Sign inOpen the app
Artwork for Busy House, Happy Home
Leisure

Busy House, Happy Home

Charlie Gray

Busy House, Happy Home is a podcast for anyone navigating a full, busy life at home and craving a calmer, more joyful way of living.


Join Charlie as she shares practical wisdom, thoughtful reflections, and honest conversations about home life - from routines and organisation to food, family, and the rhythms of everyday living.


This podcast isn’t about perfect homes or getting everything right. It’s about sharing ideas, asking questions, learning together, and finding support in the midst of real life.


With occasional help from trusted expert guests, Charlie offers gentle guidance to help you create a home that supports you, rather than overwhelms you.


Because even in the middle of a busy house, a happy home is something we can gently work towards.


Listeners are encouraged to get involved, ask questions, and help shape the conversations, so please reach out to Charlie at hello@askcharlie.how.

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

SubscribeListen in podnodRSS feedShow website
  • 20 episodes
  • Updated March 18

Episodes20

Newest first
  • February 25 · 31 min

    Mindset Shifts That Make Everyday Life Easier

    In today’s solo episode of Busy House Happy Home, I wanted to sit down with you for a quiet chat about mindset and the simple, everyday reframes that can change how life feels. We all have jobs we don’t necessarily want to do. The laundry that never ends, the bed that needs changing, the dusting you keep putting off. And yet, so often, it isn’t the task itself that drains us, it’s the story we tell ourselves while we’re doing it. I share how I try to approach the dull, repetitive bits with a gracious heart, and how a small shift from “I have to” to “I get to” can soften the whole day. Sometimes that looks like saving a treat for the jobs I don’t love, a favourite podcast, an audiobook, a good song turned up loud enough to dance around the kitchen. But we also go deeper than housework. I talk about identity, and how our sense of self can wobble through different seasons of life, especially as children grow and need us in new ways. I share parts of my own story: the confidence I didn’t have, the hard chapters, the long road of showing up, and the way purpose and determination can be built slowly, step by step. If you’re feeling stuck in a rut, a relationship, a job, or simply a low patch, I hope this episode reminds you that change is possible. Not always instantly, and not always easily, but gently, bravely, and one choice at a time. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed or behind, I hope this feels like a steady hand on your shoulder - a reminder that you’re not alone, and you can start again today. Love, Charlie x Mel Robbins 5 Second Rule / “5-4-3-2-1” — https://www.melrobbins.com Ask Charlie — https://www.askcharlie.how Substack — https://substack.com/@askcharliehow Contact: hello@askcharlie.how If you’d like more gentle chats like this, alongside practical, real-life homemaking, you can follow Busy House Happy Home wherever you listen to podcasts, and subscribe on YouTube for the video episodes too. It really does help more than you know, especially in these early growing days. 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 hello@askcharlie.how. 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.

  • May 15, 2024 · 36 min

    Crafting Your Personalised Wellness Plan To Thrive, Not Wilt, with Niamh from The Wellness Clinic - Part Two

    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 hello@askcharlie.how. 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.

  • May 8, 2024 · 43 min

    PART 1: Crafting Your Personalised Wellness Plan To Thrive, Not Wilt, with Niamh from The Wellness Clinic

    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 hello@askcharlie.how. 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.

  • Apr 10, 2024 · 52 min

    Spaces Designed to be Lived in with Architect Laura Simpkins

    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 hello@askcharlie.how. 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.

  • Apr 3, 2024 · 53 min

    Sharing Secrets and Healing Trauma with Jessie from the What Moves You Podcast

    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 hello@askcharlie.how. 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.

  • Mar 28, 2024 · 25 min

    Preserving Memories with James Burridge

    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 hello@askcharlie.how. 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.

  • Feb 28, 2024 · 41 min

    Tending to your garden with Dolly Waddell

    Dolly is a powerhouse of inspiration not only in business but also in parenting! How to go against culture that makes us feel like we have no choice? How to choose business over fullness? Getting uncomfortable and tackling things head on is very important and also apply to parenting. It is so important to not fall into the victim trap and build self awareness. Rising humans that will be great contributors to society is a challenge, but we can inspire and support each other! And maybe sometimes treat kids like cats!? Where to find Dolly: https://www.dollywaddell.com/ The Extra-Ordinary Leaders Podcast Dolly 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 hello@askcharlie.how. 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.

  • Feb 21, 2024 · 37 min

    Growing Small Business Confidently with Priscilla Pollara

    Being seen and heard is a key to growing a small business! Priscilla shares her best tips and tricks and emphasises the value of embracing mistakes along the way, whilst I discuss maintaining the 'social' in social media and its indispensable role in business success. The main message of this episode is the key and magic of showing up, no matter what you do! 🗃️ Where to find Priscilla: Priscilla on Instagram www.toptrick.co.uk/ 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 hello@askcharlie.how. 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.

  • Feb 14, 2024 · 38 min

    Finding your voice with Milly Voice - Season 6 Premiere!

    Milly shares how she tackles hard situations through projects! In her case that’s running, which is also her meditation. Milly also unlocks the power of confidence and its pivotal role in life, particularly for the younger generation navigating today's rapid-paced world. We can all benefit from approaching life by being real, confident and finding our voice! 🏃‍♀️ Where to find Milly Voice http://www.millyvoice.uk/ Milly on Instagram Petit Poise Pod Podcast Join The Ask Charlie Members Club! https://www.askcharlie.how/become-a-member 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 hello@askcharlie.how. 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.

  • Dec 20, 2023 · 39 min

    Festive Chat With Theodore Leaf - Season 5 Finale!

    In this episode, Charlie and Theodore share their tips for first time hosts, such as how to prevent guests bringing bad wine and why is it so important to take a festive pause whilst keeping up with traditions. It's the perfect episode to enjoy whilst preparing for the holidays and wrapping gifts! 🏡 Where to find Theodore Leaf Theodore on Instagram https://theodoreleaf.com/ Canyon Home Podcast Get some fab vintage ornaments! @vintagechristmasnashville Join The Ask Charlie Members Club! https://www.askcharlie.how/become-a-member 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 hello@askcharlie.how. 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.

  • Dec 13, 2023 · 25 min

    Maternal wellbeing in the early days and baby massage

    Nurturing touch is such an important way of making your baby feel loved and securely attached. Natalie shares with us how she became a baby massage instructor, how she structures her classes to support the connection between mums and their babies and build a community and support between new mothers. Early days of motherhood are precious, but often can be a bit lonely, so an encouraging support network is key! 👶Where to find Natalie: https://thisisprecioustime.com/ Natalie on Instagram International Association of Infant Massage Join The Ask Charlie Members Club! https://www.askcharlie.how/become-a-member 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 hello@askcharlie.how. 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.