Podcasts about Alternative education

Today's guest is Barbara Jauregui Wurst, a medical doctor and adjunct professor at George Washington University who cofounded Acton Academy Falls Church in Northern Virginia in 2021.  Read Courage To Grow by Acton Academy cofounder, Laura Sandefer. Check out this new article at our Education Entrepreneurship Lab by a recent graduate of an Acton Academy in Kansas.  *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org.

Send us a textWhen Jack Stewart turned off the internet, he discovered that digital connection often acts as a “social appetite suppressant”—satisfying on the surface, but not deeply nourishing. In this conversation, Jack explains how removing online distractions led him to seek out in-person connection, from literally knocking on neighbors' doors to organizing his own book and writing salons.We discuss the qualitative difference between digital admirers and real friends, and why meaningful conversations rarely happen through casual online chat. Jack outlines how he created formal spaces—book clubs, writing groups, salons—to foster intellectual depth and genuine community.The discussion moves to Jack's research on “common pool resources,” and the practical lessons from Nobel Prize winner Eleanor Ostrom's work on how communities can successfully govern shared spaces. We explore what makes a community sustainable, including trust, collective rule-making, and how conflict is resolved without defaulting to authority or privatization.Cecilie and Jesper share their own experiences with offline community-building and the Scandinavian tradition of “hygge” as an egalitarian way of sharing space. The episode finishes with a reflection on what it really takes to build trust, give comfort, and create belonging in a world shaped by digital isolation.

Stepping away from traditional education wasn't originally in Jessica's plans. When her mother-in-law, a retired kindergarten teacher, began casually teaching her daughter at home "just for fun," Jessica discovered unexpected benefits that eventually led her family down the homeschooling path.As the owner of Well-Rooted, a holistic wellness practice with multiple locations across several states, Jessica brings a unique perspective to homeschooling. The flexibility allows her family to integrate education with their entrepreneurial lifestyle - traveling when needed, adjusting schedules around sports commitments, and fostering stronger family bonds. "We wanted to maximize our time with our children to its fullest potential," she explains, noting that after struggling with infertility, every moment with her children feels precious.This conversation dives deep into practical homeschooling approaches, from curriculum choices to incorporating outside teachers. Jessica shares how her family moved from boxed curriculum to more personalized learning methods that respect each child's unique learning style. Rather than assuming all children learn the same way, their approach incorporates games, movement, and real-world application. The parallels between Jessica's holistic health practice and homeschooling philosophy become evident as she discusses toxins in food, preventative healthcare, and teaching children to understand the "why" behind health choices. This isn't just about academics - it's about raising children who can think critically, advocate for themselves, and navigate life's complexities with confidence.Whether you're currently homeschooling, considering it as an option, or simply curious about alternative educational approaches, this episode offers valuable insights into how one family balances business ownership, health advocacy, and personalized education. Follow Jessica and Well-Rooted Pediatrics on Instagram to learn more about their integrated approach to family wellness and education.https://mywellrooted.com/Follow: Well Rooted Pediatrics Yuka appWhat is the most important thing we can teach our kids?HOW TO HANDLE AN EMERGENCY!This could mean life or death in some cases!Help a child you know navigate how to handle an emergency situation with ease:Let's Talk, Emergencies! -and don't forgetTuttle Twins- use code Cheryl15 for 15% off!Support the showInstagram: TheHomeschoolHowToPodcast Facebook: The Homeschool How To Podcast

In this episode, MacKenzie sits down with three Alpha dads to hear why they chose a different path for their kids' education. They reflect on their own school experiences, what stood out about Alpha's model, and how their children have grown since making the switch. From academics to confidence and independence, these dads open up about what really matters when choosing a school—and why alternative education is gaining traction.

Send us a textSociologist Jennie Germann Molz joins the podcast to discuss her book The World Is Our Classroom: Extreme Parenting and the Rise of Worldschooling. Jennie is a professor at the College of the Holy Cross whose research explores mobility, technology, and alternative forms of family life. Drawing on both academic insight and her own experience traveling the world with her ten-year-old son, she examines what happens when families move beyond traditional education models and choose to learn through travel.We talk about how worldschooling challenges conventional ideas of parenting, risk, and education. The term itself includes a wide range of practices, from part-time educational travel to fully nomadic living. What connects them is a shared belief that learning happens outside institutional classrooms. Jennie also describes how both worldschooling and more conventional approaches like helicopter parenting can respond to the same concerns about preparing children for the future.The conversation looks at worldschooling through the lens of a sociologist, covering how travel shapes emotional adaptability in children, how standardized testing limits our understanding of learning, and how digital tools and post-COVID shifts have expanded possibilities for mobile education. For listeners interested in alternative education, digital nomad families, or learning outside school systems, this episode offers a grounded academic view of the worldschooling movement.

Today's guest is Sara James, a former public school teacher who founded Spark Christian Academy, an Acton Academy affiliate in Harrison, Ohio, near Cincinnati, in 2022. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org.

Rep. Jim Struzzi and host Charlie O'Neill discuss legislation that would address charter schools in PA, and the proper role of the Appropriations Committee in the process.

Today's guest is Sarah Pevehouse, founder of Apogee Dripping Springs Micro High School in Dripping Springs, Texas, west of Austin, which she launched in 2024. With a background in Waldorf and alternative education, Sarah has served as a teacher, administrator, and enrollment director, shaping real-world learning experiences for students. She has taught in overseas military schools, led summer camps, and held leadership roles in private K-8 and preschool programs.  Sarah is a mom of two daughters, ages 13 and 15, and is an active member of both the Apogee Strong network of education centers, as well as the KaiPod Catalyst microschool accelerator program. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org.

Today's guest is Ali Kaufman, a longtime education entrepreneur who began offering tutoring services more than two decades ago and has since built a thriving hybrid homeschool program, Space of Mind, in Delray Beach, Florida that today serves dozens of K-12 students with both full-time and part-time enrollment options. ***  Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly e-newsletter on education entrepreneurship and innovation at edentrepreneur.org.    

Today's guest is George Philhower, Superintendent of the Eastern Hancock Public Schools in rural Charlottesville, Indiana, who is launching and leading the new Indiana Microschool Collaborative, a non-profit network designed to bring the microschooling model into the public education system. Read more about public microschooling in Kerry's latest Forbes.com article. ***  Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly e-newsletter on education entrepreneurship and innovation at edentrepreneur.org.  

Nefertiti Harris is a former public school teacher, mom of five, and founder of Empowered Prep Academy, a microschool located in Jackson, Mississippi for students in grades 3-12 who desire a flexible and more individualized learning environment. As a certified special education teacher, Nefertiti focuses specifically on helping dyslexic students and those with similar learning needs. If you are looking to launch a microschool or similar learning environment in Mississippi, check out Embark.MS to help you on your journey. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly e-newsletter on education entrepreneurship and innovation at edentrepreneur.org.

We're bringing back an episode that we believe deserves a second listen.

Send us a textIn this episode, we explore how modern culture has stripped childhood of the freedom it needs to thrive—and what can be done to bring it back. Our guest is Lenore Skenazy, author of Free-Range Kids and co-founder of the nonprofit Let Grow, launched with Jonathan Haidt, Peter Gray, and Daniel Shuchman to champion independence, resilience, and real-world learning.Together, we unpack how fear, measurement, and control have come to dominate parenting and education. From the rise of isolated family units to the spread of enrichment culture, today's children are surrounded by adults who often confuse supervision with support. The result is a generation of kids with less room to explore, solve problems, and grow on their own.We talk about how Let Grow is working to change this—by making it normal again for kids to walk to the store, play unsupervised, and take age-appropriate risks. Lenore shares the story of a high school that gave students one week of unstructured play, and the surprising transformation that followed. The spark of self-direction wasn't lost—it was just waiting for space to reappear.Visit letgrow.org to explore free programs, school initiatives, and policy work that supports childhood independence.

Today's guest is Jody Underwood, the founder and president of EdOpt, a platform offering information, support, and connections to New Hampshire families who want to explore their education options. Jody has spent most of her professional life involved in education, including getting a Ph.D. in science and technology education to complement her Master's in computer science. She worked for many years in the research division of Educational Testing Services (ETS), the nonprofit that administers tests such as the SAT exam. Jody has helped to support the launch of new microschools in her state, and is working to expand education entrepreneurship and innovation.  *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly e-newsletter on education entrepreneurship and innovation at edentrepreneur.org.

Send us a textWhat happens when your child simply won't fit inside society's educational box? When Anna Vestlev Sandfeld realized her son didn't fit into the structure of kindergarten—and likely never would fit into traditional school—she and her husband chose unschooling. In this conversation with her cousin Cecilie and co-host Jesper, Anna reflects on the first year of stepping away from the system.Anna shares how the loss of her first child shaped her parenting values, what it meant to leave a job she loved, and how her son's strong will and focused interests made conventional paths feel impossible.We explore what unschooling looks like when a child is, as Anna puts it, a “force of nature.” She shares how they've let go of routines around food, sleep, and learning, and how screen time—especially a Paw Patrol obsession—became a mirror for her own discomfort.We also discuss emotional availability as a form of parenting work, and why being present can be more powerful than teaching. 

Today's guest is Crystal Goins, a mom of 5 and founder of Heartwise Scholars Microschool in Chesapeake, Virginia. A public school teacher for over 13 years, Crystal joined the Kaipod Catalyst microschool accelerator program to help get her microschool off the ground, and opened her microschool last August. She shares insights and information for parents and teachers at her website theresilientteachermom.com.  *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly e-newsletter on education entrepreneurship and innovation at edentrepreneur.org.

My guest today is Tomis Parker, cofounder of the Agile Learning Centers (ALC) network that launched more than a decade ago. Since 2014, Tomis has led business operations at ALC Mosaic in Charlotte, North Carolina, and he recently founded a new project called Prism, which is a web application designed to make it easier to document and communicate the value of emergent, self-directed learning in microschools, homeschool programs, and for homeschooling/unschooling families.  *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly e-newsletter on education entrepreneurship and innovation at edentrepreneur.org.  

In this episode, we chat with Jacqui O'Connell, founder of Spiritus, an alternative education community born from one mother's need to find better options for her child.Tune in to learn how her approach provides a different path forward for both children and parents.RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:www.facebook.com/spiritusalternativeeducationInstagram: @spiritushomeeducationWant to open your dream school with the freedom you deserve and the support you need?Visit https://openmyschool.my.canva.site/rebelkaipod to learn more about our partnership with KaiPod Learning and get help opening your dream school!Learn more about the Rebel Project Literacy Curriculum, a fully integrated literacy and project based learning curriculum, at  projectup.us or inkwire.co/rplc Get your copy of Rebel Educator: Create Classrooms Where Impact and Imagination MeetLearn more about Rebel Educator, explore our professional development opportunities for educators and students, and check out our project library.Visit us at UP Academy to learn more about our personalized and inclusive learning environment.Connect with Tanya and UP Academy on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram and learn more about her journey here.GUEST BIO:Jacqui O'Connell, founder of Spiritus, is a self starter who believes that if you want something that isn't available you need to create it. That is why Spiritus is alive. Jacqui has a vision for learning and is always feeling confused how our young people are taught the way they are and bound to exams to determine their next step.Enjoying the show? Leave us a rating and review and help more people find us!bit.ly/RebelEducatorApplePodcastsWe'd love it if you could take a few minutes to fill out this survey to let us know how we can bring you the best possible content: forms.gle/JcKHf9DHTZnYUmQr6 Interested in being on the Rebel Educator podcast? Fill out this form and we'll reach out to you if we think you'd be a great fit for an upcoming episode. https://forms.gle/CZJXLQDdevPh22ZN7Want to learn more about opening your own UP Academy? Check out the Rebel Educator Accelerator: www.rebeleducator.com/courses/the-acceleratorMORE ABOUT THE REBEL EDUCATOR PODCAST:In each episode of the Rebel Educator podcast, I deconstruct world-class educators, students, and thought leaders in education to extract the tactics, tools, and routines that you can use as teachers and parents. Join me as we discuss how to shift the classroom, the learning environment, the mindset, and the pedagogy, to resist tradition, reignite wonder, and re-imagine the future of education.This podcast is dedicated to all of the educators who work thankless hours to make our next generation the best it can be.  It was designed to begin conversations on how we can redesign education for the future of work and the success of our students.  It is meant for teachers, students, administrators, homeschoolers and anyone who interacts with and teaches youth. We're thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments

Send us a textOutschool founder Amir Nathoo explains why education built on passion—not curriculum—may be the only way to truly prepare kids for a rapidly changing world. We talk about his shift from traditional schooling in the UK to building Outschool, how becoming a parent deepened his beliefs, and why interest-led learning offers more than just flexibility—it offers resilience.Amir shares the emotional challenge of stepping away from conventional paths, how Outschool helps parents manage fears without compromising child-led learning, and why AI is forcing us to rethink what human intelligence really is. We also get into the science of farts, cat anatomy, and mock stock trading—and why those classes matter more than you think.

Today's guests are Laura Greene and Angela Ruth, cofounders of Harmony Homeschool Academy, a secular homeschool hybrid solution for middle and high school students in the greater Raleigh-Durham-Cary, North Carolina area.  Laura is a licensed psychologist with a background in school psychology. She is also a homeschool parent. Angela is also a homeschooling parent who spent her early career working in the US Government and transitioned to being a public school teacher about a decade ago.  Check out this weekend's "Jumpstarting Microschools" event in North Carolina, sponsored by the John Locke Foundation. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends and entrepreneurial stories at fee.org/liberated.

Send us a textEver wondered what life could look like if you broke free from the conventional 9-5?David Cole and his family sold their home in Chicago in 2019 and haven't stopped moving since. Cecilie and Jesper talk with him about how they made the shift from occasional travellers to full-time nomads."I think what stopped us the most was mindset," David reveals, reflecting on their journey from dreaming to doing. After years of passionate but occasional travel, they finally made the leap—starting with house-sitting across the US before boarding a 22-day cruise to Singapore and continuing through Southeast Asia. What began as a shared love for exploration evolved into a complete lifestyle redesign that prioritizes presence, connection, and curiosity. This isn't about escaping; it's about deciding how to live and taking the next step—even if it's not perfect.

Send us a textDr. Cam joins us to discuss parenting teenagers and why efforts to control them often create more distance. She explains how control can undermine trust and why focusing on connection leads to better results.We discuss the difference between respect and obedience, and how letting teens say “no” builds confidence and self-trust. Jesper shares his shift from being a “parenting by volume” dad to being more present and connected, and how time made the biggest difference.Dr. Cam describes how many dads step back from parenting teens because they feel disconnected or uncertain about how to relate. She talks about why focusing on influence, not authority, helps parents stay close to their teens even in moments of conflict.We also talk about how small moments—like asking about your teen's interests instead of their grades—can rebuild connection when time is limited.

Today's guest is Michael Bonifacio, the founder of Acton Academy Estero in Fort Myers, Florida. Part of the global Acton Academy network of learner-driven schools, Acton Academy Estero operates on a 32-acre working farm. It opened in January 2024 with 9 learners, and today has over 40—with more than 60 students projected for this fall.  *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends and entrepreneurial stories at fee.org/liberated.  

In the final episode of our 4-part series on Homeschooling To College, Kym Kent and I are joined by our two homeschooled high school seniors as they reflect on their homeschooling experience, what the college admissions process has been like, and how they are narrowing down their many college acceptances to choose the one that is right for them by the May 1st college decision deadline. Check out Homeschooling To College Part 1: High School Prep and the Pre-Application Process Check out Homeschooling To College Part 2: Common Myths Around Admission & Affordability Check out Homeschooling To College Part 3: Insights from a College Admissions Counselor *** Subscribe to Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Send us a textIn this conversation with author and speaker Jacob Nordby, we explore the paradox of freedom in modern life. Is it simply doing whatever we want—or does real freedom require something deeper?While many consider freedom to be about doing whatever they want without constraints, Jacob challenges this perception. "A lot of people assume that freedom means the ability to do whatever they want," he reflects, "but we're learning that most of what we think and believe happens pretty unconsciously." True freedom, it seems, requires the difficult work of self-awareness and introspection.Jacob challenges common ideas about success, self-determination, and meaning. Together, we dive into how societal norms shape our values, why unpaid or “unproductive” work (like parenting or crafting) is deeply meaningful, and how rituals in everyday life can reconnect us to purpose. Jacob shares tools for navigating difficult times and reclaiming inner freedom.“The great victory isn't avoiding difficulty—it's knowing we can respond with resilience.”

Today's guest is Jania Otey, a homeschooling mom and founder of Kids and Culture Camp, an educational enrichment program for homeschoolers and conventionally-schooled children located in Washington, DC.  *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends and entrepreneurial stories at fee.org/liberated.

Send us a textYasmin and Andy left a comfortable life in the UK to join a small off-grid community in the jungles of Belize.Fifteen years after cycling through Central America, Yasmin and Andy returned—this time with three kids and a desire for a different kind of life. What began as a plan to visit intentional communities in Europe shifted during the pandemic, eventually landing them in a small permaculture community in Belize.They describe the emotional and practical steps behind leaving the UK, the grief of letting go, and the clarity that comes from recognizing how little time we have. Loneliness in early parenthood, especially within the isolation of the nuclear family, sparked a deeper search for connection. Now, they live alongside five other families where support is built into everyday life.This isn't a story about escaping—it's about building. From self-directed education to shared celebrations and infrastructure, Yasmin and Andy reflect on what it takes to live more freely and cooperatively.To learn more about Yasmin, Andy, and Sattvā Land or plan a visit, check the links below.

In part 3 of our 4-part series on Homeschooling To College, Kym Kent and I talk to Rebecca Stuart-Orlowski, an independent college admissions counselor based in Southern California who helps students and families navigate the college admissions process. A former public school teacher, Rebecca homeschooled for 25 years, sending her own three children off to college. A member of multiple professional college admissions organizations, Rebecca has been running Orlowski College Consulting for more than a decade, working closely with students on their college application journey with a particular focus on homeschooled students and others from nontraditional educational backgrounds.  Check out Homeschooling To College Part 1: High School Prep and the Pre-Application Process Check out Homeschooling To College Part 2: Common Myths Around Admission & Affordability *** Subscribe to Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.      

Send us a textIn this episode, we speak with Amanda Diekman about how her parenting changed when her six-year-old son went into autistic burnout. He lost verbal communication, stopped eating most foods, and couldn't follow basic routines. Faced with a crisis, Amanda chose to stop trying to fix him and instead removed demands to create safety.She explains how this shift became the foundation of low-demand parenting—an approach that prioritizes accommodation, reduces expectations, and gives children more agency. We discuss the fear many parents feel when stepping outside conventional norms, how control-based parenting damages relationships, and why even “high-functioning” children may be silently struggling.Amanda also shares how living in a community centered around disability shifted her perspective on independence and success. We cover specific strategies, including how her family uses language like “you're forcing me” to signal power imbalances, and how she reframed daily routines to support healing.Low-demand parenting isn't just for neurodivergent children—it challenges the broader parenting culture and offers a different way to relate to our kids.

Welcome to the 300th episode of the LiberatED Podcast! That's hundreds of conversations, stories, and insights all centered around one core mission: reimagining education and helping families, educators, and innovators discover what's possible beyond the conventional classroom. Check out Kerry's forthcoming book: Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling Join our private Facebook group: LiberatED Podcast Community And sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Today's guest is Ben Draper, Executive Director of the Macomber Center, a self-directed education center for homeschoolers in Massachusetts. Ben is a graduate of the Sudbury Valley School, where he spent most of his childhood and adolescence before attending college at Tufts University and later earning a studio art degree from the Boston Museum School. Ben is part of the founding team of a new organization, Sudbury International, which seeks to promote the Sudbury model of education as well as individual Sudbury-inspired schools and centers.  Register for Sudbury International's upcoming free webinar on April 5th, featuring graduates from four different Sudbury-model schools. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Send us a textLuz and David from Evolving Education left careers in biotechnology to explore and document alternative education models worldwide. Frustrated by rigid schooling systems, they traveled to over 170 learning centers to understand how children learn best outside the traditional classroom.In this episode, we talk about  how compulsory schooling originated in 19th-century Prussia as a system designed to produce obedient soldiers and workers, a model later exported worldwide as a tool for colonization and cultural suppression. We discuss how education has been shaped by these historical forces and why so many modern schools still emphasize conformity over curiosity. Luz and David explain the “Expedition Methodology” they developed, which focuses on exploration, experimentation, and community as key components of meaningful learning. Rather than pushing a single solution, they emphasize the importance of cross-pollination between different educational approaches and the need for families, teachers, and learning communities to collaborate in rethinking how children grow and learn.Instead of waiting for top-down reforms, they work directly with those already creating change—educators, parents, and pioneers looking for alternatives. Their mission is to make these models more accessible, providing tools and resources to help others implement child-led, passion-driven learning environments.Visit evolvingeducation.org to access their free ebook, watch their documentary films, and join their community. They also host monthly “Voices of Change” webinars featuring educators working at the forefront of alternative learning.

Today's guest is Dominque Burgess, a former public school teacher, visionary education entrepreneur, and a national leader in the microschool movement. As the founder of Burbrella Learning Academy Inc. in Burlington, North Carolina she has successfully launched multiple innovative microschools, including transforming an old Foot Locker in a mall into a thriving, student-centered learning hub. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Today's guest is Makenzie Oliver, host of the popular podcast Teacher, Let Your Light Shine! and its associated Facebook community. An award-winning public school teacher, Makenzie decided to leave the conventional classroom to launch her own microschool, Lighthouse Learning Microschool and Homeschool Hybrid, in 2020 in Longwood, Florida. She now helps other teachers to let their light shine through education entrepreneurship by offering a "Microschool Masterminds" program and various coaching resources.  *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Is traditional schooling the only path to success? In this eye-opening episode, Justin and Kylie challenge the conventional approach to education, sharing their journey through homeschooling and industry-based schooling with their daughter, Lily. They discuss why so many kids feel disconnected from mainstream education, the power of hands-on learning, and how alternative schooling models are helping students find passion, purpose, and career opportunities. If you’ve ever worried about whether the standard school system is serving your child, this episode is a must-listen! KEY POINTS: Many kids feel disconnected from traditional schooling because it lacks real-world application. Industry schools combine formal education with hands-on experience, giving kids exposure to different careers. Parents often fear that alternative education means failure, but in reality, it can lead to greater success and fulfillment. The stigma of leaving mainstream school is often more about parental concerns than what’s best for the child. Exposure is key—kids don’t always know what they want to do until they experience different career options. There are so many flexible schooling alternatives—vocational training, homeschooling, apprenticeships, online learning, and more. Insights from a school principal: The biggest hurdle in education reform is often parents’ reluctance to try something different. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: "We’re using medieval institutions to train our children to live in an era where we have god-like technology. They don’t match up—they simply don’t." RESOURCES MENTIONED: Dark Horse by Todd Rose Industry schools, vocational training programs, apprenticeships, and alternative schooling options. The Happy Families website ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: If your child is struggling with school, research alternative education options in your area. Have an open conversation with your child about what excites them and what frustrates them about their education. Challenge the fear of failure. Understand that leaving traditional school doesn’t mean giving up on success—it might be the key to unlocking it. Connect with other parents who have explored homeschooling, vocational programs, or industry schools for insight and support. Encourage your child to explore different careers through internships, apprenticeships, or hands-on learning experiences. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textIris Chen, author of Untigering: Peaceful Parenting for the Deconstructing Tiger Parent, shares how she shifted from a strict, high-expectation parenting style to a trust-based approach.Raised in a Chinese-American household, Iris grew up with academic pressure and obedience as the norm. She carried those expectations into her own parenting—until she saw how control and punishment were harming her relationship with her children. A parenting workshop on neuroscience led her to rethink discipline, ultimately guiding her toward unschooling.This conversation looks at how tiger parenting is often rooted in intergenerational trauma, especially in immigrant communities where educational success is tied to security and acceptance. Instead of accepting these methods as “cultural,” Iris encourages parents to examine their origins and whether they truly serve their children today.

In this second episode in our series, Homeschooling To College, Kym Kent and I talk about some of the common myths around college admissions and affordability, as well as how to navigate the Common App as a homeschooling family.  "A trend colleges might not want applicants to notice: It's becoming easier to get in" (The Hechinger Report, Nov. 2024) "The secret that colleges should stop keeping" (The Atlantic, Feb. 2025) In case you missed it, check out our first episode in this series in which Kym and I discuss preparation for college admissions during the high school years, and the pre-application process.  *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Traditional classrooms can be overwhelming for neurodivergent students. Rigid schedules, sensory overload, and one-size-fits-all approaches leave many feeling anxious, disconnected, and unable to thrive. Parents often ask: Is online education a viable alternative?In this episode, we sit down with Kate Longworth, CEO and founder of Gaia Learning, a global online school designed for neurodivergent learners. Kate shares how personalized online learning can reduce stress, increase accessibility, and help students build the confidence they need to succeed—whether in virtual or in-person settings.Key takeaways include:✔️ The misconception that distance learning isn't suited for marginalized students—and why the reality is quite the opposite.✔️ How Gaia Learning's tiered approach helps neurodivergent students transition from disengagement to confidence.✔️ Why emotional safety is the foundation of academic success, and how online learning can foster trust and connection.✔️ Strategies for scaling personalized education while maintaining meaningful, individualized support.

Today's guest is Lauri Muse, a mom of of 7 children who has been actively homeschooling for 27 years. She recently launched World of Wonder Hybrid Microschool and Homeschool Enrichment Program in Union, Kentucky, near Cincinnati, Ohio. Her weekly homeschool enrichment program now serves over 140 kids, while the 3-day-a-week microschool she opened last fall currently has 15 students—and counting! *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Send us a textThe moment you carve, knit, bake or start folding paper, something remarkable happens in your brain. The anxious spiral of thoughts quiets, stress hormones recede, and you enter a state that Dr. Anne Kirketerp calls "meaningful self-forgetfulness."Dr. Anne Kirketerp is a psychologist, researcher, and craftsperson who pioneered Craft Psychology—the study of how hands-on creative activities impact mental well-being. With a background in both psychology and craftsmanship, she has spent years exploring the health benefits of making, from reducing stress to enhancing focus and problem-solving skills.Formerly a professor and research director, Anne left academia to focus on studying the link between crafting and mental health. Her work combines scientific research with practical insights, showing how structured and free-form creative activities can foster flow, resilience, and psychological wellbeing.She is the author of Craft Psychology and runs craftpsychology.com, where she shares research-based insights and exercises designed to help people integrate craft into their daily lives.

Today's guests are Katie Kilgore and Michael Frost who are the cofounders, along with a third family, of Three Cords Academy, a student-focused, Biblically-centered microschool currently serving 2nd-6th grades which they launched in Fall 2024 in Carrollton, Georgia. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.    

Today's guest is MacKenzie Price, cofounder of 2 Hour Learning and Alpha School, a K-12 private school in Austin, Texas which she launched in 2014. MacKenzie is currently working to scale the Alpha School model nationwide, with additional schools currently operating or opening soon in several states. A graduate of Stanford University, MacKenzie hosts the Future of Education podcast, which focuses on the advent of AI in education and its impact on student learning and discovery.  *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.  

Donald Trump, Andrew Tate, Jordan Peterson. Truth be told, these are the men that are winning the eyes and ears of young men right now. So what's it' like being a male teacher in this atmosphere, and what are some things you can do to combat these antisocial forces? Trevor Slater, a master teacher of 17 years, has some answers to this question. And when Trevor speaks, he's always taken the time before hand to consider the issues with incredible depth.“If you look out at America and how young men are doing right now, and you want to make a difference in that, become a teacher. Get in front of young men.” We cover:Single-gender education, and removing the performative pressure on boys and young menWhen and where is the right place for experimental and progressive educationTeaching young men during the Trump phenomenonThe cultural effects of boys being educated directly by YouTube and TikTok(0:00) Class in session(2:35) Trevor introduces himself(6:00) Trevor and Ashanti share their teacher personas(17:35) The benefits of single gender education(25:15) What is “progressive” or “experimental” education? How is it changing?(30:45) Teaching during the Trump Administration, when boys have the wrong leaders to look up to, such as Andrew Tate(44:45) Trevor's message for male educators(52:25) How to reach out to Trevor---Connect with Trevor Slater:Email: slater.trevor@gmail.com---Join our Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/efc-young-mens-advocates-2345 Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/ ---Connect with Ashanti Branch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksTwitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/---Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support ---Connect with Ever Forward Club:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubTwitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/

Today's guest is Maria Stalsberg, founder of Our Village School, a creative learning environment for homeschooled kids ages 6 and over in Lakeville, Minnesota. Maria holds a Master's degree in Teaching and a Bachelor's in Business Administration. She began her career in Corporate America before transitioning to becoming a classroom teacher in the traditional education system, but ultimately stepped away to focus on raising her four children. After enrolling her oldest in the local public elementary school for kindergarten and first grade, Maria found herself longing for a more dynamic, hands-on approach to learning. Determined to create something different, she pulled her oldest to homeschool and launched Our Village School in 2020. It started as a single day of programming in her backyard with 18 kids and has since grown to now serve roughly 150 students with four-day-a-week programming and flexible attendance options. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

I am so excited to share the news with you that my new book, Joyful Learning: How To Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is now available for preorder! Published by the big New York City publisher Hachette, under its PublicAffairs imprint, Joyful Learning is brimming with information and inspiration for parents and teachers who are seeking or building innovative schools and learning models. Joyful Learning will be on bookstore shelves in August, and I am already scheduling book events in various cities at schools and similar learning communities, as well as with parent and policy organizations, and business and entrepreneurship groups. If you're interested in sharing the ideas of joyful learning with your community, please email me at kmcdonald@fee.org. And grab your preorder copy today! 

Our guest today is Jennie Jones, a former professional ballerina, turned homeschooling mom of four, turned education entrepreneur. In September 2024, Jennie launched The Treehouse Agile Learning Community as a home-based microschool in St. George, Utah that uses agile learning tools to foster intentional community, natural learning, and independence in students ages 5-12. Read more about Jennie's founder journey in her debut FEE.org article. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Jake Thompson is the founder of Heroes Academy, an Acton Academy in Boise, Idaho that he opened in 2016. Jake is also now the head of the entire Acton Academy network, which includes over 300 learner-driven schools serving thousands of students worldwide.  Check out Kerry's LiberatED interview with Acton Academy network cofounder, Jeff Sandefer. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Today's guests are Taylor Munro and Lacey Fickes, cofounders of Peak Academy, a microschool in Richmond, Texas currently serving students in grades K-8, with a high school expansion in the works. They launched Peak Academy in August 2022, but prior to that both founders worked for many years as public school teachers in Texas.  *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

In this interview with Doug Casey, we discuss what to expect in 2025. We also explore alternatives to traditional education, discussing Casey's upcoming book that offers guidance for young individuals seeking unconventional career paths. Personal anecdotes highlight the benefits of early childhood reading and exposure to diverse ideas, as we reflect on shifting perceptions of various professions. The discussion then turns to politics, examining the implications of recent leadership changes and their impact on personal freedom. We consider Trump's return to office, debating whether it strengthens governmental authority or exposes its inefficiencies, with a cautiously optimistic view of potential deregulation. The conversation expands into financial strategies, contrasting libertarian and anarcho-capitalist perspectives, and emphasizing the importance of asset accumulation, geographic diversification, and financial independence in an increasingly regulated world. Finally, we discuss entrepreneurship as a path to financial freedom, warning against the pitfalls of speculative trading and overvalued markets. This episode encourages a mindset of self-reliance, strategic planning, and adaptability in the face of societal and economic changes. Doug Casey's website: Chapter Timestamps (00:12) - Blue Light and Future Vision Discussion (10:22) - Government, Freedom, and Hopeful Outlook (17:05) - Financial Abundance and Personal Freedom (25:04) - Investment Strategies and Market Insights Doug Casey, financial independence, libertarian economics, anarcho-capitalism, personal freedom, Trump presidency, entrepreneurship strategies, alternative education, investing insights, geopolitical shifts

Could you imagine your kid going from hating school to LOVING it so much they wish they even had it on weeknds? Delanie Fischer is joined by former public school teacher, mom, and Founder and Director of Fáilte Waldorf Microschool, Jennifer Kempin, to share her experience with homeschooling her son, the impact this transition made on him, and how it inspired her to help other kids who struggle in conventional school settings. Whether your kid is deeply unhappy at school and you're unsure how to move forward, or you're considering an alternative lifestyle or career for yourself, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical tools.Plus:+ 4 Signs Your Kid Might Be Struggling At School+ 3 Resources For Parents Who Want More Options+ Education vs. School: Rethinking How Kids Learn More episodes related to this topic:3 Lessons Learned From Independent Study (Homeschooling) with Delanie Fischer: https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/episodes/episode/e1936a32/3-lessons-learned-from-independent-study-homeschooling9 Things We Wish We Knew in High School with Taylor Tomlinson, Kelsey Cook, and Delanie Fischer: https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/episodes/episode/262d3040/9-things-we-wish-we-knew-in-high-schoolBurnout, A Breakdown, And Beginning Again with Former Teacher Jessica Gemme: https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/episodes/episode/249fe16a/burnout-a-breakdown-and-beginning-again-with-jessica-gemmeThe Impact Teachers Have Had On Our Lives with Taylor, Kelsey, and Delanie: https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/episodes/episode/235218fc/the-impact-teachers-have-had-on-our-livesVote on episode topics and submit questions for guests here: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelplessYour Host, Delanie Fischer: https://www.delaniefischer.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.