Podcasts about Alternative education

What happens when two parents with a 70-acre property, a wedding venue, and a 2% chance of having children decide the local school system just isn't good enough for their girls? They build something better from scratch.In this episode, Cheryl sits down with Sarah and Greg Holland of Jericho Valley Co-op in Berkshire County, Massachusetts — a homeschool support organization they built on their own property, with a licensed teacher who walked away from 25 years in the public school system because she believed in what they were building.Sarah and Greg share how they went from never considering homeschooling to launching a thriving co-op that doubled enrollment in less than a year and now has a waitlist. They talk about hiring a teacher, navigating the legal landscape of running a homeschool co-op, mixed-age learning, getting kids outside every day, and why they believe every community has the resources to do something similar if they just look around.If you've ever thought about starting something like this in your own community — or you're just looking for proof that there's a better way — this episode is for you.Topics covered:Why two self-described "school lovers" chose to leave the system behindHow they built a co-op using their existing property and businessFinding and hiring a teacher who left a 25-year public school careerMixed-age classrooms and individualized learning plansNavigating homeschool co-op laws in Massachusetts, Vermont, and New YorkHow running a business from home changes what your kids learnWhy their shy, isolated daughters transformed after just one yearHow to start your own co-op even without a big property or budgetResources mentioned:Jericho Valley Co-op website: jerichovalley.orgJericho Valley Co-op Instagram: @jericho.valleyGet Your Tickets: FARM FOOD FREEDOM Event: https://maxkane.com/eventsResources from Cheryl:

The Nurses Report on America Out Loud with Ashley Caputo, RN, FMP – More families are looking for alternatives that allow them to slow down, spend more time together, and create healthier home environments. Many successful homeschooling families incorporate real-life learning through cooking, gardening, budgeting, nature exploration, entrepreneurship, travel, and practical life skills...

The Nurses Report on America Out Loud with Ashley Caputo, RN, FMP – More families are looking for alternatives that allow them to slow down, spend more time together, and create healthier home environments. Many successful homeschooling families incorporate real-life learning through cooking, gardening, budgeting, nature exploration, entrepreneurship, travel, and practical life skills...

In this episode of the Twiniversity Podcast, Natalie talks with Christy-Faith, homeschool advocate, author of Homeschool Rising, education expert, and twin mom, about home-based learning, school-aged twins, and why homeschooling looks very different today than it did a generation ago. Christy-Faith shares her own path to motherhood, including secondary infertility, IVF, fraternal twin girls, a surprise fourth baby, and the hard reality of parenting twins through the early years. She also opens up about her professional background in education, including running a learning intervention and tutoring center in Los Angeles before eventually choosing home education for her own family. Natalie and Christy-Faith talk honestly about the fears many parents have around homeschooling - socialization, academics, family support, whether it is “too weird,” and whether parents are qualified to do it. Christy explains why she prefers the term home-based education, because modern homeschooling can include co-ops, live online classes, outside teachers, homeschool pods, interest-led learning, and a strong community. The conversation also explores what happens when school is not working for your child. Natalie shares her own regrets about not exploring more flexible school options when her twins were younger, including the feeling that her kids were on a “runaway horse” in a system that did not always fit who they were. This episode is a validating and thought-provoking conversation for twin parents who are questioning the traditional school path, wondering what options exist, or simply wanting permission to ask: Is there another way to educate my kids? Connect with Guest: Website: https://christy-faith.com Book: Homeschool Rising - https://christy-faith.com/book-homeschool-rising ⭐ New to Christy-Faith? Start with Episode 101 - the New Homeschooler Series is the best place to begin.https://youtu.be/K9XUTDsiB70 The Christy-Faith Show www.youtube.com/@christy-faithtiktok.com/@christy_faithinstagram.com/christy_faith_homeschool facebook.com/ChristyFaithHomeschoolpinterest.com/ChristyFaithHomeschooling EPISODE THEMES

Text Sue what you think!Are we preparing kids for adulthood… or preparing them for school expectations?Parents worry about grades, gaps, transcripts, screen time, and whether their kids will be successful adults. But real adult life often depends on something else entirely: adaptability, communication, confidence, initiative, emotional regulation, and problem solving.In this episode, Sue Patterson explores how real-life experiences, play, curiosity, gaming, technology, and pursuing interests can help kids develop the skills they actually need for adulthood.Also: why school expectations still shape our fears  how unschooling builds real-world problem-solving skills  the difference between memorizing information and learning how to navigate life  reducing power struggles around technology  helping parents feel more confident taking an unconventional path If you've ever wondered whether unschooling truly prepares kids for adult life, this episode will help you rethink what “life prep” really means. → Creating Confidence Community and Daily Confidence App: https://www.unschoolingmom2mom.com/creating-confidence-sign-up → Read transcript at the bloghttps://www.unschoolingmom2mom.com/the-life-prep-unschooling-homeschooling-kids-really-need Support the show_____________________________________________________As always, reach out if you need more help.  You don't have to do this alone!Creating Confidence DAILY - the Unschooling App you need!Start Free Trial Today!Creating Confidence Membership Group  UNSCHOOLING 101 CourseMath WITHOUT Curriculum CourseUnschooling Transcript CourseSeasonal Unschooling Guides Private 1:1 Coaching with Sue Stay Connected:Free Email List with weekly unschooling resourceswww.UnschoolingMom2Mom.com

Ben and Hannah Yoder run Savage Mountain Farm, a 150-acre diversified, full-diet CSA on the Pennsylvania–Maryland line, rooted in Amish–Mennonite heritage and natural methods, raising produce, mushrooms, and pastured livestock while blending regenerative farming with homeschooling, community engagement, and a family-centered lifestyle.Farmer Stories pulls the best conversations from The Regenaissance archive - real voices from American farmers on the systems, economics, and communities shaping food and land in the US.Timestamps00:00:00 Why they homeschool 00:01:30 School as fear, not learning 00:03:00 Preserving curiosity over teaching content 00:05:30 Disconnection from food as root cause 00:06:30 Age segregation & lost intergenerational culture 00:08:00 No screens - kids who can entertain themselves 00:10:00 Modeling self-sovereignty on the farm 00:11:30 Owning your day - the case for farmingConnect with Savage Mountain:WebsiteInstagramFollow the tour on YouTube

Huda Beauty founder Huda Kattan has opened up about a serious health scare after revealing that her breast implants had ruptured after more than a decade, causing pain, inflammation and early signs of infection. Plastic surgeon Dr Adel Quttainah weighs in. Plus - Raluca Marcu, known as The Image Scientist, she combines marketing, psychology, styling and body language to help people understand the science behind how they are perceived. Paris has just hosted its first ever Modest Fashion Week. Maryem Gargoubi, founder of DORA Ready-to-Wear, a UAE-based hijab brand, has her own personal story of navigating identity, work and fashion as a hijab-wearing woman. Homeschooling in the UAE and across the GCC is no longer just a fringe lifestyle choice or something families turn to when traditional school does not work out. Dr Michel Khoury, Founder and CEO of Eastwood Global Online School, gives us some insight into this trend, Security experts are saying the password may finally be on the way out. Mortada Ayad, VP, META at Delinea, gives us safer and more secure options. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Text Sue what you think!What does unschooling look like day to day—and how do you know it's enough?This is where most parents start to second-guess everything.If you've ever lwondered, “Is this enough?”—you're not alone.We're unpacking one of the most common fears in unschooling:What learning actually looks like when it doesn't look like school.With no worksheets, no visible lessons, and no clear benchmarks… it can feel like nothing is happening. But that's not what's going on.We'll talk about: Why unschooling feels “too unstructured”  Where that pressure to do more comes from  What learning actually looks like in everyday real life  Why confidence comes and goes—and how to handle that If you've been second-guessing your choices or worried your child is falling behind, let's reframe what you're seeing—and what really counts.

What happens when a single mom in the Foreign Service gets the double whammy — "your child might have dyslexia" AND profound hearing loss? She figures it out. Katharyn Havens joins Cheryl from outside Nairobi, Kenya, where she's running a multi-age homeschool pod, teaching kids AI ethics, and building her own AI co-pilot for homeschool parents.In this episode:How cochlear implant surgery changed everything — and bought them timeWhy Katherine walked away from a 14-year Foreign Service careerThe year they moved to Florida, ditched the diagnosis, and just learned to liveHow her son went from nonverbal to reading Green Eggs and Ham — on his own timelineBuilding a homeschool pod in Kenya with kids of all agesHer AI code of ethics for kids (yes, they have written rules)What "symphonic thinking" is and why it's the most future-proof skill you can teachWhether you're just starting out or deep in the homeschool journey, Katherine's story will remind you: you know your kid best. Trust that.Connect with Katharyn: Substack: https://substack.com/@kairoslearninglifestyle?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/radicallyresetting/?hl=enYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KairosRiseHomeschoolwww.KairosRise.com

Episode SummaryIn this episode, Morgan sits down with Matt to break down why he walked away from Australia after building significant wealth and why more entrepreneurs are starting to question the system.Matt shares his journey from business and property to global investing, and why he believes Australia is becoming increasingly difficult for wealth creation. He explains the hidden impact of taxes, inflation, and regulation and how they quietly reduce financial growth over time.The conversation explores investing overseas, lifestyle design, and why environments like Bali are attracting high-performing individuals. Matt also shares the mistakes he made while relocating and how others can approach the move more strategically.0:00 Intro 0:24 Matt's Background 1:57 Leaving Australia 3:01 Australia's Economic Shift 5:03 Property & Wealth 7:10 Taxes & Cost of Living 9:18 The Reality of Wealth Building 10:03 Loyalty vs Opportunity 11:19 Cultural Differences 13:18 Tall Poppy Syndrome 14:41 Dreamfest 15:31 Cost of Living Changes 19:16 Investing Overseas 21:04 Life in Bali 25:30 Who Should Consider Leaving 27:08 Investment Opportunities Abroad 30:13 Cash Flow vs Appreciation 33:12 Investment Mindset 35:29 Getting Started Overseas 38:25 The Exit Process 43:26 Relocation Lessons 45:07 Family & Lifestyle 47:09 Alternative Education 50:32 Environment & Success 51:40 Relationships & Decisions 52:14 Testing the Move 56:54 Dreamfest Reminder 57:16 Advice to His Younger SelfMatt is an entrepreneur, investor, and property developer with a background in building and scaling multiple businesses across Australia.After achieving financial success, he shifted his focus toward global investing and lifestyle design, relocating to Bali to optimize both wealth creation and quality of life. Today, he helps others explore international opportunities, particularly in property and investment markets outside Australia.

Text Sue what you think!How do unschoolers learn math without a curriculum?Can kids really learn math without school—and how do you know it's enough?Here's a real “day in the life” of an unschooling teen. See exactly where math shows up—hour by hour—without worksheets, textbooks, or formal lessons.If you've been wondering: how do kids learn math without curriculum  is real life math enough  am I doing enough math in our homeschool  what about unschooling math gaps …you'll get a clear, practical look at how math naturally develops through everyday life.Real life Math examples like:Mental math, estimation, math in daily routines Math in video games  Cooking, shopping, and budgeting  Sports, timing, decision-making  Problem-solving,  estimation But here's the struggle you'll recognize—Noticing is Step 1 - Seeing it in YOUR kids's lives is the Next Level.We talk about why so many parents feel confident after seeing examples like this… and then fall back into doubt—and what actually helps build long-term confidence with unschooling math.If you're transitioning from homeschool curriculum, questioning traditional math approaches, or trying to trust unschooling, this episode will help you start recognizing what's already happening—and understand what comes next.

In this episode, we step outside the traditional conversation around education and take a deeper look at something bigger—how we're raising our kids in today's world.Cheryl sits down with Doug Evans, founder of The Sprouting Company, to talk about self-sufficiency, food, environment, and why more families are questioning the systems we've always relied on—from school to the food we eat.They explore: Why play-based learning may be more powerful than structured classrooms  How environment (indoor vs outdoor living) impacts children's development  The connection between food, health, and independence  Simple ways families can become more self-sufficient (even if you're busy)  What it looks like to raise kids outside the traditional system While this conversation isn't just about homeschooling, it touches on a core idea many parents are starting to realize:We have more control over our children's lives—and learning—than we've been led to believe.If you've ever questioned the way things are “supposed” to be done, this episode will give you a lot to think about.Episode Resources:The Sprouting CompanyInstagram- The Sprouting Companyhttps://www.youtube.com/@TheSproutingCompanyCheryl's eBook- The Homeschool How To: Complete Starter GuideSupport the showInstagram: TheHomeschoolHowToPodcast Facebook: The Homeschool How To Podcast

What if the biggest problem with education isn't your child… but the school system itself?In this episode of the Homeschool How To Podcast, Cheryl sits down with Dr. Peter Gray, author of Free to Learn, to talk about what schools get fundamentally wrong about how children actually learn.They discuss the hidden history of schooling, why shame and obedience are still built into the system, how kids learn to read and do math when they're actually ready, and why self-directed learning may be far more effective than most parents have been led to believe.If you've ever wondered whether your child is really “behind,” whether school is preparing kids for life, or whether there's a better way to learn, this conversation will challenge the way you think about education.In this episode, we discuss: what schools were originally designed to do  why forced learning often backfires  reading without a rigid timeline  math anxiety and real-life math  why motivation changes everything  how children learn when they're trusted About Dr. Peter Gray: Dr. Peter Gray is a research professor, psychologist, and author of Free to Learn. His work focuses on self-directed education, play, and the ways modern schooling conflicts with children's natural development.Resources mentioned:Free to Learn by Dr. Peter Gray Dr. Gray's website: https://www.petergray.org/Check out Dr. Gray's SubstackCheryl's eBook- The Homeschool How To: Complete Starter GuideIf this episode encouraged you, be sure to follow the show, leave a review, and share it with a parent who needs to hear this.Support the showInstagram: TheHomeschoolHowToPodcast Facebook: The Homeschool How To Podcast

This podcast is made possible by our listeners and viewers. If this show has brought you value, you can support it by becoming a member of The Way Forward, our platform designed to help you find the health and freedom community (people, practitioners, schools, farms, and more) near you. Your membership directly supports the podcast and the work we do.The public school system has been damaging our children… but it doesn't have to be this way.In this conversation, I sit down with the founders of Infinity Academy, a project-based and nature-rooted school that was created after years of questioning the assumptions behind institutional education.Gillian, the school's Curriculum and Instructional Lead, spent more than a decade teaching in public education and repeatedly felt that something about the system wasn't working. Her work now focuses on project-based learning designed to nurture curiosity, critical thinking, and intrinsic motivation in children.Jenna, a Registered Nurse and wellness educator, co-founded the school after recognizing similar systemic problems in healthcare and education. Her work helps integrate nature, hands-on learning, and whole-person wellbeing into the educational experience.Together, they're building a model where learning follows the child's interests through questioning, research, creation, and reflection. Their goal is to help children develop agency, curiosity, and the confidence to keep learning long after the classroom.You'll Learn:[00:00] Introduction[03:40] How public school was designed to crush curiosity[21:31] The grief, the infinity fountain, and the 30-day scramble to open Infinity Academy[41:12] What is project-based learning, and what does it look like?[43:11] Why community beats homeschooling, and what learning looks like at the Academy[01:04:14] Teaching history without presenting it as an absolute truth[01:25:49] Sex ed, gender ideology, and the topics deliberately left to parents[01:48:48] Why "preparing kids for the real world" might be the wrong goal entirely[01:56:41] Advice for the single mom trapped in the public school systemLearn more from Gillian and Jenna:Infinity Education | WebsiteInfinity Education | InstagramInfinity Academy | WebsiteGillian Berard | Instagram Find more from Alec:Alec Zeck | InstagramAlec Zeck | XThe Way Forward | InstagramThe Way Forward is Sponsored By:RMDY Academy & Collective: Homeopathy Made AccessibleHigh-quality remedies and training to support natural healing.Enroll hereExplore here Paleovalley: 100% Grass-Fed Bone Broth Protein is a nutrient-dense, easy-to-digest source of collagen and essential amino acids. Sourced from grass-fed cows, this protein powder provides the building blocks for healthy joints, skin, and gut function—without fillers or artificial ingredients. Support the show and claim 15% off your PaleoValley order!New Biology Clinic: Redefine Health from the Ground UpExperience tailored terrain-based health services with consults, livestreams, movement classes, and more.Visit New Biology Clinic and use code THEWAYFORWARD (case sensitive) for $50 off activation.The Way Forward members get the $150 fee waivedWant to grow your podcast but not sure what's actually working? Podigy helps me produce The Way Forward. Take their free assessment to get clear on your next move—and a chance to win a call with their founder.

Text Sue what you think!What can unschooling families learn from the neurodivergent community?In this episode, Sue Patterson looks at how our understanding of “quirky” kids has changed over the years—and why many unschooling parents are learning from approaches developed within the neurodivergent community.Even families without a diagnosis can benefit from these ideas when kids struggle with expectations, pressure, or social dynamics.In this episode:Reassurance for parents of neurodivergent childrenHow the conversation around neurodivergence has evolvedWhy many families turn to unschooling when school isn't working What parents can learn from neurodivergent-informed parenting approachesResources for neurodivergent familiesSue also shares details about the Unschooling Summit, where many speakers will be discussing neurodivergence in unschooling families.

Tomorrow, I'll be trading Iowa for a couple days in Los Angeles, where the HRP team will be presenting for the third year at LearningInspirEd's Student Power Summit. It's in LA this year in partnership with Homeboy Industries, the largest gang rehabilitation and re-entry program in the world. The founder, Father Greg Boyle, is quoted on the Homeboy homepage saying, “We imagine a world without prisons, and then we try to create that world,”. And I'm really looking forward to meeting and talking with the people there to learn more about how Homeboy works. A bit of a facetious question that sticks in my head is, in the high-stakes data-driven world of schooling, what piece of content or curriculum did these guys miss that would've made the difference? And more seriously, what is it about the environment at Homeboy Industries that schools can learn from? I'll have more on that when I get back.But until we build that world wi thout prisons, there will need to be programs for incarcerated people and people in transition from prison to public life, too.That's where this conversation with Jennifer Berkshire came about. Of course you know Jennifer from her years of hosting the Have You Heard? Podcast with her co-host Jack Schneider, and their coauthored books The Wolf At The Schoolhouse Door and The Education Wars. But for the past couple of years, Jennifer has also been teaching journalism and education policy in the Boston College Prison Education Program at MCI-Shirley, a medium security prison for men in central Massachusetts. Recording isn't allowed in the prison facility, but in 2025 Jennifer spoke with some of the men in her program who had been released from MCI-Shirley and were finishing their degrees on the Boston College campus, and she gave me permission to use those clips here.As you can hear, the program was a life-changing experience for these men, and it's been life-changing for Jennifer too.This conversation with Jennifer was one of the most eye-opening I've had in a long time, and it's always such a pleasure to talk with her. I've included links to several pieces of media we talk about in this episode, podcasts and articles created by inmates, books written by prison educators, and more, so check out the show notes for those links as well.John Lennon - The Tragedy of True CrimeEar Hustle Podcast: “The daily realities of life inside prison shared by those living it, and stories from the outside, post-incarceration”Have You Heard #202 - College Inside, College OutsideArticle - BC Prison Education Program Shatters Stigmas and Builds Better FuturesArticle - In prison, I embraced the SEL skills I should have learned in grade school

What if the biggest education question isn't “public vs. private”… but who is shaping your child's worldview?This week on The Homeschool How To Podcast, I'm joined by documentary filmmaker Spencer Taylor, creator of The Death of Recess (streaming on Angel Studios). Spencer shares what sparked the film—when his school eliminated recess—and how that change connected to a bigger story: the erosion of childhood, creativity, and parental authority in modern education.We talk about:Why removing recess impacts behavior, mental health, and learningThe rise of standardized testing (and what it's costing kids)How education funding and influence shape curriculum decisionsWhy school choice and homeschooling are growing fast after COVIDWhat Spencer discovered when he went undercover at an NEA leadership summitHow parents can reclaim their role without fearIf you're homeschooling, considering homeschooling, or trying to get your spouse on board, this episode will challenge your assumptions—and give you language for the conversations that matter.

What if forgiveness isn't about being kind, spiritual, or morally “good” — but about getting your life back?In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, Ryann sits down with bestselling author, transformation mentor, and forgiveness expert Katharine Giovanni to explore forgiveness as a selfish, embodied, and energetically freeing practice. Together, they unpack why forgiveness is an inside job, how unresolved anger keeps us stuck in survival mode, and why forgiving the energy around people, places, and events can be just as important as forgiving the person themselves.Katharine shares her step-by-step forgiveness process — a practical, compassionate method that goes far beyond “just let it go” — and explains how unhealed resentment lives in the body, impacts our nervous system, affects our relationship with money, and quietly blocks joy, clarity, and connection.This episode is for anyone who's tried to forgive before and felt stuck… for those carrying resentment from childhood, family dynamics, or past relationships… and for anyone ready to release the emotional charge that keeps replaying old stories in their mind and body.Forgiveness, as you'll hear, isn't about excusing harm or reopening relationships. It's about freedom. It's about neutrality. It's about finally letting go of what no longer deserves space in your head — or your heart.Support The Mission:

#769 The traditional “default school path” is being rewritten — and parents are leading the charge! In this episode hosted by Kirsten Tyrrel, Ally Adair-Chung returns to share how she went from K–12 teacher to building (and successfully selling) a thriving learning center — and why the demand for alternative education is exploding. She breaks down the major shift happening right now as more parents seek micro-schools and homeschool hybrids, then pulls back the curtain on what actually makes these programs work: crystal-clear mission and messaging, curriculum and operations that match the promise, and confident leadership that doesn't get pulled back into “cookie-cutter” systems. Whether you're in education or any business that teaches or transforms, this episode is a masterclass in aligning values, proving outcomes, building raving fans, and scaling with integrity! What we discuss with Ally: + Ally's journey from teacher to entrepreneur + Building and selling a learning center + The rise of micro-schools and hybrids + 60% of parents seeking alternatives + Mission clarity before marketing + Avoiding “flowery” education promises + Aligning curriculum with values + Confidence in new learning models + Creating raving fan parent communities + Education as a business opportunity Thank you, Ally! Check out Disruptor Edu at DisruptorEdu.com. Follow Ally on Instagram. Watch the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠video podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ of this episode! To get access to our FREE Business Training course go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MillionaireUniversity.com/training⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠millionaireuniversity.com/sponsors⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A former public school teacher never planned to homeschool — until COVID forced a hard reset. In this episode, Cheryl talks with Janae Daniels from the School to Homeschool Podcast about the moment everything changed: the “magical” 2020 shutdown, the surprising nudge to homeschool, and the first day that completely fell apart… until a piano tuner accidentally delivered the best real-life science lesson her kids had ever experienced.Janae shares what deschooling actually looks like (and why it's harder for parents than kids), how she stopped trying to replicate school at home, and what happened when her children finally had room for boredom, curiosity, and real learning: guitar skills built through YouTube lessons, reading for meaning (not grades), embroidery that turned into paid work, early jobs, business books, conferences, and a senior year centered on debate, confidence, and entrepreneurship.If you're thinking, “I'm not smart enough,” “My kids will fight me,” or “Is it too late to start homeschooling — especially for middle and high school?” this conversation will give you clarity, encouragement, and a new definition of education.Connect with Janae:InstagramFacebookYouTubeWebsiteFollow the show, leave a review, and share this episode with a parent who needs reassurance today.Mentioned in today's episode: 

Hannah Beach explains why true play and “void moments” are essential for healthy child development. She describes void moments as unstructured, unstimulated time where children are not directed, entertained, or managed, and shows how these moments allow children to process experience, develop identity, regulate emotions, and build resilience.Hannah is an award-winning educator, author, and emotional health consultant with more than 25 years of experience developing play-based and relationship-centered programs for children, families, and schools. She is co-author of Reclaiming Our Students and works internationally with educators, school systems, and organizations to support children's emotional well-being through play, attachment, and community.

You've heard it a thousand times: “But what about socialization?” “What if my kid falls behind?” “What if they only want screens?” In this episode, I'm joined by Courtney (former teacher + school psychologist, now a private evaluator/advocate) to break down what unschooling actually is — and what it looks like in real life.We talk about the fear parents carry when they step outside the school system, and why so many families need to deschool themselves first. Courtney shares what she's seen from inside education and why forcing kids to meet grade-level standards can backfire — especially when kids develop at different rates.We also get into:What unschooling really means (and why it's not “kids watching TV all day”)Why school “socialization” can be toxic and what healthy socialization looks likeHow to handle screen time without power struggles (and why curiosity matters)The link between anxiety, nervous system regulation, and learningWhy many kids are labeled too early — and what parents can do insteadHow to spark learning naturally through real life, nature, conversation, and connectionA fascinating look at Human Design as a tool for understanding how your child learnsIf you're a parent who's trying to homeschool without recreating school at home — and you want your child to grow in confidence, curiosity, and love of learning — this episode will help you breathe again. 

What happens when you stop accepting the “official story” and start asking better questions—about education, parenting, freedom, and the systems we've all been told to trust?In this week's episode of The Homeschool How To Podcast, I'm joined by Tim (ANCAPTim)—a homeschooling dad, songwriter, and outspoken advocate of voluntary exchange, individual responsibility, and a truly free market. We talk about what anarcho-capitalism means in plain language, how his worldview shaped his decision to homeschool, and how to raise curious, grounded kids without turning them into “the weird kid on the playground.”We also get into:Why “both sides” can feel like two wings of the same birdHomeschooling as a custom fit for individual kids (not a one-size box)Unschooling explained without the stereotypesConsumer responsibility, ethics, and “voting with your wallet”AI, creativity, and what tech might change (and what it won't)Connect with Tim + his music: ANCAPTIM.com Mentioned in today's episode:My ebook: https://thehomeschoolhowto.com/ebookMy children's safety book Let's Talk, Emergencies!: https://CherylDaley.com or grab it on Amazon! If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow the show and leave a review—it helps more homeschool families find the podcast.Support the showInstagram: TheHomeschoolHowToPodcast Facebook: The Homeschool How To Podcast

Text Sue what you think!This post-holiday stretch can make even confident homeschooling and unschooling parents second-guess everything. But winter isn't the time to push harder — even though everything around us insists we need to ‘get back on track.So what if we took a different approach?If the last semester felt less than stellar, it may not need a complete overhaul. It often just means real life showed up — and winter is asking for something different. This episode invites you to slow down, reflect clearly, and notice what's actually true beneath the fear, guilt, and January noise.We talk about:why winter has never been a season of pushinghow stress and fear can distort how we remember “how things went”why reflection gives us better information than rushing to fixhow learning often looks quieter in winter — and why that still countsThis is not about planning or starting over. It's about letting winter be winter — and giving yourself permission to pause.Read TranscriptIf you'd like a little more support right now, here are a few gentle options:• New Year's Bundle (Guides + Kids' Video Interviews) 

You know your child better than any teacher, curriculum, or system ever could — but trusting that instinct can feel scary.In this episode of The Homeschool How To Podcast, I'm joined by Leanne, a former classroom teacher, homeschool mom of two grown kids, and Unfold History co-creator, to talk honestly about what homeschooling really looks like over the long haul.We dive into:How to know when a curriculum isn't working — and when to switchWhy learning should be engaging, exciting, and sometimes messyThe freedom homeschooling gives families beyond academicsThe impact of screens, dopamine, and constant stimulation on developing brainsWhy college doesn't have to be the end goal — and what success can actually look likeHow homeschooling can strengthen family bonds well into adulthood

What if one of the biggest homeschooling wins isn't curriculum… but protecting your kids from modern pressures and modern “food”?In this episode of The Homeschool How To Podcast, Cheryl sits down with Patrick & Ashley—homeschool-connected entrepreneurs and the team behind Jigsaw Health—to talk about:Patrick's experience being homeschooled in 7th–9th grade (and why it mattered)The myth of “socialization” vs. what homeschool kids actually gainWhy food choices have become a parenting issue (and a homeschooling advantage)Their documentary Breaking Big Food: How the American Food System Went Rotten and How It's Being RevivedPractical, realistic “one step at a time” swaps (without turning your life upside down)Why “pay the farmer now or pharma later” keeps showing up in this conversationYou'll also hear how families are building local alternatives—farmers markets, seed-oil-free restaurants, community markets—and how you can start making changes without getting overwhelmed.

Homeschooling isn't just about math lessons and reading charts—it's about who gets to shape how your kids see the world.In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Jonathan Newman from the Mises Institute, a homeschooling dad, economist, and libertarian who breaks down why he and his wife chose to keep their kids out of government schools, how they approach reading and “adulting” skills at home, and why there's really no such thing as a “neutral” education.We talk about:Teaching kids to read with Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons—and why it works for some kids and not othersThe big differences between boys and girls when it comes to focus, readiness, and timelinesWhy homeschooling is so much more efficient than public school (and what to do with all that extra time together)The “adulting crisis” and how kids actually learn real-life skills like changing a tire, paying bills, and mailing a letterWhat Austrian economics is, why the Mises Institute exists, and how Jonathan teaches multiple perspectives instead of one government-approved narrativeCapitalism vs. socialism, and why socialist systems struggle to get food, prices, and production rightIndoctrination, values, and why parents—not the state—should decide which ideas get center stage in their child's educationIf you're a Christian, liberty-minded, or simply skeptical of the one-size-fits-all system and the stories your kids are being told about history, money, and government, this conversation will give you a lot to think about.Follow Dr. Jonathan Newman on X - @NewmanJ_RDiscover free books, articles, and lectures on economics and liberty at Mises.orgLearn more about Green Ember: Helmer in the Dragon Tomb—the new prequel book from S. D. Smith—and explore the companion video game now available on Steam: sdsmith.com/helmer Perfect for parents seeking meaningful, courage-building stories for kids ages 8–12.

New York City history teacher Stephanie Edmonds never imagined that her dedication to her students would one day cost her the career she loved. But during COVID, as she watched extended school shutdowns devastate her students' mental health and academic progress, she began speaking publicly about the harms she was witnessing firsthand. When New York City rolled out vaccine mandates for teachers, Stephanie refused — and was ultimately fired for standing by her convictions. What began as a personal crisis became the catalyst for a profound transformation.In this episode, Stephanie shares the inside story of how pandemic politics, teachers' unions, and bureaucratic pressure kept schools closed far longer than promised — and how those decisions reshaped a generation of children. She also takes us behind the scenes of 15 Days: The Real Story of America's Pandemic School Closures, the new documentary she helped create that exposes what was really happening behind closed doors. Today, Stephanie is part of the Lavender Village, a homeschool-based, spiritually grounded learning community in Connecticut, where she teaches, supports families, and helps build a parallel model of education outside the systems that failed so many. Through her work and her platform Teaching Liberty, she's showing what it looks like to reclaim agency, create community, and live in alignment with deeper principles. This is a conversation about courage, intuition, educational freedom, and choosing creation over compliance. Stephanie's story is a powerful reminder that new systems are already emerging — built by the people willing to take the first step.Learn more about Stephanie at https://www.instagram.com/teachinglibertyWatch the 15 Days documentary at https://www.15daysfilm.com/Support Terrain Theory on Patreon! Our recently-launched member platform gives you access to a ton of free & exclusive content. Check it out: https://www.patreon.com/TerrainTheoryHelp support Ryan and Briana's road to recovery by donating to our GoFundMe set up in their name. Every penny will go to cover the costs of associated with healing their terrain using alternative, terrain-friendly methods. Donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-ryan-briana-heal-from-pfas-exposureTerrain Theory episodes are not to be taken as medical advice. You are your own primary healthcare provider.If you have a Terrain Transformation story you would like to share, email us at ben@terraintheory.net.Learn more at www.terraintheory.netFollow Terrain Theory:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terrain_theory/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Terrain-TheoryX: https://twitter.com/terraintheory1YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@terraintheoryMusic by Chris Merenda

We'd love to hear from you! Send us a text!Episode 169: Sabbatical Stories Series Finale: A Heart-Opening Conversation With April's Kids on Homeschooling, Growth & Real-Life LearningIn this special 3-part finale of the Sabbatical Stories Series, April invites her three children to sit down for an unfiltered, heartfelt conversation about their homeschooling journey during the family's sabbatical year. These episodes are raw, unedited, genuine, and offer a rare behind-the-scenes look into what kids really think about alternative education, family adventure, and personal growth.Together, they explore:What they loved most about being homeschooledWhat they didn't enjoy (and why)What they learned about themselves, the world, and how they prefer to learnThe surprising moments that shaped their family bondHow a sabbatical changed their perspective on school, freedom, routines, and creativityThis series isn't just about homeschooling — it's about intentional living, conscious parenting, resilience, and raising self-aware kids. Whether you're a homeschooling parent, a curious entrepreneur, or someone exploring unconventional paths, these episodes offer inspiration, connection, and honesty.Support the showGet DEEPER with April & The Paradigm U Team. Connect with Us HERE.Love the Episode? Please Leave us a Review on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/skis-saloon-virtual-bar-podcast/id1535050128-----------------------------------Get Exclusive Access to Premium Content through our "Good Karma Club"Click Here to Join the Club *Access to Bonus Content begins January 2026

We'd love to hear from you! Send us a text!Episode 170:Sabbatical Stories Series Finale: A Heart-Opening Conversation With April's Kids on Homeschooling, Growth & Real-Life Learning-Part 2-TIGERIn this special 3-part finale of the Sabbatical Stories Series, April invites her three children to sit down for an unfiltered, heartfelt conversation about their homeschooling journey during the family's sabbatical year. These episodes are raw, unedited, genuine, and offer a rare behind-the-scenes look into what kids really think about alternative education, family adventure, and personal growth.Together, they explore:What they loved most about being homeschooledWhat they didn't enjoy (and why)What they learned about themselves, the world, and how they prefer to learnThe surprising moments that shaped their family bondHow a sabbatical changed their perspective on school, freedom, routines, and creativityThis series isn't just about homeschooling — it's about intentional living, conscious parenting, resilience, and raising self-aware kids. Whether you're a homeschooling parent, a curious entrepreneur, or someone exploring unconventional paths, these episodes offer inspiration, connection, and honesty.----------------------------On this show we referenced:Oversimplified-our favorite history-ish youtube channelEducational gamified curriculum: Prodigy and Beast AcademySupport the showGet DEEPER with April & The Paradigm U Team. Connect with Us HERE.Love the Episode? Please Leave us a Review on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/skis-saloon-virtual-bar-podcast/id1535050128-----------------------------------Get Exclusive Access to Premium Content through our "Good Karma Club"Click Here to Join the Club *Access to Bonus Content begins January 2026

We'd love to hear from you! Send us a text!Episode 171:Sabbatical Stories Series Finale: A Heart-Opening Conversation With April's Kids on Homeschooling, Growth & Real-Life Learning. Part 3: The LambIn this special 3-part finale of the Sabbatical Stories Series, April invites her three children to sit down for an unfiltered, heartfelt conversation about their homeschooling journey during the family's sabbatical year. These episodes are raw, unedited, genuine, and offer a rare behind-the-scenes look into what kids really think about alternative education, family adventure, and personal growth.Together, they explore:What they loved most about being homeschooledWhat they didn't enjoy (and why)What they learned about themselves, the world, and how they prefer to learnThe surprising moments that shaped their family bondHow a sabbatical changed their perspective on school, freedom, routines, and creativityThis series isn't just about homeschooling — it's about intentional living, conscious parenting, resilience, and raising self-aware kids. Whether you're a homeschooling parent, a curious entrepreneur, or someone exploring unconventional paths, these episodes offer inspiration, connection, and honesty.Support the showGet DEEPER with April & The Paradigm U Team. Connect with Us HERE.Love the Episode? Please Leave us a Review on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/skis-saloon-virtual-bar-podcast/id1535050128-----------------------------------Get Exclusive Access to Premium Content through our "Good Karma Club"Click Here to Join the Club *Access to Bonus Content begins January 2026

In this powerful episode, Cheryl sits down with Anya, a seasoned mom who made the courageous choice to pull her son out of school during a season of deep grief — and discovered that unschooling was the unexpected key to his healing, growth, and confidence.Anya shares how losing her son's father, navigating the chaos of COVID schooling, and tuning into her child's emotional needs led her to take full ownership of her family's educational path. What followed included incredible personal growth, restored mental health, and the realization that children often learn more outside the system than inside it.Together we explore: • How unschooling helped her son recover emotionally and academically • Why children can easily return to public school without “falling behind” • The impact of grief, trauma, and stress on learning • Why emotional intelligence matters more than worksheets • Homeschool myths that keep parents scared • Real-life skills kids actually need (and how school suppresses them) • The hidden pressures on parents from schools, doctors & society • Why confidence, connection, and slow childhood matter more than curriculumIf you're considering homeschooling, curious about unschooling, or questioning the one-size-fits-all school system, this episode will give you permission to trust yourself — and your child — more deeply.Connect with Anya: www.theangelwearsprana.comInstagramYoutubeFacbook A Connected Christmas Unit Study! Start making Christmas memories today!!

What happens when you ditch the American Dream, move onto a boat with five kids, and homeschool while traveling the Caribbean? In this inspiring episode, former public school teacher Tanya shares her family's extraordinary journey of "boat schooling" for nearly a decade.From their catamaran "Take Two" in Florida's 10,000 Islands, Tanya opens up about:Why They Left Conventional Life BehindThe "meat grinder" feeling of the traditional education systemMoving from Atlanta suburbia to life on the open oceanHow a childhood dream became reality with five young childrenThe Reality of Boat SchoolingManaging seasickness, morning sickness, and life in close quartersUsing the world as your classroom: from banana plantations in Belize to Christopher Columbus's landing sites in the BahamasOne-room schoolhouse methods that work with multiple ages (toddler to teen)Honest Conversations About:Unschooling yourself as a former teacherThe socialization question (spoiler: she's seen what socialization looks like in classrooms)Teaching five different kids to read five different waysWhy the "hard parts" of their unconventional childhood made her kids tougher and more resilientCreating deep family bonds that last into adulthoodMentioned Resources:Life of Fred math curriculumTeach Your Baby to Read (Doman method)A Voyage Long and Strange by Tony HorwitzTanya's book: "Leaving the Safe Harbor: The Risks and Rewards of Raising a Family on a Boat"Blog: https://www.taketwosailing.com/

Nicole Goff was homeschooled by "hippie" parents, tried public school for two years (8th-9th grade), excelled academically but faced bullying, and chose to return home. Now she's homeschooled five kids for 20+ years and runs Four Corners Community School—a 32-family cooperative in Florida.What we cover:Florida's PEP scholarship: $8,000 per homeschool child for tutoring, curriculum, sports, music lessons, and moreWaldorf education philosophy: waiting until age 7 to teach reading and prioritizing imaginationStarting and sustaining a homeschool co-op from 2 families to 32 (including during COVID)Screen time reality: why tech CEOs ban social media for their own kids and how to protect yoursSocio-emotional learning done right vs the concerning agenda in some public schoolsTeaching special needs and dyslexic kids at homeThe mistake of bringing "school" into your home (curriculum burnout and constant battles)Parent emotional regulation: Nicole's #1 strategy for the hardest homeschool daysPerfect for: Parents considering homeschooling, veteran homeschoolers needing encouragement, anyone wanting to start a homeschool co-op, moms struggling with burnout, families exploring Waldorf/unschooling/experiential learning methods.Insta: https://www.instagram.com/nicoledesireegoff/Coaching Website: https://www.nicolegoffspeaks.com/Ecstatic Life Podcast: https://nicolegoffspeaks.podbean.com/Homeschool Co-op: https://4cornerscommunityschool.org/Nicole Goff guides women in bringing the joy back into their lives at Ecstatic Life Coaching. The Homeschool How To Complete Starter Guide - Thinking about homeschooling but don't know where to start? Purchase Here!Let's Talk, Emergencies! The most important lessons we can teach our kids aren't reading, writing, and math - they're how to keep themselves and others safe. Available on Amazon Support the showInstagram: TheHomeschoolHowToPodcast Facebook: The Homeschool How To Podcast

After years as a speech pathologist in public schools, Lauren Capelli founded Sacred Haven Homeschool Collective, a Christian hybrid homeschool program in Camden County, New Jersey. In this episode, Lauren shares how she turned burnout into purpose, building a personalized, community-based program for roughly two dozen students. She and Kerry discuss curriculum design, individualized learning, outcomes and accountability, and advice for entrepreneurial parents and educators ready to create something new. ***   Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!    

Discover how former UK teacher Kate transformed 24 years of mainstream education experience into "The Hive Adventure" - a revolutionary barefoot unschool in the Dominican Republic. In this inspiring episode, Kate shares her journey from French grammar teacher to creating a human-centered learning environment where students grow their own food, tackle global sustainability challenges, and learn emotional regulation from the inside out.What You'll Learn:How to create child-led, project-based learning experiencesTeaching emotional regulation and self-awareness to childrenBuilding a food forest and garden-to-plate education programImplementing social impact projects focused on UN global goalsThe difference between coddling feelings vs. teaching healthy emotional processingWhy barefoot learning and outdoor education improve mental healthStarting alternative education programs (micro-schools, learning pods, unschools)Perfect for homeschool families, alternative education advocates, and parents seeking nature-based, child-centered learning approaches. Kate's story proves you can create meaningful educational change anywhere in the world.The Hive Adventure InstagramThe Homeschool How To Complete Starter Guide - Thinking about homeschooling but don't know where to start? Cheryl created this comprehensive guide which compiles insights from her interviews with over 120 homeschooling families across the country. From navigating state laws to finding your style to working while homeschooling- this eBook covers it all. Stop feeling overwhelmed and start feeling confident. Purchase Here!Let's Talk, Emergencies! The most important lessons we can teach our kids aren't reading, writing, and math - they're how to keep themselves and others safe. Cheryl created this essential children's book which covers everything from dialing 911 on a locked cell phone to staying safe online, water safety, fire safety, and more. Let's Talk Emergencies! gives children the knowledge and confidence to handle real-world situations. These are conversations we shouldn't put off. Available on Amazon Support the showInstagram: TheHomeschoolHowToPodcast Facebook: The Homeschool How To Podcast

Kerry McDonald sits down with Kerry Baldwin, co-founder of Vita Nova Academy, a micro-high school in Albuquerque, New Mexico built on Socratic practice and passion-driven learning. Baldwin shares how Vita Nova pairs seminar-style inquiry with a skills-based framework and a partnership with the Mastery Transcript Consortium, helping teens show real evidence of mastery—communication, research, critical thinking—tied to their interests. The conversation digs into aligning parent expectations with what colleges and employers actually value, why Vita Nova includes an alumni board seat for continuous feedback, and how the school plans to grow while retaining its small, community feel. Baldwin also previews a Creative Commons Socratic curriculum other founders can adopt, plus ideas for shared microschool proms and sports. If you're curious about innovating at the high-school level, this episode is your playbook. ***   Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

Discover how one mom transformed her family's life by leaving traditional school behind for homeschooling on a 30-acre farm. In this inspiring episode, Brooke shares her journey from suburban Long Island to rural farm life, and why she chose to pull all five of her kids from conventional school.What You'll Learn:How COVID sparked a complete lifestyle change and homeschool journeyWhy common core curriculum pushed one family toward homeschoolingReal strategies for teaching reading, math, and science through daily farm lifeHow to overcome the fear of homeschool paperwork and requirementsBridge Academy review: A curriculum that supports natural learningThe truth about socialization and homeschooled kidsWhy boys especially struggle in traditional classroom settingsTeaching real-life skills: banking, cooking, animal care, and moreHow to handle homeschool burnout and maintain patienceSpecial Guest: 10-year-old Savannah shares her honest perspective on school vs. homeschool lifeResources Mentioned:Bridge Academy with Leah McDermott (natural learning curriculum)Timbernook School outdoor learning approachNew York homeschool laws and IHIP requirementsWhether you're considering homeschooling, already homeschooling, or curious about alternative education, this conversation reveals the beauty of child-led learning, the importance of play, and how everyday moments become powerful teaching opportunities.Perfect for: Homeschool moms, parents considering homeschooling, farm life enthusiasts, natural learning advocates, unschoolers, Charlotte Mason followersCheryl's Ebook: Check out The Homeschool How To Complete Starter Guide- Cheryl's eBook compiling everything she's learned from her interviews on The Homeschool How To Podcast. 

In this episode of the LiberatED podcast, Kerry McDonald is joined by Professor Eric Wearne, director of the National Hybrid Schools Project at Kennesaw State University, to explore the rapid growth of hybrid schooling. They discuss the historical roots of hybrid schooling, the post-COVID surge in new school launches, and what makes hybrid schools distinct from both traditional schools and homeschooling. Professor Wearne shares new research on teacher hiring preferences, school size and structure, and why hybrid models are resonating with more families today. The conversation also dives into key challenges, from teacher supply and accountability measures to succession planning for founders and the potential impact of AI on education. Whether you're a parent, educator, or entrepreneur, this episode offers a deep look at where hybrid schools are headed—and how they're reshaping the educational landscape. ***   Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

Is ADHD really a brain disorder or a label created to sell drugs? Dr. Roger McFillin speaks with filmmaker Roman Wyden, founder of the ADHD Is Over movement- that includes a book, podcast and upcoming documentary.  Roman shares why he rejected the ADHD label for his son and what he uncovered about the system behind it: schools, pharma, and psychiatry pushing parents toward pills. Together they expose how 6 million children in America are prescribed stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin, the billion-dollar ADHD industry that profits from it, and why more parents are waking up and saying: ADHD is over.ADHD is OVER Website Visit Center for Integrated Behavioral HealthDr. Roger McFillin / Radically Genuine WebsiteYouTube @RadicallyGenuineDr. Roger McFillin (@DrMcFillin) / XSubstack | Radically Genuine | Dr. Roger McFillinInstagram @radicallygenuineContact Radically GenuineConscious Clinician CollectivePLEASE SUPPORT OUR PARTNERS15% Off Pure Spectrum CBD (Code: RadicallyGenuine)10% off Lovetuner click here

In this episode of the LiberatED Podcast, Kerry McDonald welcomes Jamie Musacchio, founder of Wisdom Warehouse, a microschool that began in Dubai and now thrives in Miami. Jamie shares her journey from over a decade in public school classrooms in New York City and Washington, DC to launching an innovative microschool model that blends rigorous academics with daily creative workshops. She discusses the philosophy behind Wisdom Warehouse—child-centered, project-based learning in small class sizes—and how students achieve strong academic outcomes without the stress of test prep. Kerry and Jamie also explore the rapid growth of microschools in South Florida, the role of school choice programs in expanding access, and Jamie's vision for future expansion, including curriculum replication, nature-based programming, and additional locations in Florida and beyond. If you're curious about how microschools are reshaping education—and what it takes to turn a tutoring center into a thriving full-day school—this episode offers inspiration and advice. ***   Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

Kerry McDonald welcomes Charles and Charissa Mitchell, two of the four co-founders of the Threefold Schoolhouse, an Acton Academy located outside of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. They share their inspiring story of building a learner-driven microschool that launched with just 10 students in 2019 and today serves 65 learners from pre-kindergarten through high school.  The Mitchells talks about the entrepreneurial challenges they've faced—from zoning restrictions and temporary spaces to navigating outdated education regulations—while staying true to Acton Academy's philosophy that embraces curiosity, experimentation, and failure as essential parts of the learning process. They also discuss their vision for helping young people discover their calling and make a global impact, and why they believe we are living through an education revolution. ***   Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

Episode Summary: Is traditional school no longer the right fit for your family? In this episode of It's Not That Hard to Homeschool, Lisa Nehring breaks down the ever-expanding list of educational alternatives—homeschooling, microschools, university-model schools, co-ops, online academies, dual enrollment, and dual degree programs. With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming, but Lisa gives you a step-by-step framework to clarify your goals, assess your child's needs, and confidently select the best path forward. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The pros and cons of microschools, hybrid schools, and co-ops What dual enrollment really means (and why it varies by state) How online academies differ in quality and approach Why dual degree programs may be the most cost-effective option for motivated teens Four practical steps to evaluate and choose the right educational path for your family Resources & Links Mentioned: CTC Math – Free Trial (sponsor) True North Academy – Online classes, dual enrollment, and dual degree options Browse curriculum reviews and homeschool resources at NotThatHardtoHomeschool.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | [RSS Feed]

In this episode of the LiberatED podcast, Kerry McDonald speaks with parent Gabriel Valles about his family's embrace of alternative education, including homeschooling and microschooling. Gabriel shares his experience launching a low-cost microschool inspired by Acton Academy, his exploration of homeschooling and classical education, and his current journey with his son at Alpha School in Austin. He reflects on what worked—and what didn't—when trying to create more affordable models, and why self-directed education and community support remain central to his vision. Listeners will hear how Gabriel's personal experiences shaped his philosophy that education should be about self-discovery, responsibility, and joy rather than simply academics or grades. He also discusses the role of alternatives to college like Praxis, the power of student-led projects, and why parents should reconsider what it means to prepare young people for meaningful lives. ***   Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

In this episode of The Sacred Speaks, host Dr. John W. Price welcomes Mirabai Starr—acclaimed translator of the mystics, teacher of interspiritual wisdom, and luminous guide to the sacred woven through daily life. Together, they explore the heart of ordinary mysticism: discovering holiness not only in monasteries or mountaintops, but in the tender rhythms of our own existence. Mirabai opens her story with radical honesty—her countercultural Jewish upbringing, alternative education, and the teachers and traditions that shaped her. The conversation turns to how rigid ideas of “being spiritual” can keep us from true intimacy with the divine, and how humility, humor, and embodiment restore us to a living spirituality. Mirabai shares how the death of her teenage daughter became a devastating but sacred initiation, revealing grief as one of the deepest portals into divine love. Moving between ancient voices and her own life, Mirabai offers a mysticism that is fiercely tender, humble, embodied, and accessible to all. This dialogue invites us to see our own lives as sacred ground—woven with loss and beauty, pain and joy, shadow and wonder. Key Takeaways Mysticism is accessible in everyday life, not just in monasteries or religious settings. Rigid religious or cultural ideas of “spirituality” can block authentic spiritual experience. Embodiment and emotions—especially grief—are sacred entry points into deeper connection. Translating the mystics is less about history than entering a living dialogue across time. Friendship, humor, humility, and even money can be part of an integrated spiritual life. In This Episode (00:00) Introduction and Welcome (00:20) Introducing Mirabai (01:14) Mirabai's Background and Influences (02:30) Personal Tragedy and Grief (03:21) Housekeeping and Announcements (05:26) Interview with Mirabai Starr Begins (07:33) Ordinary Mysticism and Everyday Spirituality (08:54) Critique of Organized Religion (13:38) Counterculture Upbringing and Influence (18:39) Alternative Education and Teaching Philosophy (23:29) Feminine Mysticism and Embodiment (38:32) Translating the Mystics as Living Companions (43:33) The Supernatural and the Natural (45:55) Writing as Dialogic Spiritual Practice (51:27) Grief and the Sacredness of Loss (01:00:21) Writing as a Spiritual Path (01:14:02) Navigating Money and Spirituality (01:18:17) Closing Reflections & Resources Connect with Mirabai Starr Company: Wild Heart Community: Holy Lament (online support for grief; opens twice yearly, next in Nov 2025) Book: Ordinary Mysticism: Your Life as Sacred Ground (HarperOne, Sept 2025) Earlier Works: Wild Mercy, Caravan of No Despair, her translations of Dark Night of the Soul and The Interior Castle, and more - check out Mirabai's website: mirabaistarr.com Connect with John Come and join, The Open Gate. Link on website Website: https://drjohnwprice.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjohnwprice/

In this episode of the LiberatED podcast, Kerry McDonald talks with David Richards, founder and CEO of Changemaker Education, about his fascinating career path from banking to teaching, to launching charter schools, and now microschools. David shares how a simple LinkedIn post sparked the launch of six pilot microschools across the country—and how he plans to grow that network to 100 schools over the next decade. The conversation explores the promise and pitfalls of scaling microschools, including lessons from the charter school movement, the challenges of measuring quality, and the importance of keeping love, empowerment, and innovation at the center. David and Kerry also discuss how microschools can influence broader education systems—much like Netflix reshaped entertainment—and what it will take to prevent them from becoming burdened by bureaucracy. ***   Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

Jess Alfreds never set out to build a network of microschools. What began in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina as "pandemic pod" quickly grew into a thriving community of 100 students—and today, Carolina Kids Co-Op has expanded into 20+ independently-operated microschools across five states. In this episode of the LiberatED podcast, Jess shares how she combined secular academics, social-emotional learning, and outdoor education into an accessible, affordable model serving families with children from age one through sixteen.  Kerry and Jess discuss the entrepreneurial journey behind building and scaling the Carolina Kids Co-OP network, as well as the future of innovative educational models.  ***   Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

In this episode of the LiberatED podcast, Kerry McDonald talks with Maggie Van Camp, founder of Happy Hens Farm & Forest School in New Hampshire. Maggie shares her journey from teaching in the Boston Public Schools to building a thriving microschool inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, blending outdoor learning, the arts, acdemics, and homesteading on her 11-acre property. She explains how her licensed home daycare and K-8 microschool program serve both young children and homeschoolers—most supported through New Hampshire's Education Freedom Accounts—and why universal school choice is creating fertile ground for microschools across the state. Maggie also discusses her new yurt classroom, the role of play in learning, and her vision for keeping education small, personalized, and deeply connected to nature. ***   Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!

What happens when a seasoned teacher with 20 years in the classroom decides traditional education isn't right for her own children? In this inspiring episode, Toni, mother of five shares her journey from dedicated educator to passionate homeschool advocate.Toni noticed troubling patterns in conventional schooling that she “couldn't unsee,” realizing that schools often fail to prepare children for the real world while neglecting natural learning rhythms—especially for active learners who struggle to sit still. She shares her philosophy: “Academics should serve kids, not suffocate them,” and explains how homeschooling can preserve curiosity, foster creativity, and develop critical thinking skills.Learn practical homeschooling strategies, including Toni's “Socratic snack” discussions, balanced reading routines, and real-world projects that connect learning to life. Toni's Roots and Wings method empowers children to build strong foundations while gaining the confidence to explore, create, and contribute meaningfully to the world.Whether you're a homeschooling parent, considering a switch, or exploring ways to enhance your child's education, this episode provides actionable insights, encouragement, and inspiration to raise independent, creative thinkers.Toni Samuelu is the founder of Simple Joyful Learning and the creator of the Roots & Wings framework, designed to help families spark wonder, build character, and raise creators—not consumers. A former teacher and single mom of five, Toni combines over 20 years of experience in education with the everyday reality of motherhood. Her mission is to give moms simple, meaningful tools to connect with their children, create fun memories, and raise kind, capable, creative kids—without overwhelm.Check out Toni's Page: Simple Joyful Learningand Toni's InstagramCheryl's Guide to Homeschooling: Check out The Homeschool How To Complete Starter Guide- Cheryl's eBook compiling everything she's learned from her interviews on The Homeschool How To Podcast. 

In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald talks with education entrepreneur Courtney Klein—co-founder of All One Thing and SUNSCHOOL, and Senior Strategist with ASU Prep. Courtney shares her remarkable journey as a social impact entrepreneur from founding her first nonprofit at age 21, to starting SEED SPOT, a global startup incubator, to now leading cutting-edge ventures in alternative education. Courtney's story highlights how entrepreneurship can unlock new opportunities for families, educators, and communities to create flexible, meaningful learning environments that move beyond the traditional classroom. ***   Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!