Homeschool Talks: Ideas and Inspiration for Your Homeschool

For Darren Jones (HSLDA Attorney), a single day of playing hooky from public school began as a spontaneous break but turned into a deep realization: there had to be a better way to learn, grow, and live. Darren shares his experiences from becoming a homeschool student to becoming a passionate home education. He became a legal assistant for HSLDA in 1996, and is now an Attorney and Director of Group Services. Explore historical HSLDA processes, notifying members about legal issues in their states through snail mail and answering 75 member phone calls in one day! Darren and Jim Mason (HSLDA President) reminisce about the past and chat about previous legal cases and the busy 2025 legislative season at HSLDA. “I was in public high school. This was 1989. Our church put on a panel about raising kids to be Christians. [The panels featured] parents who were sending their kids to public school, parents who had their kids in private school, and parents who were homeschooling. My parents actually let me play hooky that day. I got to go and watch the panels and came home and told them, I want to be homeschooled. And they decided, sure!”—Darren Jones

What do submarines and science fair projects have in common? They both require strategy, patience, and a solid sense of humor. In our latest episode of Homeschool Talks, HSLDA President Jim Mason dives deep (pun fully intended) with Rear Admiral James Waters about being a homeschool father while navigating a high-stakes military career. This episode features: • Why Admiral Waters and his wife chose homeschooling for their kids, even with a life full of relocations and duty stations • What the military taught him about leadership and how those lessons show up at the kitchen table • Real opportunities for homeschool grads in the military (hint: it's more than marching and mess halls) • How military service can open unexpected doors for careers, education, and personal growth Whether you're a homeschool parent, a student weighing post-grad options, or just love a good sea story—this episode delivers insight and inspiration! “I am so grateful that my wife and I chose to homeschool our kids. And I am really excited that there continues to be a flourishing culture of homeschooling. I encourage you to keep the United States Navy in mind. As you're thinking about options—as your children graduate from high school—college is great, but it's not the only choice. The trades, the military—I would keep the military in mind because it can lead to all these other options later in life.”—Rear Admiral James Waters

Will Estrada, Senior Counsel at HSLDA, shares his journey as a homeschool graduate and his ongoing work defending homeschool freedom nationwide. He and HSLDA President Jim Mason discuss recent legislative developments—celebrating a victory in Wyoming, where the annual letter of intent requirement for homeschoolers was repealed, while raising concerns about a proposed bill in Illinois (HB 2827) that would impose burdensome regulations and even criminal penalties for noncompliance. In these unprecedented times, homeschool families and state organizations are uniting to make their voices heard at state capitols across the country. Please note that this interview was recorded on April 16th, 2025. “We were not going to even try and fight HB 2827 in the [Illinois State] House. [We thought], ‘It's going to pass the House, let's focus on the Senate where we've got a better shot.' I was talking to an Illinois Senate Staffer the other day and he was telling me it's amazing that the bill is struggling so much in the House. I have seen so many people who have risen up to fight this bill. It's a powerful reminder that as we read in Ephesians 6, that we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities. And so, take on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all to stand. And I love that here at HSLDA, we get to pray together, to pray for homeschool parents in Illinois, Virginia, Wyoming, and other states, because it really is a reminder that what we do matters in eternity”—Will Estrada

Homeschool freedom came under threat in Virginia earlier this year, and hundreds of families quickly stepped up to defend it—proving that the price of freedom is constant vigilance. In this episode of Homeschool Talks, Callie Chaplow, Director of Government Affairs for the Home Educators Association of Virginia (HEAV) joins Jim Mason, President of HSLDA, to discuss how families rallied at the Virginia statehouse to defend homeschool rights during an active legislative season, particularly families new to homeschooling! Join the conversation on how Virginia's homeschool community made their voices heard—and what we can all learn from their advocacy. “[This bill] was an attack on all homeschoolers. It [attempted to] change the homeschooling process and it added a whole bunch of requirements. [Homeschool families] rallied. In Virginia, about 40% of homeschoolers in Virginia were not homeschooling pre-COVID. That's a gravitational shift in culture of people who have never had to defend their homeschool freedom. This was an opportunity for all these new homeschoolers to really value what we have. And they did. People who had never been involved in the political process, never have come down to the Capitol, never written or called a legislator—they [rose up].”—Callie Chaplow

Homeschool fathers and advocates, Chris Butler and Abraham Hamilton, share their perspectives on the role of government in education. Join them in this episode to explore the positive impact homeschooling has had across the United States, and recent threats including a new bill in Illinois that threatens to impose additional restrictions on homeschooling families (including jail penalties for non-compliance). Chris and Abraham highlight how restrictive legislation can harm disadvantaged communities and how parents from all backgrounds are coming together to protect homeschool freedom, transcending party lines at the capitol steps! “No matter who you are and what your political leanings are, if you are really concerned about the cause of justice, you should be acutely concerned about this idea. . .that with such a quick reaction to different communities accessing [homeschool] freedom for themselves, now there is this move to restrict that freedom, and to lock children, especially children from disadvantaged communities, into a public school system that is not working for them. I think that the high aim of this legislation [in Illinois] is to make it too hard to homeschool so that folks who have been choosing to do it will just default to stay in the public system that has failed multiple generations now of children from our communities on multiple levels. And so for me, and I think for a lot of people, wherever they fall on the political spectrum, it is a justice issue.”—Chris Butler

What does it mean to live a successful life? For the women featured in Hannah's Children: The Women Quietly Defying the Birth Dearth, it means embracing the beauty and challenge of raising a large family. Economist, author, and mother of eight Dr. Catherine Pakaluk sheds light on college-educated women across diverse backgrounds choosing to raise large families in an era of declining birth rates. Through her research, Pakaluk reveals a worldview where children are embraced as these women's purpose, their contribution, and their greatest blessing. Join this thought-provoking, faith-filled vision of family and our future with Catherine and HSLDA President, Jim Mason. They highlight the crucial role of the homeschooling movement, which enables families to educate their children affordably while fostering strong values at home. “The three biggest blessings that God wants to send us are children, good health, and prosperity. The Jewish woman I talked to said, ‘the tradition says that the biggest of these three is children. . .that God really wants to bless us.' If you really believed that children were the greatest blessing that God could send you. . .you would arrange your life to have another child. . .they fit their careers and their professional work around their families rather than fitting their the timing of their children around their careers.”—Dr. Catherine Pakaluk

Homeschooling can bring a broader vision for your family and deeper engagement with your community. Join Vince Loparo Jr. (homeschool dad) and Jim Mason (HSLDA President) in an encouraging conversation about Vince's holistic approach to parenting. You will walk away knowing how to define your family's core values to create an unshakable foundation, even when faced with challenges. Homeschooling can knit your family together and make your family stronger! “There's something in your life that is your core value, and you're not going to give on that. I think you need to know what that is. Write it down. If you have to, look each other in the eye as a family and say, ‘this is what we stand for.' In our home, we stand for unconditional love and hospitality, welcoming people, bringing them into an environment of unconditional love. Regardless of what the day's adventures might bring, that's the foundation we stand on.”—Vince Loparo Jr.

Homeschool graduate Kaitlyn Bajek shares her experience as a homeschool student. Enabled to pursue her passions, she started her own company! Now, she helps current and future homeschool families navigate the high school years as they plan for their student's future. Join Kaitlyn and Jim Mason (HSLDA President) as they discuss all the benefits homeschooling has to offer! “I was homeschooled starting in second grade after the holiday break. I remember that day very well. I was sitting on the playground outside in our backyard, and my mom looked at me and said, “Kaitlyn, how would you like to stay home and be homeschooled?” I was absolutely thrilled. It was such an exciting experience for me to be able to choose my own destiny and to be able to really learn about things that were passionate to me. I loved learning about music and science. Being able to foster that love for learning throughout my academic career was truly a wonderful experience.”—Kaitlyn Bajek

Homeschooling has the power to shape not just families, but entire communities. In this thought-provoking conversation, Dr. Myles Wertz (associate professor of theology and director of Baptist Studies at Abilene Christian University) joins HSLDA Attorney Will Estrada to explore Dr. Wertz's recent article in Christianity Today and his own personal homeschool journey. When parents choose homeschooling out of a desire to do what's best for their children, the ripple effects extend far beyond the family—fostering individuals who enrich their communities and drive positive change in society. “When we allow families to pursue homeschooling, we find that certain practices or ways of educating begin to bubble up from the surface that wouldn't have been discovered or wouldn't have been understood had there not been the room for homeschooling to exist. . .I think education needs to be more personalized and more attentive to the particular needs of students in nature. I think that's something that homeschooling can naturally do.”—Dr. Myles Werntz

Homeschool graduate and World Magazine journalist Grace Snell believes homeschooling afforded her unique opportunities for community and exploration of her passions! Join Grace and Jeremiah Lorrig (HSLDA Director of Media Relations) as they discuss her military family upbringing and highlight how homeschooling fostered Grace's passion for storytelling, preparing her for a career in journalism. “I think sometimes, people who are considering homeschooling [face] a lot of fears: “what if this doesn't turn out,” or “what if they don't have social skills”. Instead, think, “what is it that I want for my family? What is my vision for our flourishing together, and what's the best way to reach that?” And if it seems like homeschooling is the best way to realize that, then don't be afraid to take that step or to jump in or to ask more questions. It could be a really beautiful opportunity!” —Grace Snell

In an increasingly interconnected world, we risk losing touch with the roots of our local communities. We've traded face-to-face mentorship and the wisdom of our elders for fleeting digital interactions and virtual acquaintances, while also creating a uniform education system. Nicholas Ellis, Founder of Christian Halls, is on a mission to change that. Through his program, he fosters local mentorships and engagement. By pairing youth with seasoned, knowledgeable advisors, Christian Halls helps to create thriving relationships that will positively impact communities, be rooted in trust, and foster shared experiences and generational wisdom. Join HSLDA President and host, Jim Mason, for an inspiring conversation with Nicholas about higher education and the vital role of passing wisdom from one generation to the next generation. “We've never had a generation that has more access to content and data in the history of the world. Data access, knowledge—access is no longer our problem. And so why, when we look around, do we see foolishness everywhere that we look? I think that a lot of that is coming down to vacating our communities—the natural, multi-generational transfer of wisdom from one generation to the next, by basically sidelining our elders. Our professional structures prefer that the retired elder community not be involved because they frankly take away [time] from that next 35-year-old PhD that's coming up through the system. Our model says that they are the absolute gold of our communities”—Nicholas Ellis

Homeschooling can start at any point in your child's education. For Heidi St. John's family, their journey started after noticing detrimental effects public school was having on sibling relationships. One fateful day, she missed the cut off period to enroll her second daughter in school, and the rest is history! Now with only one homeschool student left, Heidi is helping other homeschool parents find community through her organization, the Firmly Planted Family Homeschool Resource Center. “I would say that my favorite place to be is home. It's sitting around the campfire with our kids and grandkids at the end of a long day and people, you know, bring in whatever leftovers they have in their fridge and hang out. And I think that those things don't happen by accident! They happen because of intentionality. And, and we just love spending time with our kids. It breaks the narrative of the culture, right? [They believe] your kids are this interference and ‘we can't wait to send them to school and all the things.' Homeschooling really changed the way we saw family, and I think it did it for the better”—Heidi St. John

Claiborne Thornton heard about homeschooling in the 80s. He has actively participated in homeschool advocacy in Tennessee, from being a homeschool dad to President of the Tennessee Home Education Association (THEA). In this conversation with Claiborne and Jim Mason (HSLDA President), learn about the early days of homeschool freedom, engaging with your representatives, and the importance of attending your homeschool capitol day—it might just involve 180,000 cookies! “We have a system that is designed for us to have the freedom to step forward and act. We understand how to take and use the tools that are set out before us and to preserve what we've been entrusted with. It's a complicated thing, it's a beautiful thing, and it's a very dynamic dance that goes on to make that to make that happen. And it's so encouraging to see other folks around Tennessee and across the country step forward and use those tools that we've been given. [We have the] freedom to interact with those that represent us and [build relationships] with them to help them see we're well-intended. Look through the systems that are there and try to find ways to make those connections. That's critically important with your friends, and even with those who might have some disagreement with.”—Claiborne Thornton

Never assume that an individual is or isn't an ally of homeschooling based on their political affiliation. Join Tom Leonard, attorney and former Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives, and Jim Mason (HSLDA President) in an insightful discussion on the grassroot efforts of homeschool advocacy. You'll be encouraged to cultivate relationships with legislators across parties, because you never know what might happen! “It's about the issue. It's not about the party. [I believe] a couple of our biggest allies right now on this issue are Democrats that serve in the House of Representatives. But on the flip side, I can't tell you how many Republicans that you would think this [would be] an easy issue for them. They're conservative. They've got a conservative voting record who when you first bring this up, their first question is, “well, Tom, you're just talking about a registry. What does it matter?” Now once you have that conversation, they understand it. But again, assume nothing in this business. Never assume that somebody is not going to be an ally and never assume that somebody is. Get out there and educate these legislators in a very respectful way!”—Tom Leonard

As homeschooling grows, so does the conversation about how education is defined. Join Dr. Timberly Baker (Associate Professor of Educational Leadership at Arkansas State University) and Jim Mason, HSLDA President, in a discussion on challenging the traditional view of schooling. Many prospective and novice homeschool families can feel insurmountable pressure to create a structured, 8-to-3 schedule. This doesn't need to be! Parents are their child's first teacher, guiding their learning every day! Learning can (and does!) take place anywhere, and a rigid schedule isn't required. The possibilities of homeschooling are endless, and each student's experience is unique. “I often say that we are our children's first teacher. So you've already done much of this work in terms of teaching them what you think that they need to know. You do it all the time anyway! We have to disrupt our thinking that schooling happens in this sort of 8 to 3 structure only, and that if it's not that, then it's not a school, right? And so, once we get to helping folks disrupt that notion, then it becomes a much broader conversation about the possibility of being able to homeschool”—Dr. Timberly Baker

Dr. Brian Ray has been studying homeschooling before we even knew what to call it! Brian and Jim Mason (HSLDA President) discuss advocacy research, conflicting worldviews at play, and the importance of peer reviewed studies protecting against these biases. You won't want to miss this insightful conversation on home education research and what the next generation of research may look like! “What are [homeschoolers vs public schoolers] doing now in life, you know, occupation. Are they married? Do they go to college or not go to college? Do they vote? Do they volunteer? Are they happy or not? Are they depressed or not? Do they feel fulfilled in life or not? Group study can help us know what is happening. And if we think these five things are good things, what was going on growing up that was connected? So I think a piece of the new generation of research is going to be looking within groups.”—Dr. Brian Ray

Homeschool moms juggle many different roles, and Anne Miller is no exception! But for her, one of those roles led to becoming a key advocate for homeschooling in her state. Join Anne Miller, Executive Director and President of the Home Educators Association of Virginia (HEAV), and Jim Mason, President of HSLDA, as they reflect on the importance of advocacy, 40 years of homeschool freedom, and the incredible growth of the homeschooling community. Hear Anne's inspiring journey from volunteering with HEAV to leading the organization as Executive Director and President! “There are vast numbers of homeschool families now. We're not alone anymore. I'll tell you, in the 1980s, we felt very alone. We only knew one family. And then we found this small group that we didn't even know existed! But now, everybody knows a homeschooler. There are homeschoolers probably right on your block or around the corner. They're everywhere.”—Anne Miller

Being present and giving the attention and experiences your child needs to flourish is important. That's why Houlie Duque, Founder of Homeschool to Go, wants you to find your family's rhythm! Join Houlie and Will Estrada (HSLDA Attorney) as they discuss her bilingual curriculum, how she is supporting parents in their homeschool journeys, and how her own childhood homeschool journey of just three months propelled her to the top of her class. “If you give your children that presence and that attention, you will watch them flourish. That's all that a child needs. When they're little kids in kindergarten and they're like ‘look what I can do!', they are in a constant search for [affirmation]. From experience, but also from studies, I know this to be one of the most determining factors in flourishing and becoming of an individual. So when I say truly present, it really is as simple as that is. Sitting down eye level with your child and doing something together when you're not distracted by external responsibilities.”—Houlie Duque

Dr. Brian Ray and Professor Danish (Dany) Shakeel launched their investigation into calls for homeschooling bans—when no significant data exists to justify these demands. After conducting an in-depth study that shed new light on the factors contributing to child welfare, their research revealed that risks were double outside the home, proving that the family plays a crucial role in protecting children—and home is the safest place to be. Join Jim Mason, HSLDA President, and Dany Shakeel as they dive into these findings and discuss what his research means for the homeschooling community and how it disproves the recent, unsupported allegations that homeschooling leads to abuse. “If you compare the numbers, the statistics—the incidences of abuse are double in social settings as compared to at home, which means that the family is the protector of children, as compared to someone else. This makes theoretical sense because any nonsocial actor who is not a part of a family is not likely to care about the child. And on average, the parents are closer to their children. They invest in them. They are likely to protect them. And that's what we see in the data.”—Dany Shakeel

Homeschooling doesn't mean doing public school at home, and it doesn't mean you have to homeschool like your friend with 15 years of homeschool experience. Your journey is unique! Dena Bless joins Jim Mason (HSLDA President) in an encouraging conversation about beginning your homeschool journey, the importance of community, and how to (and why you should) connect with your state organization or local homeschool group. Enjoy their discussion on the benefits of homeschooling and fostering relationships with your children. “I remember when I started [homeschooling], I was afraid. Can I actually do this? Will I do enough? Will I do too much? Will I ruin my kids? Will I never graduate [my kids] or never have enough knowledge or whatever? I think a big part of what [community] does is provide that support of, yes, you can do it and your homeschool doesn't have to look like everybody else's home school, right? Your family is different.”—Dena Bless

Jeffrey Lewis, President of Illinois Christian Home Educators (ICHE), joins Jim Mason, President of HSLDA, in this second part on what is happening in Illinois. They discuss the recent call for more homeschool regulations in Illinois, and what homeschool families can do to face this new wave of opposition to homeschool freedom happening in the United States. “Government officials want to do things that are going to make society better. And they feel like counting things, tallying things, registering things is often a way to help. It's an expensive thing to do. But it doesn't always do much other than count things. . .And so all of the families, the thousands and thousands of families in Illinois, who've been doing a great job schooling their children at home, now are going to have an extra burden that could put them in jeopardy if they don't comply. And they haven't done anything wrong.”—Jeffrey Lewis

Meet Jeffrey Lewis, homeschool dad, attorney, and president of Illinois Christian Home Educators (ICHE). In part 1 of this conversation with Jim Mason, HSLDA President, learn about the current legal landscape of homeschooling (especially in Illinois,) the media attention on further restricting home education freedom, and how Illinois homeschool families engage with lawmakers. “We've encouraged our homeschooling families: get to know your local lawmakers, get to know your local senators and representatives, so that they actually know who you are and where you are. Not so they can count you, but so that they know that you're good, upstanding citizens that work in your communities, who vote, and [who] play a role in trying to do the right things that a society needs in order to keep being that society.” — Jeffrey Lewis

What does the future hold as we face a new wave of opposition to homeschooling? In this episode, Jim Mason highlights how homeschooling can provide real solutions for society, and how homeschooling has evolved from a movement into a mature and enduring institution. This transformation is largely due to the crucial role families and state organizations have played in advocating for homeschool freedom alongside HSLDA. “Healthy institutions play a vital role in positively shaping the character of those they serve by encouraging and modeling virtue, which in turn encourages and models virtue to their communities. Could it be that we have already built a new institution, an institution built up around a community voluntarily associating together for a healthy purpose?”—Jim Mason

HSLDA is committed to continually improving homeschool laws in every state—like HSLDA's attorney for Ohio, Amy Buchmeyer, just assisted with! Ohio's archaic homeschool law, dating back to the 1980s, was finally updated thanks to the tireless work of homeschool families alongside HSLDA. Join Amy and Jim Mason (HSLDA President) in a conversation about the evolving legal landscape across the states, as well as the increased media attention on homeschooling. Amy, a homeschool graduate turned attorney, will share her unique perspective on defending homeschooling rights and the significant improvements she helped achieve. “There's something about being homeschooled, about getting to have the space to learn at your pace, to learn with your family, to get out and have hands-on learning. You don't always get that when you're sitting at a desk from 8 to 3. When I was homeschooled, I could read in a tree. I could do all kinds of things to keep myself engaged in the learning process. And it worked. My mom instilled in all five of us (children) a love of learning, a love for the Lord, and a good relationship with my parents. We've turned out pretty well.”—Amy Buchmeyer

Whether you homeschool or not, it's crucial for freedom-loving people to be aware of the recent legislative offensive against homeschooling in West Virginia and other states. Tune in to the first part of our series where Kevin Boden, HSLDA Attorney for West Virginia, and Jim Mason, HSLDA President, examine why there has been recent opposition to homeschooling that is making headlines. Kevin and Jim will focus on why West Virginia is pushing for more homeschool regulation and highlight how HSLDA is standing with the homeschool community. Don't miss this essential discussion on safeguarding our rights and freedoms, not just in West Virginia, but across the United States.

Entrepreneurship is a fundamental aspect of homeschooling: figuring out what works best for your child's education and finding resources to support that. Join Dr. Brian Baugus (Associate Professor at Regent University and Author of An Economic Theory of Homeschooling) and Jim Mason (HSLDA President) in a discussion on how homeschooling springs from entrepreneurship, fostering individualized education as parents invest in new ways to teach their children. “One of the sure signs that a homeschool was bound to have problems, and maybe even fail, is that they were trying to recreate public school. . .The most successful homeschoolers are the ones who jettison that entire model for a different kind of model. Those are the ones who are investing their time to figure out what works for their child. In the most efficient way possible, [they are] frequently going out and finding [or] building new networks. I think network school is a more accurate description of what a successful homeschool does. The parent is a general contractor who finds the local artist, the local scientist, the local librarian or online, even people who aren't so local, and acquires a quantity and quality of expertise for their child” —Dr. Brian Baugus

Explore the connection that strong family relationships and church community have on the next generation. Dr. Terry Linhart, founder and CEO of Arbor Research Group and Executive Director of Bethel University's Extension Studies joins Jim Mason (HSLDA President) in a discussion on his various research projects. Together, they delve into an insightful discussion on the influence of familial relationships, the next generations societal well-being, and how our upbringing can shape virtues through institutional frameworks. “I think the child centered approach to education and individuality is very important. And that's the richness of why we love homeschooling, isn't it? It's the thing that we get to focus on the child and help. One of the loud cries from our research of parents in a local community is that about 20% of them just really would love to see a healthy mentor for their kid. . . That's what I see with homeschooling and my grandkids and the kids in our community [who] are involved in homeschooling. [Homeschool grads] who come to Bethel have this sense of enthusiasm for the future. I think that's contagious.”—Dr. Terry Linhart

Sue Manning's homeschool journey began while her family was stationed in Japan with the military. Embracing the freedom and flexibility that homeschooling offers, she wants other families to experience the same! Join Sue (Maryland Association of Christian Home Educators) and your host, Jim Mason (HSLDA President) in a discussion on finding and fostering connection in the homeschooling community.  “Comparing yourself to other families is tough, [especially] in this day and age of social media. If you're a homeschool mom and you have made this choice because God directed you to do it, just keep swimming. . .find a friend that you can talk to. My biggest encouragement is: Stop comparing yourself [to others] and find a friend.” –Sue Manning

When faced with difficult life situations, it is critical to be resilient. As a homeschooling parent navigating through numerous life changes, Shari McMinn understands the challenges of adapting your life to fit your homeschool and family priorities! Join Shari and Darren Jones, HSLDA Group Services Attorney, in a conversation about the journey of single parenthood, adoption, and balancing work and homeschooling.  “This is a season of your life that will pass, and God will see you through it. Your children will be forever grateful that you said, you know, ‘I'm going to give up [or] I'm going to cut back on things. I'm going to prioritize so that I can support my family [and] homeschool my children.'”—Shari McMinn

Parenting isn't always a peaceful journey, but in Marisol Rodero's household, home education fosters a lifestyle of learning and discovery. Join Marisol and HSLDA Senior Counsel, Will Estrada, to discuss the joys of homeschooling and how a unique journey can be tailored for each student. Marisol's wisdom springs from her own experience as she went from attorney to full-time homeschool mom and founder of Nobis Pacem, a bilingual homeschool curriculum! “You can do [all the same things with each of your students]: talk about books, talk about learning, make it fun for them. In the end, you can't really expect all your kids to love learning the same way, but they all will [love learning] in their own unique way. That's freeing.”—Marisol Rodero

Phylicia Masonheimer, homeschool mom, graduate, and founder of Every Woman A Theologian, joins your host Jim Mason, President of HSLDA, in an encouraging conversation about embracing the calling of homeschooling. In this episode, they discuss Phylicia's ministry, how she has learned the importance of patience on her homeschool journey, and her advocacy work for homeschool freedom.  “One of the things that people often say to homeschool parents is, well, I could never do that. I'm not patient enough. And it's a frustrating thing for homeschool parents to hear because it's actually quite dismissive. It says that patience is something inherent, that you're born with it. That is really dismissive of how much work it is for homeschool parents to show up every day. Patience is a discipline. It's a fruit of the spirit. It's something that we have worked in us by doing hard work over and over, by being willing to sacrifice and lay ourselves down. Patience is a muscle. It grows as it is used.”—Phylicia Masonheimer

How do we embrace change? Sometimes, it's hardest to do at home. Howard Schmidt joins your host, Jim Mason, to discuss Howard's homeschool journey as a parent, his career as Vice President & General Manager at Lennox International, and his newest adventure working in the academic setting at Patrick Henry College as Executive Vice President. Gain insight into how he is equipping leaders to view challenges as opportunities in an ever-changing environment.  “Maybe you're going through a time of flux [in your home education journey], maybe it's a difficult time. Just hit the slow down [button] (but never [the] stop button) and pray about it! Find some people to sit down and have the discussion. Why are we here? Why do we do this? And I can tell you, the purpose of homeschooling is so immense”—Howard Schmidt

Protecting homeschool freedom starts with protecting families in their homes from unreasonable searches and seizures. HSLDA co-founder Mike Farris joins Jim Mason (HSLDA president) in a discussion on 4th Amendment cases that HSLDA has taken on over the years. Learn why it is important for parents to know their rights, know when and how to respectfully assert them, and when to call HSLDA. “We have information on our website [for parents]. They don't need to be experts [to know homeschool law]. They just need to know the basics. Our attorneys can [handle these situations quickly]. Other attorneys could figure it out in due course, but it's expensive, and it would take them a while. HSLDA's ability to turn it around rapidly is because this is our expertise.”—Mike Farris

Lauren Gideon saw her children struggling with their workbooks and became determined to find a curriculum that worked for her family. Join Lauren and your host, Jim Mason, as they discuss children's individuality and the need for a unique education that fits their needs. Discover how parents can enjoy the freedom and opportunity to define their educational goals! “Enjoy [homeschooling]. Kids learn a lot more when they're having fun. Assume that you won't get it right the first time! And that's okay. I probably have pivoted more than most in homeschooling, and each time I learn something. I learned what I didn't want to do in my homeschool. And through that, I [have] curated a vision for what I wanted”—Lauren Gideon

Meet Abraham Hamilton, general counsel of American Family Association and host of the Hamilton Corner, a daily radio program. Abraham joins Jim Mason (HSLDA President) to explore the power of discipleship in homeschooling and Abraham's dedication to homeschooling, a commitment that he and his wife made long before welcoming their own children into the world. “[Homeschooling] has been a phenomenal journey. One of the things we found is that our children have cultivated a voracious appetite for learning; they view learning as an outgrowth of their commitment to Christ”—Abraham Hamilton

Rogers Hellman is an innovator and pioneer for homeschool families and those in need. He initiated a healthcare computer system for underprivileged nations, sowed the seeds of HSLDA's Compassion Fund, and delivered a moving presentation before the Panama parliament. Rogers joins Jim Mason, HSLDA's President, to engage in an uplifting conversation about small beginnings paving the way for the most beautiful and impactful journeys of making a difference in the lives of others. “I try to give myself the same grace that I give others. We're all struggling, but that's okay. You know, we've got a role to do, and we've got things that we need to do. And loving one another and serving one another is way up there on the list”—Rogers Hellman

When Katy Van Horn asked her mom to homeschool her, her mom didn't feel equipped. But then, a friend encouraged her that “Christ equips the called”.  This encouragement sparked the beginning of Katy's homeschool journey. Now, 22 years later, she is taking her own experiences and using them to encourage other families. Join Katy and Jim Mason (HSLDA President) to discover how homeschooling provides an individualized and flexible education that focuses on the heart of your child, and reaches the whole person.  “Having the opportunity to encourage these families [and] say, ‘I know that you can't really see the light at the end of the tunnel right now. And this is looking difficult. But let me tell you, I've been there, and I can tell you there's so much blessing to be had from this choice that you've made to homeschool your kids'”—Katy Van Horn

Aziza Butler's journey from a public-school teacher in Chicago to a passionate homeschooling advocate is inspirational. Frustrated by the overwhelming focus on managing children rather than actual teaching, Aziza decided to homeschool. In her pursuit, she uncovered a powerful truth: the ultimate qualification for being the best teacher for your child is being their parent.  Join Aziza and Jim Mason, President of HSLDA, as they discuss how your heart for your child and commitment to your child's success that is the center of an excellent education.  “You don't know who your kids will touch because of how you invest in them. You never know who you might impact because you have reached out and told [them] about homeschooling. [You] gave them permission to think and dream differently for their family and for their community.”— Aziza Butler

Historically, child protective service investigations happen at the school; however, for homeschooling families, education happens in the home. When investigating homeschoolers, officials must knock on the door of the single most protected place under the United States Constitution: the home.  HSLDA President, Jim Mason, shares his first-hand experience with defending member families with a common thread: infringement of their 4th Amendment rights.  Rest assured, HSLDA is just a phone call away to protect your rights and your innocence, and to give you peace of mind just like these families.  “We have [cases like the Berryman's to create precedent] from what happened to the Curry family [from happening again]. But that doesn't happen without years and years and years of laboring in that vineyard and actually understanding the law.” —Jim Mason

Servant leadership and parenting go hand-in-hand. Leading your family well is no small task! As a homeschool parent, it can be hard to see the fruits of your labor some days, but as Phil Tuttle (Walk Thru the Bible) finds, Christ equips the called, and parenting is one of the greatest callings and expressions of leadership. Join Phil and Jim Mason (HSLDA President) as they discuss parenting, leadership, and the culture of today.  “I think parenting is one of the greatest expressions of leadership there is. I may just be focused on my four kids or my seven grandkids, you might say. ‘And how is that ever going to change the world?' You never know. What you trade for breadth you make up for in depth. And then that is released in all sorts of ways by God. So, I mean, I'm always going to put the spotlight on parenting as the best laboratory of leadership development that there is.””—Phil Tuttle

The modern era of home education began in the 1950s and has continued to grow dramatically since. Join Jim Mason (HSLDA President) and homeschool mom and researcher Dixie Dillion Lane as they discuss the history of homeschooling through the lens of Dixie's doctoral thesis, “Leaving School.” Dixie provides a historian's perspective on the various eras of homeschooling and Jim details HSLDA's role in establishing and maintaining homeschool freedom. Dixie also shares the immense joy that she has found in homeschooling her own children. “This feeling that the legality is gray, that you're in a gray area of the law? Not so much anymore, but for many, many decades that really affected the behavior of homeschoolers. Well, this is a really intriguing story […] One that involves both determination and fear and how the fear eventually became smaller and the determination stronger” —Dixie Dillion Lane

Did you know that HSLDA has helped members in a wide variety of homeschool-related cases from veteran affairs and social security benefits to issues with local school districts? Listen in as Kevin Boden (HSLDA Staff Attorney) and Jim Mason (HSLDA President) discuss past cases that have had significant influence on homeschool freedom and why these cases serve as a reminder that we must, as James Madison said many years ago, “take alarm at the first experiment on our liberties.”  “It would have been really easy [to comply with the school district]. . . . [But] by standing up at that very early intrusion into liberty, not only do other school districts in Virginia not follow suit . . . but it also [tells] these officials that homeschoolers know the law; they respect and follow the law, but they want you to do that too. And they will make you do it if you don't do it in the first place.”—Jim Mason

Each child is unique, and so is their learning style. Join Jim Mason and entrepreneur Greg Heinemann for a discussion on the entrepreneurial spirit and how homeschooling facilitates outside-the-box thinking, allowing parents to create an environment that fits the needs of each student, helping them grow into flourishing adults.   “The beauty of homeschooling is that the parents have already rejected the normal way of doing something. . . . [These kids] tend to be born into entrepreneurial thinking or an alternative way of thinking. [Homeschool students and graduates] are better critical thinkers. . . . They often have better work ethic because the parents instilled that in them through the homeschooling process. They know how to get information and solve problems.”—Greg Heinemann

Melissa Capps never wanted to be a teacher—until she sat in a school conference with her oldest son's first grade teacher. She decided, right then and there, that it was time bring her child home. Despite the challenges that lay ahead—homeschooling children with special needs and navigating her husband's unemployment in 2020—Melissa has persevered, seeking out resources and community that equip her to keep homeschooling.  “A lot of moms start homeschooling and they get about a year or two in and send their kids back to school. That's the [encouragement] I want to give: we need to reach out to other moms. . .to get confidence, [to] find community that can step in and encourage you along the way … There are many, especially young, homeschool moms that [feel overwhelmed]. But, [homeschooling] is really about the heart and your connection with your kids.”—Melissa Capps

What will be your family legacy? For author and speaker Ainsley Arment, it starts by defining and then creating a family culture together with your kids. Join Ainsley and Jim Mason (HSLDA President) for a conversation about Wild + Free Homeschooling. In this episode, they discuss how homeschooling is much more than an educational option—and how it can lead to an amazing connection with your children.   “I want moms to know that they're not alone. I want them to know that if they desire to create a family culture that goes against culture and society, that they're not alone, that they're doing an incredible work. I want moms to feel encouraged on the days when they are tired and weary, or when they don't feel like their efforts matter. I want to remind moms that they matter, that everything they do matters, and that they are creating an incredible legacy with the work that they're doing, day-to-day.”—Ainsley Arment

At 13 years old, Ian Reid was a homeschool student in Northern Idaho, creating fun videos as a hobby with his friends. That year, he came up with the name for his future company: Distant Moon. He now runs Distant Moon full-time, directing projects for clients across the US. In this episode, Ian (founder of Distant Moon) joins Jeremiah Lorrig (Deputy Director of HSLDA's Generation Joshua) to discuss how homeschooling provided the opportunity to foster creative skills. They also chat about Ian's latest project—an online civics course.  “I think if you homeschool, you have the opportunity to dive into these things at the level to which you personally feel driven, if you are driven to become someone who understands how to tell stories … dive into history, dive into philosophy, dive into theology, and study what has come before you, because only then will you understand how you, as a human being, can participate in the great tradition of storytelling.”—Ian Reid

As soon as she dropped off her eldest daughter at public school for her first day of classes, Latasha Fields knew she needed to homeschool. Now a homeschool mom and advocate for parents rights, Latasha Fields joins Jim Mason (HSLDA President) to discuss the amazing journey that homeschooling has offered her family. She shares how she is reaching other families in the Chicago area to offer support and raise awareness that homeschooling is possible! “It just does my heart so well because what my children have, I didn't have. Seeing through them and seeing how they light up with me and their dad—I just love it. I just love homeschooling, and I love my kids.”—Latasha Fields

He hadn't even turned 1 before she realized he was gifted. As a toddler, Casey Amarnek's son displayed a remarkable understanding of letters and words—even before he was speaking. Having firsthand classroom experience as a public school teacher, Casey decided that the flexibility and customization of homeschooling was just what her son needed. And the result has been life-changing for both of them. Join Casey and Daniel Heffington (HSLDA's Generation Joshua) as they discuss the blessings and adventures of homeschooling—and how HSLDA Compassion was able to come alongside Casey in her homeschool journey. “There's going to be hard days. There's going to be easy days. There will be a whole lot of fun along the way. And just look for the good, because it will all end up coming together at the end.”—Casey Amarnek  

How can the flexibility of homeschooling allow your child to chase their passions? Allison DeMarco (Sacred Music Florida Competition) joins Jeremiah Lorrig (HSLDA's Generation Joshua) in this conversation on all things music. They talk about ways that parents and children can learn together—and how homeschooling paved the way for Allison's daughter to study music at Juilliard! “I really don't know how [my daughter] could be where she is right now without homeschooling. . . . She basically practiced and practiced for two solid years [after completing high school early and entering a dual enrollment program online]. And before that she was taking regular lessons and doing a lot of work. But I said, ‘If you're going to do this, we're going to do it right. And we have to work hard.'”—Allison DeMarco

What does healthy independence for kids look like? Lenore Skenazy of Let Grow has been studying this idea ever since she made headlines for letting her 9-year-old son ride the subway home by himself. In this episode, Lenore joins HSLDA President Jim Mason to discuss what she's learned about unstructured play and child independence. Lenore and Jim also chat about the recent bill that passed in Virginia to revise the law regarding parental supervision—and how these types of bills affect homeschooling families. “None of us wants a job where we're micromanaged. Neither do kids. You want an employee, an adult, and a child to be able to figure some things out for themselves. . . . There are all those social and emotional skills that they learn—like how to get along, make something happen, or deal with conflict—that [kids] learn when an adult is not running the deal for them.”—Lenore Skenazy

During the pandemic, Carla Konta saw homeschooling become a viable option in Croatia. With the support of other families and a global homeschooling network, she co-founded a homeschooling organization that is seeking to legalize homeschooling in her country. In this episode, Carla joins Kevin Boden (HSLDA Director of Global Outreach) to share her vision for homeschooling to be legally recognized in Croatia.—They also examine the perspectives of other homeschooling families, who look to the United States as an example of freedom in educational choice. Now, with the Croatian Ministry of Education launching a pilot program for homeschooling, Croatian families are one step closer to securing this freedom! “Education is changing worldwide. And this is a process that is going on in many countries and [parents] have many dissatisfactions [with the school system]. . . . We don't have to wait for this change. To have this international community means that you can . . . work on solving the problems now.”— Carla Konta