Show Notes
Courtney and Michael Adamo are joined by author and Montessori educator Simone Davies for a conversation about how our homes can nurture independence in children.
Simone shares her insights on fostering autonomy and responsibility from a young age, and offers simple, practical ideas—like installing low hooks for brooms, using baskets for toys and involving children in everyday tasks. She also touches on the power of visual calendars and how to make chores feel fun and engaging.
Together we explore how encouraging independence at home not only builds confidence and executive functioning, but also supports long-term family harmony and personal growth.
Order The Family Home Learn about Montessori philosophy with Simone Davies
More from The Family Home
Join Courtney and Michael as they answer listener questions about family life, home organisation, parenting through different stages, decluttering, managing screen time, the ups and downs of relationships and more. Plus, get a sneak peek at their second book coming in September 2026. Whether you’re a longtime listener or new to the series, this episode is packed with practical tips, honest reflections and inspiration for creating a joyful family home.
Courtney and Michael Adamo chat with Erin Boyle, Brooklyn-based writer and advocate for simple, sustainable living. In this episode, Erin shares what it’s like to raise three children in a small Brooklyn apartment, reflecting on the beauty and challenges of shared spaces. She offers practical ideas for family organisation and minimalism, and speaks to the deeper values that shape her writing on sustainability, consumerism and creativity. It’s a conversation about creating room—both physical and emotional—for what matters most. Erin is the author of Making Things and Simple Matters, and the thoughtful voice behind the Substack newsletter Tea Notes.
Seven years. Three kids. Countless countries. Courtney and Michael Adamo host Marty and Taryn of Quartier Collective , who have turned family travel into a way of life. The couple share how their love of travel grew into both a lifestyle and a business—hosting immersive travel and learning programs for families around the world. They talk about the small rituals and daily rhythms that create a sense of home no matter the location, the challenges (and joys) of raising children in tight spaces, and the adaptability that long-term travel requires. The discussion also explores how their children’s idea of “home” has shifted over the years, and how the family continues to balance individual needs with collective dreams.
Courtney and Michael Adamo host Shira Gill, author and home organising expert, to discuss her minimalist approach to family life. Shira shares her experience of managing a busy household with two teenage daughters and the benefits of minimalism, including mental health improvements and better family dynamics. The conversation touches on practical tips for organising shared spaces and balancing sentimental items in a minimalist home.
Courtney and Michael chat with chef, author and entrepreneur Camilla Marcus, whose Los Angeles home is featured in their new book. In this episode, Camilla shares her thoughtful approach to family life, raising four young children in a small, intentional space filled with warmth, connection, and outdoor living. Discover insights on communal living, the value of shared bedrooms, meaningful family rituals and how to create a home that reflects your values.