In this episode of Busy House, Happy Home, I’m joined by my darling husband, Simon, for an honest conversation about marriage, parenting and what it really means to create a happy home.

We talk about why we believe a happy marriage sits at the heart of family life, and the importance of honesty, trust, communication and humour. We share how not letting small grievances fester, working as a team, and playing to each other’s strengths has helped us build a calm and supportive home.

We also talk about parenting at every stage, from young children to teenagers. We discuss routines, boundaries, screen time, encouraging hobbies and passions, and creating a safe space where children feel able to talk openly without judgement.

Simon also shares his experience of weight loss and lifestyle changes, how it has affected his energy and health, and why balance and movement matter.

It’s a thoughtful, open conversation about family life, teamwork, and the everyday choices that help make a house feel like a home.

In This Episode, We Talk About:

– What a happy home really means to us

– Why a strong marriage matters

– Honesty, trust and communication

– Not letting issues fester

– Humour and teamwork

– Parenting young children and the importance of routine

– Parenting teenagers, boundaries and screen time

– Encouraging hobbies and passions

– Creating a safe space for honest conversations

– Weight loss, health and lifestyle changes

– Playing to each other’s strengths

– Filming family life online and setting boundaries

Links & Resources Mentioned:

Online courses including sourdough, running an efficient home, batch cooking and basic sewing: https://www.askcharlie.how

Get in Touch:

I’d love to hear from you.

If you have a question, a topic you’d like me to cover, or somebody you’d love me to speak to on the podcast, please do get in touch.

Email: [email protected]

Follow & Subscribe

If you’re listening on a podcast app, please do follow Busy House, Happy Home and add it to your library.

Thank you so much for being here, and for listening.

Love, Charlie x

Thank you for listening to Busy House, Happy Home - a place for gentle conversations about everyday life at home.

This podcast is shaped by the questions and conversations shared by its listeners, so please do get in touch if there’s something you’d like Charlie to talk about. You can reach her at [email protected].

For more from Charlie, including books, seasonal guides, and her Members Club, as well as lifestyle and homeware, you can visit askcharlie.how.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Busy House, Happy Home, I begin by reading an extract from my book, Through the Seasons, focusing on February and the idea of everyday love - the small, thoughtful touches that make home feel comforting in the final stretch of winter.

I’m then joined by the wonderful Monica from The Monica Way for a heartfelt and honest conversation about motherhood, slowing down, setting boundaries after birth, and trusting your instincts as a parent. We talk openly about postpartum life, reframing difficult seasons, deciding whether or not to have children, and why there is never a “perfect” time.

It’s a gentle, reassuring conversation about love in all its forms - love for our homes, our families, ourselves, and the season we are in.

– February as a month of everyday love

– A reading from Through the Seasons and embracing winter’s final weeks

– Reframing difficult seasons and finding softness in everyday life

– Motherhood, hormones, sleep deprivation and self-compassion

– Creating boundaries in the early weeks after having a baby

– Letting go of routines and trusting your instincts

– Deciding if or when to have children

– Relationships, communication and teamwork after becoming parents

– Slowing down and allowing life to unfold naturally

Through the Seasons is now back in stock and available to order.

https://www.askcharlie.how/shop/p/through-the-seasons-with-ask-charlie

Monica – The Monica Way

https://themonicaway.co.uk/ 

https://millsandbrown.uk/

Mother to Aurelia, creator, and co-founder of Mills & Brown, known for beautifully made handbags and accessories designed to be both practical and elegant.

Get in Touch:

I’d love to hear from you.

If you have a question, a topic you’d like me to cover, or somebody you’d love me to speak to on the podcast, please do get in touch.

Email: [email protected]

If you’re listening on a podcast app, please do follow Busy House, Happy Home and add it to your library.

And if you’re watching on YouTube, I’d love it if you’d subscribe there too. It really does make such a difference and allows me to keep creating and sharing more content with you.

Thank you so much for being here, and for listening.

Love, Charlie x

Thank you for listening to Busy House, Happy Home - a place for gentle conversations about everyday life at home.

This podcast is shaped by the questions and conversations shared by its listeners, so please do get in touch if there’s something you’d like Charlie to talk about. You can reach her at [email protected].

For more from Charlie, including books, seasonal guides, and her Members Club, as well as lifestyle and homeware, you can visit askcharlie.how.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Busy House, Happy Home.

Today I’m joined by Charlotte Clark, a personal stylist and coach, for a really enjoyable and honest conversation about style, confidence, and dressing for real life.

Charlotte shares how her work combines personal styling and coaching, and why the two are so closely linked. We talk about how what we wear can influence how confident we feel, how we carry ourselves, and how we show up, whether that’s at work, at home, or simply going about our day.

We discuss wardrobe edits and why they are not about throwing everything away and starting again, but about understanding what suits you, what you actually wear, and how to make the most of what you already have. Charlotte talks about buying once and buying well, avoiding overwhelm, and how accessories, colour and a few thoughtful pieces can completely change how an outfit feels.

We also talk about dressing through different stages of life, including returning to work, menopause, changing bodies, and the reality of busy days where comfort and practicality matter just as much as style.

Charlotte shares stories from her work that show how deeply personal clothing can be, and how confidence is often tied to life experiences, not trends.

Charlotte also opens up about her own journey, including her experience with breast cancer at a young age, and how that shaped her outlook, her career path, and her desire to help others feel confident, supported and seen. We talk about vulnerability, empathy, and how helping people feel good in themselves often goes far beyond clothes alone.

This episode is a gentle, thoughtful conversation about confidence, self-belief, and finding what works for you, now, not who you used to be or who you think you should be.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• Why Charlotte combines styling and coaching
• How clothes affect confidence and presence
• What wardrobe edits really involve
• Buying less and choosing better
• Accessories, colour and simple outfit changes
• Dressing through menopause and body changes
• Returning to work and rebuilding confidence
• Charlotte’s personal journey and career shift
• Why empathy and vulnerability matter

Links & Resources Mentioned:

Charlotte Clark Style and Coaching

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlotteclarkstyle/ 

Website: https://www.charlotteclarkcoaching.com/

Ask Charlie online courses: Available via my website in the Online Courses section

https://www.askcharlie.how

(Ad/Own Brand)

Thank you for listening to Busy House, Happy Home - a place for gentle conversations about everyday life at home.

This podcast is shaped by the questions and conversations shared by its listeners, so please do get in touch if there’s something you’d like Charlie to talk about. You can reach her at [email protected].

For more from Charlie, including books, seasonal guides, and her Members Club, as well as lifestyle and homeware, you can visit askcharlie.how.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Busy House, Happy Home.

I’m so pleased to be back, and I couldn’t think of a more fitting first guest for this season than Eddie - somebody I’ve wanted to sit down and speak to on this podcast for years.

In this episode, Eddie and I talk openly about men’s mental health, vulnerability, and the importance of having safe spaces where men and boys can feel heard, supported, and understood. Eddie shares his journey from the wellness world into men’s work, how men’s circles can help, and why shared experience (rather than simply “talking more”) can be the key to authentic connection.

We also discuss how Eddie works with boys in a way that feels natural and non-confrontational - using movement as a healthy distraction, and creating calm, safety and confidence through pattern-based practices. This is something I’ve seen first-hand with my own boys, and I’m so grateful for the impact he’s had.

It’s a conversation about real life - the pressures men carry, why people can feel so alone, and how asking for support (and finding community) can make all the difference.

If this episode helps even one person feel less alone, or encourages them to reach out and speak to someone, then it’s been worth having.

• Why I wanted Eddie as my first guest of the season
• What men’s circles are (and why safe spaces matter)
• Why “talking” isn’t always accessible - and what helps instead
• How Eddie supports boys using movement, confidence-building and calm
• The power of authentic connection and shared experience
• Advice for anyone struggling and looking for support

I’ll leave Eddie’s links here so you can get in touch:

https://www.instagram.com/alchemisewitheddie/

How to Do EFT Tapping (Beginner's Guide) - Alchemise with Eddie: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNBrky0Z0Os

Available via my website in the Online Courses section:

https://www.askcharlie.how (Ad/Own Brand)

I’d love to hear from you.

If you have a question, a topic you’d like me to cover, or somebody you’d love me to speak to on the podcast, please do get in touch.

Email: [email protected]

If you’re listening on a podcast app, please do follow Busy House, Happy Home and add it to your library.

And if you’re watching on YouTube, I’d love it if you’d subscribe there too. It really does make such a difference and allows me to keep creating and sharing more content with you.

Thank you so much for being here, and for listening.

Love, Charlie x

Thank you for listening to Busy House, Happy Home - a place for gentle conversations about everyday life at home.

This podcast is shaped by the questions and conversations shared by its listeners, so please do get in touch if there’s something you’d like Charlie to talk about. You can reach her at [email protected].

For more from Charlie, including books, seasonal guides, and her Members Club, as well as lifestyle and homeware, you can visit askcharlie.how.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Busy House, Happy Home.

It feels so lovely to be back with the podcast, and I couldn’t think of a nicer way to begin Season 7 than by sharing an extract from my book, Through the Seasons.

In this episode, I read from the winter section of the book, followed by the January chapter, A Gentle Reset. Winter is a season I truly cherish - not in spite of its starkness, but because of it. It’s a time for stillness, warmth, reflection, and finding comfort in simple, timeless rituals at home.

January, in particular, feels like a quiet pause after the bustle of December. A month for restoring order gently, nourishing ourselves well, and easing into a new rhythm - without pressure or lofty resolutions. Just small, grounding acts of care that help us feel calm and settled again.

I also share a little about why the podcast has been on pause, why now feels like the right time to return, and how I see this season of the podcast unfolding - gently, intuitively, and in a way that feels right.

This episode is perfect to listen to while you’re pottering at home, cooking, walking, or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• A winter reading from Through the Seasons
• January reflections and a gentle reset for the new year
• Thoughts on slowing down, cosiness, and seasonal living
• Why the podcast is returning now
• What to expect from Busy House, Happy Home going forward

Links & Resources Mentioned

• My book: Through the Seasons - currently available for pre-order - https://www.askcharlie.how/shop/p/through-the-seasons-with-ask-charlie (Ad/Own Brand)
• Online courses: Available via my website in the Online Courses section (Cooking, batch cooking, Aga cooking, sewing, seasonal living and homemaking)

You can find everything here:

https://www.askcharlie.how (Ad/Own Brand)

Get in Touch

I’d love to hear from you.

If you have a question, a topic you’d like me to cover, or if you’d like to be part of a future conversation on the podcast, please do get in touch.

Email: [email protected]

You can also leave a comment on YouTube or message me there.

Listen & Watch

This episode is also available to watch in video form over on my YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@ask.charlie 

Follow & Subscribe

If you’re listening on a podcast app, please do follow Busy House, Happy Home and add it to your library.

And if you’re watching on YouTube, I’d love it if you’d subscribe there too.

It really does make such a difference and allows me to keep creating and sharing more content with you.

Thank you so much for being here, and for listening.

Love, Charlie x

Thank you for listening to Busy House, Happy Home - a place for gentle conversations about everyday life at home.

This podcast is shaped by the questions and conversations shared by its listeners, so please do get in touch if there’s something you’d like Charlie to talk about. You can reach her at [email protected].

For more from Charlie, including books, seasonal guides, and her Members Club, as well as lifestyle and homeware, you can visit askcharlie.how.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part Two of our conversation with the amazing Niamh from The Wellness Clinic, we delve into mindfulness, stress management, and the art of slow living. Discover what it takes to maintain balance, stay regulated, identify stressors and implement effective solutions. It's essential to not only eliminate triggers but also understand why they exist. From navigating busy schedules to parenting in isolation, everyday strategies are crucial for self-care and meeting the needs of both ourselves and our loved ones.

🤸‍♂️Where to find Niamh:

www.thewellnessclinic.ie  

Niahm on Instagram

✨BECOME A MEMBER OF ASK CHARLIE MEMBERS CLUB✨

Find out more about Ask Charlie:

🎥 Ask Charlie on YouTube

✨Ask Charlie on Tik Tok 

🧺 www.askcharlie.how

📸 Ask Charlie on Instagram- daily windows into life in the English countryside

🍋 Learn more about Charlie's online courses!

Thank you for listening to Busy House, Happy Home - a place for gentle conversations about everyday life at home.

This podcast is shaped by the questions and conversations shared by its listeners, so please do get in touch if there’s something you’d like Charlie to talk about. You can reach her at [email protected].

For more from Charlie, including books, seasonal guides, and her Members Club, as well as lifestyle and homeware, you can visit askcharlie.how.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Niamh O’Connell is passionate about guiding you through your wellness journey, meeting you where you are and fostering healthy habits while steering clear of mindless routines that hinder progress. Achieving optimal health and wellbeing involves delving into the complexities of individual challenges and getting to the root of the problem. Tune in for insights that inspire positive changes tailored specifically for you!

🤸‍♂️Where to find Niamh:

www.thewellnessclinic.ie  

Niahm on Instagram

Facebook: The Wellness Clinic Ireland

Kindle books:

How to Sleep (when it doesn’t come easily)

How to Relax (when you have too much to do) 

✨BECOME A MEMBER OF ASK CHARLIE MEMBERS CLUB✨

Find out more about Ask Charlie:

🎥 Ask Charlie on YouTube

✨Ask Charlie on Tik Tok 

🧺 www.askcharlie.how

📸 Ask Charlie on Instagram- daily windows into life in the English countryside

🍋 Learn more about Charlie's online courses!

Thank you for listening to Busy House, Happy Home - a place for gentle conversations about everyday life at home.

This podcast is shaped by the questions and conversations shared by its listeners, so please do get in touch if there’s something you’d like Charlie to talk about. You can reach her at [email protected].

For more from Charlie, including books, seasonal guides, and her Members Club, as well as lifestyle and homeware, you can visit askcharlie.how.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's tremendous power in crafting homes that are not just aesthetically pleasing but also align with the dynamics of life and its ever-changing nature. Having a sanctuary to retreat to amidst the chaos of the world is incredibly important. In a world often portrayed by picture-perfect magazine homes, Laura focuses on designing spaces that cater to the needs of "normal" people navigating family life—where the goal might simply be to drain the peas! Charlie adds her insights from years of managing building projects, emphasising the value of accepting gradual progress and prioritizing durability.

🏡Where to find Laura Simpkins: 

Laura on Instagram 

Laura on Youtube

✨BECOME A MEMBER OF ASK CHARLIE MEMBERS CLUB✨

Find out more about Ask Charlie:

🎥 Ask Charlie on YouTube

✨Ask Charlie on Tik Tok 

🧺 www.askcharlie.how

📸 Ask Charlie on Instagram- daily windows into life in the English countryside

🍋 Learn more about Charlie's online courses!

Thank you for listening to Busy House, Happy Home - a place for gentle conversations about everyday life at home.

This podcast is shaped by the questions and conversations shared by its listeners, so please do get in touch if there’s something you’d like Charlie to talk about. You can reach her at [email protected].

For more from Charlie, including books, seasonal guides, and her Members Club, as well as lifestyle and homeware, you can visit askcharlie.how.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Breaking free from the vicious cycle of our thoughts and emotions and understanding our internal workings is essential for reclaiming control of our lives and returning from dark places. Letting go allows us to find the inner strength to confront life's challenges and allow the dust to settle. Recognising the extent to which we absorb external influences and the value of honest conversations are crucial for honouring ourselves and addressing our true needs. Jessie offers insightful perspectives and inspiring steps towards improving mental health.

🧺Where to find Jessie:

whatmovesyouwithjessie.com

Find out more about Ask Charlie:

🎥 Ask Charlie on YouTube

✨Ask Charlie on Tik Tok 

🧺 www.askcharlie.how

📸 Ask Charlie on Instagram- daily windows into life in the English countryside

🍋 Learn more about Charlie's online courses!

Thank you for listening to Busy House, Happy Home - a place for gentle conversations about everyday life at home.

This podcast is shaped by the questions and conversations shared by its listeners, so please do get in touch if there’s something you’d like Charlie to talk about. You can reach her at [email protected].

For more from Charlie, including books, seasonal guides, and her Members Club, as well as lifestyle and homeware, you can visit askcharlie.how.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Memories and stories of our loved ones are treasures that offer invaluable gifts to future generations. James specialises in capturing these memories through in-depth interviews, ensuring that every detail, from beloved memories and powerful stories, anecdotes and jokes to everything in between, is preserved and shared.

Contact James now and receive 10% off your cherished memory preservation.

Where to find James:

www.lifeinterview.co.uk

Life Interview on Instagram

Find out more about Ask Charlie:

🎥 Ask Charlie on YouTube

✨Ask Charlie on Tik Tok 

🧺 www.askcharlie.how

📸 Ask Charlie on Instagram- daily windows into life in the English countryside

🍋 Learn more about Charlie's online courses!

Thank you for listening to Busy House, Happy Home - a place for gentle conversations about everyday life at home.

This podcast is shaped by the questions and conversations shared by its listeners, so please do get in touch if there’s something you’d like Charlie to talk about. You can reach her at [email protected].

For more from Charlie, including books, seasonal guides, and her Members Club, as well as lifestyle and homeware, you can visit askcharlie.how.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.