The Homeschool Feast

thehomeschoolfeast.com

Welcome to 'The Homeschool Feast' 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 thehomeschoolfeast.com

  1. 3D AGO

    #101: Planting Seeds of Faith: A Conversation on Family Discipleship with Mikyhla Dice

    In this heartfelt conversation, Julie Ross sits down with friend and fellow mom Mikyhla Dice to talk about the beautiful and sometimes messy work of family discipleship. Together they unpack what it means to nurture faith at home, how to cultivate rhythms that center on Jesus, and why grace—not guilt—is the foundation of raising kids who love the Lord. Whether you’re just beginning to think about discipleship in your home or you’re looking for fresh encouragement along the way, this episode offers wisdom and hope for every season of motherhood. 5 Key Takeaways: Discipleship is a lifestyle, not a checklist. It happens in everyday conversations, meals, and moments of connection. Your kids learn more from what you model than what you say. Let them see you pray, wrestle with Scripture, and live your faith authentically. Rhythms matter. Simple practices like mealtime prayers, Sabbath rest, or seasonal traditions can anchor your family in God’s story. Grace covers our shortcomings. You don’t have to disciple perfectly—your children need to see the gospel lived out in repentance and forgiveness, too. The goal is legacy. Family discipleship is about planting seeds now that will bear fruit for generations. Connect with Mikyhla: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikyhla  Podcast: Because You Belong Here  Resources Mentioned: Visit thehomeschoolfeast.me/blog/101 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. www.youtube.com/@AGentlefeast    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.

    53 min
  2. FEB 9

    #100: The Overwhelmed Homeschool Mom with Jamie Erickson

    In this rich and deeply grounding conversation, Julie Ross sits down with Jamie Erickson to explore why overwhelm has become such a defining word for modern motherhood and why it doesn’t have to be. Together, they unpack cultural pressures, spiritual explanations, and practical wisdom that help mothers move from chaos to peace without abandoning responsibility or joy. This episode offers both relief and clarity for homeschool moms who sense that constant overwhelm is not the life God intended. Key Takeaways 1. Overwhelm Is Often a Signal, Not a Verdict Overwhelm acts like a warning light on the dashboard, revealing misaligned priorities rather than personal failure. It invites reflection and recalibration, not self-criticism. 2. There Are Three Types of Overwhelm Jamie explains that not all overwhelm is the same:• Everyday overwhelm caused by neglected routines and lack of systems• Comparison overwhelm from carrying responsibilities that were never yours• Acute overwhelm from life events beyond your control, such as illness, loss, or crisis Understanding which type you’re experiencing brings clarity and direction. 3. Comparison Creates Invisible Pressure Modern moms carry the weight of thousands of other women’s lives through social media. Seeing everyone’s “good ideas” can quietly convince us they are obligations. Staying in your lane restores peace. 4. You Are Not the Holy Spirit for Your Children Taking responsibility for your child’s emotions, outcomes, or spiritual growth places a burden on you that was never yours to carry. Faithfulness does not mean control. 5. Guilt and Shame Are Not the Same Guilt is a response to sin. Shame is rooted in fear of others’ opinions. Saying no to good things is not sinful. Recognizing this distinction helps mothers release unnecessary emotional weight. 6. Every Yes Is Also a No When you say yes to too many things, you often say no to the people who matter most. Clear boundaries protect what is most precious, like marriage, children, and health. 7. Hard Seasons Are Not Meant to Be Escaped Some overwhelm cannot be fixed. These seasons invite surrender, not solutions. Joy is found not in removing hardship, but in drawing closer to God within it. 8. Community Is a Gift, Not a Burden Asking for help allows others to live out their calling. Vulnerability expands community rather than shrinking it.   Resources Mentioned Visit https://www.thehomeschoolfeast.com/blog/100  for additional resources and links The Overwhelmed Mom by Jamie Erickson  Jamie Erickson’s website and community: jamieerickson.com Jamie’s podcast: https://momtomompodcast.com/  Instagram @unlikely_homeschool    Final Encouragement Overwhelm does not mean you are failing. It often means you care deeply. This episode gently reminds mothers that peace is possible without perfection and that joy is reclaimed not by doing less, but by doing what matters most. If this conversation resonated, share it with a friend who needs permission to rest, refocus, and breathe again.

    47 min
  3. Bonus Episode: Managing Emotions For A More Peaceful Home

    12/22/2025

    Bonus Episode: Managing Emotions For A More Peaceful Home

    You can have the most beautifully organized home, the most efficient schedule, and all the best systems in place—but if your mind is in chaos, it will eventually spill into every area of your life. In this episode, we dive into the power of emotions—what they are, how they shape our actions, and why resisting or numbing them only makes things worse.. However you tend to buffer your feelings, you’ll learn how to shift into emotional adulthood—where you can respond rather than react and create a more peaceful, empowered life. Key Takeaways: Emotions Are Energy in Motion: Understanding that emotions are meant to move through us rather than be suppressed or feared. The Creation Cycle: How our thoughts shape our feelings, which then drive our actions and ultimately determine our results. Breaking the Three B’s: The dangers of bottling (suppressing), brooding (overthinking), and buffering (numbing) our emotions—and what to do instead. Emotional Childhood vs. Adulthood: Learning to take responsibility for your emotions rather than blaming circumstances or other people. Practical Steps to Process Emotions: Strategies like identifying feelings, allowing them to move through you, and choosing empowering emotions that align with the life you want to create. Resources Mentioned: Visit www.thefeastlife.me/blog/67  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  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.

    40 min
  4. Bonus Episode: The Gift of Unconditional Love

    12/15/2025

    Bonus Episode: The Gift of Unconditional Love

    In this heartfelt episode, Julie Ross shares how unconditional love can transform your holiday season and relationships. Whether it’s with your children, challenging family members, or even yourself, love is the most powerful gift you can give. Discover simple mindset shifts and practical steps to cultivate peace and joy during the holidays. 5 Key Takeaways: Unconditional Love Starts with Small Moments Your kids, even teens, value simple, intentional time with you—like looking at Christmas lights or sharing a favorite book. Unconditional love means they are loved, even when they’re not at their best. Change Your Thoughts to Transform Relationships When dealing with difficult family members, focus on the “next kindest thought.” Choosing empathy and curiosity can shift your mindset and bring peace to strained relationships. Extend Love to Yourself Show yourself the same compassion you give your children. Treat your heart gently, speak kindly to yourself, and allow space for rest and grace when things feel overwhelming. Protect Your Energy and Joy Don’t let others determine your mood or the tone of your holidays. Focus on what you can control—your mindset, attitude, and actions. Pause and Reflect Take time for a quick reset. Whether it’s five quiet minutes or journaling a gratitude list, reflection helps you focus on what truly matters during the season. Resources Mentioned: Visit www.thefeastlife.me/blog/58  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:  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. Sign up for our “Peaceful and Joyful Holidays” course http://www.thefeastlife.me/holidays

    45 min
  5. Bonus Episode: Embrace The Art of Receiving This Christmas

    12/08/2025

    Bonus Episode: Embrace The Art of Receiving This Christmas

    In this heartwarming episode of The Feast Life, Julie Ross explores the transformative power of learning to receive during the holidays. For many, the season can bring pressure to give endlessly, especially for homeschooling moms. Julie shares her personal journey of shifting from “doing it all” to graciously accepting help and blessings, leading to deeper joy and connection. Key Takeaways Keep It Simple and Savor the Little ThingsOvercomplicating the holidays can lead to burnout and frustration. Julie encourages us to “Keep it Simple, Silly” by focusing on meaningful, manageable traditions. Instead of trying to do everything, choose a few traditions that you and your family cherish and can sustain with joy. Embrace a Mindset of ReceivingHomeschool moms are often so focused on giving that they forget how to receive. Julie highlights the importance of letting others help and shower us with blessings. Learning to accept support—whether in the form of a meal, help with holiday preparations, or even a compliment—can foster deeper connections and reduce stress. Cultivate Gratitude and AweReclaim the holiday magic by nurturing gratitude and wonder. Julie reminds us to look for small daily blessings, from a child finishing a math problem to shared moments of laughter. Embracing awe for the season’s blessings opens our hearts to unexpected joys and new possibilities. Practice Working from Rest, Not StressApproach the holiday season from a place of rest rather than stress. Allow flexibility in your schedule to welcome spontaneous joy and memorable moments. By releasing the need to control every detail, you create space for meaningful experiences and deeper family connections. Resources Mentioned: Visit thefeastlife.me/blog/56 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. Sign up for our “Peaceful and Joyful Holidays” course http://www.thefeastlife.me/holidays

    26 min
  6. Bonus Episode: Homeschooling Through The Holidays

    12/01/2025

    Bonus Episode: Homeschooling Through The Holidays

    In this episode, Julie Ross, founder of A Gentle Feast, shares four essential tips to help homeschooling moms navigate the holiday season with grace, joy, and sanity. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by holiday expectations, this episode will guide you to a more peaceful and memorable Christmas season. Key Takeaways: 1. Maintain Some Routine: Children thrive on routine, and completely abandoning it during the holidays can lead to stress and disruption. Instead, keep some parts of your day consistent, like morning time or read-alouds, to create a sense of security for your kids—even if you’re traveling or busy. 2. Set Realistic Expectations: Avoid setting the bar too high. Unrealistic holiday expectations often lead to disappointment. Rather than trying to create a picture-perfect holiday, embrace the reality of your family’s needs and simplify traditions to make them manageable and meaningful. 3. Focus on Love: Amidst the busyness, remember that what matters most is the love and warmth your family feels. Create a loving atmosphere by being present, patient, and compassionate—both with your kids and with extended family members, showing them the true spirit of the season. 4. Prioritize Self-Care: Julie’s bonus tip is vital: schedule time to care for yourself. Whether it’s reading, listening to music, or just sitting quietly with a cup of tea, make this a non-negotiable part of each day to recharge and show up as your best self for your family. Resources Mentioned: Visit www.thefeastlife.me/blog/54 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.  Sign up for our “Peaceful and Joyful Holidays” course http://www.thefeastlife.me/holidays

    25 min
  7. Bonus Episode: Stress Free Family Travels with Neurodivergent Children

    11/24/2025

    Bonus Episode: Stress Free Family Travels with Neurodivergent Children

    In Episode 51 of The Feast Life, host Julie Ross chats with Jenifer Breaux, owner of JB Travel Pros, about traveling with neurodivergent children. Jenifer shares her personal journey as a mom of two children with special needs and how she learned to make travel a possibility and even a joy for her family. With her expertise as a travel agent and author, she offers practical advice on planning trips, accommodating sensory needs, and creating stress-free routines for your next family vacation. If the idea of traveling with neurodivergent children feels overwhelming, this episode is full of tips and encouragement to help you feel empowered and ready for adventure. Key Takeaways: Start Small: Ease into traveling by beginning with short, local trips and single-night stays. This helps both you and your children get comfortable with the travel experience before tackling larger trips. Prepare with Social Stories: Create a social story for your child, showing pictures of the trip destination, transportation, and activities to reduce anxiety and provide a sense of familiarity. Routine is Key: Establish a vacation routine similar to what your children are used to at home. Balance high-energy activities with downtime to avoid sensory overload. Special Accommodations: Many resorts and travel services, like Royal Caribbean cruises and Beaches resorts, offer special accommodations for families with neurodivergent children. Take advantage of these options to make your trip more manageable. Empower Yourself as a Parent: You are already an advocate for your child in everyday life—extend that advocacy to travel by starting small and celebrating each victory along the way. Just get started, and you'll find travel becomes easier with experience. Connect with Jenifer Breaux: Instagram: @iamjeniferbreaux Website: https://www.iamjeniferbreaux.com/ Resources Mentioned: Visit thefeastlife.me/blog/51 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.

    39 min
  8. #99: The Spicy Child with Mary Van Geffen

    11/03/2025

    #99: The Spicy Child with Mary Van Geffen

    Got a big-feeling, big-opinion, bigger-than-life kid? 👀 This episode with parenting coach and author Mary Van Geffen will feel like a deep exhale. We talk about spicy children (and spicy moms!), nervous system tools, real repair, and why you are not failing—your child is your curriculum. 5 Key Takeaways Redefine “Good Mom” A “good mom” isn’t measured by a child’s mood or compliance. It’s defined by how you show up—calm, kind, and firm—even when the socks have seams and the schedule’s tight. Your Child Isn’t the Enemy—They’re the Curriculum Spicy kids invite us into deeper spiritual and personal growth. Instead of seeing defiance as a battle to win, view it as a practice of identity, unconditional love, and leadership. The Conscious Pause Changes Everything Lengthen the gap between the trigger and your response. Put a hand on your heart and belly, breathe, and ask: “Who is upset here?” Regulate first; then lead. Repair Builds Real Connection Skip the “but you…” Add clarity instead: name what you did, name the impact, and share how you’ll do it differently next time. Invite their perspective: “What was that like for you?” Name the Spice—Then Celebrate It Make a running list of what’s beautiful about your spicy one (persistence, justice, creativity, voice!). Mirror those specifics back daily. Specific affirmation fuels cooperation and attachment. Tools & Practices Mentioned Conscious Pause: slow your response; regulate before you speak. Embodied Archetype: choose your “queen/Wonder Woman/Glinda” energy to model calm leadership. Specific Affirmations: reflect concrete strengths (“You stuck with that puzzle for 15 minutes—serious grit.”). Family Culture Cues: preview expectations (“At dinner we speak life over each other.”). Resources Mentioned: Visit thefeastlife.me/blog/99 for additional resources and links Parenting a Spicy One by Mary Van Geffen (pre-order bonuses include Meltdown Meditations for Moms and Affirming Your Spicy One masterclass).  Repair PDF: Mary’s step-by-step repair guide  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.

    51 min

Trailer

5
out of 5
76 Ratings

About

Welcome to 'The Homeschool Feast' 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 thehomeschoolfeast.com

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