In this solo episode, Valeria shares why she’s intentionally choosing a quieter year, and what that really looks like in a world that constantly asks us to be louder, faster, and more visible. She reflects on her approach to 2026 - why she doesn’t want it to be a “bigger” year, and how focusing on less distraction has brought her more clarity and joy. She also recaps a recent trip to the Dominican Republic with her boys, opening up about how different traveling feels now that her kids are older. And how those slower, more present moments reminded her of what truly matters. Throughout the episode, she shares practical shifts she’s making - like using the Be Present app, protecting offline moments, and choosing opportunities that expand her life, not just her calendar. From living more offline and rethinking her relationship with social media, to finding balance as a creator whose work exists online, Valeria explores the tension between visibility and peace. And why not everything meaningful needs an audience while it’s forming. This is a good listen for anyone craving more calm, fewer distractions, and a slower, more intentional way of living.

Shop my looks from this episode: https://shopmy.us/collections/3768639?tab=collections

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Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/ 

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Reel By Jasmine Darke: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DQBSaPWElUe/

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The Art of Spending Money: https://amzn.to/4rmMF4U

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What I talked about: 

1:00 - Living offline as a modern status symbol

1:55 - Traveling with older kids 

4:00 - Reconnecting through simple moments

5:00 - Be Present App & & limiting social media

6:40 - It’s officially 2026

7:25 - Why 2026 is about quiet, not “more”

9:25 - Finding balance & cutting the noise

10:30 - Why not everything meaningful needs an audience

12:10 - Joy, hobbies, and staying in a student mindset

15:00 - Offline Living

20:40 - How we accomplish this

21:27 - The Art of Spending Money 

24:08 - Thinking Outside the Culture Bubble

26:02 - Protecting your mind as a form of wealth

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