
On today’s episode of the podcast, Kathi is joined by Tonya Kubo, the fearless leader of Kathi Lipp’s Clutter-Free Academy Facebook group. Tonya and Kathi chat today about some of the things Tonya learned after spending a week living with Kathi.
On today’s show you’ll learn:
- Why often more is caught than taught
- The value of things being half-full
- How living clutter-free can help you go from frantic to focused
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Meet Our Guest

Tonya Kubo
Tonya Kubo is the illustrious, fearless leader of Kathi Lipp’s Clutter-Free Academy Facebook group. A speaker and writer, Tonya makes her home in the heart of California with her husband, Brian, their two spirited daughters and one very tolerant cat. Visit her at www.GreatMoms.org.
If you haven’t used/worn it in a year, donate it…
My 4-year-old is a walking clutter bomb, but he gets overwhelmed by the “set a timer and declutter” method. What works for us is to choose a space as the declutter zone of the week, such as his desk, and then apply the “pick 3” principle. When he asks if he can go outside or have a privilege, I ask him to pick 3 items in his declutter zone to put away. This breaks the declutter task down into small enough pieces that the overwhelm goes away, he cooperates, and I feel liberated from owning his clutter problem. After all, I have more than enough of my own clutter to deal with!
This has probably been covered a million times, but I feel like it’s a helpful reminder for me. Start in a small area so you’re not overwhelmed by lots of clutter. Set a timer for maybe 15-30 min., whatever works for you. Then tackle that small space. Afterward, reward yourself with something you love, like a cup o’ joe or a chat with a friend. Now go at it! 🙂
A few of my clutter-free tips:
– Buy One, Give One. If I buy a new piece of clothing, I glean at least one piece out of my closet. I have a VERY small closer, so practically there’s just not room.
– One Year Rule. If I haven’t worn something in a year’s time, I give it away.
– Outfits. I put together outfits on a single hanger: jeans, top, jacket, scarf/necklace. Then I look at what’s rest and ask: Will I really wear this? If it doesn’t really fit with other clothes I have, I don’t keep it.
-Bless ‘Em. In my little town of 800 in northeastern California, we have a senior thrift store. I just love to bless ’em regularly, so I prune my closet so as to help others.
I know this sounds really basic but I’m getting into the habit of thinking “if it can go in the dishwasher, don’t leave it in the sink.” Especially when I am in the middle of cooking something I tend to just drop measuring cups and spoons in the sink even though the dishwasher is right next to it. Now it is so much nicer after dinner to just deal with the plates and not a sink full of dirty dishes.
Involving the family with 15 minute declutter plan has been very helpful. It’s great to have everybody on the same page and motivated!
Congratulations! You are our winner of a copy of Kathi Lipp’s book! Check your email for more info.
🙂 In answer to your email question… She began the weekend in Dallas. EARLY Sunday she flew back to begin the writer’s conference at The Red House.