In anticipation of the upcoming event on May 22-25, where Peggy and Karen will be speaking about their unschooling journey and how to put it all in a transcript, Rachel met with Chrissie on Zoom to hear the story behind her shift from traditional education to unschooling — and to explore the meaningful ways this conference has impacted families, including her own.

For Chrissie and her family, the “L.I.F.E. is Good” Conference (Living In Freedom Everyday) has become a cornerstone of their unschooling journey — something they look forward to each year, alongside their closest friends. But it wasn’t always that way. In fact, Chrissie and her husband came from a very traditional background — she was a high school math teacher, and unschooling wasn’t even on their radar. They were invited by a friend, who encouraged them to come with an open mind. When they first walked through the doors of the conference, they were total newcomers, ready to expand their perspective, and quickly captivated by the ease and authenticity of the kids around them. Just a few hours in, the atmosphere, conversations, and community shifted something within them. Chrissie’s husband turned to her and said, “Oh, we’re staying the whole weekend!” 

Fast forward seven years and Chrissie’s eldest – now a teenager – is actively involved in shaping the event, offering ideas on how to create a welcoming, inspiring space for fellow teens. The teen program has grown into something truly special: a dedicated room they get to design and decorate themselves (complete with a shopping trip included), plus creative projects, casual hangouts and workshops throughout the weekend. This year, two teens – aged 13 and 15 – will even take the stage to speak in front of the entire conference, sharing their voices and perspectives with the community. See more info here: https://www.lifeisgoodconference.com/teen-scene

Chrissie shared that one of the most beautiful aspects of the conference is the sense of belonging it fosters. Rachel and Chrissie spoke about how, even beyond the speakers and activities, it’s the small moments — spontaneous conversations in the gathering areas, seeing the same faces each day, in-depth chats among teens about the hard stuff — that create lasting memories and meaningful friendships. 

There are many popular discussion circles during the event, including the “Secret Society of Unschooling Dads”, where all of the fathers can come together and share vulnerably with each other and deepen their understanding of unschooling, and all it includes. Chrissie mentioned how this safe space tends to have a very positive ripple effect on the whole family.

Watch the interview below to learn about what makes this conference so meaningful: real community, honest conversations, and the space to reimagine what education and growth can look like when children are trusted and empowered. 

Click here to Register and meet us at the event!
https://www.lifeisgoodconference.com/registration

Watch the interview here:
https://youtu.be/5bBvsiMBfLs