In this episode, I'm sharing the story of how Home Cooked Stories came to be. It's a little peek behind the mic that I've wanted to share since the very beginning. With the year coming to a close, it felt like a good opportunity to slow down, reflect, and talk about the moments (big and small) that inspired this podcast. 

I chat about: 

• Growing up in Belgium and how food first became a real sensory experience for me
• The ways my mom shaped my love of cooking and family traditions
• A moment in the ICU last year that changed how I think about recipes and memory
• What I hope this space becomes for all of us moving forward 
• What's to come in 2026

If you're craving a little pause from the holiday rush and want a reminder that the small moments really matter, this one's for you. 

Thank you for being here and listening. And if you've enjoyed the show, I'd love it if you hit follow or left a quick rating. It helps more people find this community. 

Connect with me on Instagram @juliathehomecook.

In this episode, I'm sharing how a once-in-a-lifetime Andrea Bocelli concert inspired me to bring more beauty, presence, and delight into the everyday — even on a chaotic Monday night.

Inspired by the Italian idea of La Dolce Vita, we can create small, intentional rituals that elevate the most ordinary moments at home. From turning on music while cooking to lighting a simple candle at dinner, I'll walk you through the practical ways I implement this into my weeknight routine - like making a pasta dinner from a jar of marinara sauce.

Whether you’re juggling dinner, homework, and overflowing laundry baskets or just craving a more meaningful rhythm to your evenings, this conversation invites you to pause, savor, and create micro-moments of joy in your kitchen.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How a Bocelli concert sparked reflections on beauty and everyday magic
• What La Dolce Vita really means — and how to apply it to your real life
• Simple rituals that instantly shift the mood of your home
• How music, candles, and even a tiny glass of wine can transform a Monday night
• Ways to make dinner feel just a touch more special (no extra effort required)

Practical ideas you can try tonight:

• Turn on an Italian dinner playlist while you cook
• Light a candle or dim the lights for atmosphere
• Pour a small glass of your favorite beverage
• Slow down and notice one tiny detail: a smell, a sound, a texture
• Add an elevated touch to the table — cloth napkins, candlesticks, or intentional “table topics”

Why it matters

Life isn’t only made of cinematic moments — but everyday beauty is always possible with a little intention. This episode is your reminder that even spaghetti from a jar can feel special when the mood is right.

Follow on Instagram @juliathehomecook for behind-the-scenes kitchen moments, season inspiration, and travels. 

Also, be sure to rate, review, and subscribe! It helps others discover these stories and build our community.

Cozy up to fall with me, as the weather gets chilly, and discover how to bring more leafy greens into our everyday meals. From collards and kale to leeks and Swiss chard, notice how nature gives us a bounty of greens right when we’re craving comfort food most. And I'm sharing easy, low-effort ways to fit them naturally into what you’re already cooking.

I'll walk you through approachable ideas for adding greens to soups, pastas, eggs, and even snacks — without a total meal plan overhaul. You’ll hear how my own kitchen mishap with Swiss chard turned into a lesson on practicality, and how small, simple shifts (not big changes) are often the most sustainable way to eat well in real life.

In This Episode:

• How fall naturally offers balance with hearty comfort foods and fresh greens
• A funny kitchen story that led to a lesson in realistic meal planning
• Easy ways to add greens into:
  •  Soups and stews (think minestrone, Italian wedding soup, and white beans)
  • Breakfasts and eggs (frittatas, omelets, or simple scrambles)
  • Pastas and sauces (store-bought or homemade)
• Kale as a side or snack (yes, even for kids!)
• Why seasonal produce makes eating well more affordable and flavorful
• The mindset shift that turns “eating healthy” into something effortless

Takeaway:

Eating more greens this season doesn’t have to mean more effort — it’s about small choices that fit your rhythm, your kitchen, and your family’s routine.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Marcella Hazan’s Swiss Chard Torte (recipe inspiration)
• Pardon Your French blog — Creamy Leek and Potato Soup recipe
• Ina Garten’s Italian Wedding Soup

Connect with Julia:

Follow along on Instagram @juliathehomecook for behind-the-scenes kitchen moments, seasonal inspiration, and more stories about food, travel, and the joy of cooking in real life.

If You Liked This Episode:

You might also enjoy Episode 1: Getting Back to Basics with Home Cooked Meals featuring Sheela Prakash.

A solo trip to a stunning Asheville flower farm turns into a lesson about creativity and curiosity.

In this episode, I'm giving you the scoop on attending a floral design workshop in Asheville - reminding me that trying new things doesn't have to come with pressure or perfection. 

Get ready to rediscover your creative side, embrace hobbies as an adult, and find empowerment in solo experiences. Whether you've been wanting to sign-up for a class, explore a new interest, or simply take time for personal reflection, this episode is your invitation to go for it.

If a hands on workshop at a flower farm sounds appealing to you, I’d highly recommend Flourish Flower Farm in Asheville, NC. Visit their website for the latest details. I also have a copy of Niki Irving's book, for those of you interested in growing your own flowers.

Let's Connect! 

1. Follow and subscribe to the podcast, so you don't miss more episodes ahead!

2. If today's episode inspired you, share it with someone you know that would like to hear it as well.  

3. Follow me on Instagram @juliathehomecook

Bake along with me this fall as I share three cozy, foolproof breads — a classic white loaf, rustic focaccia, and soft pitas — that anyone can make, no experience needed.

If you’ve been wanting to bake bread but didn’t know where to start, this is your invitation to slow down, warm up the kitchen, and enjoy something homemade this season.

Recipes From the Episode

King Arthur's English Muffin Toasting Bread

Alexandra's Kitchen: Overnight, Refrigerator Focaccia

For the pita pockets recipe: Samin Nosrat's cookbook Good Things

Links & Resources:

• Connect with me on Instagram @juliathehomecook
• Share your bread creations by tagging me — I love seeing what you’re baking!
• Subscribe to the podcast, so you don’t miss more episodes ahead.

Join me and dive into the best parts of traveling with friends - from great food to deep conversation and moments of self-care sprinkled in between. I'm dishing out the details on where we enjoyed morning pastries as well as one-of-a-kind massages. I'm keeping those clothes stretchy to make room for all the good eats and laughter along the way. Let's take a minute to slow down and remind ourselves how much joy comes from savoring food and friendship together, and why it's important to prioritize these types of trips.

In this episode, you'll discover: 

• Must-try foodie finds in Chicago
• How a trip with friends can spark laughter, connection, and self-discovery
• Practical reminders to carve out time for yourself, even in a busy season of life

If you're looking for Chicago travel inspiration, foodie recommendations, or encouragement to plan your own friends' getaway, this episode is for you! 

Connect With Me:

Have a story idea, question, or feedback on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or message me on Instagram @juliathehomecook. 

I'm taking you beyond the food that's on our plate in this two-part mini-series highlighting my recent trip to Chicago. We're going to uncover how food, travel, and friendships intertwine - set against the backdrop of the Windy City. This trip was about more than just eating; it centered around moments of connection, laughter, and rekindling a part of ourselves that may not show up in our daily routines. 

We're exploring the profound impact of reconnecting with friends through travel - how shared adventures strengthen bonds, rejuvenate relationships, and remind us the importance of slowing down together. You'll hear personal reflections along the way, travel takeaways, and tips for planning your own trip with friends. 

Whether you're dreaming of a getaway to Chicago or simply craving inspiration for deeper connection with your people, this episode is for you - blending food, friendship, and lifestyle elements that go beyond the table. 

What you'll learn in this episode: 

• Why these trips with friends are essential
• How food and travel experiences can spark connection 
• Practical tips for planning a trip with friends

Connect With Me: 

Have a story idea, question, or feedback on the podcast? I'd love to hear from you. Send an email to [email protected]. 

Instagram: @juliathehomecook

Tips to Help Parents Focus Less on Perfect Lunches and More on Happy Kids

I don't recall my parents putting a whole lot of thought or effort into making my school lunch each day - a sandwich, chips, maybe a fruit, perhaps a sweet treat, and a Capri Sun (or Sunny D). Yet, I think there's a lot more pressure for today's parents wrapped up in providing school lunch. Is it nutritious? Is it environmentally friendly? Will my kids even eat it? How can I create more variety? If packing school lunch has you stressed or feeling uninspired, then tune into today's episode. My guest, Meghan Splawn, is here to help us shift our mindset and make mornings easier. Instead of obsessing over the perfect bento box or Pinterest-worthy ideas, we'll talk about how to let go of perfection and focus on what really matters - that your kids are fed and have enough fuel to get through their day.

In this episode, we'll explore why your mindset for school lunch is just as important as what you pack. You'll hear practical, stress-free lunch strategies to save time, reduce pressure, and even bring a little joy back to your morning routines.

What You'll Learn In This Episode: 

• How a school lunch mindset can make mornings and meal prep more enjoyable
• Stress-free lunch tips for busy parents
• Lunch ideas and meal packing tips that work all week
• Why "good-enough" lunches are a job well done

Whether you're a parent who loves planning meals or someone who throws sandwiches together five minutes before it's time to go to school, this episode will give you a fresh perspective - and permission to make lunch packing easier on yourself. 

Links and Resources:

Connect with me on Instagram: @juliathehomecook
Send me an email: [email protected]

Connect with my guest Meghan Splawn
Instagram: @meghan_splawn
Substack: Stir and Scribble and Meghan's Recent Post on School Lunch
Didn't I Just Feed You (podcast)

The sandwich cutter and sealer I use (for crustless sandwiches)

The air fryer Meghan recommends is no longer being made, but this one is very similar and well reviewed.

If these school lunch tips for parents helped you, share this episode with a friend and subscribe for more conversations like this! 

Whether you love the feeling of picking out ripe tomatoes or just want to feel more connected to your food, this episode’s for you! I’m talking with Courtney Spear, market manager for the Davidson Farmers Market in NC and owner of the catering company Courtney Cooks. I loved this conversation with her! Together, we’re uncovering the deep sense of community the farmers market creates. 

These delectable spaces are so much more than just places to buy groceries—they’re where local food and meaningful relationships come together. 

Since the pandemic, the Davidson Farmers Market has seen real market growth, with more people seeking seasonal produce, fresh ingredients, and connection. We talk about how that shift has impacted both shoppers and farmers—and why supporting local really matters.

Courtney talks about the challenges local farmers are facing, and we share how shopping seasonally can totally change the way you cook at home. Plus, we share why getting kids involved in the farmers market experience can spark a lifelong appreciation for good food. 

Join me as we celebrate the beauty and community of local farmers markets. I hope you enjoy this one!

In this episode, we chat about:

• How farmers markets help build strong, local communities
• The rise in market growth and what it means for farmers
• The value of buying and eating seasonal produce
• Why it’s important to support local growers and food makers
• The connection between local food, sustainability, and cooking habits
• What we can learn from farmer stories and real-life challenges
• Easy ways to engage kids in food education at the farmers market
• Creative inspiration for cooking with whatever’s fresh each week

References from Today's Episode:

Davidson Farmers Market Website

Davidson Farmers Market on Instagram

Courtney Spear's Catering Company - Courtney Cooks

Connect with Me: 
Have a story idea, question, or feedback on the podcast? I'd love to hear from you. Send an email to [email protected]. 

Instagram: @juliathehomecook
Website: www.homecookedstories.com 

Thinking about a family trip to Maine? For those of you that crave culinary adventures when you travel, but also need to keep it family friendly, I've got you covered! In this episode, I'm sharing the itinerary and highlights of our unforgettable vacation to Portland, Maine. You'll hear tips for traveling with kids, finding family-friendly activities, and discovering the local food scene. 

From tasting fresh lobster (that we caught ourselves) to exploring Peak's Island, I'm reflecting on how food, fun, and a little spontaneity can turn travel into lasting memories. 

Perfect for parents, foodies, and travel lovers alike - this episode brings you practical travel tips and recommendations with a side of heartfelt storytelling. 

Buckle that seatbelt, and let's go!

What You'll Learn: 

• How to plan a kid-friendly trip to Portland, Maine
• Why culinary experiences elevate family travel
• The impact great accommodations can have on your trip
• What are the "must-do's" during your visit

Enjoyed this episode?
If this story inspired your next family adventure or gave you helpful travel tips, please take a moment to rate and review the show. I'd greatly appreciate it! Your feedback makes the show better and helps other listeners discover these stories that celebrate food, family, and travel. Thanks for being a part of the journey. I'm glad you're here!