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The Feast LifeAuthor: thefeastlife.me
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 Language: en Genres: Education, Kids & Family, Parenting, Self-Improvement Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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#91: Come On Home — Building a Strong, Grace-Filled Family with Jessica Smartt
Tuesday, 2 September, 2025
What does it really mean to build a strong family—not a perfect one, but one built on loyalty, love, and lasting connection? In this heartfelt conversation, Julie Ross sits down with author, homeschool mom, and family culture enthusiast Jessica Smartt to discuss her latest book, Come On Home: A Grace-Filled Guide to Raising a Family Who Loves (and Likes) Each Other. Jessica opens up about her own journey as a mom of three, living on a multigenerational farm in North Carolina, and how her own childhood and faith inspired the values she now instills in her kids. Together, Julie and Jessica explore the messiness and magic of building a home where relationships flourish—even when life is loud, the dishes are stacked high, and technology threatens connection. Key Takeaways: A Strong Family ≠ A Perfect Family A strong family is built not in the absence of conflict, but through grace, loyalty, and repair. Jessica shares how family strength often emerges from facing hard things together and choosing to stay connected through it all. Traditions, Time, and Togetherness Matter Simple family rituals—whether cinnamon rolls on Christmas or Smart Family Day adventures—form the foundation of belonging. Jessica reminds us that connection is found in the small, repeated moments that become cherished memories. Homeschooling as a Gift of Time and Relationship Jessica encourages parents not to fear the high school years, but to embrace them as a season of fruit. Homeschooling has allowed her to stay closely connected to her teens, who are balancing sports, work, and growing independence. You Can Be the First Link in the Chain If you didn’t grow up in a close or healthy family, you can start one. Jessica shares practical encouragement for parents longing for deep connection but lacking a generational example. God meets us in our gaps and gives grace for the work of legacy-building. Do the Next Right Thing Overwhelmed by the vision of a strong family? Start small. Whether it's cleaning the kitchen, planning a meal, or putting away your phone during car rides—simple, consistent steps rooted in love and prayer matter more than perfection. Resources Mentioned: Visit thefeastlife.me/blog/91 for additional resources and links Website: https://jessicasmartt.com/ Instagram: @jessica.smartt Facebook: @SmarterEachDay Podcast: The Homeschool Solutions Show Pre-order Bonus: Pre-order Come On Home and get access to Jessica’s exclusive Q&A Zoom party. Come in your pajamas, bring your favorite drink, and connect with Jessica and other moms who are in the trenches of building strong, grace-filled homes. 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.
