Do you ever feel like the noise of life is stealing your peace? Join Julie Ross on The Feast Life as she sits down with Sarah Clarkson, author of Reclaiming Quiet: Cultivating a Life of Holy Attention, to explore how even in a loud, busy world—especially as a homeschooling mom—you can rediscover the power of quiet. With heartfelt stories, practical advice, and spiritual wisdom, this episode is an invitation to embrace the gift of quiet in the midst of life’s chaos.
Key Takeaways:
Quiet as an Invitation, Not a Reward: Quiet isn’t something we earn; it’s a gift that’s always available. Sarah reframes quiet as a homecoming where we meet God in the midst of our ordinary lives.
Morning and Evening Anchors: Simple rituals like a brief prayer or reflection can frame your day, bringing intentionality and peace to even the busiest seasons of life.
The Power of Imagination for Adults and Kids: Unhurried, spacious time fosters creativity and hope, essential for both children and adults. Sarah shares how her homeschooling upbringing cultivated her imagination and how it continues to shape her life.
Facing Ourselves in Quiet: Quiet often brings us face-to-face with our fears and struggles, but it’s also where we find healing and God’s love. Sarah encourages listeners to embrace the discomfort as part of growth.
Motherhood and the Tension of Self-Gift: Motherhood involves a kind of death to self, but it also expands us, creating fertile soil for personal growth and deeper love.
Halcyon Days and Rest: Inspired by ancient myths and her own journey, Sarah emphasizes the importance of creating intentional spaces for rest as a reflection of faith and trust in God.
Practical Steps to Start Finding Quiet: Start small: two minutes of focused prayer in the morning and evening can profoundly impact your sense of peace and purpose.
About Our Guest:
Reclaiming Quiet: Cultivating a Life of Holy Attention by Sarah Clarkson
Sarah’s website: sarahclarkson.com
Instagram: @sarahwanders
Sarah’s Substack: sarahclarkson.substack.com
Resources Mentioned:
Visit thefeastlife.me/blog/74 for additional resources and links
Just Getting Started? Get our FREE Charlotte Mason and You Workshop to see if this powerful approach can transform your homeschool. https://www.thefeastlife.me/opt-in
Subscribe & Review: “ I love Julie and the Feast Life.” If this sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show on Apple Podcasts. This helps more people- just like you- find out about the show. CLICK HERE AND SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM to leave a five star reviews.
Also, please subscribe so you never miss an episode. FOLLOW NOW
Connect with Us:
Website: A Gentle Feast
Facebook: A Gentle Feast Community
Instagram: @agentlefeast
Prefer video or closed captions? Watch all our episodes on YouTube. http://youtube.com/@TheFeastLife
Today’s episode is sponsored by the award winning Charlotte Mason curriculum A Gentle Feast. Get started with smooth and easy days at https://www.agentlefeast.com.
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54:35
#73: It's Time To Think About Education Differently
Are you unknowingly trying to mold your homeschool to a system that was never meant to honor your child’s individuality? It’s time to break free from the pressure, fear, and factory-style mindset that’s holding you back—and embrace a radical, life-giving approach to learning that respects both you and your child as persons.
In this powerful episode, Julie Ross—creator of A Gentle Feast and veteran educator with 30 years of experience—shares her eye-opening journey from traditional classrooms to homeschooling her own five children. Drawing on Charlotte Mason’s revolutionary philosophy, Julie helps us rethink what education should be and why it’s so vital to separate ourselves from the industrialized mindset that dominates modern schooling.
Through stories, historical insights, and personal reflections, Julie invites us to slow down, breathe, and reconsider what it really means to educate a person. This episode is a must-listen for any homeschool mom who feels like they’re “falling behind,” stuck in comparison, or wrestling with fear-based thoughts about their child’s future.
Key Takeaways:
Education is not a product—your child is not a project. Charlotte Mason’s philosophy affirms that children are born persons with infinite potential, not empty vessels to be filled or molds to be shaped.
We’re still affected by the school system—even when we’ve left it. Julie shares how deeply ingrained beliefs from institutional schooling can still quietly shape our homeschool in unhelpful ways.
The industrial model was never meant for wholeness. Quoting Woodrow Wilson and contrasting it with Charlotte Mason’s words, Julie reveals how the roots of our current system were built for utility, not humanity.
Pressure stifles growth. A powerful personal story about Julie’s son illustrates the beauty that unfolds when we release fear and honor each child’s pace of learning.
You’re growing too. Just like our children, we’re works in progress. Homeschooling is as much about your growth as a mother as it is about your child’s education.
Joy lives in the present. Fear and overthinking rob us of the simple joys of homeschooling. Re-centering our thoughts helps us show up with calm and confidence.
Mindset matters. When we think “we’re behind,” we act from anxiety. When we believe “we’re growing,” we respond with trust and grace.
Resources Mentioned:
Visit thefeastlife.me/blog/71 for additional resources and links
A Gentle Feast Curriculum
Just Getting Started? Get our FREE Charlotte Mason and You Workshop to see if this powerful approach can transform your homeschool. https://www.thefeastlife.me/opt-in
Subscribe & Review: “ I love Julie and the Feast Life.” If this sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show on Apple Podcasts. This helps more people- just like you- find out about the show. CLICK HERE AND SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM to leave a five star reviews.
Also, please subscribe so you never miss an episode. FOLLOW NOW
Connect with Us:
Website: A Gentle Feast
Facebook: A Gentle Feast Community
Instagram: @agentlefeast
Prefer video or closed captions? Watch all our episodes on YouTube. http://youtube.com/@TheFeastLife
Today’s episode is sponsored by the award winning Charlotte Mason curriculum A Gentle Feast. Get started with smooth and easy days at https://www.agentlefeast.com.
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41:55
#72: A Joy-Filled Journey Through Black American Culture with Amber O’Neal Johnston
What if the books we read could do more than entertain—what if they could shape identity, build bridges, and spark joy? In today’s episode of The Feast Life podcast, I sit down with the incredible Amber O’Neal Johnston—better known as Heritage Mom—to talk about her newest book, Soul School: Taking Kids on a Joy-Filled Journey Through the Heart of Black American Culture. Amber shares how this book goes beyond a simple book list, offering a deep and meaningful exploration of Black history, literature, and culture—wrapped in the joy of storytelling.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How to Choose Books That Build Connection – Amber shares why it’s so important to include stories that reflect a wide range of experiences, not just historical hardship but also the beauty, creativity, and resilience of Black culture. Whether you're homeschooling or simply looking to enrich your family’s reading life, Soul School is filled with book recommendations that help kids see themselves and others in new ways.
How to Have Meaningful Conversations About Books – We discuss how parents can use discussion questions that go beyond comprehension to build deeper connections with their kids. Learn how to ask open-ended questions that encourage critical thinking, empathy, and personal reflection—without having to pre-read every book yourself!
Using Books to Spark Curiosity and Rabbit Trails – Amber encourages parents to slow down and let their kids explore books more deeply. Instead of rushing through a checklist of required reading, she shares ideas for how to extend a book’s impact through related stories, hands-on activities, and real-world connections.
Making Thoughtful Book Choices for Teens – Finding high-quality books for older kids can be challenging, especially when it comes to balancing values with what’s available in the market. Amber shares how Soul School helps parents navigate this stage with confidence, offering age-appropriate recommendations that honor both academic rigor and family values.
How to Build a Family Culture Around Storytelling – It’s not just about what kids read, but how those stories shape your home. Amber talks about how to create a literary culture that fosters deep discussions, strengthens family bonds, and inspires lifelong learning—all while making reading an adventure.
Final Encouragement: Amber reminds us: “Don’t be afraid to read expansively. You never know what treasure might be waiting for you.”
About Our Guest:
Website: heritagemom.com
Instagram: @heritagemomblog
Learn More About Soul School: soulschoolbook.com
Get Your Copy of Soul School: Available now
Resources Mentioned:
Visit thefeastlife.me/blog/72 for additional resources and links
Just Getting Started? Get our FREE Charlotte Mason and You Workshop to see if this powerful approach can transform your homeschool. https://www.thefeastlife.me/opt-in
Subscribe & Review: “ I love Julie and the Feast Life.” If this sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show on Apple Podcasts. This helps more people- just like you- find out about the show. CLICK HERE AND SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM to leave a five star reviews.
Also, please subscribe so you never miss an episode. FOLLOW NOW
Connect with Us:
Website: A Gentle Feast
Facebook: A Gentle Feast Community
Instagram: @agentlefeast
Prefer video or closed captions? Watch all our episodes on YouTube. http://youtube.com/@TheFeastLife
Today’s episode is sponsored by the award winning Charlotte Mason curriculum A Gentle Feast. Get started with smooth and easy days at https://www.agentlefeast.com.
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41:04
#71: Breaking Down Charlotte Mason
In this episode of The Feast Life, I’m sharing a recent conversation I had on The Education Breakdown podcast with host Sarah. We dive into the timeless and transformative ideas of Charlotte Mason—ideas that are just as relevant today as they were over a century ago.
We talk about what it means to truly educate the whole child through rich literature, meaningful narration, and real-world experiences. I explain the power of living books and how they spark curiosity and deep thinking in a way textbooks simply can’t. We also explore how narration develops higher-order thinking skills and why hands-on learning—like nature walks and science experiments—is essential for helping children make lasting connections with what they’re learning.
If you’ve ever wondered what makes the Charlotte Mason philosophy so life-giving, this conversation will inspire you to slow down, savor learning, and bring more wonder into your homeschool days.
5 Key Takeaways from This Episode:
Children are born persons – Charlotte Mason believed all children are capable of deep learning when given the right opportunities.
Living books > textbooks – Engaging, narrative-rich books spark curiosity and lasting understanding.
Narration builds thinking skills – Having kids retell what they’ve learned helps them process and retain information naturally.
Learning should be hands-on – Kids need real experiences in nature and science to develop wonder and connection.
Gentle doesn’t mean light – A Charlotte Mason education is rich, rigorous, and respectful of the child.
Resources Mentioned:
Visit thefeastlife.me/blog/71 for additional resources and links
Listen to The Educational Breakdown Podcast
Check out The Educational Breakdown website
Just Getting Started? Get our FREE Charlotte Mason and You Workshop to see if this powerful approach can transform your homeschool. https://www.thefeastlife.me/opt-in
Subscribe & Review: “ I love Julie and the Feast Life.” If this sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show on Apple Podcasts. This helps more people- just like you- find out about the show. CLICK HERE AND SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM to leave a five star reviews.
Also, please subscribe so you never miss an episode. FOLLOW NOW
Connect with Us:
Website: A Gentle Feast
Facebook: A Gentle Feast Community
Instagram: @agentlefeast
Prefer video or closed captions? Watch all our episodes on YouTube. http://youtube.com/@TheFeastLife
Today’s episode is sponsored by the award winning Charlotte Mason curriculum A Gentle Feast. Get started with smooth and easy days at https://www.agentlefeast.com.
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57:15
#70: Decluttering Made Simple: Small Wins for a Peaceful, Organized Home
Feeling overwhelmed by clutter but don’t know where to start? You're not alone! In this episode, we break down the decluttering process into simple, actionable steps that will help you create a home that feels peaceful and stress-free. Plus, discover the 15 everyday habits that will keep clutter from creeping back in—no massive overhaul required!
Key Takeaways:
Decluttering is a Mindset Shift: Instead of viewing decluttering as overwhelming or exhausting, reframe it as an empowering step toward creating a peaceful, organized home that aligns with your vision.
Start Small to Build Momentum: Begin with a simple task—like decluttering your junk drawer—before tackling bigger projects. Small wins lead to lasting motivation and success.
Use the Four-Box Method: When decluttering, sort items into four categories—keep, donate, trash, and store—to make decisions easier and prevent unnecessary clutter from creeping back in
Adopt Simple Daily Habits: Small habits, like making your bed, sorting mail over the trash, and keeping kitchen counters clear, prevent clutter from accumulating and keep your home feeling fresh.
Be Intentional About What You Keep: Ask yourself key questions, like "Does this item serve my current season of life?" and "Is it costing me more in stress than it’s worth?" If it doesn’t fit your vision, let it go!
Bonus Tip: Set a realistic project goal and take one small action step this week to move forward!
Your Weekly Challenge:-Pick one small project to declutter and organize—starting with your junk drawer!-Take one action step toward a bigger home project you've been putting off-Share your before-and-after progress for accountability and inspiration
Resources Mentioned:
Visit thefeastlife.me/blog/70 for additional resources and links
15 Declutter Habits
Just Getting Started? Get our FREE Charlotte Mason and You Workshop to see if this powerful approach can transform your homeschool. https://www.thefeastlife.me/opt-in
Subscribe & Review: “ I love Julie and the Feast Life.” If this sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show on Apple Podcasts. This helps more people- just like you- find out about the show. CLICK HERE AND SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM to leave a five star reviews.
Also, please subscribe so you never miss an episode. FOLLOW NOW
Connect with Us:
Website: A Gentle Feast
Facebook: A Gentle Feast Community
Instagram: @agentlefeast
Prefer video or closed captions? Watch all our episodes on YouTube. http://youtube.com/@TheFeastLife
Today’s episode is sponsored by the award winning Charlotte Mason curriculum A Gentle Feast. Get started with smooth and easy days at https://www.agentlefeast.com.
Welcome to 'The Feast Life' podcast, where we empower modern moms to design a life and homeschool they truly love. Join us as we explore the art of creating a lifestyle founded on the values of family, freedom, and FUN. Our episodes are packed with inspirational stories, practical tips, and expert insights to help you embark on a homeschooling journey that not only educates your children, but also enriches your life. Join Julie Ross, creator of the homeschool curriculum A Gentle Feast and certified life coach, to discover how you can make everyday moments a celebration of learning, love, and laughter. If you need help escaping survival mode and want to create a thriving life and homeschool- Pull up a chair, you are welcome at this table! Find out more at thefeastlife.me
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