What if education wasn’t just about what we learn, but how we live into it?
In this rich, heart-centered episode, I sit down with Waldorf educator Chloe Makowski to explore the principles of whole-child education—and how they mirror the inner education of the soul. We talk about the power of rhythm, story, ritual, and connection to the natural world, not only for children but for re-educating the child within each of us. This is a deep dive into the transformative potential of teaching with reverence, intention, and joy.
Guest Information
Guest Name: Chloe Makowski
Bio: Chloe is a seasoned Waldorf educator dedicated to nurturing whole-child development through rhythm, ritual, story, and a deep connection to the natural world.
Website:
Episode Outline
Whole-Child Education in Waldorf
Chloe shares how Waldorf pedagogy integrates emotional, spiritual, cognitive, and physical development—emphasizing rhythm, ritual, and reverence as foundations of learning.
📚 Resource Mentioned: Rudolf Steiner’s works on Anthroposophy and Waldorf education
The Role of Story, Art, and Music
We explore the developmental power of story and myth, how the curriculum aligns with childhood stages, and how creative practices bring learning alive.
📖 Quotation Highlight: “Stories are storehouses of wisdom”—Michael Meade
Re-Educating the Inner Child
Through Chloe’s lens, we reflect on how this approach offers insight into healing and nourishing our own inner children—rekindling connection, purpose, and wholeness.
🌀 Quotation Highlight: “The light in me acknowledges the light in you.”
Related Episodes & Additional Resources
Spiritual Bypass with Charmaine Fuller – Exploring embodiment, identity, and the shadow side of ‘love and light.’
The Fertile Dark Gatherings – Learn about our Nature Wanders and the upcoming Book Club for soul-centric community.
Nature and the Human Soul by Bill Plotkin – The first book in our new book club.
Transcript
For a full transcript of this episode, please email: podcast@fertiledark.com
Host & Show Info
Host: Dan Warner
About the Host: Dan is the creator and host of The Fertile Dark, a podcast devoted to exploring the depths of the human psyche, personal transformation, and soulful living.
Website: https://www.fertiledark.com
Community & Calls to Action
🌱 Primary CTA: Join our FREE upcoming Book Club and explore Nature and the Human Soul by Bill Plotkin. Sign up at fertiledark.com
✨ Second CTA: Reflect on this episode—what would it look like to re-educate the inner child in you? Share your thoughts with us or tag a friend who’d love this episode.
💌 Contact the Show: podcast@fertiledark.com
Follow us
Instagram: @fertiledark
Facebook: The Fertile Dark Podcast
YouTube: The Fertile Dark Channel
