It’s our first episode of 2026—and instead of resolutions, we’re talking about release.

From clearing decades of clutter to making fast, emotional decisions about what stays and what goes, this episode is about more than downsizing. It’s about energy, freedom, and forward momentum. We share what it’s really like to prepare for a major move, the weight of “someday,” and why letting go of stuff can unlock clarity in life, finances, and purpose.

A new year. A clean slate. A chapter that finally feels intentional.

Takeaways:

1. In the pursuit of emotional and financial freedom, let us recognize that decluttering our physical space is a profound step toward liberation.
2. As we navigate the complexities of life transitions, we must confront the emotional weight of our possessions and make decisive choices about their future.
3. The act of decluttering serves not merely to create physical space, but to facilitate an emotional release from the burdens of 'someday' and postponed decisions.
4. To embark on a journey of intentional living, we must first liberate ourselves from the clutter that impedes our progress and hinders our ability to embrace new opportunities.
5. Through the process of letting go, we invite new energy into our lives, making room for growth and new experiences that align with our evolving aspirations.
6. It is crucial to approach decluttering with a framework of quick decision-making, categorizing items into keep, donate, or discard, thereby alleviating the emotional burden associated with indecision.

Christmas used to mean sleepless nights, toy assembly, and mall chaos. Now it looks quieter — and surprisingly clearer.

In Episode 29, Matthew and Nancy reflect on how the holidays have changed as parents become grandparents, kids grow up, and priorities shift. They talk about selling a home, purging decades of belongings, digitizing memories, and confronting the dangerous comfort of “someday.”

This episode is a thoughtful, honest holiday conversation about gratitude, faith, family, and why simplifying your life can sometimes feel like gaining more — not less.

Takeaways:

1. The holiday season evolves as families transition into new roles, such as becoming grandparents.
2. Reflecting on past Christmas experiences illuminates the emotional journey we all share during this time.
3. Letting go of physical possessions can be liberating, allowing us to prioritize what truly matters.
4. The concept of 'someday projects' can hinder our progress; it is imperative to act on our intentions now.
5. Navigating family dynamics during the holidays requires open communication and the willingness to adapt.
6. Gratitude for shared experiences and family connections remains a cornerstone of meaningful holiday celebrations.

Matthew and Nancy are back from “sunny Florida” to a not-so-sunny welcome home: snow glare, shovel workouts, and the reality of getting their house ready to list. After sharing their decision to sell, they’re met with reactions ranging from supportive to wildly dramatic—like selling your house means you’re broke, confused, or about to become a roaming circus act.

They unpack what’s really happening: a strategic lifestyle change, a path to becoming 100% debt-free, and a full-on purge of everything they’ve accumulated (including tools, wood scraps, mementos, and enough printed photos to wallpaper a small town). They also talk about how different it feels to declutter your own home versus doing it for estate sales—because emotions don’t come with price tags.

Along the way: holiday simplicity (no tree this year), giving back, the reality of adult kids living far away, and the “four day rule” when family visits—because love is real… and so is the need for your own space.

Takeaways:

• Matthew and Nancy's decision to sell their home is purely a strategic lifestyle change aimed at achieving complete financial freedom.
• The couple faces various reactions from their community, including misunderstandings about their reasons for selling their house.
• Decluttering for personal reasons is deeply emotional, differing significantly from the detached process of preparing items for estate sales.
• They emphasize the importance of giving back during the holiday season, highlighting their recent charitable contributions despite personal changes.
• Matthew and Nancy reflect on the reality of adult children living far away, acknowledging the challenges of family dynamics during the holidays.
• The couple discusses the necessity of establishing boundaries when hosting family, referencing their 'four day rule' for visits.