Podcasts about classical christian education

What does classical Christian education actually mean? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, host Davies Owens continues the ongoing series on classical Christian education with guest Lindsey Ralls, Upper School Head at Summit Christian Academy. Together, they explore a practical framework for understanding the heart behind classical Christian education, not simply as a method or curriculum model, but as a vision for forming flourishing human beings. Lindsey shares how Summit Christian Academy developed a one-page framework to help parents, teachers, and students better understand the deeper purpose of classical Christian education. The conversation moves beyond the familiar language of the trivium and great books into topics like virtue, paideia, ordered affections, truth, goodness, beauty, and the intentional formation of students. Davies and Lindsey also discuss how the classical movement has matured over the last 30 years, shifting from an emphasis on educational stages and methodology toward a richer focus on formation and discipleship. They unpack several key principles that shape Summit's approach, including formation over information, imitation over innovation, the givenness of the universe, and helping students distinguish between truth and reality.

How do we move students from simply talking about truth, goodness, and beauty to actually living those ideals out in everyday life? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens is joined by Sharon Carlson for a thoughtful conversation about what it means to develop an “operational theology” , a faith that shapes not just beliefs, but daily decisions, relationships, failures, and future plans. Sharon draws from decades of experience in classical Christian education, student formation, counseling, and college advising to explore how schools and parents can help students connect theology to real life. Together, they discuss: Why students often struggle to apply Christian truth in practical decisions What “the good life” actually means from a biblical perspective How parents and schools can respond redemptively when students fail Why discipline moments can become discipleship opportunities The difference between knowing Christian virtues and becoming more like Christ How theology helps students navigate anxiety, uncertainty, and major life decisions Why “the best next step” matters more than fear of making the “wrong” decision Sharon also shares insights from mentoring students through college and career decisions, helping them understand that God's will is ultimately about being conformed to the character of Christ, not simply finding the perfect school, job, or path.

Anxiety is everywhere today, but what if it doesn't always tell us the truth? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens welcomes back Keith McCurdy for another conversation in the Live Sturdy series. Together, they unpack why anxiety has become so common in students and parents, how overcommitment and fear-based decision making fuel the problem, and what schools and families can do to cultivate resilience, wisdom, and hope in a fragile age. Keith shares practical insight from years of counseling families, students, and school leaders. From sports overload to perfectionism to the pressure-filled culture surrounding today's kids, this episode offers a grounded and hopeful perspective on helping children grow stronger instead of more fragile.

Gen Z is more connected than any generation in history, yet also more isolated, anxious, and uncertain about their identity and purpose. In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Dr. Stephanie Shackelford, senior fellow at the Barna Group and author of You on Purpose, to explore the findings from Barna's latest research on Gen Z mental health. While anxiety and depression are on the rise, this conversation goes deeper. What if the core issue is not just mental health, but a lack of purpose, connection, and grounded identity? Drawing from extensive research and expert interviews, Stephanie shares six key themes that offer a path forward for families and schools: Creating tech-free spaces to reduce anxiety and restore focus Supporting parents as a critical foundation for student wellbeing Rebuilding real, in-person relationships and community Helping students reframe struggles with resilience and hope Returning to faith practices that ground identity and purpose Cultivating a sense of responsibility and calling beyond self

This is Episode 82 of the Consortium Podcast, an academic audio blog of Kepler Education. In this episode, Andrea Lipinski shares her incredible journey of becoming a believer as a little girl, describes the moments God used to direct her in choosing a Classical Christian Education for herself and her children, and gives us an inside look into the CiCRE Apprenticeship and the projects being developed there.  Andrea's current most recommended book: The Princess and The Goblin by George MacDonald Kepler's Consortiums provide resources and regional connections for Christian families, teachers, and educational organizations to expand the reach of classical education and foster human flourishing for generations to come. Andrea Lipinski is the Vice President of Training for the CiRCE Institute and a head mentor in the Rocky Mountain Apprenticeship, where she forms teachers and school leaders in the art of teaching through mimetic and Socratic methods. She is co-author of A CiRCE Guide to Reading, and she speaks nationally for organizations including the Society for Classical Learning, Gutenberg College, Belmont Abbey College, and Great Homeschool Conventions. Andrea lives in the Pacific Northwest, where she enjoys growing fruit, backpacking the mountains, and sailing the Salish Sea.

Most people accept death as the ultimate loss—Ben Sasse embraces it with humor, hope, and a profound faith that changes how we see life, death, and education. In this deeply personal yet inspiring episode, one of America's most eloquent voices shares how a terminal diagnosis sharpened his moral clarity and deepened his understanding of what truly matters.Ben Sasse, a former senator, university president, and thoughtful advocate for classical Christian education, opens up about confronting mortality with a rare combination of honesty, humor, and faith. He recounts the moments that have shaped his view on life's purpose, from reading old books at Oxford to serving in the U.S. Senate. You'll discover how his fight with cancer has transformed his approach to education—focusing on cultivating virtue, love, and friendship rather than mere career success.Also joining Ben Sasse and Jeremy Tate in the conversation is Keith Nix, who has served as the Head of School at Veritas School in Richmond, VA, since 2010.We break down:The importance of reading the Great Books to gain perspective beyond our momentHow classical Christian education aims to reorder our affections and nurture true friendshipThe vital role of intergenerational engagement in building resilient communitiesThe radical significance of the Sabbath in cultivating gratitude and humilityBen shares moving stories about friendship, faith, and the hope that sustains him through suffering. His candid reflections on mortality challenge us to make what time we have count—by loving our neighbor, pursuing truth, and living with eternal hope.This episode is perfect for educators, parents, and anyone wrestling with life's biggest questions—especially in a culture fixated on outcomes and success. If you believe education is about forming humans who love goodness and beauty, you won't want to miss this powerful conversation.00:00 Intro 01:08 A Vision for Education  03:11 Oxford & the Power of Small Seminars  06:37 Friendship and the Good Life  08:57 Family, Education, and Moving for Values  13:15 From Public School to Classical Christian Education  16:19 The Art of Rhetoric & Great Speakers  20:12 Influences of Great Orators  23:14 A Father's Discipline & Coaching  24:42 Challenges in Classical Christian Education  25:57 Core Values & Future of the Tradition  28:39 The Telos Debate (How Do You Say It?)  34:37 Education Beyond Job Training  35:30 Rethinking the Factory Model of Schooling  37:45 Family & Intergenerational Life  38:21 Friendship, Community, and Education  40:00 Social Media & Peer Segregation  42:10 Hands-On & Artistic Learning  45:10 Maturation, Responsibility, and Service  46:18 Over-Consumption & the Search for Purpose  47:18 Music, Math, and the Language of Heaven  48:48 Seminar-Based Learning  49:25 Facing Death & Living Well  49:54 Suffering, Resurrection, and Hope  50:39 Faith in the Face of Illness  53:45 Shared Loves & Deep Friendship  55:29 Community Across Generations  56:10 Humor, Death, and the Christian Life  57:09 The Hope of Final Victory  58:10 Beauty, Identity, and Creation  59:41 Gratitude, Legacy, and a Life Well Lived  01:00:11 Final Reflections & Memorable Friendship

This is Episode 81 of the Consortium Podcast, an academic audio blog of Kepler Education. In this episode, Dr. Joshua Herring articulates the differences between a Liberal Arts Education and Classical Christian Education, discusses his new book Sons of Adam, Daughters of Eve: C. S. Lewis' Images of Gender, and presents The Logres Institute. Josh's current most recommended books: The Desecration of Man: How the Rejection of God Degrades Our Humanity - Carl Trueman A Wizard of Earthsea - Ursula K. Le Guin The Liberal Arts Tradition: A Philosophy of Christian Classical Education - Ravi Jain and Kevin Clark The Great Tradition: Classic Readings on What It Means to Be an Educated Human Being - Richard Gamble Kepler's Consortiums provide resources and regional connections for Christian families, teachers, and educational organizations to expand the reach of classical education and foster human flourishing for generations to come. Dr. Josh Herring holds a doctorate in the Humanities with a concentration in Literature from Faulkner University. He spent 13 years working for Thales Academy as a classical instructor, administrator, and college professor. He is the author of Sons of Adam, Daughters of Eve: C.S. Lewis's Images of Gender. He loves helping students of all ages and stages discover their intellectual heritage; he is the founder of The Logres Institute for Classical Liberal Studies, a member of both the Ciceronian Society and the Academy of Philosophy and Letters, and a follower of Jesus. He and his wife Jennifer live in the Raleigh, NC area.

What happens when schools and homes truly align? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Sadie Elliott, Director of the Herzog Foundation Institute, to talk about one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of Christian education: the partnership between parents and schools. Sadie shares what she is seeing from her unique vantage point serving thousands of Christian school leaders across the country. Together, she and Davies explore why education can never be outsourced, why parents remain the primary disciplers of their children, and how healthy Christian schools are working to build stronger connections between school life and home life. They also discuss the continued growth of Christian education, the dangers of drifting into a “me too” model of schooling, the impact of technology on family life, and simple ways parents can become more intentional without feeling overwhelmed. Tune in to hear: Why Christian education is about much more than academics What Sadie is seeing in the growth of Christian schools nationwide Why parent engagement matters so much for spiritual formation How schools and families can either reinforce each other or work against each other Why the dinner table still matters How technology can erode attention, formation, and family rhythms What the Herzog Foundation Institute is doing to equip Christian school leaders This conversation is a timely encouragement for parents, teachers, and school leaders who want to see the next generation formed with wisdom, faith, and conviction. Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupLife ArchitectsWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

What is education actually for? Is it mainly about helping students get into college and launch a career, or is it about forming the kind of person who can flourish in faith, wisdom, and vocation? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens is joined by Ali Ghaffari, Executive Director of the St. John Henry Newman Institute and founder of Divine Mercy Academy, for a rich conversation about leadership, renewal, and the true purpose of education. Ali shares his remarkable journey from a difficult childhood to flying F-18s in the Navy, teaching leadership at the Naval Academy, embracing the Catholic faith, and helping lead renewal in Catholic education. Along the way, he reflects on how mentors, failure, and God's providence shaped his life and calling. Together, Davies and Ali explore the growing renewal movement in Catholic schools, the leadership challenges many schools face, and why education must aim higher than test scores and college admissions. They discuss the need for schools to form students in wisdom, virtue, and vocation, while also encouraging parents to raise their expectations and stay actively engaged in their children's education.

This is The Briefing, a daily analysis of news and events from a Christian worldview.On today's edition of The Briefing, Dr. Mohler discusses current Democratic messaging and what it's missing, A.I. bots hijacking political polling, who's responsible for the death of Noella Casillo, the intermediate state, if the Lord's supper is a means of grace, if a man abandoned by his wife is disqualified from pastoral ministry, and the revival of classical Christian education.Part I (00:13 – 08:14)Gov. Newsom, Rahm Immanuel, and Democratic Messaging: Newsom and Immanuel Want ‘Sane' Policies on Bathrooms and Locker Rooms, But Their Pragmatism Lacks Something BigFor Democrats, the Era of the Girl Dad and Male Ally Is Over by The New York Times (Matthew Schmitz)Part II (08:14 – 11:07)A.I. Bots are Hijacking Political Polling: Axios Reports That Many Polling Subjects are Not Even HumanThis Is What Will Ruin Public Opinion Polling for Good by The New York Times (Leif Weatherby and Benjamin Recht)Part III (11:07 – 13:21)Who is Responsible for the Death of Noella Castillo? — Dr. Mohler Responds to Letters From Listeners of The BriefingPart IV (13:21 – 17:38)What Do We Know About the Intermediate State? — Dr. Mohler Responds to Letters From Listeners of The BriefingPart V (17:38 – 20:29)Is the Lord's Supper a Means of Grace? — Dr. Mohler Responds to Letters From Listeners of The BriefingPart VI (20:29 – 23:44)Is It Plausible that a Man Whose Spouse was an Unrepentant Adulterer or Abandoned the Marriage Could be an Elder or Pastor? — Dr. Mohler Responds to Letters From Listeners of The BriefingPart VII (23:44 – 27:22)What About the Revival of Classical Christian Education? Are There Cautions Classical Christian Schools Should Keep in Mind as It Grows? — Dr. Mohler Responds to Letters From Listeners of The BriefingSign up to receive The Briefing in your inbox every weekday morning.Follow Dr. Mohler:X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeFor more information on The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, go to sbts.edu.For more information on Boyce College, just go to BoyceCollege.com.To write Dr. Mohler or submit a question for The Mailbox, go here.

Many parents today feel that education has been reduced to information transfer and job preparation. But what if education is meant to be much more than that? In this episode, Davies Owens is joined by Dr. Patrick Egan to explore the enduring insights of Charlotte Mason, a visionary educator who emphasized the formation of the whole person. Her approach focuses not only on knowledge, but on shaping habits, cultivating affections, and nurturing a deep love for truth, goodness, and beauty. Together, they unpack how Mason's philosophy complements classical Christian education and offers practical ways to bring learning to life in both classrooms and homes. From narration and habit training to the importance of student ownership and joyful discovery, this conversation highlights what it truly means to educate a child as a person.

Modern education often promises clarity, efficiency, and measurable results. But what if those very strengths are quietly reshaping what we believe education is for? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Joshua Pauling to explore the subtle but powerful influence of what he calls the “tyranny of technique.” When systems, metrics, and methods take center stage, students can easily become outputs to manage rather than persons to form. Josh brings a thoughtful perspective shaped by years in public education, classical education, and his work launching a new hybrid classical school. Together, they reflect on how common educational practices can unintentionally erode relationships, diminish wonder, and narrow our vision of formation. But this conversation is not merely critical - it is deeply constructive. In this episode, you'll hear: What Joshua Pauling means by the “tyranny of technique” and how it shows up in modern education How efficiency, grading systems, and metrics can subtly redefine what success looks like Why relationships, trust, and contemplation are essential to true learning The role of narration, oral assessment, and embodied practices in forming students What it looks like to resist a purely mechanistic model of schooling How Josh's hybrid classical school is pursuing a more humane and restful vision of education Practical encouragement for parents and educators seeking to prioritize formation over performance This episode is an invitation to step back and reconsider our assumptions. For parents, educators, and school leaders alike, it offers a compelling reminder: education is not primarily about producing results, but about raising human beings. Show Notes: All Saints Classical Academy Are We All Cyborgs Now? Reclaiming Our Humanity from the Machine Writing Portfolio Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible: Wisdom and EloquenceThe Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupLife ArchitectsWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

Where do classical Christian schools find their teachers, and how are they trained? In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Dr. Rob Jackson to explore one of the biggest challenges facing classical education today, building a strong pipeline of teachers. As more schools launch and grow, many are realizing that traditional certification programs do not prepare teachers for the classical classroom. Instead, schools are looking for educators with a love of their subject, a commitment to wisdom, and a willingness to be formed through mentorship and experience. Dr. Jackson shares where schools are finding teachers today, including recent graduates, second-career professionals, homeschool parents, and experienced educators searching for a better model. The conversation also highlights the role of apprenticeship, mentorship, and ongoing training in helping teachers grow in both skill and confidence.

This is Episode 78 of the Consortium Podcast, an academic audio blog of Kepler Education. In this episode, Dr. David Russell Mosley discusses his love of poetry and especially Dante, describes his pilgrimage into loving and teaching Classical Christian Education at Chesterton Academy of Notre Dame, and gives us an inside look into his current and upcoming writing projects.  Dr. Mosley's current most recommended book: Piranesi by Susanna Clarke Kepler's Consortiums provide resources and regional connections for Christian families, teachers, and educational organizations to expand the reach of classical education and foster human flourishing for generations to come. David Russell Mosley has a PhD in theology from the University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom, and is a humanities teacher at the Chesterton Academy of Notre Dame. Mosley is the author of several liturgical and poetic works. He is married to his wife Lauren and the father of twin boys, Theodore and Edwyn. In his spare time, he likes to read fiction and poetry, as well as write fiction and poetry; work in the garden; smoke pipes; drink good ale and whiskey; write hand-written letters; and read to his children.

In this next episode in the BaseCamp Live series exploring classical Christian education, Davies Owens welcomes Dr. Michael Adkins for a thoughtful conversation about what classical Christian education really is and why that question matters so much for families, schools, and the future of society. Dr. Adkins brings both historical depth and practical insight as he explains that classical Christian education is not primarily about training students to do more, but about forming them to become a certain kind of person. In contrast to modern models that often focus on utility, credentials, and workforce preparation, this conversation highlights an older and richer vision of education, one centered on truth, goodness, beauty, wisdom, and virtue. As part of this ongoing series, the episode helps listeners see that classical Christian education is not a trendy alternative or niche experiment. It is part of a much larger tradition that has shaped the West for centuries. Davies and Dr. Adkins trace the historical shift from a largely biblical and classical model of education to the progressive philosophy that reshaped modern schooling, showing how those changes affected not only academics, but also the way students understand freedom, authority, responsibility, and the purpose of life itself. This episode is both a defense of classical Christian education and an invitation to better understand its roots, its goals, and its lasting relevance in a modern world that often feels confused and disordered.

In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens continues the alumni series with Neeya Toleman, a graduate of Coram Deo Academy in Texas who now works as an engineer helping develop major power transmission lines across the United States. Neeya shares how her classical Christian education shaped her ability to think deeply, communicate clearly, and tackle complex problems. From memorizing Scripture and presenting senior author projects to navigating small class communities and rigorous coursework, her experience formed habits that still guide her today in the demanding world of engineering and energy infrastructure. Along the way, Neeya reflects on the unique strengths of classical Christian education. She discusses the value of learning how to learn, the importance of strong relationships between teachers and students, and how schools, homes, and churches work together to shape faith and character. Her story offers an encouraging reminder that classical Christian education prepares students not only for the humanities but also for careers in fields like engineering, science, and technology.

In this episode of BaseCamp Live, host Davies Owens sits down with Paul Laywell, founder of Eureka Science Education, to tackle a lingering stereotype - classical Christian schools love great books, but struggle to do science with the same depth and rigor. Paul shares his journey from public school teaching to becoming a “one man science department” in a classical Christian school, and why he became convinced that science is one of the most integratable disciplines. Not by forcing a Bible verse onto every lesson, and not by stripping science down to formulas and memorization, but by teaching science as a story, with real people, real ideas, and real consequences. You will hear why Paul jettisoned most textbooks, how he uses history and philosophy to strengthen scientific understanding, and why families do not need to fear that a classical approach will “hurt” students headed for medicine, engineering, or other STEM-adjacent careers. In fact, Paul argues that what universities and employers need most are students who can think, reason, and ask good questions.

Good conversations with our children do not just happen. They require intentionality, attention, and the courage to ask questions that may take more than a few seconds to answer. In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens welcomes back Mandi Gerth to explore how the questions we ask shape not only daily conversation, but the long-term relationship we hope to have with our children as adults. Drawing on her experience as a teacher and parent, Mandi explains that a good question opens what she calls an “expectant vacancy.” The challenge is that we must be ready for what fills that space. Together, they unpack three kinds of questions parents can practice: Questions that check for understanding and invite narration, not just yes-or-no answers Follow-up questions that build intellectual habits, encouraging evidence, comparison, and thoughtful reasoning Big-idea questions that help children contemplate virtue, faith, and moral responsibility at every age Mandi also offers a wise reminder for parents of teens. Do not be shocked by what they say. Create a home where doubts and hard questions can be voiced safely. Ask follow-ups. Stay present. Keep pointing them toward truth.

This is Episode 75 of the Consortium Podcast, an academic audio blog of Kepler Education. In this episode, Dr. Louis Markos discusses his introduction to Classical Christian Education through Greek Mythology and his own personal heritage, the absolute necessity of the Great Books in education, and his hopes and cautions for the future of Classical Christian Education. Find Dr. Louis Markos' written works here. Louis Markos' current most recommended books: The Way of Dante by Richard Hughes Gibson Kepler's Consortiums provide resources and regional connections for Christian families, teachers, and educational organizations to expand the reach of classical education and foster human flourishing for generations to come. Dr. Louis Markos is a Professor of English and Scholar in Residence at Houston Christian (formerly Houston Baptist) University, where he holds the Robert H. Ray Chair in Humanities. He is a teacher, author of thirty published books and two lecture series, and a popular speaker in Houston. Louis holds a BA in English and History from Colgate University and an MA and PhD in English from the University of Michigan.

Kirk Avery and Dan Peterson chat with Jamie Burns, founding School Head of St. Anselm's in Cardiff (Wales) and the the CEO of the Fellowship for Classical Learning.  Jamie is a leading figure in the international Classical Christian Education movement.

How do we relate pagan literature to our Christian worldview as classical educators? Join us for our next episode where Patrick is joined by Louis Markos, Professor of English at Houston Christian University. Learn from a prolific author who addresses the role of pagan or non-Christian literature in the formation of character. We also discuss his recent book Passing the Torch: An Apology for Classical Christian Education.Links from this episode:Louis Markos, Passing the Torch: An Apology for Classical Christian Education⁠Louis Markos, From Achilles to Christ: Why Christians Should Read the Pagan ClassicsLouis Markos, The Myth Made Fact: Reading Greek and Roman Mythology through Christian EyesCourses by Louis Markos on ClassicalUContact Louis at lmarkos@hc.eduThe Educational Renaissance Podcast is a production of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Educational Renaissance⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ where we promote a rebirth of ancient wisdom for the modern era. We seek to inspire educators by fusing the best of modern research with the insights of the great philosophers of education. Join us in the great conversation and share with a friend or colleague to keep the renaissance spreading.Ask us a question: ⁠⁠write⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠record⁠⁠.Bring training in narration, habit training or studies to your school. Find a training package that will help your faculty grow in the craft of teaching at our ⁠⁠⁠training and consulting page⁠⁠⁠.

Students today need to be deeply formed to love what is true and beautiful, and they also need practical skills and confidence that comes from real life experiences they can carry into college, career, and beyond.In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies Owens sits down with Mitchell Slater, founder and CEO of Slater Strategies, to talk about entrepreneurship, risk, and why many students are not being prepared for real life as well as they could be.Mitchell shares his story of growing up homeschooled in Alaska, learning hard work through real responsibilities, and starting his first business at 17 because his parents gave him room to try and learn. Together, they unpack why failure is such a powerful teacher, why our culture fears it, and how schools can create safe environments for students to practice real-world problem solving.They also dive into Mitchell's SMT program, which trains a small team of students to help tell their school's story through marketing, communication, and community engagement, without handing students unrestricted tech or social media access.

This is Episode 74 of the Consortium Podcast, an academic audio blog of Kepler Education. In this episode, Andrew tells the story of how he became a devoted teacher via the pursuit of his now wife, delves into the meaning of “seminar” or “socratic discussion” which is the backbone of the Cana Academy, and takes us behind the scenes of his remarkable, developing HISTORY250 project. Andrew Zwerneman's current most recommended books: Remembered Past: John Lukacs On History Historians & Historical Knowledge Mark Twain Kepler's Consortiums provide resources and regional connections for Christian families, teachers, and educational organizations to expand the reach of classical education and foster human flourishing for generations to come. Andrew Zwerneman is the co-founder and president of Cana Academy and the Writer/Narrator for HISTORY250. For 40 years, he has taught and consulted in secondary schools that emphasize classic humanities. He is the founder and owner of The Academy Project, LLC, which wrote the original curricula and trained faculties for 2 academies. Andrew is a popular keynote speaker and workshop director. Since 2020 he has concentrated much of his work on the renewal of history as a central field of study in our schools. Andrew holds a B.A., A.B.D. from University of Notre Dame and an M.A. from St. John's University. He blogs weekly and is the author of History Forgotten and Remembered (2020) and The Life We Have Together: A Case for Humane Studies, A Vision for Renewal (2022).  

"Send Us A Message"In this episode of the One Truth Podcast, host Josh Brockman engages in a deep conversation with Clint Allen, headmaster of Creed Classical School, about the significance of Classical Christian education. They explore the differences between classical and mainstream public education, the historical roots of classical education, and the importance of pedagogy over mere curriculum. The discussion also touches on the role of classical education in society, its future, and how it can support the church and prepare students for the challenges of the modern world.

“What is classical Christian education?” sounds like an easy question, until you try to answer it.In this episode, Davies Owens is joined by Dr. David Diener, professor of education at Hillsdale College and executive director of the Alcuin Fellowship, to offer a clear, grounded explanation of what classical Christian education is and what it is not. They explore why this approach begins with the purpose of education, not just the methods, and how it aims to form students into a certain kind of human being, equipped to live well in this life and the next.You will also hear how classical Christian schools differ from many modern models that treat education primarily as a transaction for career readiness, and why “integration” matters more than adding spiritual elements onto an otherwise secular framework.

This is Episode 73 of the Consortium Podcast, an academic audio blog of Kepler Education. In this episode, Josh Gibbs discusses how he received a Classical Christian Education from Logos School, his journey into teaching literature, founding Gibbs Classical and The Classical Teaching Institute, and his thoughts on the future of Classical Christian Education. 2026 CiRCE Youth Conference Josh Gibbs most recommended book to date: Class by Paul Fussell Kepler's Consortiums provide resources and regional connections for Christian families, teachers, and educational organizations to expand the reach of classical education and foster human flourishing for generations to come. Joshua Gibbs is the director and co-founder of The Classical Teaching Institute at The Ambrose School in Meridian, Idaho. He is the creator of the Proverbial podcast, the In the Trenches podcast, and the author of How to Be Unlucky, A Parley with Youth, and Love What Lasts. In 2019, Gibbs authored Something They Will Not Forget, in which he described his pioneering use of classroom catechisms, which are now found in many classical Christian schools in America and abroad. His pamphlet, “A Short Introduction to Classical Christian Education,” is used by hundreds of schools to introduce prospective families to classical education. For the last six years, Gibbs has been teaching classical literature online at Gibbs Classical, where an extensive back catalog of classes are available.

Healthy habits are one of the greatest gifts we can give our children because habits quietly shape what they love and who they become. In this episode, Davies Owens is joined by Jeff Hendricks, headmaster at Providence Christian School of Texas, for a practical conversation about how formation happens through repeated, everyday actions.Jeff defines a habit as a repeated action that becomes instinctive. It begins with conscious effort, but over time it becomes automatic, like driving a car. That matters because the virtues we hope to see in adulthood, generosity, courage, hospitality, do not appear overnight. They are built through small faithful practices.A key theme throughout the conversation is that there is no neutral setting. Every child is learning habits of one kind or another, intentionally or passively. Jeff also addresses a common misconception: habit formation can sound harsh or overly strict, but discipline on the front end leads to freedom later. Like musicians and athletes, children gain joyful confidence when foundational skills become second nature.Jeff shares several “best of” habits Providence emphasizes with families:Prayer and reading God's Word: not necessarily formal or elaborate, sometimes simply reading Scripture together and praying. The point is consistency and priority.Attention: children cannot learn without it. Jeff offers practical ways to train attention at home, including multi-step instructions, narration, picture study, and observation exercises.Obedience: responding right away and all the way, with the understanding that respectful questions can happen at the right time. This trains children to relate rightly to God-given authority.Neatness and orderliness: restoring order to a space and to routines, even when it takes more time than doing it yourself.Serving others: training children to defer preferences and practice small acts of service that slowly reorient the heart away from self.Working hard and doing your best: building a “work before play” rhythm, teaching excellence without overwork, and helping children grow into wise self-management.In closing, Jeff encourages educators to keep habits simple and intentional, and he encourages parents that it is never too late to begin. Start where you are, choose one habit, and keep it steady. Often the best change is the one you quietly begin and faithfully continue.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:The Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

Mikey, Andrew, and Blake take an hour of questions live from CK Exclusives subscribers, including: -Did Charlie approve of classical Christian schooling? -What's the appropriate response to a church that won't host Club America or TPUSA events? -How could anti-ICE protests and riots shape the midterms next November? Become an Exclusives subscriber and ask the team a question on-air by going to members.charliekirk.com. Watch every episode ad-free on members.charliekirk.com! Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mikey, Andrew, and Blake take an hour of questions live from CK Exclusives subscribers, including: -Did Charlie approve of classical Christian schooling? -What's the appropriate response to a church that won't host Club America or TPUSA events? -How could anti-ICE protests and riots shape the midterms next November? Become an Exclusives subscriber and ask the team a question on-air by going to members.charliekirk.com. Watch every episode ad-free on members.charliekirk.com! Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode 72 of the Consortium Podcast, an academic audio blog of Kepler Education. In this episode, Marlin Detweiler discusses how he discovered Classical Christian Education by reading Doug Wilson's Recovering the Lost Tools of Learning, starting a Classical Christian School with R. C. Sproul, and founding Veritas Press and Veritas Scholar's Academy. Kepler's Consortiums provide resources and regional connections for Christian families, teachers, and educational organizations to expand the reach of classical education and foster human flourishing for generations to come. Marlin Detweiler has been a forerunner in classical Christian education for more than 30 years, serving the movement through leadership, curriculum development, and school formation. With his wife, Laurie, he helped found three classical schools and has been deeply involved in writing, editing, and publishing curriculum used worldwide. He is the president and founder of Veritas Press, which provides classical educational resources for homeschools and Christian schools and operates Veritas Scholars Academy, an online school serving more than 10,000 students. Marlin has spoken in dozens of cities on classical education and served for 22 years as a founding board member of the Association of Classical and Christian Schools, including two years as its initial chairman. He and Laurie have raised four Christian sons—Jameson, Brandon, Travis, and Parker—and are blessed with four daughters-in-law and five grandchildren.

Many listeners have been asking for more alumni interviews, and this episode delivers. Davies Owens sits down with Ashton Lawrence, an Ambrose School graduate who joined the classical Christian world in fifth grade and stayed through graduation. Ashton reflects on the early challenges of adjusting to a more rigorous environment, the slow-burning value of logic and Latin, and the way great teachers helped the pieces “click” over time.As the conversation unfolds, Ashton connects the classroom to real life, from learning to spot fallacies in everyday arguments to building the kind of clear communication and steady conviction that helps a young adult navigate college, friendships, and vocational decisions with maturity. Along the way, he shares how family conversations, meaningful friendships, and hands-on experiences shaped him into someone who can read deeply, think carefully, and also solve real problems in the shop.Tune in to hear:Why Ashton's “late entry” into classical Christian education in fifth grade became a formative turning pointHow Tolkien, Shakespeare, and the great books helped shape his imagination, loves, and view of virtueWhat logic training changed for him immediately, especially in how he listened, argued, and communicatedWhy students sometimes struggle to understand the “why” behind classical education, and what schools can do betterHow a classical foundation helped him thrive socially and spiritually at a large Christian universityWhy the liberal arts and the common arts belong together, and how hands-on problem solving reveals real wisdomAshton's encouragement to parents and school leaders is simple and hopeful: stay the course. Even when students resist or do not fully appreciate the rigor in the moment, the fruit often shows up later, with gratitude, clarity, and strength for the road ahead.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:The Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

The conversation with Mike McKenna provides insights into the world of Classical Christian Education and the shift away from school rankings to celebrate partner schools.TakeawaysClassical Christian education emphasizes the development of the whole person in ChristThe CLT is moving away from school rankings to highlight and celebrate partner schoolsChapters00:29 Introduction to Mike McKenna and Classical Christian Education03:17 Mike McKenna's Educational Journey06:09 Mars Hill Academy Strengths and Community09:36 Mission Preservation in Education12:16 Adopting CLT Assessments15:43 Engagement and Preparation for Success18:35 Impactful Texts and Closing Thoughts

Christians believe the universe has a creator. But what does science show? It turns out that signs of an intelligent designer are everywhere—from within the tiniest cell to beyond the grandest galaxy. What does the theory of "intelligent design" mean for the science classroom? Find out how in this friendly guide to Classical Christian Education.

In this episode, Davies Owens briefly steps into the archives to revisit a valuable conversation with Dr. Louis Markos on how the ancient world understood virtue, education, and human flourishing, and why those insights remain essential today.Dr. Markos explains how the Greeks and Romans, though lacking Christian revelation, asked the right questions about human nature, moral formation, and the purpose of education. Figures such as Socrates and Plato modeled humility, rational discourse, and civic responsibility, forming a vision of education aimed not merely at usefulness, but at virtue.Together, Davies and Dr. Markos explore why classical Christian education continues to draw from this ancient inheritance. Far from being outdated, a liberal arts education grounded in timeless truths prepares students to engage a modern, technology-driven world with wisdom, clarity, and courage.

A Little Greek, A Little Sci-Fi 2025 kicked off my goal of reading the great books of Western Civilization. So in typical fashion I read a little Greek, a little sci-fi, and a smattering of everything else. Indiepub still factored into the list with some hits and misses, just like the tradpubs. As always, the goal we should all have isn’t quantity it’s quality. But quality doesn’t just mean classic great books, it means books you enjoy and changes you and allows you to experience escapism and learn more about God’s world as He is the ultimate storyteller. TIMELINE: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:04:14 – The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis 00:07:06 – The God Frequency by Douglas Hemme 00:10:40 – Amorphous – Breaking the Mold by Steven Burgess 00:12:06 – Spectrum Multiview Christian Ethics Four Views edited by Steve Wilkens 00:18:18 – The Peace War by Vernor Vinge 00:22:37 – Greek for the Rest of Us by William D. Mounce 00:26:05 – The Iliad by Homer 00:32:09 – Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie 00:34:31 – Flight of the Eagles by Gilbert L. Morris 00:37:21 – Sundered by Ernie Laurence Jr. 00:38:55 – Horus Rising by Dan Abnett 00:41:37 – The Odyssey by Homer 00:43:17 – D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths by Ingri d’Aulaire 00:44:46 – The Secret Door by Jenny Phillips 00:46:59 – Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir 00:49:34 – Passing the Torch An Apology for Classical Christian Education by Louis Markos 00:53:21 – The Core by Leigh A. Bortins 00:56:06 – Agamemnon by Aeschylus 00:59:10 – The Libation Bearers by Aeschylus 01:00:39 – The Eumenides by Aeschylus 01:02:29 – The Air We Breathe How We All Came to Believe in Freedom, Kindness, Progress, and Equality by Glen Scrivener 01:05:11 – Adam of the Road by Elizabeth Janet Gray 01:07:00 – Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear 01:09:45 – The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry 01:12:15 – Mr. Popper’s Penguins by Richard Atwater 01:13:37 – Oedipus Rex by Sophocles 01:16:36 – Oedipus at Colonus by Sophocles 01:18:39 – Antigone by Sophocles 01:21:12 – To Be Continued Next Week Books mentioned in this episode: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis Kindle Paperback Audible The God Frequency by Douglas Hemme Kindle Paperback Audible Amorphous – Breaking the Mold by Steven Burgess Kindle Paperback Spectrum Multiview Christian Ethics Four Views edited by Steve Wilkens Kindle  Paperback  CaveToTheCross Episodes – wwww.CaveToTheCross.com/ChristianEthics The Peace War by Vernor Vinge Kindle Paperback Greek for the Rest of Us by William D. Mounce Kindle Paperback The Iliad by Homer Kindle Paperback Audible Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie Kindle Paperback Audible Flight of the Eagles by Gilbert L. Morris Kindle Paperback Audible Sundered by Ernie Laurence Jr. Kindle Horus Rising by Dan Abnett Kindle Paperback  Audible The Odyssey by Homer Kindle Paperback  D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths by Ingri d’Aulaire Kindle Paperback Audible The Secret Door by Jenny Phillips Paperback Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir Kindle Paperback Audible Passing the Torch An Apology for Classical Christian Education by Louis Markos Kindle Paperback Audible The Core by Leigh A. Bortins Kindle Paperback  Audible Agamemnon by Aeschylus Kindle Paperback The Libation Bearers by Aeschylus Kindle Paperback The Eumenides by Aeschylus Kindle Paperback The Air We Breathe How We All Came to Believe in Freedom, Kindness, Progress, and Equality by Glen Scrivener Kindle Paperback  Audible  Adam of the Road by Elizabeth Janet Gray Paperback Audible Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear Kindle Paperback Audible The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry Kindle Paperback Mr. Popper’s Penguins by Richard Atwater Kindle  Paperback Audible Oedipus Rex by Sophocles Kindle Paperback Oedipus at Colonus by Sophocles Kindle Paperback Antigone by Sophocles Kindle Paperback All episodes, short clips, & blog – https://www.cavetothecross.com

What is a good teacher?Most of us can name a teacher who made a lasting impact, not just through information, but through formation, awakening curiosity, shaping understanding, and building confidence. In this BaseCamp Live episode, host Davies Owens sits down with classical educator and mentor Carrie Eben, co-author of The Good Teacher: 10 Pedagogical Principles That Will Transform Your Teaching, to explore the often-overlooked piece of classical Christian education, how we teach, not only what we teach.Carrie has spent more than 25 years serving in classical education across schools and homeschooling. She is a founding board member at Sager Classical Academy in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, and a head mentor for the Searcy Institute Master Teacher Apprenticeship in the Ozark Mountain region. Together, Davies and Carrie discuss why classical schools must often “make” teachers through mentorship and apprenticeship, and why pedagogy matters because the teacher is not merely delivering content, the teacher is shaping the classroom culture and the student's loves.The conversation centers on two foundational principles that set the rhythm for great teaching:Festina Lente, “make haste slowly,” a reminder that learning cannot be rushed. Wonder, contemplation, repetition, and embodied learning take time, and growth happens step by step.Carrie also turns to the importance of assessment, explaining that it should align with the purpose of education and the nature of the student, not simply a score. She highlights relational approaches like narrative assessment, and practical options like narration, oral work, debates, and live demonstrations of understanding, especially in a world navigating new pressures like AI.

AI is moving faster than any technology humanity has ever created. For Christian schools and families committed to timeless, unchanging truth, that speed raises urgent questions. How should schools rethink testing, writing, and academic integrity? Where is the line between being informed and becoming dependent?In this episode of BaseCamp Live, host Davies Owens welcomes back Emily Harrison, a writer, speaker, and consultant who helps schools and churches think wisely about digital media. Emily works closely with Christian and classical Christian communities and equips families to engage technology through a biblical worldview.Together, they explore why AI can be helpful for experts but often harmful for amateurs, especially students who are still forming knowledge, discernment, and intellectual habits. They address student pressure to outsource thinking, the limits of filters and detection tools, and why true formation cannot be automated.Emily raises a growing concern schools can no longer ignore: student digital privacy. With the rise of AI-generated deepfakes and image misuse, she urges schools to rethink how student photos are shared online and to clearly communicate risk, consent, and protection with families.

What truly sets a classical Christian classroom apart?Curriculum matters, but as Mandi Gerth explains, it is not the only or even the primary driver of formation. A child is shaped day after day by the culture of the classroom, the small liturgies, the tone of the teacher, and the habits that govern transitions, conversations, and even how class begins and ends.Host Davies Owens talks with Mandy about her book Thoroughness and Charm: Cultivating the Habits of a Classical Classroom and about what it means for a teacher to be a “monarch” in the best sense, an authority who orders the room so that students can rest, attend, and delight in learning. They discuss the difference between entertainment and genuine engagement, how joy differs from “fun,” and why liturgy is such a powerful antidote to chaos in both school and home.Mandi also addresses the “3:01 p.m. problem,” naming how easy it is for phones, entertainment, and scattered schedules to undo the formation that happens during the school day. She shares simple habits any family can start, even in just a few minutes a day, to reinforce attention, conversation, and a shared story centered on Christ.

Francis of Assisi: was he a mystic, a heretic, or the saintliest among saints? An animal-loving, poverty-embracing, creation-caretaker genius of the Christian walk... or was he bonkers? Some combo of all these, or just a simple, committed follower of Christ? Dr. Andrew Selby will help us find out in this friendly guide to Classical Christian Education.

Senior thesis is the capstone of a classical Christian education, and Dr. Tom Vierra believes it may be one of the most countercultural things schools do today. In this episode, Davies Owens talks with Tom, longtime classical educator and Senior Thesis Coordinator at Wilson Hill Academy, about why thesis is far more than “just a big paper.” Tom shares his path from early days at Great Hearts to helping shape Wilson Hill's senior thesis program, where students research a topic that matters, write a 12–15 page thesis-driven paper, and publicly defend it. Along the way, they learn self-management, deep research, biblical reasoning, and confident communication that carry far beyond college.Together they unpack the six-part classical rhetoric structure, including exordium, narratio, and refutatio, and why Wilson Hill requires students to write an antithesis paper arguing against their own position. This habit trains humility, civil discourse, and the ability to engage real counterarguments rather than living in an echo chamber. Tom also gives examples of standout thesis topics, from classical music and beauty to AI in medicine and political theory, and explains how schools can approve ambitious topics that still reflect a biblical worldview.

Classical learning has deep roots in the United Kingdom. Yet many schools in England, Scotland, and Wales have drifted toward child-led, utilitarian models that leave students unformed and unmoored. At the same time, a quiet renewal is beginning to take shape.In this episode, British educator Jamie Burns, founder of the Fellowship for Classical Learning, joins host Davies Owens to share how he rediscovered classical Christian education, why he believes it is the answer to the UK's educational crisis, and how God is using a small group of families to start new schools in London and Cardiff.Jamie traces his own story, from an average state education to rich conversations around his family's dinner table, through years in mainstream schools, and finally to an “aha” moment listening to Andrew Kern that gave him language for what he had always felt. Along the way he offers a clear, inside look at the current state of education in England, Scotland, and Wales, and the surprising ways classical ideas are resurfacing in policy, practice, and school life.

Yarns, tall tales, mysteries, romances, thrillers, myths, fables—we all love a good story. Why? On a deep level, stories and narratives shape how we see truth and gain wisdom. When students get how narratives work, they can think clearly, speak eloquently, and love what is true and good.  But can you teach narratives to grammar school students? Yes, with the Progymnasmata's Narrative stage! Find out how in this friendly guide to Classical Christian Education.

Is there any redeeming value in reading fantasy literature or literature from the ancient world that is not distinctively Christian? What does Athens have to do with Jerusalem? What does truth have to do with fiction? Our guest again this week, an advocate for classical Christian education, Dr. Louis Markos, believes that reading fantasy or any of the classical works from pagan antiquity is an essential component to a classical Christian education; one that enables students to understand and appreciate the bigger historical and cultural contexts picture related to the origins of Christianity, as well as equips them to better grasp who they are as human beings created in the image of God. We continue to discuss his new book Passing the Torch - An Apology for the Christian Faith. Dr. Louis Markos is an authority on C. S. Lewis, apologetics, and ancient Greece and Rome. He lectures widely for classical Christian and classical charter schools and conferences. Markos is the author of twenty-six books, and is the Robert H. Ray Chair of Humanities at Houston Christian University in Houston, Texas. Free Four-Page Watchman ProfilesNaturalismPantheism Carl Sagan's Cosmos Panpsychism Charles DarwinPrevious Apologetics Profile Episodes with Dr. MarkosThe Myth Made Fact Part OneThe Myth Made Fact Part TwoAdditional ResourcesFREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/FreePROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (around 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/NotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/GiveApologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2025 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

Any purpose or end goal of education requires one to have an understanding of what it means to be human. Etymologically, the word “curriculum” means to run a course. The Apostle Paul says in his second letter to Timothy that he had “run the race” in fulfilling what Jesus created and called him to do. Jesus Himself tells us that He is the way, the truth and the life, the only way to the Father. We are created in God's image, for His purpose and glory, to walk in the works He has prepared for us before the world began. Our guest this week and next on the Profile is Dr. Louis Markos, an advocate for classical Christian education. He discusses his new book Passing the Torch – An Apology for Classical Christian Education. Markos shares his insights as to how a deeper understanding of the culture and literature of the Greco-Roman world enhances and complements a virtuous Christian education. Dr. Louis Markos is an authority on C. S. Lewis, apologetics, and ancient Greece and Rome. He lectures widely for classical Christian and classical charter schools and conferences. The author of twenty-six books, Markos currently serves as the Robert H. Ray Chair of Humanities at Houston Christian University in Houston, Texas. Free Four-Page Watchman Profiles: NaturalismPantheism Carl Sagan's Cosmos Charles DarwinPrevious Apologetics Profile Episodes with Dr. MarkosThe Myth Made Fact Part OneThe Myth Made Fact Part TwoAdditional ResourcesFREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/FreePROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (around 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/NotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/GiveApologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2025 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

Can classical schools really prepare students for STEM careers? Many parents wonder if a humanities-rich education leaves room for science and technology. Our guest, Diane Gray, scientist, musician, contractor, tutor, and mother of seven, says yes. After 12 years in biotech R&D, Diane completed a master's in Classical Studies to explore how classical Christian education and STEM can thrive together.In this conversation with host Davies Owens, Diane shares her research comparing STEM and classical models, revealing that the two are not in competition, but complementary.

Davies Owens welcomes Ken Rhinehart, a commercial real-estate veteran and founder of VPA Classical, to demystify how classical schools can find, fund, and secure facilities that actually serve the mission.

We live in a culture of soundbites, but Christian parents and educators are called to form young people who listen well, think deeply, and speak with humility and grace. Host Davies Owens sits down with Dr. Justin Smith, Head of School at Little Rock Christian Academy and Herzog Foundation coach, to unpack the Harkness Method (a modern form of Socratic dialogue) and why it may be one of the most vital forms of discipleship in our time.In this conversation:Harkness vs. Socratic: what's the same, what's different, and how each keeps the text at the center rather than opinion.Truth matters: how Christ-centered schools avoid “bad talk radio” and anchor discussion in authorial intent, Scripture, and absolute truth.Formation over performance: why silence, restraint, and student discovery create stickier learning than efficient lectures.K–12 on-ramps: how Justin's team trains 7th–12th graders in names, manners, eye contact, question stems, and textual evidence.Home practices: simple dinner-table question bowls, “roses & thorns,” and “heaven & earth” prompts that cultivate a household of inquiry.

In this Best of BaseCamp Live flashback, host Davies Owens sits down with pastor, musician, and author Jacob Hess to explore how story, liturgy, and imagination shape the hearts of our children - and why the stories we tell matter now more than ever.

What does it mean to be a woman today? Our culture has turned this into a debate, but for many young women—especially in Christian homes and schools—the real struggle comes in sorting through competing voices, conflicting priorities, and a lack of clear role models.In this episode of BaseCamp Live, Davies sits down with his daughter, Hannah Owens, founder of The Swish Magazine. Drawing from her own classical Christian upbringing, Hannah shares how she came face-to-face with the confusion around womanhood in her Gen Z college years and why she's now committed to recovering a vision of classical femininity—the preservation and reflection of truth, goodness, and beauty in womanhood.Together they discuss:Why Gen Z women often prioritize career over marriage and family—and what that reveals about cultural messaging.The gap between “pioneer bonnets” and modern feminism—and why girls need something more rooted and hopeful in between.How role models, from Princess Catherine to contemporary Christian entrepreneurs, can embody duty, beauty, and service.Practical ways parents and schools can guide daughters toward confident, Christ-centered womanhood.From family photo walls to auditing media habits, Hannah offers tangible steps to help reframe femininity not as performance, but as calling. This is a conversation for parents, educators, and young women alike who long to celebrate the true, good, and beautiful in a culture that has lost its way.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:The Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupZipCastWilson Hill AcademyLife Architects Coaching Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

How does the chief end of man — to glorify God by enjoying him forever — shape our approach to classical Christian education?