Podcasts about microschool

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

Starting a microschool—or even thinking about it—can feel like walking into the unknown. And in May, when reflection, burnout, transition, and anticipation collide, those feelings get amplified. In this episode, I'm sharing the raw, behind-the-scenes truth about what it's like to start something from scratch as a teacher-turned-entrepreneur. If you're in a season of doubt, fear, or exhaustion, this conversation is for you. You'll hear: Why the first steps of starting a microschool or homeschool hybrid matter more than you think How to move forward when you're filled with doubt or comparison My personal journey from quitting the classroom to starting Lighthouse Learning The faith and practical strategies that carried me through the hardest parts Why your dream doesn't need perfection—it needs persistence This isn't just inspiration—it's clarity and connection. Whether you're planning to leave the classroom, launching your own microschool, or simply rebuilding your belief in what's possible, this episode will help you keep going. Want support from a community that truly gets it? Join MicroSchool Masterminds for the training, tools, and encouragement to move forward with clarity: www.teachersletyourlightshine.com/masterminds Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching We also invite you to join your new FAVORITE online community full of resources, templates, videos, LIVE Q and A, Group Coaching and New Monthy Content Centered around your Educational Entrepreneurship Needs! Microschool Masterminds, designed to help you start or grow your micro school by maximizing your time, optimizing your finances, and mastering your marketing. Whether you are a seasoned microschool owner or a teacher with a dream, Microschool Masterminds provides a dedicated space to share resources, collaborate with fellow educators, and access expert guidance. Join us as we embark on this journey together. Your dreams are about to take flight. No more fears, no more hesitations. Microschool Masterminds is here to fuel your journey. It's your time. Your destiny awaits. Let's soar together into a future of limitless possibilities. VELA Organization: VELA Education Fund Join our Mastermind Program! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Launch and Scale Your Microschool or Homeschool Hybrid by Maximizing Your Time, Optimizing Your Finances and Mastering Your Marketing! With our program, you'll confidently navigate the journey of starting or growing your educational venture, equipped with the tools and support needed to achieve lasting success! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Join Our Facebook Group for a supportive community and the “best place on the corner of the internet” Teacher, Let Your Light Shine's Microschool Community | Facebook Book a Clarity Coaching Session: Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Get started on your dream school right now! Get all the documents you need to jumpstart, market and enroll students! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching We have step-by-step instructions to help you write powerful marketing brochures, enrollment forms, introductory packets, and so much more! You'll also find easy-to-use templates made to simplify your creation process, as well as beautiful real-life examples used by my micro-school, Lighthouse Learning, to give you creative inspiration when designing your very own forms. You will be able to seal the deal with peace and clarity when you hand deliver your new handbook and contract. Tune in to today's episode to find out more and head over to our shop to purchase your documents at teachersletyourlightshine.com!

May has always felt sacred to me. It's the bridge between everything I've poured into this school year and the dream that's still unfolding for the next. And if you're listening today feeling like you're doubting, dreaming, or barely holding on… I see you. I've been you. And this episode is for you. When I started my microschool, I didn't have a blueprint—just a calling, a lot of questions, and a deep desire to give students something different. There were moments I didn't think anyone would show up. Moments I wanted to quit. And moments I realized the smallest signs of progress were actually the biggest affirmations. This episode isn't just about my journey—it's about yours. If you're in the early stages of starting a microschool or homeschool hybrid, thinking about leaving the classroom, or just trying to breathe through the overwhelm of leading something meaningful… this message is for you. Inside this episode, I share: Why your first steps—however messy—are the most sacred What to do when fear, comparison, or uncertainty shows up The power of God's faithfulness when your own strength feels like it's running out Practical encouragement if you're just getting started or feeling stuck How to recognize small wins and let them build your belief You'll walk away with: Permission to slow down and reflect A simple action—write a letter to your past or future self Ideas to start your “faith and favor” folder (something that changed my mindset) And most importantly… a reminder that you are not behind. You are building something beautiful. If you're ready to walk this journey with others who truly understand what you're building, I'd love to invite you to join me inside MicroSchool Masterminds. It's the community I wish I had when I started—and it's full of support, strategy, and strong women just like you. Learn more and join us at www.teachersletyourlightshine.com/masterminds You don't have to figure this all out on your own. You were never meant to. — Makenzie Microschool Masterminds. Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching We also invite you to join your new FAVORITE online community full of resources, templates, videos, LIVE Q and A, Group Coaching and New Monthy Content Centered around your Educational Entrepreneurship Needs! Microschool Masterminds, designed to help you start or grow your micro school by maximizing your time, optimizing your finances, and mastering your marketing. Whether you are a seasoned microschool owner or a teacher with a dream, Microschool Masterminds provides a dedicated space to share resources, collaborate with fellow educators, and access expert guidance. Join us as we embark on this journey together. Your dreams are about to take flight. No more fears, no more hesitations. Microschool Masterminds is here to fuel your journey. It's your time. Your destiny awaits. Let's soar together into a future of limitless possibilities. VELA Organization: VELA Education Fund Join our Mastermind Program! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Launch and Scale Your Microschool or Homeschool Hybrid by Maximizing Your Time, Optimizing Your Finances and Mastering Your Marketing! With our program, you'll confidently navigate the journey of starting or growing your educational venture, equipped with the tools and support needed to achieve lasting success! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Join Our Facebook Group for a supportive community and the “best place on the corner of the internet” Teacher, Let Your Light Shine's Microschool Community | Facebook Book a Clarity Coaching Session: Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Get started on your dream school right now! Get all the documents you need to jumpstart, market and enroll students! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching We have step-by-step instructions to help you write powerful marketing brochures, enrollment forms, introductory packets, and so much more! You'll also find easy-to-use templates made to simplify your creation process, as well as beautiful real-life examples used by my micro-school, Lighthouse Learning, to give you creative inspiration when designing your very own forms. You will be able to seal the deal with peace and clarity when you hand deliver your new handbook and contract. Tune in to today's episode to find out more and head over to our shop to purchase your documents at teachersletyourlightshine.com!

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

May is more than a season of endings—it's the foundation for your next beginning. If you're a microschool founder, homeschool hybrid leader, or education entrepreneur feeling overwhelmed about next year, this episode will change the way you approach your summer. In today's conversation, Makenzie Oliver shares why May is the most strategic month to start planning for your school's future, how early preparation saved her school from August chaos, and simple steps you can take now to build momentum without burning out. Inside this episode: How May planning protects your peace (and sanity) in August The 5 critical systems you should start before summer break Why “done is better than perfect” when it comes to early planning Real-life examples from Lighthouse Learning's early years—what worked and what didn't Practical steps to organize your staffing, curriculum, family communications, and facility prep before summer hits If you want a peaceful, confident school year start, it begins today—not in July. Your future students, staff, and self will thank you. Learn how to plan with ease inside MicroSchool Masterminds: www.teachersletyourlightshine.com/masterminds Microschool Masterminds. Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching We also invite you to join your new FAVORITE online community full of resources, templates, videos, LIVE Q and A, Group Coaching and New Monthy Content Centered around your Educational Entrepreneurship Needs! Microschool Masterminds, designed to help you start or grow your micro school by maximizing your time, optimizing your finances, and mastering your marketing. Whether you are a seasoned microschool owner or a teacher with a dream, Microschool Masterminds provides a dedicated space to share resources, collaborate with fellow educators, and access expert guidance. Join us as we embark on this journey together. Your dreams are about to take flight. No more fears, no more hesitations. Microschool Masterminds is here to fuel your journey. It's your time. Your destiny awaits. Let's soar together into a future of limitless possibilities. VELA Organization: VELA Education Fund Join our Mastermind Program! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Launch and Scale Your Microschool or Homeschool Hybrid by Maximizing Your Time, Optimizing Your Finances and Mastering Your Marketing! With our program, you'll confidently navigate the journey of starting or growing your educational venture, equipped with the tools and support needed to achieve lasting success! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Join Our Facebook Group for a supportive community and the “best place on the corner of the internet” Teacher, Let Your Light Shine's Microschool Community | Facebook Book a Clarity Coaching Session: Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Get started on your dream school right now! Get all the documents you need to jumpstart, market and enroll students! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching We have step-by-step instructions to help you write powerful marketing brochures, enrollment forms, introductory packets, and so much more! You'll also find easy-to-use templates made to simplify your creation process, as well as beautiful real-life examples used by my micro-school, Lighthouse Learning, to give you creative inspiration when designing your very own forms. You will be able to seal the deal with peace and clarity when you hand deliver your new handbook and contract. Tune in to today's episode to find out more and head over to our shop to purchase your documents at teachersletyourlightshine.com!

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

May brings a perfect storm of reflection, burnout, transition—and for many microschool founders, serious financial pressure. If you're staring at your re-enrollment numbers, worrying about tuition gaps, or scrambling to figure out summer revenue strategies, this episode is for you. In this practical and encouraging conversation, Makenzie Oliver shares real stories from Lighthouse Learning Microschool, including the year she faced a major enrollment dip and rising expenses—and how she turned it around with clear communication, creative planning, and strategic systems. You'll walk away with real solutions for your microschool, including: How to manage the emotional stress of May Money Panic without losing momentum Why delayed re-enrollments are normal—and how to accelerate family commitments Smart summer revenue ideas that bridge the tuition gap (without burnout) How to shift your mindset from scarcity to strategy in your school leadership Proven re-enrollment techniques (including bonuses, deadlines, and personal calls) Why slow growth often leads to stronger, more aligned communities If you're tired of feeling reactive, stressed, or alone in building your school's financial future, this episode will give you the clarity and next steps you need. Learn practical, proven strategies to lead your microschool with confidence—even through the financial uncertainty May can bring. Want personalized support, systems, and strategy to grow your microschool with less stress? Join MicroSchool Masterminds this summer and move forward with confidence. Details at www.teachersletyourlightshine.com/masterminds Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow school founder or homeschool leader who needs encouragement during this season. Microschool Masterminds. Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching We also invite you to join your new FAVORITE online community full of resources, templates, videos, LIVE Q and A, Group Coaching and New Monthy Content Centered around your Educational Entrepreneurship Needs! Microschool Masterminds, designed to help you start or grow your micro school by maximizing your time, optimizing your finances, and mastering your marketing. Whether you are a seasoned microschool owner or a teacher with a dream, Microschool Masterminds provides a dedicated space to share resources, collaborate with fellow educators, and access expert guidance. Join us as we embark on this journey together. Your dreams are about to take flight. No more fears, no more hesitations. Microschool Masterminds is here to fuel your journey. It's your time. Your destiny awaits. Let's soar together into a future of limitless possibilities. VELA Organization: VELA Education Fund Join our Mastermind Program! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Launch and Scale Your Microschool or Homeschool Hybrid by Maximizing Your Time, Optimizing Your Finances and Mastering Your Marketing! With our program, you'll confidently navigate the journey of starting or growing your educational venture, equipped with the tools and support needed to achieve lasting success! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Join Our Facebook Group for a supportive community and the “best place on the corner of the internet” Teacher, Let Your Light Shine's Microschool Community | Facebook Book a Clarity Coaching Session: Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Get started on your dream school right now! Get all the documents you need to jumpstart, market and enroll students! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching We have step-by-step instructions to help you write powerful marketing brochures, enrollment forms, introductory packets, and so much more! You'll also find easy-to-use templates made to simplify your creation process, as well as beautiful real-life examples used by my micro-school, Lighthouse Learning, to give you creative inspiration when designing your very own forms. You will be able to seal the deal with peace and clarity when you hand deliver your new handbook and contract. Tune in to today's episode to find out more and head over to our shop to purchase your documents at teachersletyourlightshine.com!

Are you exhausted from trying to do it all in your microschool or homeschool hybrid? You love what you've built—but you're realizing that your dream is starting to feel like a burden. This episode is for the teacher-turned-founder who's drowning in leadership, overwhelmed by logistics, and ready to build a microschool that runs with systems—not stress. In this practical and honest conversation, Makenzie Oliver shares her own turning point moment—when she went from trying to manage everything herself to creating simple systems that helped Lighthouse Learning thrive without burning out her life. If you're feeling overworked, under-supported, or just tired of holding everything together with duct tape and goodwill, this episode will give you hope—and a clear next step. What you'll learn in this episode: Why systems save your school and your sanity How to move from “Superwoman Mode” to sustainable leadership The 6 essential systems every microschool needs before August (communication, curriculum, staffing, behavior, facility, and finances) The exact question to ask yourself: Could my school still run if I took a week off? Why simple systems = sustainable success Whether you're launching, growing, or scaling your microschool, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to prepare for a stronger, more peaceful school year. Download your free checklist and get the support you need inside MicroSchool Masterminds: www.teachersletyourlightshine.com/masterminds Microschool Masterminds. Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching We also invite you to join your new FAVORITE online community full of resources, templates, videos, LIVE Q and A, Group Coaching and New Monthy Content Centered around your Educational Entrepreneurship Needs! Microschool Masterminds, designed to help you start or grow your micro school by maximizing your time, optimizing your finances, and mastering your marketing. Whether you are a seasoned microschool owner or a teacher with a dream, Microschool Masterminds provides a dedicated space to share resources, collaborate with fellow educators, and access expert guidance. Join us as we embark on this journey together. Your dreams are about to take flight. No more fears, no more hesitations. Microschool Masterminds is here to fuel your journey. It's your time. Your destiny awaits. Let's soar together into a future of limitless possibilities. VELA Organization: VELA Education Fund Join our Mastermind Program! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Launch and Scale Your Microschool or Homeschool Hybrid by Maximizing Your Time, Optimizing Your Finances and Mastering Your Marketing! With our program, you'll confidently navigate the journey of starting or growing your educational venture, equipped with the tools and support needed to achieve lasting success! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Join Our Facebook Group for a supportive community and the “best place on the corner of the internet” Teacher, Let Your Light Shine's Microschool Community | Facebook Book a Clarity Coaching Session: Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching Get started on your dream school right now! Get all the documents you need to jumpstart, market and enroll students! Teacher Let Your Light Shine Microschool, Learning Pod, Tutoring and Homeschool Business Coaching We have step-by-step instructions to help you write powerful marketing brochures, enrollment forms, introductory packets, and so much more! You'll also find easy-to-use templates made to simplify your creation process, as well as beautiful real-life examples used by my micro-school, Lighthouse Learning, to give you creative inspiration when designing your very own forms. You will be able to seal the deal with peace and clarity when you hand deliver your new handbook and contract. Tune in to today's episode to find out more and head over to our shop to purchase your documents at teachersletyourlightshine.com!

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

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

In this episode of The Education Concierge Podcast, host Benita G. welcomes Amanda Lucas, founder of Lucas Literacy Lab, for an inspiring conversation about her journey in education and micro-school leadership.Amanda shares the personal motivations behind launching her micro-school, the challenges she faced in navigating the educational landscape in New Jersey, and the unwavering importance of community support, resilience, and faith.Together, we discuss:✅ Why accessible, affordable education matters more than ever✅ How homeschooling and micro-schools offer dynamic, personalized learning✅ Why service is more important than space in educational innovation✅ How faith and community can fuel your journey through challengesAmanda's story is a powerful reminder that worries to GodBe inspired by the spirit of innovation, courage, and commitment shaping the future of education.Subscribe, rate, and share with a fellow educator or entrepreneur ready to change the game!#EducationConciergePodcast #MicroSchoolMovement #InnovativeEducation #Homeschooling #LucasLiteracyLab #BenitaGordon #AmandaLucas #FaithInEducation

Are you still teaching every subject, every grade, every day in your microschool? Whether you're just starting out and feel overwhelmed, ready to bring in an assistant, or completely done with teaching and ready to build a team—this episode is your roadmap. If you've ever thought:

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

Microschools often face significant regulatory hurdles. Our guest this week, Jon England, chats with us about some of the most common barriers and what we can do to overcome them.Tune in and discover practical strategies for navigating regulatory challenges in opening your microschool!RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Twitter/X: @Principal_JonWebsite: EdInnovators.orgEmail: jon@edinnovators.orgWant to open your dream school with the freedom you deserve and the support you need?Visit https://openmyschool.my.canva.site/rebelkaipod to learn more about our partnership with KaiPod Learning and get help opening your dream school!Learn more about the Rebel Project Literacy Curriculum, a fully integrated literacy and project based learning curriculum, at  projectup.us or inkwire.co/rplc Get your copy of Rebel Educator: Create Classrooms Where Impact and Imagination MeetLearn more about Rebel Educator, explore our professional development opportunities for educators and students, and check out our project library.Visit us at UP Academy to learn more about our personalized and inclusive learning environment.Connect with Tanya and UP Academy on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram and learn more about her journey here.GUEST BIO:Jon is a former teacher and principal with 14 years of experience in public schools. Now, he champions microschool founders in Utah and nationwide, working to remove regulatory barriers and expand opportunities for innovative education.As the founder of Ed Innovators, a chamber of commerce for microschool leaders, he helps founders connect, share best business practices, and advocate for policies that support their schools' success.A firm believer in educational freedom, Jon proudly homeschools and microschools his five children.Enjoying the show? Leave us a rating and review and help more people find us!bit.ly/RebelEducatorApplePodcastsWe'd love it if you could take a few minutes to fill out this survey to let us know how we can bring you the best possible content: forms.gle/JcKHf9DHTZnYUmQr6 Interested in being on the Rebel Educator podcast? Fill out this form and we'll reach out to you if we think you'd be a great fit for an upcoming episode. https://forms.gle/CZJXLQDdevPh22ZN7Want to learn more about opening your own UP Academy? Check out the Rebel Educator Accelerator: www.rebeleducator.com/courses/the-acceleratorMORE ABOUT THE REBEL EDUCATOR PODCAST:In each episode of the Rebel Educator podcast, I deconstruct world-class educators, students, and thought leaders in education to extract the tactics, tools, and routines that you can use as teachers and parents. Join me as we discuss how to shift the classroom, the learning environment, the mindset, and the pedagogy, to resist tradition, reignite wonder, and re-imagine the future of education.This podcast is dedicated to all of the educators who work thankless hours to make our next generation the best it can be.  It was designed to begin conversations on how we can redesign education for the future of work and the success of our students.  It is meant for teachers, students, administrators, homeschoolers and anyone who interacts with and teaches youth. We're thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments

Are you a teacher thinking about starting your own microschool or homeschool hybrid—but stuck in a swirl of fear and curriculum overwhelm? You're not alone. One of the biggest questions teachers ask when leaving public or private education is: “How do I know what curriculum to use in a microschool?” “What if I mess it up?” “I've only taught one grade… how am I supposed to teach K–8?” In today's episode, I'm walking you through everything I wish I knew when I transitioned from public school teacher to microschool founder. Whether you're still in the classroom or already running a small school and drowning in decisions, this episode is your permission slip to stop striving for the perfect curriculum—and start creating a powerful, peace-filled plan.

How to Build Trust and Connection with Parents and Students Are you welcoming new families into your microschool… but not sure what to say after they enroll?

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

If You're you a teacher, homeschooler, or microschool founder trying to wrap your head around the financial side of running a school? You're not alone—and you don't have to stay stuck or overwhelmed. In this episode of the Teacher Let Your Light Shine podcast, host Makenzie Oliver breaks down the financial must-knows for educators building or growing a microschool. Whether you're just launching or scaling your learning community, Makenzie walks you through:

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

This time of year can feel like you're juggling all the things—wrapping up the school year, planning summer programs, enrolling new families, and trying not to drown in emails and sticky notes.

So… you want to start a microschool or homeschool hybrid this year—but the clock is ticking. You're feeling the pressure of the timeline, the weight of your current commitments, and the uncertainty of the road ahead. You've probably asked yourself: Where do I even begin? What if I mess this up? Can I actually do this without burning out? Maybe you're still in the classroom or juggling homeschooling your own kids. Maybe you've been dreaming about creating a school that finally puts kids at the center—where learning is personalized, creative, and full of life. You've imagined the classroom you wish you had when you were a kid… or the one your children truly need. But let's be real—starting your own school can feel like a mountain of “what-ifs” and “how-do-I's.” In today's episode, I'm sharing my Top 5 Get Started Tips for building your microschool or homeschool hybrid within the next 4 months—no fluff, no overwhelm, and yes, you can do this even if you're just starting out.

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

In this episode of the Homeschool Our Way Podcast, I'm joined by Iman Cassells Alleyne - the visionary founder of Kind Academy, a progressive microschool that's transforming the way kids experience education. Iman shares her journey from homeschooling her own children to founding a school focused on creativity, inclusion, and personalized learning. We dive into: ✅Iman's journey into homeschooling her own kids ✅How Iman created Kind Academy as an alternative to traditional education ✅The benefits of microschools and how homeschool families can tap into them ✅Iman's mission to empower other education entrepreneurs Resources Mentioned: Episode 83: Microschools 101: What They Are & How They Can Benefit Homeschool Families ➡️Listen on: Show page | Apple | Spotify Kind Academy | FB | IG Follow Iman: FB | IG Grab a copy of Iman's book: From Ashes to Abundance! ********* ➡️START Homeschooling! | Ready to reimagine your family's education? Grab my free audio guide and start your homeschool journey with confidence and clarity! *********

Raise your hand if “planning day” sounds more like a chore than a celebration

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

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

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

Want to start or grow your microschool but worried about finances? You're not alone! Funding your homeschool hybrid or microschool can feel overwhelming, but the good news is—you don't have to figure it out on your own. In this episode of Teacher Let Your Light Shine, I'm diving into real-life funding strategies that I've used to grow Lighthouse Learning Microschool from my living room to 80+ students (with a waitlist!).

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

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

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

SO... I reposted this episode after I realized there was an edit error! lol So let's try this again :) I am so excited to bring you an interview I just had with Dr. Lea! She has been in the education world for over 20 years. As a former homeschool mom, she found a need for more customized education options. Dr. Lea is the founder of Purpose Prep Academy down in Fl. which provides both In-Person and Online educational options for families looking for something better. She is also the host of the EducateHer's Sanctuary Podcast. So grab a cup of coffee and join us for an insightful chat.  Where to find more information... The Purpose Prep Academy - https://www.purposeprepacademy.org/   EducateHer's Sanctuary - https://open.spotify.com/show/04c5yqr7trzEhjKo9zmSzy?si=9ce941cd3d044d7d Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/itsdrlea?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Don't forget to... Join the Email List and get a 10% off coupon at https://www.rootedinfaithfamilyfarmlife.com/sign-up    Join my Brand New Podcast Subscription at https://www.rootedinfaithfamilyfarmlife.com/product/Rooted-In-Podcast-Subscription   Grab our 2025 Rooted In Planner - https://www.rootedinfaithfamilyfarmlife.com/store-search/search?keyword=Planner   A few of our favorites... www.mypillow.com They have the most amazing slippers! I am not joking when I say these will change your day! Make sure to use the code ROOTEDIN for up to 66% off your purchases! You won't regret it! Plus right now they have a sale on Flannel Sheets!   For all your breastfeeding accessible clothing needs check out https://www.nursingqueen.com/?ref=rootedin   For all your deodorant and lotion needs I love https://toupsandco.com/lindsayspurrier and use the code ROOTED10 for a discount!   www.greenmountaindiapers.com use the code ROOTEDPFW10 - For your cloth diapering needs!   Hair, Skin and Wellness Products - www.lindsayspurrier.mymonat.com   Bible Recap Text - https://amzn.to/3LgO8Ih   Some of the above links are affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you use them. As always, that you for your support of this podcast and in turn our family! Love, Lindsay Spurrier    

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

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

Microschools launch and close more easily than traditional schools—is that a feature or a bug? This week on Microschooling Journeys, Brian Hyosaka shares the story of Embark Micro Middle School in Denver, a tuition-free, philanthropy-backed micro school closing after six successful years. Rather than charge tuition or become a charter, they chose to “go out on […]

Are you a teacher feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure of what's next? You're not alone. March is that time of year when burnout is real, decisions feel heavy, and the path ahead seems unclear. But here's the good news: momentum comes from movement—not perfection. In today's episode of Teacher Let Your Light Shine, we're tackling the biggest challenge teachers face when transitioning out of the classroom: knowing what to do next when everything feels like a priority. If you're drowning in decisions, paralyzed by fear, or just plain exhausted, this episode will help you take back control and start moving forward with confidence.

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

Summer is NOT a time to hit pause on your microschool—it's an opportunity to build momentum that will set you up for long-term success! In this episode, we're diving into: ✔ Why summer camps & programs can be a game changer for your school's growth ✔ How summer offerings can increase your revenue and financial stability ✔ The enrollment advantage—how summer programs keep families engaged for fall ✔ How summer allows you to test new ideas, build relationships, and gain visibility ✔ A sneak peek into my Summer Camp & Revenue Expansion Guide inside MicroSchool Masterminds Whether you're a new microschool founder or you've been in the game for years, your summer strategy can make or break your momentum for fall enrollment and long-term sustainability.

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

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

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

In this episode of Microschooling Journeys, Curious Mike visits Rain Lily Microschool in Nassau County, Florida.  He visits: Wow.  Then he hears the two founders origin story.  Kati is a veteran Montessori teacher frustrated with culture and teacher respect issues in her former school, dreaming of a place where all parents felt welcome. Tania trains in […]

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

Are you a microschool founder or homeschool hybrid leader wondering how to financially sustain and grow your educational vision? The answer might be closer than you think—through grants and philanthropic support! In this episode, we'll dive into the world of grant funding, explore the opportunities offered by VELA Education Fund, and demystify the process of securing financial support for your school.

In this week’s episode of Microschooling Journeys, Curious Mike chats with Nick, a 15-year-old homeschooler dual-enrolled at VLACS and Arizona State University online, pursuing a business degree. Nick shares his unconventional education path, why he left traditional school after kindergarten, and how KaiPod Microschool fits into his journey. Will he return next year? What are his […]

In the latest episode of the Microschooling Journeys podcast, Curious Mike interviews Meghan, a dynamic “Guide” at KaiPod Microschool in Nashua, NH. Meghan shares her transition from public school to microschool and how she creates a welcoming, warm environment for her 14 students with individually curated curriculums. Discover Meghan’s unique approach to education and stay […]