaps to Reduce Plastic Waste (Blog)“Reusable containers safe during Covid‑19 pandemic, say experts” — The Guardian, June 22, 2020Zero Waste Chef (Website)The Zero Waste Chef Cookbook - Anne-Marie BonneauBulk Barn - Reusable Container ProgramStasher BagReusable produce and bulk bagsSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

This episode is an invitation to slow down — to reconnect with yourself, with nature, and with what truly matters.Sarah sits down with Rebecca Ogilvie, founder of The Detour Co., a sustainable skincare brand rooted in care and connection. Together they explore the quiet magic of routines that nourish rather than extract — from sourcing ingredients to creating space for rest in a culture that pushes us to hustle.They talk about the complexities of sustainable packaging, what it means to build a business in alignment with your values, and how self-care can be an act of resistance — and of reverence.If you’ve ever felt disconnected from your body, from nature, or from the systems we’re all trying to change, this conversation is a gentle reminder that every small act of care makes a difference.TakeawaysTruly natural skincare comes from the land, not the lab.Self-care routines can reconnect us to our bodies and the natural world.Building a values-aligned business requires intention — and a lot of heart.Sustainable packaging is complicated, especially for small brands.Community and nature offer grounding in times of overwhelm.Slowing down creates space for more mindful choices.One Small ShiftLet your skincare routine be an act of connection. Whether it’s using a simple balm made with natural ingredients or taking an extra moment to slow down, notice what feels good. What nourishes you? What feels aligned?ResourcesMerlin Bird IDConnect With RebeccaThe Detour Co. - WebsiteThe Detour Co. - InstagramSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.

The kitchen is one of the biggest sources of household waste — but it’s also one of the easiest places to start making a change. In this episode of Sustainable in the Suburbs, Sarah shares five practical, affordable, and genuinely useful swaps to help you cut down on plastic and reduce waste at home. From ditching paper towels to upgrading your containers, these swaps are all about progress, not perfection. Check out the links below for Sarah’s go-to reusables and top plastic-free kitchen tips.Whether you're starting from scratch or just looking for a couple of easy wins, this is a great place to begin.TakeawaysWhy the climate action begins at the kitchen table.5 practical, affordable swaps that actually reduce wastes.Simple, low-waste tips for daily life.How every small shift adds up (without overhauling your home).One Small Shift:Pick just one thing to swap this week. Whether it’s replacing paper towels, trying out a reusable bag, or mixing up a batch of DIY cleaner — it all counts!Product RecommendationsSwedish dish clothsUnpaper towelsStasher bagsBeeswax wrapsWooden dish brushCleanings, soap, and laundry tabletsResourcesA Beginner’s Guide to a Sustainable Kitchen (use code PODCAST20 to save 20%)Plastic Free July: 31 Easy Swaps to Reduce Plastic Waste10 Zero Waste Kitchen Swaps That Save You MoneyHow to Clean a Wooden Dish BrushWhat to Use Instead of Paper Towels: 5 Easy and Sustainable AlternativesSupport the showConnect With MeWebsiteNewsletterShopInstagramSupport the ShowSustainable in the Suburbs is mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioIf you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you followed the show, shared it with a friend, or left a rating and review. Every little bit helps more people find Sustainable in the Suburbs — and live a little greener.