
Hosted by Rachel & Mike Schmitz · EN
The Intentional Family is a podcast about purposefully building a great home life, one day at a time.

In this episode, Rachel shares the books that made the cross-country family road trip a delight.Intentional Family Feedback FormLittle House SeriesThe Unexpected Journals of Emma M. LionThe Fellowship of the RingThe Two TowersThe Return of the KingAnne of Green GablesElephant and Piggie

Rachel shares how to model faith, establish screen boundaries, and cultivate gratitude in ways that actually stick as children learn more from watching our daily habits than listening to our parenting lectures.

Rachel shares the simple, sanity-saving routines that help her family trade daily chaos for calm — because peace doesn’t just happen, it’s built (usually the night before).Atomic Habits by James ClearSkylight Family CalendarClassical Conversations

Rachel invites listeners to slow down and live courageously today.Everyday Courage by John BevereWebster’s Dictionary 1828William Wilberforce

Rachel shares her perspective on intentional hat wearing to help avoid being unfocused, frantic, and stuck.Alice in Wonderland by Lewis CarrollClassical ConversationsCaps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina

Rachel & Mike share the inspiration behind their 2026 words for the year.Intentional Family #150: Christmas Book FloodReady Player One by Ernest ClineRed Rising by Pierce BrownGhost Town Living by Brent UnderwoodWar and Peace by Leo TolstoyPersonal Retreat PlannerMike’s Personal Retreat VideoNeuYear Focused CalendarClassical ConversationsMike’s website

Rachel shares how Icelanders turned giving and reading books at Christmas into a cozy national pastime, and how families today can continue the Christmas book flood tradition.BookwormRead-Aloud RevivalJolabokaflodClose Reads podcastReady Player One by Ernest ClineA Tale of Two Cities by Charles DickensThe Lightning Thief by Percy JacksonThe Silmarillion by J.R.R. TolkienThe Wingfeather Saga by Andrew PetersonAn Elephant & Piggie Biggie by Mo WillemsMike’s Personal Retreat Planner

Rachel shares a simple yet profound message about staying connected and abiding in the vine.The True Vine by Andrew MurrayOperation Christmas Child

Rachel discusses the importance of identifying personal weaknesses and building a strong support system to compensate through delegation.Classical Conversations

Rachel explores how intentional activities outside the classroom can help build character, leadership, creativity, and resilience.