Veritas Vox - The Voice of Classical Christian Education

Dr. John G. West, Vice President of the Discovery Institute, discusses his powerful new book, Stockholm Syndrome Christianity: How the Relentless Assault on Religion Has Created a Nation of Christian Hostages.Dr. West reveals how many Christians—often unknowingly—have adopted the values, language, and priorities of a culture increasingly hostile to Biblical truth. We also explore how this cultural captivity affects the Church's witness, weakens its moral clarity, and compromises its mission. We'll discuss real-world examples, historical context, and the urgent need for Christians to reclaim a robust, unapologetic faith.

Did you know that homeschool families aren't the only ones who benefit from Veritas Press curriculum? We have an entire service called Single Source that serves brick-and-mortar schools, too! Today, Gene Liechty joins us to talk about what Single Source is and how it makes curriculum purchasing easier for schools of all sizes. If you're friends with a school administrator, be sure to send them this episode - they'll thank you!This episode is from the Veritas Vox Archive and originally aired on March 18, 2024.

Did you know that the Calvin Coolidge Foundation offers an annual full-ride scholarship to ANY college the winning student chooses? Learn about this and explore the topic of Christians in politics in today's episode of Veritas Vox with guest Garland S. Tucker III.Want to hear something specific? > At minutes 5:27 to 10:54, learn about Garland's book on Calvin Coolidge (and some fun facts about his presidential race in 1924!)  > At minutes 17:13 to 22:30, we provide information on the Calvin Coolidge Foundation scholarship > At minutes 22:30 to 30:30, we dive in deeper on Calvin Coolidge and how Christians like him can shape the United States government 

What mindsets make someone successful? We discuss this and more with Sarah Hernholm, founder of WIT (Whatever It Takes), which teaches entrepreneurship to kids ages 12-18. Join us as we explore the intersection of education, youth empowerment, and the entrepreneurial mindset.

Have you heard about the $10 billion rise of classical Christian education? Sarah Hernholm notes in her recent Forbes article that, “A 2,500-year-old educational approach is quietly disrupting the $750 billion K-12 education market…Classical Christian Education (CCE) has expanded from a niche movement to a significant market force, with over 677,500 students enrolled across 1,551 institutions for the 2023-2024 school year. Projections indicate this figure could reach 1.4 million by 2035.”Check out her article here and then listen to this episode where we dive into her findings!

How do you answer students who ask, “How are the great books going to benefit me?” We discuss this and all other things classical literature with Dr. Matthew Post, the Applied Associate Professor of Philosophy and Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs at the Honors College at the University of Tulsa.If you've ever wondered how to explain what makes the Great Books different from series like Twilight, this episode is for you!

Did you know that Veritas Scholars Academy currently offers 13 different math subjects and that many of these are available in three different curricula options? VSA senior Abby Bellucci has taken every math course in our core curriculum AND all of the elective math courses, too!Abby and her mother, Jen, join us today to chat about their experience with VSA math, how the Veritas Diploma Program helped Abby get over $500,000 in scholarships, and more!

Today, Marlin and Laurie Detweiler are here to give you a sneak peek of some exciting Summer course options at Veritas Scholars Academy! Listen in to hear a preview of what courses you can expect to see in the coming weeks.Upcoming opportunities…Mini-Courses:Never tried a Veritas live online course before? For only $10, our 3-week Mini-Courses are a great way to explore how they work! Enrollment opens May 1st for any family who has never been enrolled in a Veritas Scholars Academy course. Classes begin on June 9th and are available for 3rd-12th grade.VSA Summer-Term Courses:Enrolling now! Students in 7th-12th grade can choose from a variety of electives, or get a jump on the school year by getting full credit for courses such as Omnibus, Math, Grammar & Writing Transition, and more.Summer A Term - June 2 – July 11Summer B Term - July 14 – August 22Summer C Term - June 2 – August 22

How do students at Veritas Scholars Academy build relationships and foster an uplifting online environment?VSA student Lauren Hall joins us to share her experiences in student leadership, including working with the Student Moderators and leading the Student Mentors – a group of Juniors and Seniors who give godly counsel, tech help, encouragement, and more to their peers.If you have ever wondered what kind of environment students enter into at Veritas Scholars Academy and what sort of people students are encouraged to become, you won't want to miss a minute of this insightful episode! We'll learn how students build community, employ positive peer pressure, help each other excel, and enter into relationships that will last a lifetime.

Meet John Moeller, a former White House chef who served under three presidents: George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush. – and soon he'll be serving Veritas families, too!Join us as John shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from his years at the White House preparing state dinners, spending time with the presidential families, and his experiences during the historic events of 9/11. John now runs the Greenfield Restaurant and Bar in Lancaster and will be catering the Veritas Scholars Academy End of Year Gathering picnic this spring!

Classical Christian education is growing roots in Australia! Kon Bouzikos, President of the Australian Classical Education Society (ACES) joins us today to share how Australian educators are adapting classical educational principles to create a distinctly Australian curriculum while embracing the trivium. What does it take to build a classical education movement from the ground up? Learn about how ACES is tackling curriculum development, teacher training, and convincing Christian leaders of its value. Kon's passionate emphasis on love, dialogue, and humility demonstrates the heart behind this growing movement that seeks to honor both classical traditions and Australian cultural identity.Want to learn more? Visit the ACES website at http://www.classicaleducation.org.au/ 

Andrew Pudewa, founder and director of the Institute for Excellence in Writing, joins us today to explore the neurological development of reading skills in children. Andrew shares invaluable insights on the dangers of pushing reading too early, the benefits of phonics-based approaches, and the importance of reading aloud to children to build vocabulary beyond their decoding abilities. Whether your child is an early reader or showing signs of dyslexia, Pudewa offers reassurance to parents while providing a roadmap for nurturing lifelong readers.

Have you heard of The National Bible Bee? It's not just a national competition - it's also a great way to help kids learn to dig in deep as they study scripture. Bible Bee Director, Brian Mullins, joins us to share how this program benefits kids ages 5-18, whether they plan to compete or simply get involved in one of the many study groups happening around the world this summer.Thinking of joining the fun? Veritas Press Self-Paced Bible will have a $100 off coupon next week – it is the perfect way to jumpstart your child's Bible literacy before they join a Bible Bee study group in June!*Coupon valid March 11-25, 2025 for $100 off all Veritas Press Self-Paced Courses.

Meet Pamela Mork, an associate professor of chemistry at Concordia College and the author of Veritas Press's groundbreaking chemistry textbook. In this episode, Pamela shares her vision for making high school chemistry both rigorous and accessible, drawing from her experience as both a college educator and a homeschooling parent to create a curriculum that speaks directly to students.Learn why chemistry education matters for everyone - not just future scientists - and how this innovative approach combines classical liberal arts principles with robust scientific instruction.

Join Marlin and Laurie Detweiler for this mini-episode as they discuss two new math programs coming to Veritas Scholars Academy that address these common challenges: 1. Helping students catch up to classical education standards.2. Providing accelerated options for mathematically gifted students.These new course options will eliminate the repetitive elements of Saxon Math and condense two years of concepts into single-year programs, allowing students to either catch up to grade level or advance beyond it.

Are you looking for a way to help your children grow their confidence, expand their vocabulary, and gain an appreciation for the classics? Theater-loving mom and author Jenny Bradley is crafting the perfect Shakespeare collection for young learners – Kids on Stage. In her first release of the series, Jenny has adapted Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream to be accessible for children to read and perform while staying true to the original language. Join us today as we talk with her about what motivated her to create this series and how families, homeschool groups, and schools can use this great resource.

Dr. Bob Cannon, headmaster of Veritas Scholars Academy, shares invaluable insights about transitioning families into VSA's rigorous classical education program and what makes students thrive in this unique learning environment. Plus, learn about their approach to challenging students beyond conventional expectations, while fostering a genuine love of learning.Parents often wonder if their children can handle Veritas's academic rigor, but this episode reveals how students consistently exceed expectations when given proper support and foundation-building opportunities. 

Dr. Bob Cannon, headmaster of Veritas Scholars Academy, joins us today to discuss the exceptional faculty that make VSA a truly world-class online school. Learn about our rigorous teacher selection process, why 95% of our teachers come back year after year, how our ongoing teacher mentorship works, and more!If you or someone you know would like to join our team, we are constantly expanding! As of the recording of this episode, Veritas Scholars Academy brings on roughly 20 new teachers every year and we keep the hiring process open all year long. Interested indivduals can apply at veritaspress.com/employment.

Join us for a sneak peek at the up-and-coming Veritas Self-Paced Rhetoric course, featuring Dr. Michael Collender, editor of A Rhetoric of Love and author of A Rhetoric of Love Volume II.What is Rhetoric? Why learn it? How will the new Self-Paced course work? Answers to these questions and more await you in this episode of Veritas Vox!

Join us as we dive into the rich intersection of classical philosophy and Christian thought with Louis Markos, Ph.D.In this episode, we explore how ancient Greek thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle contributed to understanding divine truth through general revelation. Markos illuminates fascinating connections between classical wisdom and Christian theology, discussing how these philosophers approached concepts of goodness, truth, and justice in ways that surprisingly align with biblical principles.

Caleb and Melba Voskamp are alumni of Veritas Press who now own and operate a publishing venture called The Keeping Company, where they specialize in heirloom quality books and keepsakes geared toward creating cherished family traditions. Discover how their unique approach to creating resources—from countdown spirals to children's books—celebrates Christian life's meaningful moments and encourages families to keep company with Christ.The Voskamps share insights into their creative process and upcoming projects while reflecting on how their Veritas Press education continues to shape their professional and personal lives. Want to explore their work? Visit https://thekeepingcompany.com/ Or, you may tap the links below to view specific books mentioned in this episode:God Made Only One You: https://thekeepingcompany.com/products/god-made-only-one-you-a-celebration-countdown-of-gods-gifts-blessings-and-creation-and-your-unique-and-wonderful-place-in-itGratitude Journal: https://thekeepingcompany.com/products/gratitude-journal-gratitudes-and-beatitudesChristmas and Easter Devotional: https://thekeepingcompany.com/products/advent-lenten-devotionals-celebrating-christ-from-the-cradle-to-the-crossChildren's Christmas Book: https://thekeepingcompany.com/products/the-light-gift-a-messiah-manger-storybook

Today we have a critical conversation about education, discipleship, and cultural transformation with Pastor Jeff Wright. We'll unpack the generational impact of educational philosophies, the need for institutional bravery, and the importance of not just deconstructing problematic systems but actively rebuilding them on biblical principles. Tune in to gain insights into classical Christian education, the true meaning of discipleship, and a compelling vision for raising children who understand Christ's lordship over all aspects of life.

Is there a difference between being a Christian nation vs. being a nation founded on Christian principles? Gary DeMar from American Vision dives into this question and provides fascinating insights into America's biblical foundations. Drawing from historical documents and engaging examples, he examines how even non-Christian founders like Jefferson and Franklin understood the importance of biblical principles in governance.We also explore recent political and cultural shifts in America, why top-down governmental solutions may not be the answer to our nation's problems, and how Christians can effect change through future-oriented personal responsibility in their families, businesses, and local communities.

Today we chat with Laura King, the Dean of Students at Veritas Scholars Academy, about an exciting mission opportunity coming up in 2025. The Rafiki Foundation is giving VSA families the opportunity to come partner with them as they provide classical education to children at their Kenya campus (one of 40+ classical schools they've started in Africa!).The Rafiki Foundation has been instrumental in building a robust classical Christian curriculum and network of schools across 14 different African countries. They are caring for orphans, training teachers, and providing biblically-sound educational resources to local churches and communities.Tap here to learn more and submit your application to join the mission trip: https://veritaspress.com/extracurriculars/mission-trips 

In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Josh Abbotoy to explore the complex relationship between Protestant Christianity and American civic life. Josh also shares insights from his article "We Are Going to Win: The Christian Education Movement is Working," highlighting the growing momentum of Christian education and its potential to reshape American society.Want to dive deeper into the topics we discuss today? Visit https://americanreformer.org/ to learn more about these cultural initiatives through articles and podcast episodes by Josh and his team.

Did you know that…➡️Scholarships aren't just for low-income families➡️Scholarships aren't just for high school juniors and seniors➡️Scholarships aren't just for those going to collegeToday we'll be exploring these myths and more with Dave the Scholarship Coach, as he gives families inspiration for how and when to begin winning scholarships to set their kids up for success.Plus: Dave has created a curated list of scholarships that are particularly applicable to Veritas families. You can download it for free here: https://www.scholarshipgps.com/veritas 

Are myths a waste of time, or do they hold profound relevance in our modern world? Today we explore this question with author John Hendrix as he reveals how J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis understood the enduring power of mythology in an age that prioritized reason and science.Join us as we unpack how myths provide more than mere entertainment. They offer a portal to explore universal human experiences, our longing for the new heavens and earth, and our desire to be part of a greater narrative. In an era where modernity has "exhausted us," find out why mythical stories continue to resonate and provide a sense of belonging that transcends the limitations of a merely fact-based worldview.You can learn more about John Hendrix and his writings at https://www.johnhendrix.com/

Today, we talk with Hutz Hertzberg, CEO of Turning Point Academy, about how they are helping churches reclaim their historical role in educating the next generation. In this conversation, we explore the rich history of Christian education in America, the challenges facing modern students and families, and the vision for returning to classical Christian education principles. Plus, discover how Turning Point Academy is partnering with churches nationwide to launch autonomous Christian schools.To learn more about Turning Point Academy, visit their website at https://www.tpusa.com/academy 

Apologetics is not a battle to be won, but a conversation to be had with empathy and wisdom.Today, we have a thought-provoking conversation with Stuart McAllister, a seasoned apologist who believes that effective apologetics starts with genuine care for individuals.Stuart shares practical insights on communicating the Gospel, emphasizing the importance of addressing both the heart and the mind. Drawing inspiration from C.S. Lewis's approach of "translation”, he discusses how to make complex theological concepts accessible and meaningful to people's everyday lives.Want to explore more content from Stuart McAllister? You can learn more about him by reading his writings on the C.S. Lewis Institute website.

In this episode of Veritas Vox, we chat with Amity Shlaes, the Chairman of the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation, which exists to ensure that this inspirational president and his morals are not lost to history. We'll discuss why Coolidge deserves to be elevated to the top tier of presidential greats and how Coolidge's principled, limited-government approach to the presidency stands in stark contrast to the big-spending activist federal government that has become the norm in modern times. Plus, Amity reveals how your student can get a full-ride scholarship to any accredited college or university in the U.S. through the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation!To learn more, visit https://coolidgescholars.org/ 

Is it wrong for the church to be engaged in politics? Should Biblical principles guide our nation's civil laws? What is the real meaning of “separation of church and state”? In this episode, we explore these questions and more with Pastor Rob McCoy, co-chair of Turning Point USA Faith.Turning Point USA Faith offers free online courses, in-person events, resources for teachers and pastors, and more. To explore their offerings or support them in their mission of defending our God-given rights and restoring traditional biblical values in our nation, visit https://tpusafaith.com/. 

Did you know that understanding the Jewish roots of Christianity can deepen your faith and Bible comprehension? Today we chat with David Nekrutman, an Orthodox Jew and advisor to The Chosen TV series, who has dedicated his life to fostering relationships between Jews and Christians.Listen to discover how David is working to strengthen Christian education with Hebraic thought and bring a historical perspective to the study of the Scriptures today – and even learn some interesting facts about the Bible and Jewish culture along the way.Want to learn more? Visit https://www.theisaiahprojects.com/ to explore educational resources from David and his team.

In this episode of Veritas Vox, Eric Hovind from Creation Today discusses the intersection of faith and science. He provides a thorough exploration of creation science and addresses common questions about the age of the Earth, the impact of evolution on biblical interpretation, and the ongoing debate between young Earth and old Earth creationism. Eric also discusses his approach to apologetics, blending evidential and presuppositional methods to effectively communicate and defend the Christian faith.For more information about Creation Today and its resources, visit https://creationtoday.org/ 

Did you know that public education in America is rooted in a movement to undermine Christianity? In this eye-opening episode, we talk with journalist and CEO of Liberty Sentinel Media, Alex Newman, about the history and current state of education in the United States.Discover how government-run schools originated, the problems with modern public education, and why Alex believes classical Christian education is the gold standard for raising the next generation. Alex shares insights from his book Indoctrinating Our Children to Death and discusses the potential risks and benefits of state-run school choice initiatives.To learn more about Alex and his writings, visit https://libertysentinel.org/ 

In this episode, we chat with Kris Hutson, Superintendent of Dream City Schools, about how those without a classical Christian background may begin implementing classical elements into their curriculum. We'll be exploring the practical benefits of studying logic, rhetoric, and using the Socratic method to equip students with the skills to reason, debate, and articulate their beliefs effectively.Whether you're an educator, parent, or simply passionate about educational reform, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at how classical elements can enhance traditional Christian education.New to classical education? We'd love to help you understand it better! Tap here to get a free ebook that covers the basics.

Today on Veritas Vox, we sit down with Sam Sorbo, an author, actress, speaker, and advocate for homeschooling. Sam shares her journey from Hollywood actress to homeschool mom, revealing the life-changing moments that led her to become an “education freedom fighter” and put her family ahead of her career.Learn how Sam and her husband, actor Kevin Sorbo, navigated the challenges of Hollywood while staying true to their Christian faith, and how they're now using their platform to inspire others. To learn more about Sam's work and educational resources, visit samsorbo.com.

Today we chat with Max McLean, the founder of Fellowship for Performing Arts, a group that has been instrumental in adapting the writings of C.S. Lewis for the stage and screen.In this episode, you'll discover how Max and his team are using drama to communicate Christian truths to diverse audiences through productions such as The Screwtape Letters, The Most Reluctant Convert, and more!Want to experience these performances? Fellowship for Performing Arts is currently touring with Max McLean's one-man C.S. Lewis show, Further Up, Further In and their production of The Screwtape Letters. To find a show near you or to learn more about their film, The Most Reluctant Convert, visit https://fpatheatre.com/

In our busy modern age, why spend time studying poetry? Today, Veritas Scholars Academy literature instructor, Carrie Cannon, joins us to explore how and why people of old used poetry, what qualities make a literary work a poem, and why poetry is still of value today.Love the idea of letting your student flourish under an engaging instructor like Carrie Cannon? Whether you'd like to add a single course to your homeschool week or build out an entire school year of live online courses, we're here for you! Tap here to set up a free call with a Veritas Family Consultant to explore what options are right for your family.

When the COVID-19 pandemic pushed schools to make a sudden transition to online learning, many saw the computer-based classroom as a necessary evil. But is the online classroom destined to be a sub-par alternative to in-person schools, or can it be its own uniquely great option when the teachers are well-trained in the art of online education?Today, we'll be discussing the rise and continuation of online education with Harvard professor Irvin L. Scott, Ed.D.Curious how an online education could benefit your family? Tap here to book a free call with one of our Family Consultants to discover how a live online classical education can uphold both your family's lifestyle and educational goals!

Did you know that classical Christian education is gaining great momentum in sub-Saharan Africa? Today we chat with Karen Elliott, the Executive Director of the Rafiki Foundation, a group that has been instrumental in building a classical Christian curriculum for these people. Discover how the Rafiki Foundation is caring for orphans, growing classical Christian schools, and even working to supply biblically sound materials to the churches of this region.Want to get involved? The Rafiki Foundation is seeking long and short-term missionaries to assist with their villages. To learn more about these opportunities or to donate to their cause, visit https://rafikifoundation.org/ 

Jennifer Burns is a passionate advocate for classical Christian education and the Director of Academics at Turning Point Academy, a branch of Turning Point USA. Join us as we explore Turning Point Academy's mission of building "Five-C Schools"—classical, Christian, conservative, collaborative, and cost-affordable. Learn how this initiative aims to counteract the cultural shift and educational deficiencies plaguing our society by equipping educators and empowering students with a solid foundation in virtue, truth, and American conservatism.Ready to get inspired and network with fellow conservatives? Consider attending one of TPUSA's upcoming conferences:July 24-26 2024: Turning Point Academy Educators' Summit – West Palm Beach, FL. December 19-22 2024: AmericaFest – Phoenix, AZ.

In today's episode, we chat with Jack Haye, President of Patrick Henry College. Discover how the principles of classical Christian education shape this school and how they uphold their mission of training intellectually and spiritually grounded leaders who will positively impact society.If you're looking for a post-high school experience that aligns with the K-12 classical Christian education children receive through Veritas Press, visit Patrick Henry College!

What does it look like to seize opportunity with common sense and decisiveness? Today Marlin invites his long-time friend and Chairman Emeritus of GreyLock Partners, Henry McCance to share his stories of investment and philanthropy with the goal of inspiring the younger generation to cultivate good character.

Meet Josh & Harmony Longenecker, founders of the Classical Academy of Sarasota. They'll inspire you with their approach to teaching history and how they've built gospel-centered relationships with both parents and students. Stay to the end to hear their thoughts on Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) and discover how Veritas Single Source makes life easier at their school!

What is an Ecclesial School? Today Kevin Clark joins us to share about this educational model. We'll learn how it works, the superb educational accommodations that are offered within it, and how he is helping these small schools grow and spread classical Christian education in Florida.

What do multi-generational farming, a personal connection with Abraham Lincoln, and welcoming your toddler into your daily school routines have in common? Our 2024 Veritas Scholars Academy Valedictorian, Daniel Ekstrom! Join as he looks back on a full K-12th grade Veritas experience and gives you an inside peek at what live online classes at VSA are like.

Classical Christian Education is experiencing rapid growth in China. Learn about this movement, how it began, how it differs from Western Classical Christian Education, and how the Chinese Education Freedom Fund (CEFF) is helping pave the way for underground Christian schools around the continent.

Is classical education for everyone? What if your student wants to build a life as a stay-at-home mom or work in the trades? Today we discuss these questions as well as how the Industrial Revolution has influenced how we perceive mothers and home life with guest Chris Schlect from New Saint Andrews College in Moscow, Idaho.

Meet Jael Hough, a talented young artist and 10th-grade student at Veritas Scholars Academy. Discover how classical education has inspired and impacted her art, where she hopes to go in the future, and what advice she has for students who are taking on a rigorous education.

Does it really matter to expose young children to great works of art? Do the art and decor choices in churches reveal something about their beliefs? Today we talk all about aesthetics with artist and illustrator, Ned Bustard. Plus, we reveal how Ned helped shape the look and feel of many resources within the Veritas Press curriculum!

Have you heard that Veritas Press will soon be releasing a new logic curriculum? Join Michael Eatmon, Dr. Cindy Felso, and Marlin Detweiler as they lay out what students will learn in the all-new Veritas Press Logic II textbook!